Poulan Pro is well known as a leading manufacturer of outdoor power equipment including chainsaws, blowers, trimmers, and more. Based in Shreveport, Louisiana, they have over 70 years of experience developing durable and powerful gas-powered tools.

Poulan Pro's chainsaw line covers a wide range of bar lengths and engine sizes to handle everything from storm cleanup to felling large trees. Their saws are designed for reliability, ease of use, and consistent performance even under tough conditions. Models like the PR5020 reviewed here represent their mid-range chainsaws, packing professional-grade features without breaking the bank.

For homeowners and ranch owners looking for an affordable but capable gas chainsaw, Poulan Pro aims to deliver on power, efficiency, and value. Their products may lack some of the polished features of premium saws, but provide solid performance for routine property maintenance and medium-duty cutting tasks.

Overview

The Poulan Pro PR5020 is a 20-inch, 50cc gas chainsaw. This model weighs approximately 12 lbs with the included 20-inch bar and chain.

The PR5020 is part of Poulan Pro's line of gas-powered chainsaws intended for use by homeowners and DIYers. Key specs of this model include:

• Engine displacement: 50cc
• Power output: 3 hp
• Fuel tank capacity: 14 oz
• Chain pitch: 0.325 inches
• Chain gauge: 0.050 inches
• Bar length: 20 inches
• Chain speed: 12.5 m/sec
• Warranty: 2 years limited homeowner

With its 50cc engine, the PR5020 provides sufficient power for most light-duty cutting tasks around the home. The included 20-inch bar allows the saw to cut branches and logs up to 19 inches in diameter. The automatic oiler helps extend the life of the chain.

Design

The Poulan Pro PR5020 chainsaw has an sleek yet rugged design optimized for performance and handling. The body is constructed from durable but lightweight plastic and metal components, striking a balance between heft and maneuverability.

At 17 pounds, the PR5020 sits in the middle-weight class, substantial enough to deliver powerful cutting yet light enough for extended use without undue fatigue. The side handle is rotated forward to enable an ergonomic grip that reduces strain. Anti-vibration technology also helps dampen vibrations generated during cutting.

The compact dimensions, with a 20-inch bar and chain, make the PR5020 easy to control and nimble for trimming branches or felling smaller trees. The rounded rear handle fits comfortably in the hand to provide a steady grip. Overall the design is well-balanced and thoughtfully engineered to enable the operator to work efficiently.

Engine

The Poulan Pro PR5020 chainsaw is equipped with a 50 cc two-stroke engine that provides plenty of power for cutting through even thick trees and logs. The engine has a power output of 3.5 horsepower and can reach a maximum speed of 9,000 rpm.

Despite the high speed, the engine is designed to deliver strong torque, which is important for getting the chain spinning quickly. It uses a diaphragm carburetor fuel system to mix the right amount of fuel with air for optimal engine performance. The fuel tank capacity is 14 ounces, so you can operate the saw for long periods without refueling.

Overall, the engine gives this chainsaw excellent cutting capability for a variety of demanding tasks while still being easy to start and operate. The power allows you to make quick work of felling trees, bucking logs, and general storm cleanup. With proper maintenance, the engine should also provide years of reliable service.

Cutting Features

The Poulan Pro PR5020 chainsaw comes equipped with several great cutting features that make it easy to use and effective for tackling yard and tree work.

• Bar Length: This saw has a 20 inch bar length, providing ample reach for cutting logs, branches, and thick brush. The bar is made from durable steel to withstand heavy use.

• Chain Type: It uses a 0.325 inch pitch Oregon chain that is readily available and easy to replace when needed. The chain has durable cutters that deliver smooth cutting performance.

• Chain Speed: With its powerful 50cc 2-cycle gas engine, the chain reaches a speed of 12.5 m/s for fast limbing and bucking through wood. This high chain speed increases productivity.

• Adjustments: The chain tension can be easily adjusted using the side access tensioner, allowing the user to ensure the chain is at the proper tightness. The automatic oiler provides a steady supply of bar oil to keep the chain and bar lubricated during use.

Starting

Starting the Poulan Pro PR5020 chainsaw is straightforward thanks to its user-friendly starting procedure. The chainsaw features a combined choke/fast idle lever which prepares the engine for starting. Move the choke lever to the full choke position, close the throttle trigger lockout, then press the primer bulb approximately 5 times. This primes the carburetor and makes the engine easier to start when cold.

Pull the starter rope handle quickly until the engine attempts to start. After the first starting attempt, move the choke lever to the half choke position. Pull the rope 2-3 more times until the engine starts. Once the engine starts, allow it to warm up for several seconds, then gradually move the choke lever to the off (run) position.

The choke and fast idle speed allows a cold engine to get the proper air/fuel mixture and rpm for starting. The primer bulb sends fuel directly to the carburetor so you won't have to pull the rope as many times. Once the engine warms up, the choke is no longer needed for normal operation. This starting procedure makes the PR5020 easy to start whether the engine is cold or hot.

Operation

The Poulan Pro PR5020 chainsaw is designed for smooth and easy operation during cutting tasks. The throttle trigger and throttle lockout allow you to control engine speed, while the automatic oiler provides a constant flow of bar oil for lubrication.

The throttle trigger is conveniently located near the front handle, making it easy to reach and adjust the engine speed with your index finger during operation. Squeezing the throttle increases engine rpm for faster cutting, while releasing returns the saw to idle speed. There is also a throttle lock button that can be pushed with your thumb to hold the throttle open without having to squeeze the trigger continuously. This helps reduce hand fatigue during longer cutting sessions.

The PR5020 utilizes an adjustable carburetor and spring-assisted starting system to ensure easy start-ups and smooth idle. Once the engine starts, it quickly settles down to a fast idle around 2800-3000 rpm. From there, the idle speed can be adjusted as needed with the idle speed screw. This allows you to fine-tune the idle to prevent stalling while not engaged in a cut.

When it comes to balance and vibration, the PR5020 performs quite well for a chainsaw in this price range. The engine design and rubber grip handles help minimize vibration during cutting. The overall weight distribution makes the saw feel balanced in your hands whether vertical or horizontal cutting. Most users report very manageable vibration and kickback as long as you maintain a proper grip and control.

Maintenance

The Poulan Pro PR5020 requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Here are some key maintenance tasks:

Air Filter - The air filter should be checked frequently and replaced when dirty. Remove the air filter cover and inspect the filter. Replace it if it's clogged with sawdust or debris. Clean the filter every 5 hours of use.

Spark Plug - The spark plug should be cleaned and regapped after every 25 hours of use. Replace the plug after 100 hours. Use Champion RJ19LM or NGK BPMR7A plugs. Check that the plug gap is 0.025 inches.

Chain Sharpening - The chain will require sharpening after heavy use. Use a round file and file guide to sharpen each cutter to the correct 30° angle. The depth gauges will also need adjustment. This should be done after every 5-10 hours of use.

Cleaning - Keep the exterior housing, chain bar, and air intakes free of sawdust buildup. Use a small wire brush. The chain bar groove should be cleaned out periodically. An air compressor can be used to blow out dust. Clean the guide bar every 5 hours.

Proper cleaning and maintenance will help the PR5020 run smoothly for a long time. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance intervals. Wear gloves and safety glasses when performing any maintenance work.

Safety Features

• The Poulan Pro PR5020 chainsaw is designed with several key safety features to help protect the operator.

• It has an inertia activated chain brake that will stop the chain quickly if kickback occurs. This helps prevent potential injuries if the bar contacts something unexpectedly.

• The front hand guard serves as protection between the user's hand and the saw. This guard helps block debris from hitting the hand and acts as a barrier in case the hand slips off the handlebar.

• This chainsaw employs reduced kickback bar and chain combinations. The specially designed bar tip radius and guard link system help minimize kickback rotation and chain grabbing. This lessens the chance of dangerous rotational forces if kickback were to occur.

• Overall, the various safety mechanisms like the chain brake, hand guard, and kickback prevention allow users to operate the Poulan Pro PR5020 with greater confidence and peace of mind. These features aim to protect the operator while using this powerful gas chainsaw.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Powerful 50cc 2-stroke engine provides strong cutting power
• 20" bar and chain allows cutting of larger logs up to 24" diameter
• Inertia chain brake stops the chain quickly for safety
• Automatic oiler provides continuous lubrication to the bar and chain
• Anti-vibration system reduces operator fatigue during extended use
• Tool-less chain tensioning makes chain adjustments quick and easy
• Easy to start with the smart start decompression valve
• Good value for a 50cc gas chainsaw

Cons

• Heavy compared to similar sized electric and battery chainsaws
• Requires fuel and 2-stroke oil to operate which is messier than electric
• Higher maintenance than electric models due to more moving parts
• Gas engine requires winter preparation for reliable starting in cold weather
• Not designed for falling large trees, best for bucking logs and storm cleanup
• Chainsaw kickback can be dangerous if proper safety precautions aren't taken