Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Poulan Chainsaw oiler/flywheel removal, tie a knot, oil tank

Question
I have a Poulan 1950 Woodshark model chainsaw whose oiler quit working.  I have cleaned the oil tank and disconnected the oil line elbow on the chain side where oil seems to flow freely.  The bar is clean, and the oil is not evident if I run the saw without the bar/chain installed.  Since the oiler mechanism is mounted behind the flywheel, how does one remove it and what special tools are required?

Thanks,

Mike.

Answer
Not too many special tools are needed to remove the flywheel.  Some companies sell a special tool to stop the piston from moving, but you can do the same thing with starter string.  Tie a knot or several knots in the string, remove the spark plug and feed the string into the spark plug hole.  This will stop the piston as you remove the flywheel nut.  Make sure you leave enough string outside the spark plug so you can remove it...I prefer at least a foot.

All you should need is a socket and ratchet.  With the string in place, use the socket to loosen the flywheel nut.  If the engine continues to turn, tie some more knots or larger knots. With the flywheel nut hand loose, turn the nut until it sits flush with the top of the crankshaft threads.  Hold the flywheel with one hand, lifting the chainsaw just off the workbench and use a ballpein hammer in the other hand to hit the flywheel nut.  The flywheel should come right off.  Be carefull not to hit any other parts except for the flywheel nut.  If the nut was flush with the top of the threads before you hit then it should come right off without damaging the threads or nut.

Let me know if you have any other questions.
Eric