Poulan PLN3516F User Manual - Page 10

3-4. SAW CHAIN TENSION ADJUSTMENT Proper tension of the saw chain is extremely important and must be checked before starting, as well as during, any cutting operation. Taking the time to make needed adjustments to the saw chain will result in improved cutting performance and prolonged chain life. NOTE: A new chain and bar will need readjustment after as few as 5 cuts. This is normal during the break-in period, and the interval between future adjustments will lengthen quickly (Figure 3-4A). CAUTION If a chain is TOO LOOSE or TOO TIGHT, the bar chain and saw bearings will wear more rapidly. Study Figure 3-4A for information concerning correct cold tension (A), correct warm tension (B), and as a guide for when saw chain needs adjustment (C). TO ADJUST SAW CHAIN TENSION: With no tools system - wear gloves while tensioning chain. NOTE: Make sure the CHAIN BRAKE is disengaged. Disengage the CHAIN BRAKER- (D) by pulling it backward (Figure 3-4B). 1. Tensioning the chain is easy. Turn bar bolt knob (E) counter clock wise. Then turn ring (F) counter dock wise to loosen chain or clock wise to tighten chain. (Fig. 3-4C) 2. After adjustment and while wearing heavy duty work gloves, move the saw chain back and forth on the guide bar to be sure the chain moves freely and is in proper mesh with sprocket. NOTE: If the chain is difficult to rotate or if it binds on the guide bar, too much tension has been applied and must be adjusted as described in step 1. 3. While tensioning the chain. Hold tip of the bar up and then tighten the bar bolt knob (E). 3-4B 3-4C 3-5. FILLING OIL TANK Using a funnel, fill oil tank with Genuine Factory Parts Chain, Bar and Sprocket oil. Wipe up any spills. Make sure no dirt gets into the oil tank. The saw chain requires lubrication while in use to minimize friction with the guide bar. The oil tank holds 4.5 ozs of oil, enough to lubricate the chain for 12-15 minutes of sawing. We recommend using Genuine Factory Parts Chain, Bar and Sprocket Oil, which contains additives to reduce friction wear and reduce resin residue formations. CAUTION The oil tank level should be frequently checked during operation to avoid starving the bar and chain of lubrication. NOTE: Your chain saw is equipped with an Automatic Oiler system and is the ONLY source of lubrication for the bar and chain (Figure 3-5A). OIL CAP o c A 3-4A OIL TANK INSPECTION SLOT 3-5A 10