11 · Lawn & Garden

Pole Pruner

Also called Pole saw · Pole chainsaw · Tree pruner

A small chainsaw on a long pole that trims high branches safely from the ground — no ladder needed.

2-stroke petrol

Overview

A pole pruner is a small chainsaw on the end of a long pole, so high branches can be cut from the ground instead of from a ladder with a saw in one hand.

High branches, dead or damaged limbs, growth over paths and driveways, and cutting back large hedges and shrubs are what it is for.

Two limits matter. It is not insulated, so it must never go near power lines — that is a job for the utility, not a rental. And it will not cut a branch thicker than its bar.

Cut long branches back in sections starting from the tip, and stand to the side of the branch, never directly underneath it.

Best uses

Trimming high branches from the ground
Removing dead or damaged limbs
Clearing branches over paths and driveways
Cutting back large hedges and shrubs

Not suited for

Anywhere near power lines — pole pruners are not insulated
Branches thicker than the bar length

Troubleshooting

Find a symptom

Chain isn't cutting — makes dust instead of chips

Checks to try, in order

The chain is blunt. Swap it for a sharp one.
Check the chain isn't fitted backwards — the cutters should face forward along the top of the bar.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Bar is smoking or the chain is dry

Checks to try, in order

Top up the bar-and-chain oil.
Check the chain isn't over-tightened. It should pull freely by hand with the engine off.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Engine won't startShared · 2-stroke petrol

Likely causes

Wrong fuel mix
Flooded engine
Stop switch
Fouled spark plug

Checks to try, in order

Confirm the fuel is 2-stroke mix (petrol with 2-stroke oil at the ratio on the tool's label). Straight petrol will seize the engine.
Set the stop switch to RUN.
Press the primer bulb until fuel is visible, then set the choke for a cold start.
After the first 'pop', move the choke to half/off and pull again.
If it's flooded (strong fuel smell): choke off, throttle fully open, pull several times to clear it.

If there's no compression or the rope won't pull, return it to the workshop — don't keep pulling.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Lacks power, bogs down or smokes heavilyShared · 2-stroke petrol

Likely causes

Dirty air filter
Incorrect fuel mix
Blocked spark arrestor screen

Checks to try, in order

Check the air filter and clean it if dusty.
Too much oil in the mix causes heavy smoke — drain and refill with correctly mixed fuel.
Let the tool do the cutting — forcing it bogs the engine down.

Reference draft — always follow the manufacturer’s manual.

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Safety

Never use a pole pruner within reach of power lines. Call the utility company for branches near lines.
Wear a hard hat, eye protection and gloves — branches and debris fall toward you.

For 2-stroke petrol

Refuel with the engine off and cool, away from where you'll start the tool.
Wear eye, ear and hand protection, and cut-resistant gear where the tool calls for it.
Keep bystanders well clear of the cutting area.