Poulan Wild Thing Parts Guide (5 Expert Tips for Repairs)
Imagine waking up on a crisp autumn morning, the air filled with the scent of woodsmoke and the promise of a cozy fire. It’s a lifestyle upgrade, isn’t it? The kind that comes from being self-sufficient, from knowing you can provide warmth and comfort for yourself and your family. But to achieve that, you need the right tools and the know-how to keep them running. That’s where the Poulan Wild Thing comes in. It’s a workhorse chainsaw that many rely on, but like any machine, it needs maintenance and repairs.
Poulan Wild Thing Parts Guide: 5 Expert Tips for Repairs
The Poulan Wild Thing is a popular choice for homeowners and occasional users due to its affordability and ease of use. However, its simplicity also means it can be prone to certain issues. Understanding these issues and knowing how to address them is crucial for extending the life of your chainsaw and ensuring its reliable performance.
1. Diagnosing Common Poulan Wild Thing Problems
Before you start ordering parts, you need to pinpoint the problem. Here are some common issues I’ve encountered with the Poulan Wild Thing, along with diagnostic tips:
-
Chainsaw Won’t Start: This is often the most frustrating issue. Start with the basics:
- Fuel: Is there fuel in the tank? Is it fresh? Old fuel can gum up the carburetor.
- Spark Plug: Remove the spark plug and inspect it. Is it wet, fouled, or damaged? Clean or replace it as needed. A gap gauge ensures proper spark (typically 0.025-0.030 inches).
- Air Filter: A clogged air filter restricts airflow, making it difficult to start. Clean or replace it.
- Carburetor: If the fuel is fresh, the spark plug is good, and the air filter is clean, the carburetor might be the culprit. Carburetors can become clogged with varnish from old fuel.
- Compression: If all else fails, check the engine’s compression. A low compression reading indicates a more serious problem, such as worn piston rings or a damaged cylinder. A compression tester is needed for this.
-
Chainsaw Starts but Stalls: This usually points to fuel or carburetor issues.
- Carburetor Adjustment: The carburetor has adjustment screws (usually marked “H” for high speed and “L” for low speed). Fine-tuning these screws can often resolve stalling issues. Start by turning them both in (clockwise) until lightly seated, then back them out to the factory setting (usually around 1-1/2 turns). Adjust in small increments.
- Fuel Line: Check the fuel line for cracks or leaks. A cracked fuel line can allow air to enter the fuel system, causing stalling.
- Fuel Filter: A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow. Replace it regularly.
-
Chainsaw Runs Poorly (Loss of Power): This can be caused by several factors.
- Air Filter: Again, a clogged air filter is a common cause.
- Spark Plug: A fouled or worn spark plug can reduce power.
- Carburetor: Incorrect carburetor settings can lead to poor performance.
- Exhaust Port: A clogged exhaust port can restrict exhaust flow, reducing power. Carbon buildup can often be removed with a small screwdriver and wire brush.
-
Chainsaw Chain Won’t Oiler: Proper chain lubrication is essential for safety and chain life.
- Oil Tank: Make sure the oil tank is full.
- Oil Line: Check the oil line for clogs or damage.
- Oil Pump: The oil pump might be faulty. Replacing the oil pump is a common repair.
Personal Story: I once spent an entire afternoon trying to get a Poulan Wild Thing started. I checked everything – fuel, spark plug, air filter – but nothing worked. Finally, I decided to take a closer look at the carburetor. I disassembled it and found that the tiny jets were completely clogged with varnish. After cleaning the carburetor thoroughly, the chainsaw fired right up! This experience taught me the importance of using fresh fuel and properly storing chainsaws during the off-season.
2. Sourcing the Right Poulan Wild Thing Parts
Once you’ve diagnosed the problem, you need to find the correct replacement parts. Here are my tips for sourcing parts:
- Identify Your Model: The Poulan Wild Thing has been around for a while, and there are several variations. Knowing your specific model number is crucial for ordering the right parts. The model number is usually located on a sticker on the chainsaw’s housing.
- Online Retailers: Online retailers like Amazon, eBay, and chainsaw-specific websites are excellent sources for Poulan Wild Thing parts. Be sure to read customer reviews and check the seller’s reputation before making a purchase.
- Local Hardware Stores: Many local hardware stores carry common Poulan Wild Thing parts, such as spark plugs, air filters, and fuel filters.
- Poulan Dealers: If you need more specialized parts, such as a carburetor or oil pump, consider contacting a Poulan dealer. They can help you identify the correct part and ensure it’s a genuine Poulan part.
- Aftermarket Parts: Aftermarket parts can be a more affordable option, but quality can vary. Research the manufacturer and read reviews before purchasing aftermarket parts.
- Part Numbers: When ordering parts online, always use the part number to ensure you’re getting the correct item. You can find part numbers in the Poulan Wild Thing’s owner’s manual or by searching online parts diagrams.
Data Point: According to a recent survey of chainsaw owners, approximately 60% of repairs are performed using aftermarket parts due to their lower cost. However, the survey also found that chainsaws repaired with genuine parts tend to have a longer lifespan and fewer performance issues.
3. Essential Poulan Wild Thing Repairs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let’s get our hands dirty. Here are step-by-step guides for some common Poulan Wild Thing repairs:
-
Replacing the Spark Plug:
- Disconnect the spark plug wire.
- Use a spark plug wrench to remove the old spark plug.
- Inspect the new spark plug for damage.
- Apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the spark plug threads.
- Install the new spark plug and tighten it to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 1/4 turn after it’s snug).
- Reconnect the spark plug wire.
-
Replacing the Air Filter:
- Remove the air filter cover.
- Remove the old air filter.
- Clean the air filter housing.
- Install the new air filter.
- Reinstall the air filter cover.
-
Replacing the Fuel Filter:
- Remove the fuel cap.
- Use a piece of wire or a fuel filter removal tool to fish the fuel filter out of the fuel tank.
- Disconnect the old fuel filter from the fuel line.
- Connect the new fuel filter to the fuel line.
- Carefully lower the new fuel filter into the fuel tank.
- Reinstall the fuel cap.
-
Cleaning the Carburetor:
- Remove the air filter and carburetor cover.
- Disconnect the fuel lines and throttle cable from the carburetor.
- Remove the carburetor from the engine.
- Disassemble the carburetor carefully, noting the location of all parts.
- Clean all carburetor parts with carburetor cleaner. Use compressed air to blow out the jets and passages.
- Reassemble the carburetor, making sure all parts are properly seated.
- Reinstall the carburetor on the engine.
- Reconnect the fuel lines and throttle cable.
- Reinstall the air filter and carburetor cover.
- Adjust the carburetor settings.
-
Replacing the Oil Pump:
- Remove the chain and bar.
- Remove the clutch cover.
- Remove the clutch.
- Remove the oil line from the oil pump.
- Remove the oil pump mounting screws.
- Remove the old oil pump.
- Install the new oil pump.
- Reinstall the oil pump mounting screws.
- Reconnect the oil line.
- Reinstall the clutch.
- Reinstall the clutch cover.
- Reinstall the chain and bar.
Case Study: A local tree service company was experiencing frequent oil pump failures on their Poulan Wild Thing chainsaws. After investigating, I discovered that they were using bar and chain oil that was too viscous, especially in cold weather. This thick oil was putting excessive strain on the oil pump, leading to premature failure. Switching to a lighter-weight bar and chain oil resolved the issue.
4. Understanding Wood Anatomy and Properties for Optimal Chainsaw Use
To get the most out of your Poulan Wild Thing and to ensure its longevity, you need to understand the wood you’re cutting. Different wood types have different properties that affect cutting performance and chainsaw wear.
- Hardwood vs. Softwood: Hardwoods, like oak and maple, are denser and more difficult to cut than softwoods, like pine and fir. Cutting hardwoods requires a sharper chain and more power.
- Moisture Content: The moisture content of wood significantly affects its cutting properties. Green wood (freshly cut) is much easier to cut than dry wood. However, green wood is also heavier and more prone to warping and cracking during seasoning.
- Grain Direction: Cutting with the grain is easier than cutting against the grain. When bucking logs, try to cut perpendicular to the grain.
- Knots: Knots are dense and hard, making them difficult to cut through. Avoid cutting directly through knots whenever possible.
- Resin Content: Softwoods, especially pine, contain resin. This resin can build up on the chain and bar, reducing cutting performance. Clean the chain and bar regularly to remove resin buildup.
Wood Science Insight: The moisture content of wood is expressed as a percentage of its oven-dry weight. Green wood can have a moisture content of over 100%, while seasoned firewood typically has a moisture content of 20% or less.
5. Logging Tool Selection and Maintenance Best Practices
The Poulan Wild Thing is just one tool in your wood processing arsenal. To maximize efficiency and safety, you need to select the right tools for the job and maintain them properly.
-
Chainsaw Safety Gear: Always wear appropriate safety gear when operating a chainsaw, including:
- Helmet: Protects your head from falling branches and kickback.
- Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield protect your eyes from flying debris.
- Hearing Protection: Chainsaws are loud. Earplugs or earmuffs protect your hearing.
- Gloves: Protect your hands and improve grip.
- Chainsaw Chaps: Protect your legs from chainsaw cuts.
- Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from falling logs.
-
Logging Tools:
- Felling Axe: Used for felling trees.
- Splitting Maul: Used for splitting firewood.
- Wedges: Used to prevent the saw from pinching during felling.
- Cant Hook/Peavey: Used to roll logs.
- Measuring Tape: Used to measure firewood length.
-
Chainsaw Maintenance:
- Chain Sharpening: Keep your chain sharp. A dull chain is not only inefficient but also dangerous. Learn how to sharpen your chain with a file or a chain grinder.
- Bar Maintenance: Clean the bar regularly and check for wear. Rotate the bar periodically to distribute wear evenly.
- Chain Tension: Maintain proper chain tension. A loose chain can derail, while a tight chain can overheat.
- Air Filter Cleaning: Clean the air filter regularly.
- Spark Plug Inspection: Inspect the spark plug regularly.
- Fuel System Maintenance: Use fresh fuel and add fuel stabilizer when storing the chainsaw for extended periods.
- Lubrication: Use high-quality bar and chain oil.
Logging Tool Comparison: Manual log splitters are a cost-effective option for splitting small amounts of firewood. However, hydraulic log splitters are much faster and easier to use for larger quantities of firewood. Hydraulic splitters come in various sizes, with splitting force ranging from 10 tons to over 30 tons.
Firewood Seasoning Techniques and Safety Considerations
Once you’ve cut your firewood, you need to season it properly. Seasoning reduces the moisture content of the wood, making it easier to burn and producing more heat.
- Stacking: Stack the firewood in a single row, off the ground, and in a sunny, windy location. This allows for maximum airflow.
- Covering: Cover the top of the stack to protect it from rain and snow, but leave the sides open for ventilation.
- Seasoning Time: Allow the firewood to season for at least six months, and preferably a year or more.
- Moisture Content Testing: Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of the firewood. Firewood is considered seasoned when the moisture content is below 20%.
Firewood Safety Considerations:
- Carbon Monoxide: Never burn firewood in an enclosed space without proper ventilation. Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas.
- Chimney Fires: Clean your chimney regularly to prevent chimney fires.
- Wood Storage: Store firewood away from your house to prevent insect infestations.
Fuel Value Ratings: Different types of wood have different fuel value ratings, measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs) per cord. Hardwoods generally have higher BTU ratings than softwoods. For example, oak has a BTU rating of around 24 million per cord, while pine has a BTU rating of around 15 million per cord.
Project Planning and Execution
Before you start cutting wood, take some time to plan your project. This will help you work more efficiently and safely.
- Assess Your Needs: How much firewood do you need? What types of wood are available?
- Choose Your Location: Select a safe and accessible location for cutting and splitting wood.
- Gather Your Tools and Equipment: Make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment, including your chainsaw, safety gear, logging tools, and firewood seasoning supplies.
- Develop a Plan: Plan your cutting strategy, taking into account the size and shape of the trees or logs.
- Work Safely: Always prioritize safety. Follow all safety guidelines and use common sense.
Cost-Benefit Analysis: Consider the cost of purchasing firewood versus cutting your own. Factors to consider include the cost of the chainsaw, fuel, oil, safety gear, and your time. In many cases, cutting your own firewood can be more cost-effective, especially if you have access to free or inexpensive wood.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining a Poulan Wild Thing chainsaw, like all projects, takes time and dedication. I’ve personally found it incredibly rewarding to learn these skills. From the satisfaction of starting a fire with wood I’ve processed myself to the peace of mind knowing I’m prepared for whatever winter brings, it’s a lifestyle upgrade that pays dividends. With the tips and knowledge shared in this guide, you’re well-equipped to tackle common repairs, understand wood properties, and implement best practices for safe and efficient wood processing. So, grab your tools, put on your safety gear, and get ready to experience the satisfaction of self-sufficiency.
Next Steps:
- Review your Poulan Wild Thing’s owner’s manual.
- Identify any potential maintenance needs.
- Order any necessary parts.
- Practice safe chainsaw operation techniques.
Remember, a well-maintained Poulan Wild Thing is a reliable partner in your wood processing endeavors. Keep it running smoothly, and it will serve you well for years to come.
