How to Troubleshoot a Poulan 4200 Ignition

The ignition on a Poulan 4200 chainsaw uses a capacitor discharge ignition system. Inside the ignition module, an electric coil develops, holds and discharges a high-voltage spark. This spark travels up the high-tension lead wire to the spark plug, where it ignites the fuel. The coil inside the module will gradually lose its ability to fire a high enough charge. When this happens the ignition system will stop working and the chainsaw may not start.

Screwdriver
Socket wrench
Spark plug socket
Chainsaw ignition tester

Instructions

- 1
  Place the 4200 chainsaw on a flat area where the chain won't contact anything if it accidentally starts up during troubleshooting. Move the ignition switch into the "On" position.
- 2
  Unscrew the top cylinder cover with the screwdriver. Take off the cover, and wiggle the rubber boot off the tip of the spark plug. Connect the lead end of the ignition tester to the spark plug's boot. Connect the opposite end of the ignition tester to the end of the spark plug.
- 3
  Pull on the starter rope four times, and look for a blue spark in the tester's window. If no blue spark appears, unhook the rubber boot from the tester. Inspect the metal prong inside the boot to make sure it isn't damaged, rusted or dirty.
- 4
  Check the boot to make sure it firmly connects with the lead wire. Leave wire disconnected, and inspect the length of the wire back to the ignition module. Replace any frayed or broken wires or the rubber boot, and retest the ignition system. If a spark still doesn't appear, the ignition system will need to be replaced.
- 5
  Allow a professional to replace and further service the ignition system.

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