Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Poulan 2150 chainsaw - Runs for about a minute, carburetor body, adjustment screws

Question
Hi Folks,

I just "inherited" my Dad's old Poulan "disposable" chainsaw. I think I'm on the right track with a diagnosis, however, I'd like to know if anyone here has pointers to any reference documents / diagrams, etc...

Model: Poulan 2150 w/ 18" Bar & Chain

Symptoms: After priming, the engine *will* start - however it only runs for about 30-seconds to a minute.

I believe that this would indicate a fuel delivery problem. The prime bulb fills the cylinder & bowl (is there a carb bowl?), and it burns that up, and isn't drawing any further fuel.

So - questions... Is there a fuel pump diaphragm or similar that can be changed? Where to look for problems with the fuel line?

I also just found the website for Poulan, and it appears they have diagrams of their models available.

The fuel filter on the pickup line seems clear (I can blow through it just fine) - so I'll check the other lines themselves when I've got (a) Daylight, and (b) Time.

Thanks
Rex S.

Answer
Hello Rex:

If the Carburetor is a Walbro, then You can View a Breakdown/IPL of the Carburetor at this Site Addy, http://69.16.165.8/ and Select Service & Aftermarket. Now Select Aftermarket Parts and Service. Now Select the OEM. Now Select Saw. Now Select your Carburetor from the List Provided.  Remove, Disassemble and Soak the Carburetor Overnight in Carburetor Cleaner (I Use Gunk). I have Found that Most People can Use a Breakdown/IPL and Disassemble the Carburetor Enough for Proper Cleaning. You Only have to Remove the Bowl, Float Pin, Float and Needle Valve and Any Adjustment Screws that Go Into the Carburetor Body. The Welch Plugs Do Not have to be Removed. Then Soak the Carburetor Body and Parts in a 1 Gallon Can of Gunk Carburetor Cleaner Overnight. The Can has a Parts Tray Inside it for the Small Parts. Once the Carburetor and Parts are in the Cleaner, you can Replace the Lid for Safety and to Prevent Accidental Spillage. Then Blow Out the Passages with Compressed Air. Install New Parts if Required. Remove the Muffler and Clean the Exhaust Port. Make Sure the Muffler and Spark Arresstor Screen are Clea r of Carbon Blockage Also. The Problem is the Carburetor is Restricted with Varnish that the Old Gas has Turned Into. The Engine is Running on the Primer Gas Only and Not Pulling Gas through the Carburetor Body and Jet. Hope this Helps. I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Let me Know What Happens, Please. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 9pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John