Stihl BR 500, BR 600, BR 550 Instruction Manual
STIHL BR 500, 550, 600
{
Instruction Manual
Manual de instrucciones
Warning!
Read and follow all safety precautions in
Instruction Manual – improper use can cause
serious or fatal injury.
Advertencia!
Lea y siga todas las precauciones de
seguridad dadas en el manual de
instrucciones – el uso incorrecto puede
causar lesiones graves o mortales.
Instruction Manual
1 - 34
Manual de
instrucciones
35 - 72
Contents
English
Guide to Using this Manual 2
Safety Precautions and Working
Techniques 2
Assembling the Unit 9
Adjusting the Throttle Cable 12
Fitting the Harness 12
4-MIX Engine 13
Fuel 13
Original Instruction ManualPrinted on chlorine-free paper
Fueling 14
Winter Operation 15
Information Before You Start 15
Starting / Stopping the Engine 16
Replacing the Air Filter 18
Engine Management 18
Adjusting the Carburetor 19
Spark Plug 20
Spark Arresting Screen in Muffler 21
Replacing the Starter Rope and
Rewind Spring 21
Storing the Machine 23
Maintenance and Care 24
Main Parts 26
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
Specifications 27
Special Accessories 28
Maintenance and Repairs 29
STIHL Incorporated Federal
Emission Control Warranty
Statement 29
STIHL Incorporated California
Exhaust and Evaporative
Emissions Control Warranty
Statement 31
Trademarks 33
Allow only persons who fully understand
this manual to operate your blower.
To receive maximum performance and
satisfaction from your STIHL blower, it is
important that you read and understand
and follow the maintenance and safety
precautions in chapter "Safety
Precautions and Working Techniques"
before using your blower. For further
information you can go to
www.stihlusa.com.
Contact your STIHL dealer or the STIHL
distributor for your area if you do not
understand any of the instructions in this
manual.
Warning!
Because a blower is a high-speed tool,
some special safety precautions must
be observed as with any other power
tool to reduce the risk of personal injury.
Careless or improper use may cause
serious or even fatal injury. STIHL's
philosophy is to continually improve all
of its products. As a result, engineering
changes and improvements may be
made from time-to-time. If the operating
characteristics or the appearance of
your blower differs from those described
in this manual, please contact your
STIHL dealer for information and
assistance.
{
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2009
0458-452-8621-D. M20-7.J09.CP.
0000000717_001_GB
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
1
English
Guide to Using this Manual
Pictograms
All the pictograms attached to the
machine are shown and explained in this
manual.
Symbols in Text
Many operating and safety instructions
are supported by illustrations.
The individual steps or procedures
described in the manual may be marked
in different ways:
N A bullet marks a step or procedure
without direct reference to an
illustration.
A description of a step or procedure that
refers directly to an illustration may
contain item numbers that appear in the
illustration. Example:
N Loosen the screw (1).
N Lever (2) ...
In addition to the operating instructions,
this manual may contain paragraphs
that require your special attention. Such
paragraphs are marked with the
symbols and signal words described
below:
Danger!
Indicates an imminent risk of severe or
fatal injury.
Warning!
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, could result in severe or
fatal injury.
Caution!
Indicates a risk of property damage,
including damage to the machine or its
individual components.
Engineering Improvements
STIHL’s philosophy is to continually
improve all of its products. As a result,
engineering changes and improvements
are made from time to time. Therefore,
some changes, modifications and
improvements may not be covered in
this manual. If the operating
characteristics or the appearance of
your machine differ from those
described in this manual, please contact
your STIHL dealer for assistance.
Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
Because a blower is
gasoline-powered and
produces a strong air
blast, special safety precautions must be
observed to reduce the
risk of personal injury.
It is important that you
read, fully understand
and observe the following
safety precautions and
warnings. Read the
instruction manual and
the safety precautions
periodically. Careless or
improper use may cause
serious or fatal injury.
Have your STIHL dealer show you how
to operate your power tool. Observe all
applicable local safety regulations,
standards and ordinances.
Warning!
Do not lend or rent your power tool without the instruction manual. Be sure that
anyone using it understands the information contained in this manual.
Warning!
The use of this machine may be
hazardous.
Use your blower only for clearing leaves,
grass, paper and dust in yards, gardens,
sport stadiums, parks, driveways and
parking lots.
2
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
English
Warning!
Do not use it for other purposes, since
misuse may result in personal injury or
property damage, including damage to
the machine.
Warning!
Minors should never be allowed to use
this power tool. Bystanders, especially
children, and animals should not be
allowed in the area where it is in use.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders and damage to property, never let
your power tool run unattended. When it
is not in use (e.g. during a work break),
shut it off and make sure that unauthorized persons do not use it.
Most of these safety precautions and
warnings apply to the use of all STIHL
blowers. Different models may have
different parts and controls. See the
appropriate section of your instruction
manual for a description of the controls
and the function of the parts of your
model.
Do not clean your machine with a
pressure washer. The solid jet of water
may damage parts of the machine.
Safe use of a blower involves
1. the operator
2. the power tool
3. the use of the power tool.
THE OPERATOR
Physical Condition
You must be in good physical condition
and mental health and not under the
influence of any substance (drugs,
alcohol, etc.) which might impair vision,
dexterity or judgment. Do not operate
this machine when you are fatigued.
Warning!
Be alert – if you get tired, take a break.
Tiredness may result in loss of control.
Working with any power tool can be
strenuous. If you have any condition
that might be aggravated by strenuous
work, check with your doctor before
operating this machine.
Warning!
Prolonged use of a power tool (or other
machines) exposing the operator to
vibrations may produce white finger disease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or
carpal tunnel syndrome.
These conditions reduce the hand's
ability to feel and regulate temperature,
produce numbness and burning
sensations and may cause nerve and
circulation damage and tissue necrosis.
All factors which contribute to white
finger disease are not known, but cold
weather, smoking and diseases or
physical conditions that affect blood
vessels and blood transport, as well as
high vibration levels and long periods of
exposure to vibration are mentioned as
factors in the development of white
finger disease. In order to reduce the
risk of white finger disease and carpal
tunnel syndrome, please note the
following:
– Most STIHL power tools are
available with an anti-vibration
("AV") system designed to reduce
the transmission of vibrations
created by the machine to the
operator's hands. An AV system is
recommended for those persons
using power tools on a regular or
sustained basis.
– Keep your hands warm.
– Keep the AV system well
maintained. A power tool with loose
components or with damaged or
worn AV elements will tend to have
higher vibration levels.
– Maintain a firm grip at all times, but
do not squeeze the handle with
constant, excessive pressure. Take
frequent breaks.
All the above-mentioned precautions do
not guarantee that you will not sustain
white finger disease or carpal tunnel
syndrome. Therefore, continual and
regular users should closely monitor the
condition of their hands and fingers. If
any of the above symptoms appear,
seek medical advice immediately.
Warning!
The ignition system of the STIHL unit
produces an electromagnetic field of a
very low intensity. This field may interfere with some pacemakers. To reduce
the risk of serious or fatal injury, persons
with a pacemaker should consult their
physician and the pacemaker manufacturer before operating this tool.
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
3
English
Proper Clothing
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury, the operator
should wear proper protective apparel.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of
injury to your eyes never
operate your power tool
unless wearing goggles
or properly fitted protec-
tive glasses with
adequate top and side protection complying with ANSI Z 87.1 (or your
applicable national standard).
Power tool noise may damage your
hearing. Wear sound barriers (ear plugs
or ear mufflers) to protect your hearing.
Continual and regular users should
have their hearing checked regularly.
Be particularly alert and cautious when
wearing hearing protection because
your ability to hear warnings (shouts,
alarms, etc.) is restricted.
Clothing must be sturdy
and snug-fitting, but allow
complete freedom of
movement.
Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarfs, neckties,
jewelry, flared or cuffed
pants, unconfined long
hair or anything that
could become drawn into
the air intake. Secure hair
so it is above shoulder
level.
Good footing is very
important. Wear sturdy
boots with nonslip soles.
Steel-toed safety boots
are recommended.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury when the
inhalation of dust cannot be substantially controlled use an appropriate
respirator for the material being blown.
For more information see the "Working
conditions" section of these Safety
Precautions.
THE POWER TOOL
For illustrations and definitions of the
power tool parts see the chapter on
"Parts and Controls."
Warning!
Never modify this power tool in any way.
Only attachments supplied by STIHL or
expressly approved by STIHL for use
with the specific STIHL model are
authorized. Although certain unauthorized attachments are useable with
STIHL power tools, their use may, in
fact, be extremely dangerous.
If this tool is subjected to unusually high
loads for which it was not designed (e.g.
heavy impact or a fall), always check
that it is in good condition before
continuing work. Check in particular that
the fuel system is tight (no leaks) and
that the controls and safety devices are
working properly. Do not continue
operating this machine if it is damaged.
In case of doubt, have it checked by your
STIHL servicing dealer.
Warning!
Small particles (e.g. dust) blown through
the blower tubes and nozzle can cause
a static charging of the blower tubes.
This is especially true in low humidity
and high dust conditions. In order to
reduce the risk of shock from static
charging and subsequent injury from
loss of control, your blower has features
designed to help reduce the build up of
static electricity in the blower tubes and
equalize the charge with the engine
and/or operator:
The control handle is designed to
conduct static electricity through the
throttle cable to the engine and from the
handle through the operator to the
ground.
STIHL offers an optional kit for use in
especially dry and dusty conditions. The
kit contains: (1) blower tubes made with
graphite to help conduct the charge back
to the control handle, and (2) a metal
ring with "wire" for insertion in the end
tube that helps reduce the buildup of
static electricity.
If your blower is properly assembled and
you are still experiencing static shocks,
make sure that your foot ware has
conductive soles and try operating your
unit without gloves, which may be
interfering with the conduction of the
charge.
4
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
English
THE USE OF THE POWER TOOL
Transporting the Power Tool
Warning!
Always switch off the engine before taking the machine off your back and
putting it down. When transporting it in a
vehicle, properly secure it to prevent
turnover, fuel spillage and damage to
the unit.
Fuel
Your STIHL power tool uses an oilgasoline mixture for fuel (see the
chapter on "Fuel” of your instruction
manual).
Warning!
Gasoline is an extremely
flammable fuel. If spilled
and ignited by a spark or
other ignition source, it
can cause fire and seri-
ous burn injury or
property damage. Use extreme caution
when handling gasoline or fuel mix. Do
not smoke or bring any fire or flame near
the fuel or the power tool. Note that
combustible fuel vapor may escape
from the fuel system.
Fueling Instructions
Warning!
Fuel your power tool in well-ventilated
areas, outdoors. Always shut off the
engine and allow it to cool before refueling. Gasoline vapor pressure may
build up inside the fuel tank depending
on the fuel used, the weather conditions
and the tank venting system.
In order to reduce the risk of burns and
other personal injury from escaping gas
vapor and fumes, remove the fuel filler
cap on your power tool carefully so as to
allow any pressure build-up in the tank
to release slowly. Never remove the fuel
filler cap while the engine is running.
Select bare ground for fueling and move
at least 10 feet (3 m) from the fueling
spot before starting the engine. Wipe off
any spilled fuel before starting your
machine.
Warning!
Check for fuel leakage
while refueling and during operation. If fuel
leakage is found, do not
start or run the engine
until the leak is fixed and
any spilled fuel has been wiped away.
Take care not to get fuel on your clothing. If this happens, change your
clothing immediately.
To do this with this STIHL
cap, raise the grip on the
top of the cap until it is
upright at a 90° angle.
Insert the cap in the fuel
tank opening with the triangular marks on the grip
of the cap and on the fuel
tank opening lining up.
Using the grip, turn the
cap firmly clockwise as
far as it will go (approx. a
quarter turn).
Fold the grip flush with
the top of the cap. If the
grip does not lie completely flush with the cap
and the detent on the grip
does not fit in the corresponding recess in the
filler opening, the cap is
not properly seated and
tightened and you must
repeat the above steps.
Before Starting
Warning!
Always check your power tool for proper
condition and operation before starting,
particularly the throttle trigger, setting
lever and stop switch. The throttle trigger must move freely and always spring
back to the idle position. Never attempt
to modify the controls or safety devices.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of serious injury from
burns, never attempt to refuel the unit
until it has been completely removed
from the operator.
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
Warning!
In order to reduce the risk of fuel spillage and fire from an improperly
tightened fuel cap, correctly position
and tighten the fuel cap in the fuel tank
opening.
Warning!
Never operate your power tool if it is
damaged, improperly adjusted or maintained, or not completely or securely
assembled.
5
English
Warning!
Check that the spark plug boot is
securely mounted on the spark plug – a
loose boot may cause arcing that could
ignite combustible fumes and cause a
fire.
Keep the handles clean and dry at all
times; it is particularly important to keep
them free of moisture, pitch, oil, fuel mix,
grease or resin in order for you to
maintain a firm grip and properly control
your power tool.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury from parts
thrown by the fan wheel, check the fan
housing for damage (cracks or holes
that could allow foreign objects to contact the fan wheel). If any such damage
is found, stop using the unit and contact
your STIHL dealer for repair.
Warning!
Adjust carrying harness to suit your size
before starting work.
In an emergency, you may slip out of the
harness and throw off the machine
quickly. Try slipping out of the harness a
number of times before using the
machine in order to become
accustomed to it. Do not throw off the
machine while practicing as it could
damage the machine.
Starting
To reduce the risk of fire and burn
injuries, start the engine at least 10 feet
(3 m) from the fueling spot, outdoors
only.
Warning!
Your power tool is a one-person
machine. To reduce the risk of eye or
other injury from thrown objects, insure
that bystanders are at least 50 feet
(15 m) away during use. Stop operation
immediately if you are approached.
Warning!
This unit is equipped with an ignition
system that is normally in operational
readiness. After the setting lever is used
to stop the engine, it automatically
springs back to the "on" position. If the
engine is warm, it may be possible to
start it by simply pulling the starter rope,
with no further adjustments. To reduce
the risk of injury, be particularly alert to
keep children away from the unit.
For specific starting instructions, see the
appropriate section of your manual.
Place the power tool on firm ground or
other solid surface in an open area.
Maintain good balance and secure
footing.
Warning!
When you pull the starter grip, do not
wrap the starter rope around your hand.
Do not let the grip snap back, but guide
the starter rope to rewind it properly.
Failure to follow this procedure may
result in injury to your hand or fingers
and may damage the starter
mechanism.
Once the engine has started,
immediately blip the throttle trigger,
which should cause the choke knob to
move to the run position and allow the
engine to slow down to idle.
During Operation
Holding and Controlling the Power
Tool
452BA094 KN
The blower is designed for singlehanded operation with the right hand on
the control handle. It should be carried
as a backpack with the straps of the
harness over both shoulders.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of loss of control,
never carry the unit with the strap(s)
over one shoulder.
Wrap your fingers tightly around the
handle, keeping the control handle
cradled between your thumb and
forefinger. Keep your hand in this
position to have your machine under
control at all times.
6
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
English
Warning!
Special care must be taken in slippery
conditions (wet ground) and in difficult,
overgrown terrain. Watch for hidden
obstacles such as tree stumps, roots,
rocks, holes and ditches to avoid stumbling. For better footing, clear away
fallen branches, scrub and cuttings. Be
extremely cautious when working on
slopes or uneven ground.
To reduce the risk of stumbling and loss
of control, do not walk backward while
operating the machine.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury from loss of
control, never work on a ladder or on
any other insecure support.
Working Conditions
Operate and start your power tool only
outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
Operate it under good visibility and
daylight conditions only. Work carefully.
Warning!
As soon as the engine is
running, this product generates toxic exhaust
fumes containing chemicals, such as unburned
hydrocarbons (including
benzene) and carbon monoxide, that
are known to cause respiratory problems, cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm. Some of the gases
(e.g. carbon monoxide) may be colorless and odorless. To reduce the risk of
serious or fatal injury/illness from inhaling toxic fumes, never run the machine
indoors or in poorly ventilated locations.
If exhaust fumes become concentrated
due to insufficient ventilation, clear
obstructions from work area to permit
proper ventilation before proceeding
and/or take frequent breaks to allow
fumes to dissipate before they become
concentrated.
Warning!
Inhalation of certain dusts, especially
organic dusts such as mold or pollen,
can cause susceptible persons to have
an allergic or asthmatic reaction. Substantial or repeated inhalation of dust
and other airborne contaminants, in particular those with a smaller particle size,
may cause respiratory or other illnesses. This includes wood dust,
especially from hardwoods, but also
from some softwoods such as Western
Red Cedar. Control dust at the source
where possible. Use good work practices, such as operating the unit so that
the wind or operating process directs
any dust raised by the power tool away
from the operator. Follow the recommendations of EPA/OSHA/NIOSH and
occupational and trade associations
with respect to dust ("particulate matter"). When the inhalation of dust cannot
be substantially controlled, i.e., kept at
or near the ambient (background) level,
the operator and any bystanders should
wear a respirator approved by
NIOSH/MSHA for the type of dust
encountered.
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
Warning!
If the substance being blown is a commercial substance, review the material
safety data sheet for that substance and
/ or consult the material manufacturer /
supplier. The state of California and
some other authorities, for instance,
have published lists of substances
known to cause cancer, reproductive
toxicity, etc.
7
English
Warning!
Breathing asbestos dust is dangerous
and can cause severe or fatal injury,
respiratory illness or cancer. The use
and disposal of asbestos-containing
products have been strictly regulated by
OSHA and the Environmental Protection Agency. If you have any reason to
believe that you might be blowing or otherwise disturbing asbestos, immediately
contact your employer or a local OSHA
representative.
Warning!
Dust with silica in its composition may
contain crystalline silica. Silica is a basic
component of sand, quartz, brick, clay,
granite and numerous other minerals
and rocks, including masonry and concrete products. Repeated and / or
substantial inhalation of airborne crystalline silica can cause serious or fatal
respiratory disease, including silicosis.
In addition, the state of California and
some other authorities have listed
respirable crystalline silica as a substance known to cause cancer. When
encountering such materials, always
follow the respiratory precautions mentioned above.
Operating Instructions
Warning!
In the event of an emergency, switch off
the engine immediately – move the setting lever to 0 or STOP.
Warning!
Even though bystanders should be kept
away from the running power tool, never
work alone. Keep within calling distance
of others in case help is needed.
Stop the engine immediately if you are
approached.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of personal injury, do
not direct air blast towards bystanders,
since the high pressure of the air flow
can injure eyes and can blow small
objects at great speed.
Warning!
The blower fan between the air intake
and output openings rotates whenever
the engine is running.
Never insert any foreign object into the
air intake of the machine or into the
nozzle of the blower. It will damage the
fan wheel and may cause serious injury
to the operator or bystanders as a result
of the object or broken parts being
thrown out at high speed.
Do not place the blower on the ground
when operating at high speed, because
small objects such as sand, grass, dust,
etc. may be pulled into the air intake and
damage the fan wheel. It is best to turn
the machine off when putting it on the
ground.
Warning!
The muffler and other parts of the
engine (e.g. fins of the cylinder, spark
plug) become hot during operation and
remain hot for a while after stopping the
engine. To reduce risk of burns do not
touch the muffler and other parts while
they are hot.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of fire and burn injury,
keep the area around the muffler clean.
Remove excess lubricant and all debris
such as pine needles, branches or
leaves. Let the engine cool down sitting
on concrete, metal, bare ground or solid
wood (e.g. the trunk of a felled tree)
away from any combustible substances.
Warning!
Never modify your muffler. The muffler
could be damaged and cause an
increase in heat radiation or sparks,
thereby increasing the risk of fire and
burn injury. You may also permanently
damage the engine. Have your muffler
serviced and repaired by your STIHL
servicing dealer only.
MAINTENANCE, REPAIR AND
STORING
Maintenance, replacement, or repair
of the emission control devices and
systems may be performed by any
nonroad engine repair establishment
or individual. However, if you make a
warranty claim for a component
which has not been serviced or
8
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
English
maintained properly or if
nonapproved replacement parts were
used, STIHL may deny coverage.
Warning!
Use only identical STIHL replacement
parts for maintenance and repair. Use of
non-STIHL parts may cause serious or
fatal injury.
Strictly follow the maintenance and
repair instructions in the appropriate
section of your instruction manual.
Please refer to the maintenance chart in
this manual.
Warning!
Always stop the engine and make sure
that the fan is stopped before doing any
maintenance or repair work or cleaning
the power tool. Do not attempt any
maintenance or repair work not
described in your instruction manual.
Have such work performed by your
STIHL servicing dealer only.
Warning!
Use the specified spark plug and make
sure it and the ignition lead are always
clean and in good condition. Always
press spark plug boot snugly onto spark
plug terminal of the proper size. (Note: If
terminal has detachable SAE adapter
nut, it must be securely attached.) A
loose connection between spark plug
terminal and the ignition wire connector
in the boot may create arcing that could
ignite combustible fumes and cause a
fire.
Warning!
Never test the ignition system with the
boot removed from the spark plug or
with a removed spark plug, since uncontained sparking may cause a fire.
Warning!
Do not operate your power tool if the
muffler is damaged, missing or modified. An improperly maintained muffler
will increase the risk of fire and hearing
loss. If your muffler was equipped with a
spark-arresting screen to reduce the
risk of fire, never operate your power
tool if the screen is missing or damaged.
Remember that the risk of forest fires is
greater in hot or dry weather.
Tighten all nuts, bolts and screws except
the carburetor adjustment screws after
each use.
For maintenance items please also refer
to the maintenance chart in this manual.
Store the power tool in a dry and high or
locked location out of reach of children.
Before storing for longer than a few
days, always empty the fuel tank. See
chapter "Storing the machine" in this
manual.
Store fuel in an approved and properly
labeled safety-type canister only. Take
care when handling gasoline! For health
and safety reasons, avoid direct contact
with the skin and avoid inhaling fuel
vapor!
Assembling the Unit
Mounting the Blower Tubes
BR 500
1
2
N Depending on your size and reach:
Push blower tube (1) up to the
appropriate mark on the blower
tube (2).
N Rotate the blower tube (1) in the
direction of the arrow and engage it
in the appropriate slot (3).
3
452BA095 KN
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
9
English
BR 550, BR 600
1
2
N Depending on your size and reach:
Push blower tube (1) up to the
appropriate mark on the blower
tube (2).
N Rotate the blower tube (1) in the
direction of the arrow and engage it
in the appropriate slot (3).
3
4
2
N Push the slide ring (4) (wide lip
facing left) onto the end of the
blower tube (2).
5
5
2
6
452BA096 KN
N Push the blower tube (1) into the
pleated hose (6).
N Secure the hose clamp (5) with the
screw (7).
7
8
N Line up the hose clamp (8) (with
retainer for throttle cable) – screw
recess and retainer facing
452BA076 KN
outwards.
9
8
6
Mounting the Nozzle
12
2
452BA078 KN
N Push the nozzle (11) onto the
blower tube (2) and engage it on the
lugs (12).
Wear Mark on Nozzle
452BA079 KN
The front end of the nozzle is worn by
ground contact during operation.
Replace the nozzle when it has worn as
far as the wear mark.
11
452BA097 KN
452BA100 KN
N Line up the hose clamp (5) (without
retainer for throttle cable) – screw
recess facing outwards.
10
10
N Push the pleated hose (6) with hose
clamp (8) over the elbow (9).
452BA077 KN
N Tighten down the screw (10) firmly.
452BA080 KN
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
Removing the Nozzle
English
2
11
12
N Rotate the nozzle (11) in the
direction of the arrow until the
lugs (12) are covered.
N Pull the nozzle (11) off the blower
tube (2).
Mounting and Adjusting the Control
Handle
N Push the control handle (1) onto the
blower tube (2).
N Put the unit on your back.
N Move the control handle (1) along
452BA098 KN
the tube to the most comfortable
position.
N Tighten down the screw (3) firmly.
N Engage the throttle cable (4)
with sleeve (5) in the retainer (6).
N Secure the velcro strip to the blower
tube – pull the flap through the
buckle.
N Secure the blower tube to the
handle on the backplate.
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
Fitting the Transport Aid
When storing or transporting the
machine:
11
English
Adjusting the Throttle
Cable
It may be necessary to correct the
adjustment of the throttle cable after
assembling the machine or after a
prolonged period of operation.
Adjust the throttle cable only when the
unit is completely and properly
assembled.
N Set throttle trigger to the full throttle
position – as far as stop.
N Carefully screw home the screw in
the throttle trigger until you feel
initial resistance.
Fitting the Harness
N Adjust the harness straps so that
the backplate fits snugly and
securely against your back.
A Adjust height
B Adjust angle
Tightening the harness straps
Loosening the harness straps
373BA004 KN
N Lift the tabs of the sliding adjusters.
12
373BA003 KN
N Pull the ends of the straps
downward.
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
English
4-MIX Engine Fuel
The STIHL 4-MIX engine features
mixture lubrication and must be run on a
fuel mixture of gasoline and engine oil.
It operates otherwise on the 4-stroke
principle.
This engine is certified to operate on
unleaded gasoline and the STIHL twostroke engine oil at a mix ratio of 50:1.
Your engine requires a mixture of highquality gasoline and quality two-stroke
air cooled engine oil.
Use mid-grade unleaded gasoline with a
minimum octane rating of 89 (R+M/2). If
the octane rating of the mid-grade
gasoline in your area is lower, use
premium unleaded fuel.
Fuel with a lower octane rating may
increase engine temperatures. This, in
turn, increases the risk of piston seizure
and damage to the engine.
The chemical composition of the fuel is
also important. Some fuel additives not
only detrimentally affect elastomers
(carburetor diaphragms, oil seals, fuel
lines, etc.), but magnesium castings and
catalytic converters as well. This could
cause running problems or even
damage the engine. For this reason
STIHL recommends that you use only
nationally recognized high-quality
unleaded gasoline!
Use only STIHL two-stroke engine oil or
equivalent high-quality two-stroke
engine oils that are designed for use
only in air cooled two-cycle engines.
We recommend STIHL 50:1 two-stroke
engine oil since it is specially formulated
for use in STIHL engines.
Do not use BIA or TCW rated (twostroke water cooled) mix oils or other
mix oils that state they are for use in both
water cooled and air cooled engines
(e.g., outboard motors, snowmobiles,
chain saws, mopeds, etc.).
Take care when handling gasoline.
Avoid direct contact with the skin and
avoid inhaling fuel vapor. When filling at
the pump, first remove the canister from
your vehicle and place the canister on
the ground before filling. Do not fill fuel
canisters that are sitting in or on a
vehicle.
The canister should be kept tightly
closed in order to avoid any moisture
getting into the mixture.
The machine‘s fuel tank and the canister
in which fuel mix is stored should be
cleaned as necessary.
Fuel mix ages
Only mix sufficient fuel for a few days
work, not to exceed 3 months of storage.
Store in approved fuel-canisters only.
When mixing, pour oil into the canister
first, and then add gasoline. Close the
canister and shake it vigorously by hand
to ensure proper mixing of the oil with
the fuel.
Gasoline
US gal. US fl.oz
12.6
2 1/2 6.4
5 12.8
Dispose of empty mixing-oil canisters
only at authorized disposal locations.
Oil (STIHL 50:1 or equivalent high-quality oils)
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
13
English
Fueling
Preparations
N Before fueling, clean the filler cap
and the area around it to ensure that
no dirt falls into the tank.
Always thoroughly shake the mixture in
the canister before fueling your
machine.
N Position the machine so that the
filler cap is facing up.
In order to reduce the risk of burns
or other personal injury from
escaping gas vapor and fumes,
remove the fuel filler cap carefully
so as to allow any pressure buildup in the tank to release slowly.
Opening the cap
N Raise the grip until it is upright.
N Turn the cap counterclockwise
(approx. a quarter turn).
N Remove the filler cap.
Fueling
Take care not to spill fuel while fueling
and do not overfill the tank.
Closing the cap
N Fit the cap – grip upright – marks
must line up.
N Turn the cap clockwise as far as
stop (approx. a quarter turn).
N Fold the grip flush with the top of the
cap.
If the grip does not lie completely flush
with the cap and the detent on the grip
does not engage the recess in the filler
neck, the cap is not properly seated and
tightened and you must repeat the
above steps.
14
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
English
Winter Operation
At temperatures below 50°F (+10°C):
2
1
N Remove the filter cover (1) and air
filter element (2).
3
4
N Swing the shutter (4) to the winter
position (r).
N Tighten down the screw (3) firmly.
N Refit the filter cover and air filter
element.
Do not operate your machine at
temperatures below 14°F (-10°C)
– exposure to low temperatures
may damage machine
components.
At temperatures above 70°F (+20°C):
N Always return the shutter (4) to the
summer position (s)
since there is otherwise a risk of
452BA084 KN
engine running problems due to
overheating.
Information Before You
Start
1
452BA086 KN
2
452BA020 KN
1 Setting lever
2 Throttle trigger
The three positions of the setting
lever
Engine stop 0 – ignition interrupted,
engine stops. The setting lever does not
remain in ths position, it springs back.
Normal run position F – engine runs or
is ready to start. Throttle trigger can be
operated normally.
Lock position C – the throttle trigger
can be locked in three positions: 1/3
throttle, 2/3 throttle and full throttle. To
disengage the lock, move the setting
lever (1) back to the normal run
position F.
3
N Loosen the screw (3).
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
452BA085 KN
15
English
Starting / Stopping the
Engine
Starting the engine
Start your unit on a clean, dustfree surface only to ensure that no
dust is sucked in.
N The setting lever (1) must be on F
N Press the fuel pump bulb at least
five times – even if the bulb is filled
with fuel.
If the engine is cold
N Turn the choke knob to l.
If the engine is warm
N Turn the choke knob to n.
Also use this setting if the engine has
been running but is still cold.
N Place the unit securely on the
ground and make sure that
bystanders are well clear of the
nozzle outlet.
N Make sure you have a firm footing:
Hold the unit with your left hand on
the housing and put one foot against
the base plate to prevent it slipping.
N Pull the starter grip slowly with your
right hand until you feel it engage
and then give it a brisk strong pull.
Do not pull out the starter rope to full
length – it might otherwise break.
N Do not let the starter grip snap back.
Guide it slowly back into the housing
so that the starter rope can rewind
properly.
N Crank the engine until it begins to
fire. After no more than three
attempts, turn the choke knob to n.
16
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
English
When the engine begins to fire:
If the engine is cold:
N Turn the choke knob to n and
continue cranking until the engine
runs.
If the engine is warm:
N Continue cranking until the engine
runs.
When the engine runs
To switch to idle speed:
At very low outside temperatures:
N Open throttle slightly – warm up the
engine for a short period.
If the engine does not start
If you did not turn the choke knob to n
quickly enough after the engine began to
fire, the combustion chamber is flooded.
N Move the setting lever (1) to C.
N Engage the throttle trigger (2) in the
full throttle position.
N Continue cranking until the engine
runs.
If fuel tank has been run completely
dry and then refueled
N After refueling, press the fuel pump
bulb at least five times – even if the
bulb is filled with fuel.
Stopping the Engine
N Blip the throttle trigger – the choke
knob automatically returns to the
run position (F)
or
N Turn the choke knob to the normal
run position (F).
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
1
N Turn the choke knob to n.
452BA026 KN
N Move the setting lever to 0 – the
engine stops – the setting lever
springs back to the on position.
17
English
Replacing the Air Filter Engine Management
Dirty air filters reduce engine power,
increase fuel consumption and make
starting more difficult.
If there is a noticeable loss of engine
power
N Turn the choke knob to l.
N Loosen the screws (1).
N Remove the filter cover (2).
Exhaust emissions are controlled by the
design of the fundamental engine
parameters and components (e.g.
carburation, ignition, timing and valve or
port timing) without the addition of any
major hardware.
N Remove the filter element (3).
N Replace dirty or damaged filters.
N Fit the new filter in the filter housing.
N Fit the filter cover.
N Insert the screws and tighten them
down firmly.
18
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
English
Adjusting the Carburetor
The carburetor comes from the factory
with a standard setting.
This setting provides an optimum fuel-air
mixture under most operating
conditions.
With this carburetor it is only possible to
adjust the high speed and low speed
screws within fine limits.
Standard Setting
N Stopping the Engine
N Check the air filter and replace it if
necessary.
N Check that the throttle cable is
properly adjusted – readjust if
necessary – see chapter on
"Adjusting the Throttle Cable".
N Check the spark arresting screen
(country-specific) in the muffler and
clean or replace if necessary.
L
H
N The low speed screw (H) is 3/4 turn
open.
N Start and warm up the engine.
Adjusting Idle Speed
Engine stops while idling
N Check the standard setting.
N Turn the idle speed screw (LA)
slowly clockwise until the engine
runs smoothly.
Erratic idling behavior, engine stops
even though setting of LA screw has
been corrected, poor acceleration
Idle setting is too lean
N Turn the low speed screw (L)
counterclockwise, no further than
stop, until the engine runs and
accelerates smoothly.
Erratic idling behavior
Idle setting is too rich
N Turn the low speed screw (L)
clockwise, no further than stop, until
the engine runs and accelerates
smoothly.
It is usually necessary to change the
setting of the idle speed screw (LA) after
every correction to the low speed
screw (L).
N Check the standard setting.
N Warm up the engine.
At high altitude
N Turn high speed screw (H)
clockwise (leaner) – no further than
stop.
If the setting is too lean there is a
risk of engine damage due to
insufficient lubrication and
overheating.
At sea level
N Turn high speed screw (H)
counterclockwise (richer) – no
further than stop.
N Carefully turn both adjusting screws
counterclockwise as far as stop:
N The high speed screw (H) is 3/4 turn
open.
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
Fine Tuning for Operation in
Mountains or at Sea Level
A slight correction of the setting may be
necessary if engine power is not
satisfactory when operating at high
altitude or at sea level.
19
English
Spark Plug
If engine is down on power, difficult to
start or runs poorly at idling speed, first
check the spark plug.
Fit a new spark plug after approx. 100
operating hours or earlier if the
electrodes are badly eroded.
Wrong fuel mix (too much engine oil in
the gasoline), a dirty air filter and
unfavorable running conditions (mostly
at part throttle etc.) affect the condition
of the spark plug. These factors cause
deposits to form on the insulator nose
which may result in trouble in operation.
Removing the Spark Plug
2
N Pull off the spark plug boot (1).
N Unscrew the spark plug (2).
Checking the Spark Plug
N Clean dirty spark plug.
N Check electrode gap (A) and
readjust if necessary – see
"Specifications".
N Use only resistor type spark plugs of
the approved range.
Rectify problems which have caused
fouling of spark plug:
– Too much oil in fuel mix.
– Dirty air filter.
– Unfavorable running conditions,
e.g. operating at part load.
452BA092 KN
2
A
000BA039 KN
1
002BA071 KN
Warning!
To reduce the risk of fire and burn injury,
use only spark plugs authorized by
STIHL. Always press spark plug boot (2)
snugly onto spark plug terminal (1) of
the proper size. (Note: If terminal has
detachable SAE adapter nut, it must be
attached.) A loose connection between
spark plug boot and ignition wire connector in the boot may create arcing that
could ignite combustible fumes and
cause a fire.
20
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
English
Installing the spark plug
2
3
N Screw the spark plug (3) into the
cylinder and fit the boot (2) (press it
down firmly).
Spark Arresting Screen in
Muffler
In some countries the muffler is
equipped with a spark arresting screen.
N If the engine is down on power,
check the spark arresting screen in
the muffler.
N Wait for the muffler to cool down.
1
2
1
N Loosen the screws (1).
002BA178 KN
N Remove the scoop (2).
Replacing the Starter Rope
and Rewind Spring
Replacing the starter rope
N Take out the screws (1).
N Remove the starter cover (2).
452BA090 KN
BR 500, BR 550, BR 600
3
N Remove the spark arresting
screen (3).
N Clean the spark arresting screen. If
the screen is damaged or heavily
carbonized, fit a new one.
N Refit the spark arresting screen.
N Fit the scoop.
N Use a screwdriver or suitable pliers
to remove the spring clip (3) from
452BA091 KN
the starter post.
The rewind spring may pop out
and uncoil during this operation –
take care to avoid the risk of
injury.
N Carefully remove the rope rotor with
washer (4) and pawls (5).
N Use a screwdriver to pry the rope
out of the starter grip.
N Remove the remaining rope from
the rotor and starter grip.
21
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