My Poulan 16" saw is hard to start but runs well when it does. Is there anything I can do to make starting easier without compromising good operation?

Lloyd Collins, January 2008

I found the solution. Pump the primer, set the choke on full and pull the starter. DO NOT try to hold the trigger or pump it while starting. It starts after two or three pulls then let it warm up a few seconds and you're ready to go!

Lloyd Collins, January 2009

Well maybe. But whoever posted the previous answer to your question does not have a older Poulan chainsaw.
I am yet able to find a solution to the answer. I think the first 3 years it will run. After that they will not start or only run when hot, then never start again, just after it ran so well.?? Welcome to the world of Poulan. The fist 3 years I thought they were the best. Now I have 4 and all do the same thing nothing. If you buy a 2nd hand one like yours it will go bad right away. The methane in the gas determinates the gas tubs and primer bulb in weed eaters too.

pinkpanther, April 2008

The usual method for starting these is : press the primer bulb a few times (if it has one), then full choke, full throttle, pull recoil until engine pops, open choke, full throttle and the machine should start ok. It doesn't sound like there is a problem with the carburettor if the saw works ok when warm.

John, January 2008