Poulan P4018WT User Manual - Page 13

WARNING: Never turn saw upside down to undercut. The saw cannot be controlled in this position. Always make your first cut on the compression side of the log. The compression side of the log is where the pressure of the log's weight is concentrated. First cut on compression side of log Second cut Second cut First cut on compression side of log BUCKING WITHOUT A SUPPORT S Overcut through 1/3 of the diameter of the log. S Roll the log over and finish with a second overcut. S Watch for logs with a compression side to prevent the saw from pinching. See illustrations for cutting logs with a compression side. BUCKING USING A LOG OR SUPPORT STAND S Remember your first cut is always on the compression side of the log. (Refer to the illustrations below for your first and second cut) S Your first cut should extend 1/3 of the diameter of the log. S Finish with your second cut. Using a log for support 2nd Cut 1st Cut 1st Cut 2nd Cut Using a support stand 2nd Cut 1st Cut 1st Cut 2nd Cut LIMBING AND PRUNING WARNING: Be alert for and guard against kickback. Do not allow the moving chain to contact any other branches or objects at the nose of the guide bar when limbing or pruning. Allowing such contact can result in serious injury. WARNING: Never climb into a tree to limb or prune. Do not stand on ladders, platforms, a log, or in any position which can cause you to lose your balance or control of the saw. IMPORTANT POINTS S Work slowly, keeping both hands firmly gripped on the saw. Maintain secure footing and balance. S Watch out for springpoles. Springpoles are small size limbs which can catch the saw chain and whip toward you or pull you off balance. Use extreme caution when cutting small size limbs or slender material. S Be alert for springback. Watch out for branches that are bent or under pressure. Avoid being struck by the branch or the saw when the tension in the wood fibers is released. S Keep a clear work area. Frequently clear branches out of the way to avoid tripping over them. LIMBING S Always limb a tree after it is cut down. Only then can limbing be done safely and properly. S Leave the larger limbs underneath the felled tree to support the tree as you work. S Start at the base of the felled tree and work toward the top, cutting branches and limbs. Remove small limbs with one cut. S Keep the tree between you and the chain. Cut from the side of the tree opposite the branch you are cutting. S Remove larger, supporting branches with the cutting techniques described in BUCKING WITHOUT A SUPPORT. S Always use an overcut to cut small and freely hanging limbs. Undercutting could cause limbs to fall and pinch the saw. 13