Chain won't turn on a Poulan Wild Thing Chainsaw

15 years ago

I recently bought a Poulan Wild Thing chainsaw, and I tried to use it for the first time tonight. I put SAE 30 oil in it and the 40:1 gas/oil mix. I got it to start, but when I tried to engage the chain, it would not turn. I didn't see anything in the manual about first time starts or specifics about the chain, so I'm not sure what's happening. I'm afraid to keep trying because smoke appears like something's burning. Any help our thoughts would be great.

Thanks!

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Comments (4)

baymee
15 years ago
Is there a chain brake on it? Just pull it towards you to unlock.....if it's locked.
rcmoser
15 years ago
Can you move the chain by hand? Is it a new saw? And of course as suggested by baymee took the brake off right? If the brake is off and the chain won't move by hand (wear a glove when trying to move the chain) the chain maybe pinched and locked up or the clutch drum is locked up either by the brake or the chain/bar adjustments. Now if it don't turn now would be a good time to figure out how to remove bar and chain. Inspect the clutch drum, install and adjust the chain tension and of course make sure the chain is in the bar correctly. With that saw you will have to clean, sharpen, and adjust the chain about after ever use anyway if you want it to last and cut right.
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baymee
15 years ago
Just reminded me. There could be a spacer that is missing under the two large nuts that holds the cover in place and the chain is pinched.
masiman
15 years ago
Does the engine rev up when you hit the throttle? If not then the above are likely culprits.

If you get good revs but no chain movement, likely something wrong with the clutch.