"dashaddow" wrote in message
ups.com...
I have a poplar tree with a metal rod in it (for support when it was a
small tree). I cut it down, the stump is 7 feet tall. How can I cut
the rest of it down, with the metal in it. The diameter would probably
be 3 feet. Thank you. (Can't burn it; live in a city. ) Please
contact me if you have some creative ideas.


You don't, not with a chainsaw.
Break out a pointed shovel and pickaxe. Start digging around the
circumference of the tree about a foot away from the trunk. Some use of
hands during the digging process will be required. Cut the roots out with a
sharp axe after exposed. You may use a chainsaw here if you don't dig up
the soil with it. Drape the trunk circumference out about 6' with plastic
to keep it from getting moisture. Leave the trunk/stump exposed to the
weather. The following winter season, put a few 3/4" eye bolts in the stump
about a foot below the top. Use a chain for a guide where to put the bolts.
Bolt a sufficiently sized chain to the eye bolts. Tie off to a 2 ton or
larger 4 wheel drive pickup loaded down with material for traction. Ease it
out in increments, don't rush it. If using a vehicle is not feasible, use a
come-along tied off to large tree. Beware of whiplash. Onlookers beware as
well.
Dave