Nice informative video. I literally just bought one and haven't even taken it out of the case yet. Yours is the second video I watched and the first one was pretty much useless. All the guy did was cut up little stuff. I bought it to cut bigger stuff so I'm glad you showed how you can use it for cutter bigger logs.
Thanks! I couldn't find any useful videos on the PR5020 either when I was looking. That was my motivation to make the video. 🙂 Mine is still running strong. I just had to tune it up but that was pretty easy after watching a few how to TH-cam videos. You need the carb adjustment tool though. I just added the Amazon link for the carb adjustment tool in the description if you are interested. Have a good one.
@Dylan Green yes or you can order these from Amazon...I ordered 4 delivered for less than $80CAD Full Chisel Saw Chain Replacement for Poulan PP5020AV Chainsaws - (20 inch 3/8" Pitch 0.050" Gauge 70 Drive Links CSC-D70) UpStart Components
Good comprehensive review on a good mid weight saw! I'm a Husqvarna XP guy forever. I will say that since I have owned the 5020 it has been flawless for me. Too many times people compare the Poulan to top end chainsaws like Stihl, etc, and that shouldn't be the point here. If you want a good property management saw that you don't have to drop a grand or more to get good power for the money, this is the one. Remember, they are made in USA, and owned by Husqvarna, and been in business since 1946.
I very much appreciate you wearing chaps while using your saw. Many homeowners seem to ignore basic chainsaw safety. I was felling a tree in my front yard the other day and the lady who is flipping the house next door, stopped to ask if I was an arborist, the helmet and chaps showed professionalism - she wouldn't have stopped by if I was being a "hero" and wearing flip-flops and shorts.
Great video. I picked up this chainsaw and used it for about 12 hours straight. It was set up perfectly right out of the box. I followed the starting instructions to a T and it started on the 3rd pull. Plenty of power and comfortable to use. Highly recommend for the non-professional.
I have had these before, now I have 2 5020 older ones, bought them both for 60.00 from the internet. Guy said he couldn't get them started. They started for me. The chain brake was broke on the one, I removed it. I was 13 years old when I cut down my first tree solo with my dad's 150 McCullough about a 1966 model. It was a big willow tree, I had no problem. I don't need a chain brake. Them are for people that have no business owning a saw in the first place. I've never been hurt by any of my saws. Including my double eagle 80 McCullough 32 inch bar, no chain brake from the factory. Thanks for the video.
I have the same saw and your advice is spot on! Follow directions (imagine that!), Keep chain sharp and tensioned right, use proper fuel, keep it clean, don't store for long periods with fuel in it...you hit all the right notes! Merry Christmas 🎄⛄
I have just brought this same saw but you are 100% correct that many don't read the directions carefully. I was looking for an inexpensive saw & I was worried that I picked the wrong saw. I will only need to use the saw no more than probably 3 to 4 times a year for damage trees that break during rough weather. I truly enjoyed your review.
In that case you don't have a need for a 50cc saw , spend a couple more bucks on a Husqvarna 135 or a 435 they are $210 and $245 respectively , 41 CC's each and both have the same power out put , which is plenty of power what you need a saw for and both saws are only 9.6 pounds which is super light making them very maneuverable and easy on the back after long periods of use. Either of these saws when properly taken care of should last you 15-20 years easily . Dont buy the poulan 5020 spend a couple more bucks on a slightly smaller Husqvarna and you won't be let down trust me .
I have 3 sthil saws that I love but thought I'd by this gor a backup and for others to use and borrow. Gotta say, I'm impressed with it. Huskvarna, the parent company of poulan, really upped their game. Mine says made in USA. Very happy with it.
Thanks, Jay. I just picked one up to deal with a HUGE ash tree. Works like a dream. Also, thanks for linking to all your kit. This chain saw taught me that one thing I should REALLY have are chaps. I'm gonna get the ones you have. Stay safe, mate!
You're right they are not that bad once set up. I picked up a Poulan Pro 4218A and owner said it wouldn't run. I did a video/review of that saw actually and it works just fine. 1/2 the price of the bigger brand names and cuts pretty darn good starts 2-3 pulls no matter the temperature.
Thanks for the review! I agree - its a good saw, I own four 5020's myself. I have allot of saws, pro, home and ranch, vintage and a couple cheap ones. The absolute best thing you can do to that saw is open up the muffler (muffler mod), re-adjust the carb to match the saw breathing better, run only non-ethanol gas and full synthetic oil between 32 or 40 to one ratio, and put a skip tooth chain on it ===== at least 20% more power. These EPA mufflers are like making a professional athlete breath through a straw. Good Luck!
Timothy Sampson Thanks for the information. My brother and I were talking about trying to get a little more power out of the saw. I’ll have to check into the mod.
WTF? How're you gonna "open up" a muffler that's completely open already? Really! I've run a 5020 for 6 yrs now, quite happily on full-syn 50:1 E-10, with full-comp "homespun" semi-chisel or oem "Vanguard" full-chisel chains. For best performance, focus on chain-filing and depth-gauge setting, rather than prevailing myth on engine-tweaking. IMO. Good idea to seal air-filter & LocTite carb-mount nuts, FYI.
@@jacquesblaque7728 That little hole on the top of the muffler chokes the exhaust. Just look at the size of the exhaust port and compare it to the little hole. And these are adjusted to run lean due to epa. Let it breathe and give more fuel with a proper tune and you will be rewarded.
As I stated earlier, that's nonsense. In now way does the muffler discharge port have to match the exhaust port in area. On a 5020, it's not what I'd characterize as a "little hole". Check out how expansion chambers are designed- port area vs final outlet size. Many idiots assume their ears are dynamometers- louder, and stinkier, means more power. Do you understand that strato saws are inherently quieter than non-?
I'VE OWNED MY 50/20 FOR OVER 2 YEARS NOW, I USED IT TO CLEAR OVER 3 ACRES OF OAK AND PINE TREES TO BUILD ON AND STILL USE IT OCCASIONALLY. NEVER HAD A PROBLEM
Good to hear that it's working out well for you. Mine is still going strong. Have a good one. Sorry for the late response. I missed your comment some how.
Saw the exact same saw on offer up for $100. I was skeptical but when i saw you cut that huge log it won me over. Especially for the job im doing around the house. Thanks
Great review here! I've had this saw for over 8 months now (I believe your review helped convince me), and I've been VERY happy with it. It's not a pro-grade saw by any means, but this thing can cut, and with PoulanPro owned by Husqvarna, a number of the parts are Husqvarna branded on the saw, so you know you're getting quality. It's easy to maintain and has enough power for almost anything I need to use it for (storm damage, firewood, trail maintenance, dropping some smaller trees, etc.). I've bucked up to 28" trees with this saw. Really nice to have the adjustment tool directly attached to the saw (so you will always have it handy). All that for $180 (Got mine on sale), and I think this is mostly all a homeowner would need. Also agree about the quality of the Stihl sharpener. It's been getting cheaper on amazon.
Great to hear! Thank you for commenting. Definitely not a Pro saw but it does what I need also. Glad it's working out for you. That's good that the Stihl sharpener dropped in price. I really like that thing.
So all the husqvarna replacement parts will fit the pr5020 or pp5020av model's cause they need parts I need a new clutch cover for my pr5020 And the pp5020av needs alot of pieces and parts to make it complete
Most people who buy the cheapest saw have no clue what they’re doing These are very very good saws for the money and they last a lifetime If you take care of them I love the ones I have and I use them all the time
Nice video lots of good information. This saw is great for the price, runs great just like the old poulans. The key to any power saw is maintenance a sharp properly ground chain skip tooth or full grind, getting the gullet helps, enough chain oil not to tight fighting the saw. Keep it simple good gas, clean air intake, don't cut dirt. Keep on buckin
Dirt doesn't mess mine up and it's a old saw its been in and out of mud then back into tree's it's done alot of stumps which went right into dirt many times and still cut What messes it up is a hidden piece of nail in the tree's or fence wire dirt doesn't so I don't know who ever came up with that I'm pretty sure if I or someone else just sticks it right in the ground yes that'll mess it up good
I bought one a couple months ago purchased a ripping chain and have been using it to Mill Lumber. It has done fantastic on Oak and Poplar so far runs like a Swiss watch. The number one most important thing is make sure you did not put gas with ethanol in this or any other chainsaw. Ethanol will destroy the primer bulb fuel lines and carburetor diaphragm inside of three months. So far I have been using canned fuel from Tractor Supply. I just found out there is a VP racing gas station that sells ethanol free fuel right here in my neighborhood. That makes me pretty happy I don't like paying $24 a gallon for my fuel LOL
I just bought a ripping chain and I'm glad to hear that it does a good job milling. Can't wait to try it. I use canned gas also. Good score finding ethanol free gas. 👍
If the saw wont start when it is hot adjusting the spark plug gap to 30 will help it fire over better cause its 25 for the spark plug gap factory but it shrinks to a 22 gap
Just bought this saw a week back, 1st ever start, I had to idle for about 3-4 mins (not 30 seconds), scared me a little,but ran fine & cut well, for 200$ can't complain.
I like Poulan chainsaws, had a PP4218A for a few years, would still have it but my best friend liked it so much he bought it from me. I had that PR5020 too for a few months. Nothing wrong with it, sold it for a little bigger Husqvarna 353. Husqvarna owns Poulan. They've owned Poulan since 2006. Poulan is a nice saw for the money. I work my saws but take care of them, clean them after each use and have them serviced as needed. You may get a lemon, here and there but Poulan is a good saw. I don't care what other people think. I have Husqvarna, Sthil and Echo now. All great saws. I learn toward Husqvarna . My older 340 and 353 run just as well as my newer Sthil MS 170 and 251C.
I was just looking at A Husqvarna saw that was only about 75 bucks more then my Poulan and I thought they maybe I should have grabbed A Husqvarna instead. But the PR5020 has worked great for me so I'm happy with the decision. Maybe someday I'll add a second chainsaw to the lineup. I think you got it right, take care of the saw and it will do fine. Especially for my usage. Thanks a lot for watching and commenting. Have a good one!
Good review. Agree on pretty much all points. When I leave it and come back to it a few years later: always forget its particularities about starting, but you are correct about just following the directions. And yeah, it DOES put out the bar & chain oil!
Hi, Jay !!! How are you doing? I enjoyed your chainsaw review. It works great to me. It went through that wood very easily. Thanks for sharing. See you next Monday my, friend.
Good video, I see a lot of unnecessary hate for the poulan saws, when you dig in to the negativity you find that it's from mainly people who don't cut wood often and have it hammered in their head that the only thing you can own is a Stihll. Might only run it once a year. I've cut wood most of my life to help heat my parent's house and now my own. I started on a poulan and it lasted me a good 10 plus years before I broke down and upgraded. I love stihll saws but as an average Joe who splits more wood than he cuts but cuts more than he'll burn I'll gladly use poulans around the homestead especially the newer models. They run great and if yoy take care of them they'll last a long while, far longer than what the price you payed for them was worth!
A buddy & myself started our own BBQ / Firewood business. He has a $400 20" Stihl, I bought the Poulan Pro 5020 and a Oregon Series 70 Chisel Chain. Only chains I use.. They eat through hard woods! I lucked out on mine, it Cold starts with 2 pulls & one slight pull after she's warm will get her fired back up. I did order the carb adjust tool set for 2 cycle engines for a just in case. I did have to adjust my idle a tad out of the box. It would die after sitting for a bit. So far we've been working on a huge 5' plus old Wet Oak down here in SE Texas. She's doing great for a $200 saw plus a 3 yr ext. warranty. **You do need Bar Oil or you'll burn her up!
Good to hear! I bought an Oregon ripping chain that I haven't tried yet. Need to put that thing on and give it a spin. Thanks for watching and commenting.
I've had mine foir a month as well! The design clearly shows that a bunch of board members saying it was beautiful. While engineers had there heads up their butt. First the fill caps for the fuel, and chain oil have recessed rings that collect dust like a magnet. So, when you get to refill the tanks, you need at rag and a toothpick to clean the fine dust out so it doesn't get into the tanks. What engineer didn't test that design! They added a primer bulb! I had mine a month and it went out! Then they want $7.50 for a o.e. ( Original equipment ) primary bulb. Pricey, for a primer bulb. My last poulan was the PP4620AVX It had a design flaw that logs could loosen your chain oil cap! I lost 2! Like the ground ate them. I bought 4 since they were cheap and a very popular item. I knew why. Now, back to PP5020ABX, I burn wood. No wood, no heat! I need a reliable chain saw. The 5020 is, anything but. Mines down again, and not quite sure the issue. The fuel is excessively spurting fuel in the cylinder and drowns the spark plug! This chain saw has had 1 1/2 gallons of fuel through it, since out of the box!
Nice video thanks for sharing your knowledge. Poulan is a Husqvarna brand. They seem to run well. I have used both brands and all the trees went down so there must be some magic involved! 😜
Thank for the information very good I am very impressed very detail it big enough n good entangled gonna get one for cutting some branches bec it growing bigger and stretch out over the road now
Finally someone who says the name correctly. I’ve been thinking about getting a stihl ms250 to run strictly as a firewood saw so I’m not running my MS260 Pro at work & firewood putting more abuse on it, I’m leaning a lot more towards the Ms250 but how would the Poulan preform running a couple hours straight cutting firewood?
Derek Rudkin I think it would do fine running a couple hours. But if your cutting a lot of big stuff, the Poulan doesn’t have as much power as a Stihl. I did cut several large diameter logs with my Poulan but more power would have been nice.
@ Derek, there really is no comparison between a Stihl and a Poulan, that's like comparing apples to spark plugs lol. If you need to have a chainsaw around the house for incidental work or light to medium general work and you're on a budget a Poulan might be a good option. However, if you're heavy chainsaw user you'd be much better off in the long run to purchase a Stihl. Even the small Stihls are made for extreme use, and they're inexpensive to rebuild (bringing used Stihls into the picture). There use to be a big bore kit available for the 5020 which may have brought it up a notch or two but the kits aren't made anymore, BUT why buy a chainsaw when the first thing you have to do to it to get the power you need out of it is not to put fuel in it but to put a new cylinder kit on it?
Great job there,been looking into this saw and this the best and most comprehensive review I have seen on TH-cam,these are not bad saws if you treat the properly,I have one dating back to 2010 purchased under the Craftsman name and it still works great but it is only 38 cc and 16 inch bar and chain,so am looking into this bigger sibling for the bigger stuff,awesome place you got there !
Jose Sanchez Thank you. I had that same 38 cc craftsman chainsaw for many years until I burned up the clutch (my fault) last year. I gave it to someone after that and bought the Poulan. I wish I would have kept the craftsman and fixed it for a backup saw. It was a great little saw. Thank you for checking out the video. I’ll be putting the Poulan to the test this winter as I have about 10 trees down on another small piece of property. I will be doing a performance type of update video when I start cutting those. Take care.
I tuned mine myself. You can see the pics on Amazon Reviews. 3 pumps on my bulb. I love it.. She Cold Starts on 2 pulls & warm starts on 1st pull every time. I put the Oregon 70 series Chisel Chain on mine. It just says up the wood! I got the 3yr extended warranty. So with a 2yr factory warranty? Plus a 3yr extended? Can't go wrong, imo - Note- most all of these will need the Idle Adjusted twice. Once new & another maybe a week later, depends on how much you use it.
I'll have to check out your review. I need to tune mine up. I've messed with idle screws but just got the timing tool. Definitely needs some attention.
Husky bought Poulan a couple of years ago, and I'm not pleased at all with the 5020 saw. Used it for 4 gas fillings and the starter rope wouldn't recoil back. Saw was dead. Had the warrentee so I took it to the repair shop that Poulan chose, two months latter I get it back . ran it for about 3 gas fillings and once again same freakin thing. by now the warrentee has ended and I'm on my own. Being a tool and design engineer, I thought figure it out yourself. So I bought all the spares and replaced everything. I noticed that the large spring must have heated up because it looked much different that the spare I bought. So went to start it up and again the rope wouldn't recoil back. So as I was removing the recoil cover the rope staps back into place. Long story short I removed about .120" from the top of the small plastic cap that goes over the large spring. I'm believing that it's pressing against the flywheel causing all the problems. Have used it with two gas filling, so far so good...
Awesome video. I have seen many sandel and shorts reviews. Also you covered a lot here. Thank you . I'm seriously considering this sae because I only have one acre of property to maintain. I do don't want to spend $400+ for a saw. My 16 husqvarna needs service. When I fix it I'll use it for tree tops and this saw for bigger cuts
I've owned this saw for about a year now. It has been very dependable for me. I use it for trimming trees and such in the summer (along with my Stihl MS170) and in the (fall for) winter I use it for cutting firewood and felling trees. I was never really pleased with the saw chain that it came with, even after sharpening it myself it didn't seem to perform as well as I'd hoped. I replaced the saw chain with a County Line LC70 from Tractor Supply (TSC part# 1044191) and it helped IMMENSELY. Although I do feel for a 50cc (category, 51cc technically) saw it seems under-powered a bit, although workable if you don't "crowd" the saw. I read one of the comments on here about the "muffler mod" and carb adjustment. I think I'm going to try that, seems fairly straightforward. Another option would be port and polish, however its a
Woodwork Noob I want to try that carb mod also. I have about 12 trees to cut up now. Someday I hope to own a Stihl but can’t afford it right now. It would be nice to have more power. Thank you for watching and commenting.
I've ~7 yrs on a 5020, even still have an OEM "Vanguard" chain I use. Granberg file guide helps a lot to precisely take down the depth gauges; then it really cuts well. Please tell me how one would do a "muffler mod" on an open can of a muffler? Those wee stihls don't look good compared to PP4218, which can be had as a factory-refurb for
It's a good saw. Replaced a Husky XP 346 with one. Loved the XP, the Poulan has less power and is a lot heavier. Like the ability to adjust carb with the wrench. Starts great, btw.
I've run a PP5020 for 5 yrs now, other saws for ~50 yrs, FWIW. On this saw OEM chain is 3/8" pitch, .050" gauge, 70 DL. Most such 20" are 72 DL. Best sharpener I've found is Granberg clamp-on file-guide, which can precisely set height of depth gauges too- using the same one for ~40 yrs. Plan to KEEP chain sharp. Best way to warm up 2-stroke- under load @WOT, with short cool-down after. Chain type that stays sharp longest is semi-chisel. For any halfway serious cutting- bucking or felling- keep 5" plastic wedges on you, and use 'em. Helmet w/screen & muffs a BIG PLUS. Air filter on 5020 needs help sealing- tiny silicone bead works. All this IMO of course.
My pleasure. Also, nuts that hold carb to cyl can work loose, with plastic bits limiting tightness, so blue loctite keeps mine in place now. I failed to mention that you need a Husqvarna splined carb tool to adjust H and L mixture- readily available online. One interesting bit on 5020- the clutch cover is great at clearing chips, so the saw is excellent for "noodling"- lengthwise ripping cuts.
Oh cool. I haven't tried lengthwise noodling cuts with this saw yet but I want to. I bought a spline tool that said it worked on the saw but I have to look into using it. Thanks for the info on the loctite needed also.
@@nhbowhunter A STANDARD "Small Husqy mount" "K095" nominal 20" bar would take a 72 DL 3/8" pitch chain. My, and others', pp5020 20" bar definitely take 70DL chains. Either Poulan-man is wrong, or they changed the OEM b/c spec. You have options: 1) with chain-breaker/spinner, presets & side-straps you can get a 72DL chain and make it fit shorter bar a/r; 2) you can believe the 70/DL part and pray; 3) you can get 72DL chain AND 20" K095 bar and go forward with those specs; (4) you can order 60 DL chain & 16" K095 bar, which some prefer for PP5020 power-head. I'd ask an expert at Frawleys. Good luck with the saw.
Glad that you found it helpful. My chainsaw before this one was a Craftsman 36 cc also. Haha! I'm in the process of cutting a bunch of logs right now and the Poulan Pro is still running strong and doing a great job.
Just noticed that saws muffler is nearly identical to a Husqvarna 450 muffler , I wonder if theres any chance of them having the same engines or similar designs. Poulan I'd owned and manufactured by Husqvarna after all. I might pick up a pp5020 just for the purpose of looking into this. I'd like to know what the horsepower out put of this saw is , I wonder if it's over 3 horsepower , it should be at least 3 being 50cc's. I know the 50cc husq 450 is 3.2 hp
You might be able to find one cheap that someone hosed up when using the first time. I've seen them on Craigslist every once in awhile that are new but they say it won't run right.
you did a " MOST EXCELLENT ", GENUINE review !!! have this saw about 7 week's now, ,, personally with ALL, 2 stroke's, I put in an E3.12 spark plug, n only run" true fuel ", "SEF " or so on, have a year 1990's "Echo", weed wacker( SRM 2501s) still running good, destroy any thick weed's ! this My 3'rd chain saw, n all 3 running, but your review, about the best for someone starting. you truly took anyone watching, from un box, to how to correctly !! ,,, if an Echo, Husqvarna, or Stihl, if don't know, don't read manual, = problem's, Impressed with your review !! n personally, having good result's with it. n like your in field sharpener, personally have the pferd blue one, but same, also have the "Buffalo", bench mount sharpener (under $50.00 buck's), N chain's like new, but does not file raker's, like the Stihl N Pferd, but can do with Oregon raker file. THX taking the time !! awesome job !
@@AlmostHomestead since this reply, saw a Poulan 295 "Farm hand",(46cc) (prob 17 yrs old) on ebay, $25.00 dude honest enough say, could not remember if ran or not, when shelved, several yrs ago, I changed fuel line, and filter, then added E3.12 plug, did not try start, till new air filter arrived, air filter was filthy, no light thru, when air filter changed, pulled new plug, added drop "sef" fuel, put all back, few pull's, and she's a BEAST !! RIVAL'S 50cc PR 5020 !!!! am not only happy !! true FAN OF POULAN !!!!! most new buyer's, just can not care for saw's !! especially 2 stroke !!!! JUS SAIN !!!
I myself have a poulan pro pr4218 saw .if a person just reads the directions in the instructions manual. It works good . O 1 thing when the saw is new take the spark plug out and check the gap . At the factory they make a lot of them , and they do their best. Mine was 0.032 to wide the manual recommends 0.025 .it does make a difference in starting and preference. Poulan are not 100% junk.
I had a Poulan "Wild Thang" for more than twenty five years. 18" bar, with about a 40cc engine. Started on the first or second pull. It never failed me. All I needed to do was to keep it gased up, and bar oil aplenty, I once tackled a tree with it that was over two foot in diameter, and it worked flawlessly, doing what a chain saw does. I was going to cut some more firewood for some people, when the unthinkable happened. After a hard day of cutting and stacking firewood for a customer, I left Wild Thang in the back end of my truck, and someone else must have needed it worse than I, for they filched it. I have no idea who came and took the saw, but it was gone that morning.. That has been more than ten years ago. Im still looking for my saw. I will continue looking for the marks that I placed on it to show anyone that it IS MY SAW. I recently got a new saw. Another Poulan, since my first had lasted so long. I do hope this one is as good as the first. Not a bad chainsaw at all.
Wow, twenty five years? That's great. That would suck to have such an old reliable saw ripped off. That would be cool if it turned up sometime. Thanks for checking out the video. Much appreciated.
Cool informative review thank you. Just got the same one in the mail today and I'm about to go get some of that premix gas. The water behind you looks amazing. Me and my new wife are getting kicked out of my moms house so I'm going to have to cut down some of the problematic trees near the house. We want to find land to get closer to off the grid/homesteading life. We have no idea where to go but wife and me are getting over Florida mosquitos and living in my moms house. I have a moving company and do handy work. Where is this place? Are there any jobs or land that I can rent to own in your area? Thank you and keep up the good work
Hey Nik. In our area the prices have gone way up. We are in Snohomish County in Western Washington and last year it was recognized as the fastest growing County in the nation which drove prices way up. I have friends in Arkansas and land is a lot cheaper their if you are looking. I'm sure that there are other inexpensive areas but Arkansas comes to mind. As far as jobs go, you would have to look at some job hunting websites. Most people here in our area travel an hour or more to work. I did a lot of searching on Zillow for land and land with a cabin or house. That can be a great resource for figuring out where you want to live and the affordability of the area. I wish you all the best. It can be a scary leap into the unknown but following your dreams usually opens doors to good things.
jake williams I have done any mods to it yet but a few people made suggestions. I really should do it so it cranks out a little more power. It runs so well for me that I just haven’t taken the time to mess with it. Thanks for watching!
I’m a Stihl guy, I’ve got a 180, 220 (first birthday gift I gave the fiancé), 2 029’s, a 029 super, 044, and my newest the 661 magnum. That said, I cut wood probably 3 days a week my go to is my fathers 029 which I think is similar to the your saw. It’s finicky, it’s old, it’s tired. My buddy bought the Poulan pro and honestly, it cuts slower than my Stihl but it’s a great saw. Don’t be ashamed or feel the need to explain your purchase if something does what you need it.
That's a nice selection of chainsaws. Hoping to get a Stihl someday. Definitely would be my first choice. Just picked up a couple of Husqvarna 435's for free. Going to try and get one running soon.
Huskys are great saws! I’m not familiar with their numbering system but I’m sure they will work great. The fiancé loves cutting wood so I had to get her a little pro saw. She love running her saw and has sectioned, bucked, and hauled endless cords. Then I end up splitting them. I feed my grandparents, moms, and a friends wood stove. So having lots of wood is a must. Lots of cutting and splitting.
Hey Thanks John. I have been cutting quite a bit of wood lately and the PR5020 has been performing great. I am working on a review of the Log Ox 3-in-1 Forestry Multi-Tool for my next video but after that I may do a follow up PR5020 video just to give an update on it's performance after using for over 1 year.
@@AlmostHomestead I would like to concur.this is how a TH-cam video should be concise accurate and truly represents the proper use of a product. I have the same saw and believe for $200 you can't go wrong
Jay, the instructions say to start the saw with the chain brake off (pulling handle in) however, you say to start it with chain brake on (pulling handle out). Why the difference?
Paul Boudreau On page 9 of the manual bottom left (online manual) it says “The chain brake must be locked when the chainsaw is started”. I understand the confusion though. The manual is kind of screwy. The page is titled Starting And Stopping and the first thing written is Ensure chain brake is unlocked by pulling the hand guard back.....but if you read on, they are talking about before cutting with the saw.
I have a Poulan or and a Walmart black max both 50cc 20" I'd recommend the black max over the Poulan . Because Walmart regularly had the saws on clearance $80-$130 , mspr $220. The black Max are identical to ryobi, black and decker, homelike saws just different stickers. And engines are Honda 2 stroke. The Poulan are fine too, spare cheap parts, lots of repair videos, and repair shop knows how work on them. No matter what saw buy, get a high quality nkg spark plug, quality air filter and oil + fuel. I use vp racing oil -2 stroke full synthetic with fuel stabilizer, and then ethanol free gas. Don't ever use that premix crap no matter the brand,it is junk and goes bad in weeks.
Haha. Shorts and sandals. I cut VERY often in the summer bare foot and in shorts And I cut 50 to 60 full cord of wood. That’s multiple semi truck loads worth of logs
$153 on a price match + 10% discount at HD was to hard to pass. Use 93 octane @ 40:1 w/synthetic oil w/stabilizer. Ported (louvered) the muffler & the intake & exhaust then did a carb re-adjust to the leaner side and a 72LGX070 bluetooth chisel chain and it throws corn flake size wood chips. Now she runs & sounds like a 4 stroke'n scream'n demon, also bigger pawls on both sides so fell'n a 45" tree is regular occurrence. Use the thickest bar oil you can it's a must..
That's understandable. It's not a great chainsaw for a professional or someone using it on a regular basis. More for the once a year guy cutting up some wood. If I was cutting logs or trees on a regular basis I would upgrade.
Trying to decide between this chainsaw and going a little more expensive and getting something like an Echo CS-400 ($300) or CS-490 ($350). This will be my first chainsaw. I don't really want to have to do a ton of extra maintenance on the saw other than the standard stuff of sharpening and replacing chains and fluids. I recently bought an acre of land that has a good amount of trees. I anticipate some longer days with the saw but will be using it infrequently I would think. I prefer to buy once and have it last a long time. Anyone have any thoughts?
I have no experience with Echo chainsaws. I like the Poulan chainsaw but honestly, if I was to do it all over again I would spend more and get a more powerful Stihl chainsaw. I'm going to mill some boards with a grandberg mini mill at some point. The Poulan PR5020 meets the minimum 50cc requirement to use the mill but I'd rather have something with more cc's.
I have three acres of land and clear the brush and occasional one or two trees for future burning. Ivan had a Poulin Pro 16” that has done fine for about 15 years but I’ve worn it out from heavy use recently. The 5020 will be more than enough for you and shouldn’t break the bank.
I’m not sure why starting it with the chain brake on hurt the idle, with my MS260 Pro I always start It with it the chain brake off & on a cold start still without the chain brake on, & my boss who taught me how to run it id say he’s late 60s or early 70s still running saws his entire life, on a cold start after it starts he has me hold it wide open for a few seconds then let off & it’s warmed up. On stihl at least.
Derek Rudkin Maybe the brake and idle issue is just a Poulan thing. Not sure. Seems like a bad idea as I’m sure a lot of people start it with the brake off and then just figure the chainsaw is messed up when it doesn’t run correctly.
I bought one for home use live out it the country use it around the house. Im also a master Automotive technician. I generally only use snap on tools as a professional that being said I am not a professional wood cutter. If your going to turn wrenches for a living you need professional grade tools. If your going to cut wood for a living you need a professional grade chainsaw. If its for home use this chainsaw works just fine never had an issue with it.
Amateur chainsaw user here! Thanks for the tips. I would've revved the engine while the brake was engaged had I not watched this. Had no idea it could damage the clutch and brake. ALSO, before I load mine up w oil and fuel, I'm a little confused when it comes to the tension of the chain, and the tightness of the two nuts on the side of my new Poulan. It seems like the chain doesn't move at all when I manually pull on it if the nuts are just 'barely' snug. Any looser and I risk eventually losing my nuts. (There's a joke in there somewhere.) But in all seriousness I don't understand the tension on these things. Can someone give me a detailed answer please? I can't find ANY videos or even in the manual how tight the nuts should be to operate the chainsaw. Would be very grateful for some help!! Thanks again!
Thanks for watching. Glad it was helpful. Check out page 7 of the manual where they talk about chain tension. Hopefully that sheds some light on the issue.
Nice informative video. I literally just bought one and haven't even taken it out of the case yet. Yours is the second video I watched and the first one was pretty much useless. All the guy did was cut up little stuff. I bought it to cut bigger stuff so I'm glad you showed how you can use it for cutter bigger logs.
Thanks! I couldn't find any useful videos on the PR5020 either when I was looking. That was my motivation to make the video. 🙂 Mine is still running strong. I just had to tune it up but that was pretty easy after watching a few how to TH-cam videos. You need the carb adjustment tool though. I just added the Amazon link for the carb adjustment tool in the description if you are interested. Have a good one.
@Dylan Green yes or you can order these from Amazon...I ordered 4 delivered for less than $80CAD
Full Chisel Saw Chain Replacement for Poulan PP5020AV Chainsaws - (20 inch 3/8" Pitch 0.050" Gauge 70 Drive Links CSC-D70) UpStart Components
i guess Im kinda off topic but do anyone know a good place to stream newly released series online ?
@Mark Raphael I watch on Flixzone. Just search on google for it =)
@Mark Raphael i use flixzone. You can find it on google =)
Good comprehensive review on a good mid weight saw! I'm a Husqvarna XP guy forever. I will say that since I have owned the 5020 it has been flawless for me. Too many times people compare the Poulan to top end chainsaws like Stihl, etc, and that shouldn't be the point here. If you want a good property management saw that you don't have to drop a grand or more to get good power for the money, this is the one. Remember, they are made in USA, and owned by Husqvarna, and been in business since 1946.
I very much appreciate you wearing chaps while using your saw. Many homeowners seem to ignore basic chainsaw safety. I was felling a tree in my front yard the other day and the lady who is flipping the house next door, stopped to ask if I was an arborist, the helmet and chaps showed professionalism - she wouldn't have stopped by if I was being a "hero" and wearing flip-flops and shorts.
Great video. I picked up this chainsaw and used it for about 12 hours straight. It was set up perfectly right out of the box. I followed the starting instructions to a T and it started on the 3rd pull. Plenty of power and comfortable to use. Highly recommend for the non-professional.
Awesome. Glad it worked out for you.
Had mine for 6yrs. Still happy with it.
I have had these before, now I have 2 5020 older ones, bought them both for 60.00 from the internet. Guy said he couldn't get them started. They started for me. The chain brake was broke on the one, I removed it. I was 13 years old when I cut down my first tree solo with my dad's 150 McCullough about a 1966 model. It was a big willow tree, I had no problem. I don't need a chain brake. Them are for people that have no business owning a saw in the first place. I've never been hurt by any of my saws. Including my double eagle 80 McCullough 32 inch bar, no chain brake from the factory.
Thanks for the video.
I have the same saw and your advice is spot on! Follow directions (imagine that!), Keep chain sharp and tensioned right, use proper fuel, keep it clean, don't store for long periods with fuel in it...you hit all the right notes! Merry Christmas 🎄⛄
Hey thank you! And Merry Christmas to you as well.
I have just brought this same saw but you are 100% correct that many don't read the directions carefully. I was looking for an inexpensive saw & I was worried that I picked the wrong saw. I will only need to use the saw no more than probably 3 to 4 times a year for damage trees that break during rough weather. I truly enjoyed your review.
ROL BROWN Thank you so much for watching and commenting. Glad you liked it.
In that case you don't have a need for a 50cc saw , spend a couple more bucks on a Husqvarna 135 or a 435 they are $210 and $245 respectively , 41 CC's each and both have the same power out put , which is plenty of power what you need a saw for and both saws are only 9.6 pounds which is super light making them very maneuverable and easy on the back after long periods of use. Either of these saws when properly taken care of should last you 15-20 years easily . Dont buy the poulan 5020 spend a couple more bucks on a slightly smaller Husqvarna and you won't be let down trust me .
I have 3 sthil saws that I love but thought I'd by this gor a backup and for others to use and borrow. Gotta say, I'm impressed with it. Huskvarna, the parent company of poulan, really upped their game. Mine says made in USA. Very happy with it.
I would love to have at least one Stihl saw. Haha! Glad the Poulan worked out for you.
Thanks, Jay. I just picked one up to deal with a HUGE ash tree. Works like a dream. Also, thanks for linking to all your kit. This chain saw taught me that one thing I should REALLY have are chaps. I'm gonna get the ones you have. Stay safe, mate!
Awesome! Thanks for commenting. Chaps are definitely a good investment. 👍🙂
Right you are... chaps are essential. My father had a chain jump off the bar and bite his knee real bad once.
@@tradermonk9403 I"m clenching so hard, you couldn't pull a needle out of my ass with a tractor. Hope he's ok now.
You're right they are not that bad once set up. I picked up a Poulan Pro 4218A and owner said it wouldn't run. I did a video/review of that saw actually and it works just fine. 1/2 the price of the bigger brand names and cuts pretty darn good starts 2-3 pulls no matter the temperature.
Still going strong
Very nicely put together and very informative. Great job on review J 😀
Thanks for the review! I agree - its a good saw, I own four 5020's myself. I have allot of saws, pro, home and ranch, vintage and a couple cheap ones. The absolute best thing you can do to that saw is open up the muffler (muffler mod), re-adjust the carb to match the saw breathing better, run only non-ethanol gas and full synthetic oil between 32 or 40 to one ratio, and put a skip tooth chain on it ===== at least 20% more power. These EPA mufflers are like making a professional athlete breath through a straw. Good Luck!
Timothy Sampson Thanks for the information. My brother and I were talking about trying to get a little more power out of the saw. I’ll have to check into the mod.
WTF? How're you gonna "open up" a muffler that's completely open already? Really! I've run a 5020 for 6 yrs now, quite happily on full-syn 50:1 E-10, with full-comp "homespun" semi-chisel or oem "Vanguard" full-chisel chains. For best performance, focus on chain-filing and depth-gauge setting, rather than prevailing myth on engine-tweaking. IMO. Good idea to seal air-filter & LocTite carb-mount nuts, FYI.
When you say muffler mod what comes to mind, my mind, is an expansion chamber exhaust. Just like what you see on motorcycles and snowmobiles.
@@jacquesblaque7728 That little hole on the top of the muffler chokes the exhaust. Just look at the size of the exhaust port and compare it to the little hole. And these are adjusted to run lean due to epa. Let it breathe and give more fuel with a proper tune and you will be rewarded.
As I stated earlier, that's nonsense. In now way does the muffler discharge port have to match the exhaust port in area. On a 5020, it's not what I'd characterize as a "little hole". Check out how expansion chambers are designed- port area vs final outlet size. Many idiots assume their ears are dynamometers- louder, and stinkier, means more power. Do you understand that strato saws are inherently quieter than non-?
I'VE OWNED MY 50/20 FOR OVER 2 YEARS NOW, I USED IT TO CLEAR OVER 3 ACRES OF OAK AND PINE TREES TO BUILD ON AND STILL USE IT OCCASIONALLY. NEVER HAD A PROBLEM
Good to hear. Mine is still going strong also.
I bought this saw to cut firewood 6 months ago and so far I am surprisingly pleased. Good saw for great price!
Good to hear that it's working out well for you. Mine is still going strong. Have a good one. Sorry for the late response. I missed your comment some how.
Saw the exact same saw on offer up for $100. I was skeptical but when i saw you cut that huge log it won me over. Especially for the job im doing around the house. Thanks
T C'u Oh nice! I’m glad the video was helpful. Thank you for watching. 👍
It's a great saw for the money and what it is, just don't expect it to be something it's not
.......I have had several of these saws they do a good job don't have any real complaints about them......Thanks for sharing. ...
Good to hear Thomas. Thanks.
I have a Shindaiwa 491s chainsaw with 18 inch bar on it, it does a great job.
Great review here!
I've had this saw for over 8 months now (I believe your review helped convince me), and I've been VERY happy with it. It's not a pro-grade saw by any means, but this thing can cut, and with PoulanPro owned by Husqvarna, a number of the parts are Husqvarna branded on the saw, so you know you're getting quality. It's easy to maintain and has enough power for almost anything I need to use it for (storm damage, firewood, trail maintenance, dropping some smaller trees, etc.). I've bucked up to 28" trees with this saw. Really nice to have the adjustment tool directly attached to the saw (so you will always have it handy). All that for $180 (Got mine on sale), and I think this is mostly all a homeowner would need.
Also agree about the quality of the Stihl sharpener. It's been getting cheaper on amazon.
Great to hear! Thank you for commenting. Definitely not a Pro saw but it does what I need also. Glad it's working out for you. That's good that the Stihl sharpener dropped in price. I really like that thing.
So all the husqvarna replacement parts will fit the pr5020 or pp5020av model's cause they need parts I need a new clutch cover for my pr5020
And the pp5020av needs alot of pieces and parts to make it complete
Most people who buy the cheapest saw have no clue what they’re doing
These are very very good saws for the money and they last a lifetime
If you take care of them
I love the ones I have and I use them all the time
Nice video lots of good information. This saw is great for the price, runs great just like the old poulans. The key to any power saw is maintenance a sharp properly ground chain skip tooth or full grind, getting the gullet helps, enough chain oil not to tight fighting the saw. Keep it simple good gas, clean air intake, don't cut dirt. Keep on buckin
Dirt doesn't mess mine up and it's a old saw its been in and out of mud then back into tree's it's done alot of stumps which went right into dirt many times and still cut
What messes it up is a hidden piece of nail in the tree's or fence wire dirt doesn't so I don't know who ever came up with that
I'm pretty sure if I or someone else just sticks it right in the ground yes that'll mess it up good
Wish I would have found this when I bought mine! Good job.
Thank you!
I bought one a couple months ago purchased a ripping chain and have been using it to Mill Lumber. It has done fantastic on Oak and Poplar so far runs like a Swiss watch. The number one most important thing is make sure you did not put gas with ethanol in this or any other chainsaw. Ethanol will destroy the primer bulb fuel lines and carburetor diaphragm inside of three months. So far I have been using canned fuel from Tractor Supply. I just found out there is a VP racing gas station that sells ethanol free fuel right here in my neighborhood. That makes me pretty happy I don't like paying $24 a gallon for my fuel LOL
I just bought a ripping chain and I'm glad to hear that it does a good job milling. Can't wait to try it. I use canned gas also. Good score finding ethanol free gas. 👍
Really helpful review. Was on the fence but this helped me a lot. Thx
Good to hear. 👍 Mine is still running strong. Thanks for watching and commenting.
If the saw wont start when it is hot adjusting the spark plug gap to 30 will help it fire over better cause its 25 for the spark plug gap factory but it shrinks to a 22 gap
Nope that means the crank seal isn't sealing correctly and husqvarna and their cheap shit knows about that
Just bought this saw a week back, 1st ever start, I had to idle for about 3-4 mins (not 30 seconds), scared me a little,but ran fine & cut well, for 200$ can't complain.
I like Poulan chainsaws, had a PP4218A for a few years, would still have it but my best friend liked it so much he bought it from me. I had that PR5020 too for a few months. Nothing wrong with it, sold it for a little bigger Husqvarna 353. Husqvarna owns Poulan. They've owned Poulan since 2006. Poulan is a nice saw for the money. I work my saws but take care of them, clean them after each use and have them serviced as needed. You may get a lemon, here and there but Poulan is a good saw. I don't care what other people think. I have Husqvarna, Sthil and Echo now. All great saws. I learn toward Husqvarna . My older 340 and 353 run just as well as my newer Sthil MS 170 and 251C.
I was just looking at A Husqvarna saw that was only about 75 bucks more then my Poulan and I thought they maybe I should have grabbed A Husqvarna instead. But the PR5020 has worked great for me so I'm happy with the decision. Maybe someday I'll add a second chainsaw to the lineup. I think you got it right, take care of the saw and it will do fine. Especially for my usage. Thanks a lot for watching and commenting. Have a good one!
I have one and have for a few months , I have no complaints I like it
I really appreciate the video. Helped me make my mind up.
Glad it helped!
Great review and information! I just bought this saw and I really appreciate the time you spent providing this video.
Thank you very much. Enjoy your new saw.
Dag nabbit! I have now been duly informed that I suck at chainsaws. Very good info. Thanks!
Haha! Thanks Eddie.
If you take more than two steps, always use your chain brake. Great video! I think I’m going to pick one up tomorrow
Good advice Jake. Good luck with the new saw.
Good review. Agree on pretty much all points. When I leave it and come back to it a few years later: always forget its particularities about starting, but you are correct about just following the directions. And yeah, it DOES put out the bar & chain oil!
Thank you for checking out the video and commenting.
Mad respect for being able to pronounce poulen right! Most people call it pu lawn, drives me nuts.
Haha! Yeah, I wanted to make sure and get it right. Thanks for watching!
Hi, Jay !!! How are you doing? I enjoyed your chainsaw review. It works great to me. It went through that wood very easily. Thanks for sharing. See you next Monday my, friend.
Jenita Lovingit!! Thank you for checking it out.
You're so very welcome.
Good video, I see a lot of unnecessary hate for the poulan saws, when you dig in to the negativity you find that it's from mainly people who don't cut wood often and have it hammered in their head that the only thing you can own is a Stihll. Might only run it once a year. I've cut wood most of my life to help heat my parent's house and now my own. I started on a poulan and it lasted me a good 10 plus years before I broke down and upgraded. I love stihll saws but as an average Joe who splits more wood than he cuts but cuts more than he'll burn I'll gladly use poulans around the homestead especially the newer models. They run great and if yoy take care of them they'll last a long while, far longer than what the price you payed for them was worth!
Thanks for watching and commenting. I'm still using my PR5020 and it serves me well.
A buddy & myself started our own BBQ / Firewood business. He has a $400 20" Stihl, I bought the Poulan Pro 5020 and a Oregon Series 70 Chisel Chain. Only chains I use.. They eat through hard woods! I lucked out on mine, it Cold starts with 2 pulls & one slight pull after she's warm will get her fired back up. I did order the carb adjust tool set for 2 cycle engines for a just in case. I did have to adjust my idle a tad out of the box. It would die after sitting for a bit. So far we've been working on a huge 5' plus old Wet Oak down here in SE Texas. She's doing great for a $200 saw plus a 3 yr ext. warranty. **You do need Bar Oil or you'll burn her up!
Good to hear! I bought an Oregon ripping chain that I haven't tried yet. Need to put that thing on and give it a spin. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Great review, I have the same saw. Just follow the directions and take care of the saw, it works fine!
Thank you!
How is the anti vibration on it?
@@beeffarmer8576 I don't remember it having anti vibration but I don't have numb or tingling hands after using it for hours.
@@beeffarmer8576 My hands aren't numb or tingling badly afterward so I guess it's good.
Does primer bubble gas line n gas tank have a plug to stop gas from leaking with just gas line n tank
I have no idea. Sorry.
That's nice about the Poulan chainsaw it has the spark plug wrench to storage it
I've had mine foir a month as well! The design clearly shows that a bunch of board members saying it was beautiful. While engineers had there heads up their butt.
First the fill caps for the fuel, and chain oil have recessed rings that collect dust like a magnet. So, when you get to refill the tanks, you need at rag and a toothpick to clean the fine dust out so it doesn't get into the tanks. What engineer didn't test that design!
They added a primer bulb! I had mine a month and it went out! Then they want $7.50 for a o.e.
( Original equipment ) primary bulb. Pricey, for a primer bulb.
My last poulan was the PP4620AVX It had a design flaw that logs could loosen your chain oil cap! I lost 2! Like the ground ate them. I bought 4 since they were cheap and a very popular item. I knew why.
Now, back to PP5020ABX, I burn wood. No wood, no heat! I need a reliable chain saw. The 5020 is, anything but. Mines down again, and not quite sure the issue. The fuel is excessively spurting fuel in the cylinder and drowns the spark plug! This chain saw has had 1 1/2 gallons of fuel through it, since out of the box!
Nice video thanks for sharing your knowledge. Poulan is a Husqvarna brand. They seem to run well. I have used both brands and all the trees went down so there must be some magic involved! 😜
Thank you! Mine is still going strong. I only use for a few months out of the year but it hasn't let me down yet. Magically delicious. 😆
Hi
I'm a subscriber just like to say keep up the good work really liking the videos. From the UK
Thank you so much for subscribing and commenting Andrew. I really appreciate it.
Great review and it sure looks beautiful where you are at
Thank for the information very good I am very impressed very detail it big enough n good entangled gonna get one for cutting some branches bec it growing bigger and stretch out over the road now
Thank you for watching and commenting. Good luck. 👍🙂
Have you replaced primer bubble gas line
No.
Thanks anyway I got it done now
Finally someone who says the name correctly. I’ve been thinking about getting a stihl ms250 to run strictly as a firewood saw so I’m not running my MS260 Pro at work & firewood putting more abuse on it, I’m leaning a lot more towards the Ms250 but how would the Poulan preform running a couple hours straight cutting firewood?
Derek Rudkin I think it would do fine running a couple hours. But if your cutting a lot of big stuff, the Poulan doesn’t have as much power as a Stihl. I did cut several large diameter logs with my Poulan but more power would have been nice.
@ Derek, there really is no comparison between a Stihl and a Poulan, that's like comparing apples to spark plugs lol. If you need to have a chainsaw around the house for incidental work or light to medium general work and you're on a budget a Poulan might be a good option. However, if you're heavy chainsaw user you'd be much better off in the long run to purchase a Stihl. Even the small Stihls are made for extreme use, and they're inexpensive to rebuild (bringing used Stihls into the picture). There use to be a big bore kit available for the 5020 which may have brought it up a notch or two but the kits aren't made anymore, BUT why buy a chainsaw when the first thing you have to do to it to get the power you need out of it is not to put fuel in it but to put a new cylinder kit on it?
Great job there,been looking into this saw and this the best and most comprehensive review I have seen on TH-cam,these are not bad saws if you treat the properly,I have one dating back to 2010 purchased under the Craftsman name and it still works great but it is only 38 cc and 16 inch bar and chain,so am looking into this bigger sibling for the bigger stuff,awesome place you got there !
Jose Sanchez Thank you. I had that same 38 cc craftsman chainsaw for many years until I burned up the clutch (my fault) last year. I gave it to someone after that and bought the Poulan. I wish I would have kept the craftsman and fixed it for a backup saw. It was a great little saw. Thank you for checking out the video. I’ll be putting the Poulan to the test this winter as I have about 10 trees down on another small piece of property. I will be doing a performance type of update video when I start cutting those. Take care.
I tuned mine myself. You can see the pics on Amazon Reviews. 3 pumps on my bulb. I love it.. She Cold Starts on 2 pulls & warm starts on 1st pull every time. I put the Oregon 70 series Chisel Chain on mine. It just says up the wood! I got the 3yr extended warranty. So with a 2yr factory warranty? Plus a 3yr extended? Can't go wrong, imo - Note- most all of these will need the Idle Adjusted twice. Once new & another maybe a week later, depends on how much you use it.
I'll have to check out your review. I need to tune mine up. I've messed with idle screws but just got the timing tool. Definitely needs some attention.
Thanks for the much-needed tips!
As well as for the good review.
Glad I could help someone with the video. 🙂 Thank you for watching and commenting.
Nice video, will consider it.
Husky bought Poulan a couple of years ago, and I'm not pleased at all with the 5020 saw. Used it for 4 gas fillings and the starter rope wouldn't recoil back. Saw was dead. Had the warrentee so I took it to the repair shop that Poulan chose, two months latter I get it back . ran it for about 3 gas fillings and once again same freakin thing. by now the warrentee has ended and I'm on my own. Being a tool and design engineer, I thought figure it out yourself. So I bought all the spares and replaced everything. I noticed that the large spring must have heated up because it looked much different that the spare I bought. So went to start it up and again the rope wouldn't recoil back. So as I was removing the recoil cover the rope staps back into place. Long story short I removed about .120" from the top of the small plastic cap that goes over the large spring. I'm believing that it's pressing against the flywheel causing all the problems. Have used it with two gas filling, so far so good...
Wow, what a pain in the backside. Glad you figured it out.
Awesome video. I have seen many sandel and shorts reviews. Also you covered a lot here. Thank you . I'm seriously considering this sae because I only have one acre of property to maintain. I do don't want to spend $400+ for a saw. My 16 husqvarna needs service. When I fix it I'll use it for tree tops and this saw for bigger cuts
Thank you, sounds great. I don't have a lot of property either so the Poulan Pro has served me well. Best of luck to you
Good job man, keep up the good work man
Brian Eastman Thank you for watching and commenting. 👍
I've owned this saw for about a year now. It has been very dependable for me. I use it for trimming trees and such in the summer (along with my Stihl MS170) and in the (fall for) winter I use it for cutting firewood and felling trees. I was never really pleased with the saw chain that it came with, even after sharpening it myself it didn't seem to perform as well as I'd hoped. I replaced the saw chain with a County Line LC70 from Tractor Supply (TSC part# 1044191) and it helped IMMENSELY. Although I do feel for a 50cc (category, 51cc technically) saw it seems under-powered a bit, although workable if you don't "crowd" the saw. I read one of the comments on here about the "muffler mod" and carb adjustment. I think I'm going to try that, seems fairly straightforward. Another option would be port and polish, however its a
Woodwork Noob I want to try that carb mod also. I have about 12 trees to cut up now. Someday I hope to own a Stihl but can’t afford it right now. It would be nice to have more power. Thank you for watching and commenting.
Well Almost homestead I personally have ran Stihl’s and Husqvarna’s I personally pick Husqvarna it just Runs faster and especially with auto tune
I've ~7 yrs on a 5020, even still have an OEM "Vanguard" chain I use. Granberg file guide helps a lot to precisely take down the depth gauges; then it really cuts well. Please tell me how one would do a "muffler mod" on an open can of a muffler? Those wee stihls don't look good compared to PP4218, which can be had as a factory-refurb for
It's a good saw. Replaced a Husky XP 346 with one. Loved the XP, the Poulan has less power and is a lot heavier. Like the ability to adjust carb with the wrench. Starts great, btw.
Just adjusted my carb. Definitely a nice feature.
Thanx for the vid. Keep up the good work
Thank you for watching and commenting. I appreciate it.
Thank you for this review. You helped with my decision in buying one
Cool Brandon. Glad it could be of some help.
I've run a PP5020 for 5 yrs now, other saws for ~50 yrs, FWIW. On this saw OEM chain is 3/8" pitch, .050" gauge, 70 DL. Most such 20" are 72 DL. Best sharpener I've found is Granberg clamp-on file-guide, which can precisely set height of depth gauges too- using the same one for ~40 yrs. Plan to KEEP chain sharp. Best way to warm up 2-stroke- under load @WOT, with short cool-down after. Chain type that stays sharp longest is semi-chisel. For any halfway serious cutting- bucking or felling- keep 5" plastic wedges on you, and use 'em. Helmet w/screen & muffs a BIG PLUS. Air filter on 5020 needs help sealing- tiny silicone bead works. All this IMO of course.
Jacques Blaque Thank you for the great feedback/info. Much appreciated.
My pleasure. Also, nuts that hold carb to cyl can work loose, with plastic bits limiting tightness, so blue loctite keeps mine in place now. I failed to mention that you need a Husqvarna splined carb tool to adjust H and L mixture- readily available online. One interesting bit on 5020- the clutch cover is great at clearing chips, so the saw is excellent for "noodling"- lengthwise ripping cuts.
Oh cool. I haven't tried lengthwise noodling cuts with this saw yet but I want to. I bought a spline tool that said it worked on the saw but I have to look into using it. Thanks for the info on the loctite needed also.
Yes, I contacted Poulin and they said the replacement is 72DL. Which should I use, 70DL or 72DL?
@@nhbowhunter A STANDARD "Small Husqy mount" "K095" nominal 20" bar would take a 72 DL 3/8" pitch chain. My, and others', pp5020 20" bar definitely take 70DL chains. Either Poulan-man is wrong, or they changed the OEM b/c spec. You have options: 1) with chain-breaker/spinner, presets & side-straps you can get a 72DL chain and make it fit shorter bar a/r; 2) you can believe the 70/DL part and pray; 3) you can get 72DL chain AND 20" K095 bar and go forward with those specs; (4) you can order 60 DL chain & 16" K095 bar, which some prefer for PP5020 power-head. I'd ask an expert at Frawleys. Good luck with the saw.
Thanks for the review I think I will pick one up today! tired of messing with my 1999 craftsman 36cc
Glad that you found it helpful. My chainsaw before this one was a Craftsman 36 cc also. Haha! I'm in the process of cutting a bunch of logs right now and the Poulan Pro is still running strong and doing a great job.
@@AlmostHomestead wow what a coincidence lol glad its working good for you I can't wait to pick mine up when I get off work! Good luck stay safe!
Great video on safety and operating a chainsaw
Daniel Padgett Thank you Daniel.
Just noticed that saws muffler is nearly identical to a Husqvarna 450 muffler , I wonder if theres any chance of them having the same engines or similar designs. Poulan I'd owned and manufactured by Husqvarna after all. I might pick up a pp5020 just for the purpose of looking into this. I'd like to know what the horsepower out put of this saw is , I wonder if it's over 3 horsepower , it should be at least 3 being 50cc's. I know the 50cc husq 450 is 3.2 hp
You might be able to find one cheap that someone hosed up when using the first time. I've seen them on Craigslist every once in awhile that are new but they say it won't run right.
I like it,it's a great decent little saw.
Sorry for the late reply Kenny. Somehow I missed your comment. Thank you for watching and commenting.
you did a " MOST EXCELLENT ", GENUINE review !!! have this saw about 7 week's now, ,, personally with ALL, 2 stroke's, I put in an E3.12 spark plug, n only run" true fuel ", "SEF " or so on, have a year 1990's "Echo", weed wacker( SRM 2501s) still running good, destroy any thick weed's ! this My 3'rd chain saw, n all 3 running, but your review, about the best for someone starting. you truly took anyone watching, from un box, to how to correctly !! ,,, if an Echo, Husqvarna, or Stihl, if don't know, don't read manual, = problem's, Impressed with your review !! n personally, having good result's with it. n like your in field sharpener, personally have the pferd blue one, but same, also have the "Buffalo", bench mount sharpener (under $50.00 buck's), N chain's like new, but does not file raker's, like the Stihl N Pferd, but can do with Oregon raker file. THX taking the time !! awesome job !
TheYohan831 TheYohan831 Thank you so much for the comment! Much appreciated. I’ve been sticking with the true fuel also.
@@AlmostHomestead since this reply, saw a Poulan 295 "Farm hand",(46cc) (prob 17 yrs old) on ebay, $25.00 dude honest enough say, could not remember if ran or not, when shelved, several yrs ago, I changed fuel line, and filter, then added E3.12 plug, did not try start, till new air filter arrived, air filter was filthy, no light thru, when air filter changed, pulled new plug, added drop "sef" fuel, put all back, few pull's, and she's a BEAST !! RIVAL'S 50cc PR 5020 !!!! am not only happy !! true FAN OF POULAN !!!!! most new buyer's, just can not care for saw's !! especially 2 stroke !!!! JUS SAIN !!!
@@TheYohan831 Wow, nice score. Sounds like a cool chainsaw to have as part of your tools/collection.
I myself have a poulan pro pr4218 saw .if a person just reads the directions in the instructions manual. It works good . O 1 thing when the saw is new take the spark plug out and check the gap . At the factory they make a lot of them , and they do their best. Mine was 0.032 to wide the manual recommends 0.025 .it does make a difference in starting and preference. Poulan are not 100% junk.
Thanks for the plug gap tip. I need to check mine.
Very helpful. Thank you!
Good to hear. 👍
I believe bucking a fallen tree is taking off the branches , not cutting up the main trunk
Bucking is the process of cutting a felled and delimbed tree into logs.
I had a Poulan "Wild Thang" for more than twenty five years. 18" bar, with about a 40cc engine. Started on the first or second pull. It never failed me. All I needed to do was to keep it gased up, and bar oil aplenty, I once tackled a tree with it that was over two foot in diameter, and it worked flawlessly, doing what a chain saw does. I was going to cut some more firewood for some people, when the unthinkable happened. After a hard day of cutting and stacking firewood for a customer, I left Wild Thang in the back end of my truck, and someone else must have needed it worse than I, for they filched it. I have no idea who came and took the saw, but it was gone that morning.. That has been more than ten years ago. Im still looking for my saw. I will continue looking for the marks that I placed on it to show anyone that it IS MY SAW. I recently got a new saw. Another Poulan, since my first had lasted so long. I do hope this one is as good as the first. Not a bad chainsaw at all.
Wow, twenty five years? That's great. That would suck to have such an old reliable saw ripped off. That would be cool if it turned up sometime. Thanks for checking out the video. Much appreciated.
You're Welcome. Keep up the good work.
Thank you Mark!
Cool informative review thank you. Just got the same one in the mail today and I'm about to go get some of that premix gas. The water behind you looks amazing. Me and my new wife are getting kicked out of my moms house so I'm going to have to cut down some of the problematic trees near the house. We want to find land to get closer to off the grid/homesteading life. We have no idea where to go but wife and me are getting over Florida mosquitos and living in my moms house. I have a moving company and do handy work. Where is this place? Are there any jobs or land that I can rent to own in your area? Thank you and keep up the good work
Hey Nik. In our area the prices have gone way up. We are in Snohomish County in Western Washington and last year it was recognized as the fastest growing County in the nation which drove prices way up. I have friends in Arkansas and land is a lot cheaper their if you are looking. I'm sure that there are other inexpensive areas but Arkansas comes to mind. As far as jobs go, you would have to look at some job hunting websites. Most people here in our area travel an hour or more to work. I did a lot of searching on Zillow for land and land with a cabin or house. That can be a great resource for figuring out where you want to live and the affordability of the area. I wish you all the best. It can be a scary leap into the unknown but following your dreams usually opens doors to good things.
@@AlmostHomestead
Thanks for the tips and positive reinforcement. Your a gentleman and a scholar👍
Nice video. Just ordered mine in
mheath717 Oh cool. Good luck with your new chainsaw. Thanks for watching.
Once they break in they get stronger. I can you adjust the oiler?
I'm not sure. It doesn't seem that bad now. Keeps the chain lubed nicely.
Thanks great video, I was looking for a chain saw,I found it
Glad to hear that the video was helpful Juan. Have a good one.
How can you get replacement parts
I'm not sure. I haven't really looked into it. i would just search that question on google.
with minor mods those are great saws !
jake williams I have done any mods to it yet but a few people made suggestions. I really should do it so it cranks out a little more power. It runs so well for me that I just haven’t taken the time to mess with it. Thanks for watching!
I had to do carburetor adjustment on mine it wouldn't rev up to full throttle just stall out. It's all fixed now starts on 3rd pull.
Sounds good! I just did the same recently and it's back to running at full power.
that's what I've always said. as long as you don't treat it as cheap. you'd be surprised how long they last.
So far so good. I'll be cutting a whole lot of wood soon. Maybe I'll do an update after I finish. Thanks for watching and commenting.
I just bought one of these to replace my 38cc Poulan chainsaw that has lasted over 20 years with regular use.
Does Oregon make an E70 for this bar? Can't seem to find it
Here is a link to the E70. Specs match D70 that I have on my Pr5020. amzn.to/3o8xC0O
@@AlmostHomestead thx
I’m a Stihl guy, I’ve got a 180, 220 (first birthday gift I gave the fiancé), 2 029’s, a 029 super, 044, and my newest the 661 magnum.
That said, I cut wood probably 3 days a week my go to is my fathers 029 which I think is similar to the your saw. It’s finicky, it’s old, it’s tired.
My buddy bought the Poulan pro and honestly, it cuts slower than my Stihl but it’s a great saw. Don’t be ashamed or feel the need to explain your purchase if something does what you need it.
That's a nice selection of chainsaws. Hoping to get a Stihl someday. Definitely would be my first choice. Just picked up a couple of Husqvarna 435's for free. Going to try and get one running soon.
Huskys are great saws! I’m not familiar with their numbering system but I’m sure they will work great.
The fiancé loves cutting wood so I had to get her a little pro saw. She love running her saw and has sectioned, bucked, and hauled endless cords. Then I end up splitting them.
I feed my grandparents, moms, and a friends wood stove. So having lots of wood is a must. Lots of cutting and splitting.
@@Halfapint01 That's great that she is out there working a saw also. Sounds like you do a lot of wood cutting for sure. Have a good one.
Very, VERY good video. Thank you for making this. Would love to see more.
Hey Thanks John. I have been cutting quite a bit of wood lately and the PR5020 has been performing great. I am working on a review of the Log Ox 3-in-1 Forestry Multi-Tool for my next video but after that I may do a follow up PR5020 video just to give an update on it's performance after using for over 1 year.
@@AlmostHomestead I would like to concur.this is how a TH-cam video should be concise accurate and truly represents the proper use of a product. I have the same saw and believe for $200 you can't go wrong
@@kirkthebeerslinger Thanks Kirk! I was just running mine last weekend. Great cheap chainsaw. 👍😁
That was awesome
What is the oregon bar and chain replacement
I do not know. Hopefully you can find the answer with a search.
Sir, what size file are you using to sharpen your chain with that Stihl sharpener?
3/8 pitch - I have a link in the video description
Jay, the instructions say to start the saw with the chain brake off (pulling handle in) however, you say to start it with chain brake on (pulling handle out). Why the difference?
Paul Boudreau On page 9 of the manual bottom left (online manual) it says “The chain brake must be locked when the chainsaw is started”. I understand the confusion though. The manual is kind of screwy. The page is titled Starting And Stopping and the first thing written is Ensure chain brake is unlocked by pulling the hand guard back.....but if you read on, they are talking about before cutting with the saw.
@@AlmostHomestead Thanks for the explanation, much appreciated.
Good thorough review 👍🇨🇦
Thank you!
I had to buy a tool to adjust carburetor ,then it starts and runs great, also gapped plug 30 thousands.
Good stuff. I should adjust my carb gap.
I bought this saw after having three Stihls stolen. For the money I like it and can easily replace it if stolen. Stihls not so much.
Oh man rhat is a bummer. Definitely would hurt less losing a $200 saw.
A year later what u think of it?
Still like it. I did have to replace the pulley starter. The kit was around $10. Other then that it's been running great and still going strong.
I contacted Poulin and they said the replacement chain is 72DL. What is the difference?
Sorry for the late reply. I have no idea what the difference is. I have only used the 70.
I have a Poulan or and a Walmart black max both 50cc 20"
I'd recommend the black max over the Poulan . Because Walmart regularly had the saws on clearance $80-$130 , mspr $220.
The black Max are identical to ryobi, black and decker, homelike saws just different stickers. And engines are Honda 2 stroke.
The Poulan are fine too, spare cheap parts, lots of repair videos, and repair shop knows how work on them.
No matter what saw buy, get a high quality nkg spark plug, quality air filter and oil + fuel. I use vp racing oil -2 stroke full synthetic with fuel stabilizer, and then ethanol free gas. Don't ever use that premix crap no matter the brand,it is junk and goes bad in weeks.
Haha. Shorts and sandals.
I cut VERY often in the summer bare foot and in shorts
And I cut 50 to 60 full cord of wood. That’s multiple semi truck loads worth of logs
$153 on a price match + 10% discount at HD was to hard to pass. Use 93 octane @ 40:1 w/synthetic oil w/stabilizer. Ported (louvered) the muffler & the intake & exhaust then did a carb re-adjust to the leaner side and a 72LGX070 bluetooth chisel chain and it throws corn flake size wood chips. Now she runs & sounds like a 4 stroke'n scream'n demon, also bigger pawls on both sides so fell'n a 45" tree is regular occurrence. Use the thickest bar oil you can it's a must..
How many hp is it?
2.8 hp from what I found doing a Google search.
Good review
Thanks!
I'm an arborist , I've never seen a professional ( lawn crews are not pros when it comes to chainsaws) that ever wanted a poulan .
That's understandable. It's not a great chainsaw for a professional or someone using it on a regular basis. More for the once a year guy cutting up some wood. If I was cutting logs or trees on a regular basis I would upgrade.
Trying to decide between this chainsaw and going a little more expensive and getting something like an Echo CS-400 ($300) or CS-490 ($350). This will be my first chainsaw. I don't really want to have to do a ton of extra maintenance on the saw other than the standard stuff of sharpening and replacing chains and fluids. I recently bought an acre of land that has a good amount of trees. I anticipate some longer days with the saw but will be using it infrequently I would think. I prefer to buy once and have it last a long time. Anyone have any thoughts?
I have no experience with Echo chainsaws. I like the Poulan chainsaw but honestly, if I was to do it all over again I would spend more and get a more powerful Stihl chainsaw. I'm going to mill some boards with a grandberg mini mill at some point. The Poulan PR5020 meets the minimum 50cc requirement to use the mill but I'd rather have something with more cc's.
Almost Homestead thanks for your response I appreciate your opinion and your review.
I have three acres of land and clear the brush and occasional one or two trees for future burning. Ivan had a Poulin Pro 16” that has done fine for about 15 years but I’ve worn it out from heavy use recently. The 5020 will be more than enough for you and shouldn’t break the bank.
I’m not sure why starting it with the chain brake on hurt the idle, with my MS260 Pro I always start It with it the chain brake off & on a cold start still without the chain brake on, & my boss who taught me how to run it id say he’s late 60s or early 70s still running saws his entire life, on a cold start after it starts he has me hold it wide open for a few seconds then let off & it’s warmed up. On stihl at least.
Derek Rudkin Maybe the brake and idle issue is just a Poulan thing. Not sure. Seems like a bad idea as I’m sure a lot of people start it with the brake off and then just figure the chainsaw is messed up when it doesn’t run correctly.
I bought one for home use live out it the country use it around the house. Im also a master Automotive technician. I generally only use snap on tools as a professional that being said I am not a professional wood cutter. If your going to turn wrenches for a living you need professional grade tools. If your going to cut wood for a living you need a professional grade chainsaw. If its for home use this chainsaw works just fine never had an issue with it.
Hello from Piqua Ohio.
Hello!
will gas mixed for a stell weed eater work in this saw?
I'm not really sure. So far all I have used is the 50:1 Trufuel mix.
Mine leaks bar oil out the top of the clutch cover.
Jeff Cox That’s a bummer. I’ll watch for that. Thanks for checking out the video.
Jeff, more than likely your holes in the bar are get'n blocked. Burn the hair off a pipe cleaner & run it through till it comes outta the groove.
Amateur chainsaw user here! Thanks for the tips. I would've revved the engine while the brake was engaged had I not watched this. Had no idea it could damage the clutch and brake. ALSO, before I load mine up w oil and fuel, I'm a little confused when it comes to the tension of the chain, and the tightness of the two nuts on the side of my new Poulan. It seems like the chain doesn't move at all when I manually pull on it if the nuts are just 'barely' snug. Any looser and I risk eventually losing my nuts. (There's a joke in there somewhere.)
But in all seriousness I don't understand the tension on these things. Can someone give me a detailed answer please? I can't find ANY videos or even in the manual how tight the nuts should be to operate the chainsaw. Would be very grateful for some help!! Thanks again!
Thanks for watching. Glad it was helpful. Check out page 7 of the manual where they talk about chain tension. Hopefully that sheds some light on the issue.