Stihl HLE 71 Instruction Manual

HLE 71
2 - 19 Instruction Manual
English
Contents
1 Guide to Using this Manual.........................2
2 Safety Precautions and Working Techni‐
ques............................................................ 2
3 Using the Unit............................................. 6
4 Mounting the Drive Tube.............................8
5 Mounting the Loop Handle..........................9
6 Mounting the Gearbox................................ 9
7 Adjusting the Cutter Bar............................10
8 Fitting the Harness....................................11
9 Connecting to Power Supply.....................11
10 Switching On.............................................12
11 Switching Off.............................................12
12 Overload Cutout........................................12
13 Lubricating the Gearbox............................13
14 Storing the Machine.................................. 13
15 Sharpening Instructions............................ 13
16 Maintenance and Care..............................14
17 Minimize Wear and Avoid Damage...........14
18 Main Parts.................................................15
19 Specifications............................................15
20 Maintenance and Repairs......................... 16
21 Disposal.................................................... 16
22 EC Declaration of Conformity................... 17
23 UKCA Declaration of Conformity.............. 17
24 General Power Tool Safety Warnings.......18

1 Guide to Using this Manual

All the pictograms attached to the machine are shown and explained in this manual.

1.2 Symbols in text

WARNING
Warning where there is a risk of an accident or personal injury or serious damage to property.
NOTICE
Caution where there is a risk of damaging the machine or its individual components.

1.3 Engineering improvements

STIHL's philosophy is to continually improve all of its products. For this reason we may modify the design, engineering and appearance of our products periodically.
Therefore, some changes, modifications and improvements may not be covered in this man‐ ual.
2 Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
Because this unit is a high-speed, fast-cutting tool powered by electricity and has very sharp cutting blades and a long reach, special safety pre‐ cautions must be observed during operation.
It is important you read and under‐ stand the User Manual before com‐ missioning and keep it in a safe place for future reference. Non-compliance with the User Manual may cause seri‐ ous or even fatal injury.
Observe all applicable local safety regulations, e.g. by trade organizations, social insurance institutions, labor safety authorities etc.
If you have never used a power tool before: Have your dealer or other experienced user show you how to operate your machine – or attend a special course to learn how to operate it.
Minors are not allowed to work with the power tool – except adolescents above 16 years of age who are instructed under supervision.
Children, animals and bystanders must remain at a distance.
When not using the machine, it must be laid down in such a way that it does not endanger anyone. Ensure that the machine cannot be used without authorization.
The user is responsible for accidents or risks involving third parties or their property.
Do not lend or rent your power tool without the User Manual. Be sure that anyone using it under‐ stands the information contained in this manual.
The use of machines that emit noise may be limi‐ ted to certain hours of the day as specified by national and/or regional or local regulations.
Anyone operating the machine must be well res‐ ted, in good physical health and in good mental condition.
If you have any condition that might be aggrava‐ ted by strenuous work, check with your doctor before operating a machine.
Anyone who has consumed alcohol or drugs or medicines affecting their ability to react must not operate a power tool.
Use the machine only for cutting hedges, shrubs, bushes, scrub and the like.
Original Instruction Manual
0000000888_021_GB
Printed on chlorine-free paper
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG 2022
0458-277-0121-B. VA1.C22.
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2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques English
Other uses are not permitted and may lead to accidents or damage to the machine.
Always disconnect the machine from the mains power supply before starting any work on the machine – risk of accident!
Never jerk the power cord to disconnect it from the wall outlet. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
Unsuitable extension cords may be dangerous.
When using extension cords, ensure that the minimum conductor cross-sections are main‐ tained (refer to the chapter entitled "Connecting the machine to the power supply").
The connector and coupling of the extension cord must be waterproof or routed in such a way that they cannot come into contact with water.
Only use cutting blades and accessories that are explicitly approved for this power tool by STIHL or are technically identical. If you have any ques‐ tions in this respect, consult your dealer. Use only high quality parts and accessories. in order to avoid the risk of accidents and damage to the machine.
STIHL recommends the use of original STIHL tools and accessories. They are specifically designed to match the product and meet your performance requirements.
Never attempt to modify your power tool in any way since this may increase the risk of personal injury. STIHL excludes all liability for personal injury and damage to property caused while using unauthorized attachments.
Do not use a high-pressure washer to clean the power tool. The solid jet of water may damage parts of the unit.
Do not spray the power tool with water.

2.1 Clothing and equipment

Wear proper protective clothing and equipment.
Clothing must be sturdy but allow complete freedom of movement. Wear close-fitting clothes such as a boiler suit, not a loose jacket.
Do not wear clothing which could become trap‐ ped in wood, brush or moving parts of the machine. Do not wear a scarf, necktie or jewelry. Tie up and confine long hair above your should‐ ers.
Wear "personal" sound protection, e.g. ear defenders.
Wear a safety hard hat where there is a danger of head injuries from falling objects.
STIHL can supply a comprehensive range of per‐ sonal protective equipment.

2.2 Transporting the machine

Always switch off the power tool and unplug it from the power supply.
Always fit the scabbard over the blades before transporting the machine even for short distan‐ ces.
For machines with adjustable cutter bar: Engage the cutter bar.
For machines with a defined transport position: Bring the cutter bar in transport position and have it engaged.
Carry the power tool properly balanced by the shaft – cutting blades behind you.
Transporting by vehicle: Properly secure the power tool to prevent turnover and damage.

2.3 Before Starting Work

Check that your power tool is properly assem‐ bled and in good condition – refer to appropriate chapters in the User Manual:
Wear safety boots with steel toe caps and non-slip soles.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of eye injuries, wear close-fitting safety glasses in accordance with European Standard EN 166. Make sure the safety glasses are a snug fit.
Wear sturdy protective gloves made of a resistant material (e.g. leather).
To reduce the risk of burn injury, do not touch the gear housing!
Voltage and frequency of the machine (see rating plate) and the voltage and frequency of your power supply must be the same. Examine the connecting cord, power plug and extension cord for damage. Damaged cords, couplings and plugs or connecting cords that
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English 2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques
do not comply with the regulations must not be used Extension cord sockets must be splash-proof
To reduce the risk of stumbling, position and
mark the connecting cord so that it cannot be damaged or endanger others Starting lockout lever and trigger switch must
move freely – the switch must return to the idle position when it is released. Cutting blades must be properly tightened and
in safe operating condition (clean, sharp, not bent or warped), correctly mounted and thor‐ oughly sprayed with STIHL resin solvent (lubri‐ cant) For machines with adjustable cutter bar: The
adjustment mechanism must be snapped into the start position For machines with a defined transport position
(cutter bar folded against the shaft): Never start the machine in the transport position Never attempt to modify the controls or safety
devices Keep the handles dry and clean – free from oil
and dirt – this is important for safe control of the machine Adjust carrying harness and handles in
accordance with body height. Observe the chapter "Fitting the Harness"
To reduce the risk of personal injury, do not operate your power tool if it is damaged or not properly assembled!
To prepare for emergencies when using a har‐ ness: Practice setting down the machine quickly. To avoid damage, do not throw the machine to the ground when practicing.
To reduce the risk of electric shock:
Always connect the engine analyzer to a prop‐
erly installed wall outlet. Any extension cords used must comply with
the specifications for the particular application Check that the insulation of the power cord,
extension cord, plug and coupling is in good condition
2.4 Holding and guiding the
machine
Always hold the unit firmly with both hands on the handles.
Keep your right hand on the control handle and your left hand on the loop handle on the shaft – this applies to left-handed people as well. Wrap your fingers and thumbs around the handles.
Make sure you always have a good footing and hold the machine so that the cutting blades are always facing away from your body.
Some versions of the machine can be carried on a belt to relieve the weight on the operator's arms.

2.5 While working

In case of imminent danger or in an emergency, switch off the motor immediately – release the trigger switch and starting lockout.
Keep away from power cables – dan‐ ger of electrocution!
To reduce the risk of injury from moving blades or falling cuttings, do not allow bystanders within 5 meters of your own position. This distance must also be maintained in relation to objects (vehicles, window panes) – risk of property dam‐ age!
Watch the cutting blades at all times – do not cut areas of the hedge that you cannot see.
Be extremely careful when cutting tall hedges, check the other side of the hedge before starting work.
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2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques English
The drive motor is not waterproof. To reduce the risk of a short circuit or electrocution, never work with the power tool in the rain or in wet or very damp locations.
Do not leave the power tool outdoors in the rain.
Take special care in slippery conditions – damp, snow, ice, on slopes or uneven ground!
Clear away fallen branches, scrub and cuttings.
Watch out for obstacles: tree stumps, roots – risk of tripping or stumbling!
Make sure you always have good balance and secure footing.
2.5.1 When working at heights:
Always use a lift bucket
never use the machine while standing on a
ladder never work on an insecure support
Never use the machine with just one hand
Be particularly alert and cautious when wearing hearing protection because your ability to hear warnings (shouts, alarms, etc.) is restricted.
Take breaks when you start getting tired or feel‐ ing fatigue – risk of accidents!
Work calmly and carefully – in daylight conditions and only when visibility is good. Proceed with caution, do not put others in danger.
The gear head becomes hot during operation. To reduce the risk of burn injury, do not touch the gear housing!
If the machine 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 - refer also to the chapter "Before starting work". Make sure the safety devices are working properly. Never use a power tool that is no longer safe to operate. In case of doubt, contact a dealer.
Inspect the hedge and work area to avoid dam‐ aging the cutting blades:
Remove stones, rocks, pieces of metal and
other solid objects Make sure that no sand or stones get between
the cutter blades, e. g., when working close to the ground Take particular care when cutting hedges next
to or against wire fences
Do not touch electric power lines – never cut through electric power lines – risk of electrocu‐ tion!
If the hedge is very dusty or dirty, spray the cut‐ ting blades with STIHL resin solvent from time to time during cutting. This will significantly reduce blade friction, the aggressive effects of sap and the build-up of dirt particles.
The dust that occurs during operation may be harmful to health. Wear a dust mask in case of dust formation.
Never jerk the power cord to disconnect it from the wall outlet. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
Avoid damage to the power supply cord. Do not drive over it, pinch or tug it.
Position the connecting and extension cords cor‐ rectly:
Before leaving the power tool unattended: Switch it off and disconnect the plug from the power supply.
Check the cutting blades at regular short inter‐ vals during operation or immediately if there is a noticeable change in cutting behavior:
To replace the cutting blades, switch off the machine and unplug the power cord. Risk of injury from the motor starting unintentionally!
Do not touch the cutting blades.while the engine is running. If the cutting blades become jammed by thick branches or other obstructions, switch off immediately and disconnect the plug from the power supply before attempting to free the blades.
If the power cord is damaged, imme‐ diately disconnect the plug from the wall outlet to avoid the risk of electric shock.
Do not chafe on edges, pointed or sharp objects don't trap or squeeze the cord in or under doors or windows If cords are twisted – unplug the power tool and straighten them out Always avoid contact with the cutting attach‐ ment Always unwind the extension cord completely from the cable drum to reduce the risk of fire from overheating.
Switch off the motor; wait until the cutting blades have come to a standstill; unplug the power cord Check the condition and firm seat, watch out for fine cracks Ensure that the cutting blades are sharp
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English 3 Using the Unit

Always clean plant residue, chips, leaves and excess lubricant off the motor – risk of fire!

2.6 After finishing work

Always clean dust and dirt off the machine – do not use any grease solvents for this purpose.
Spray the cutting blades with STIHL resin sol‐ vent. Run the motor briefly so that the solvent is evenly distributed.

2.7 Vibrations

Prolonged use of the power tool may result in vibration-induced circulation problems in the hands (whitefinger disease).
No general recommendation can be given for the length of usage because it depends on several factors.
The period of usage is prolonged by:
Hand protection (wearing warm gloves)
Work breaks
The period of usage is shortened by:
Any personal tendency to suffer from poor cir‐
culation (symptoms: frequently cold fingers, tingling sensations). Low outside temperatures.
The force with which the handles are held (a
tight grip restricts circulation).
Continual and regular users should monitor closely the condition of their hands and fingers. If any of the above symptoms appear (e.g. tingling sensation in fingers), seek medical advice.

2.8 Maintenance and Repairs

Always switch off the machine and disconnect the plug from the power supply before carrying out any maintenance work to reduce the risk of injury from the motor starting unintentionally.
Service the machine regularly. Do not attempt any maintenance or repair work not described in the instruction manual. Have all other work per‐ formed by a servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends that you have servicing and repair work carried out exclusively by an author‐ ized STIHL servicing dealer. STIHL dealers are regularly given the opportunity to attend training courses and are supplied with the necessary technical information.
Only use high-quality replacement parts in order to avoid the risk of accidents and damage to the machine. If you have any questions in this respect, consult a servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends the use of genuine STIHL replacement parts. They are specifically designed to match your machine model and meet your performance requirements.
Never attempt to modify your power tool in any way since this will increase the risk of personal injury.
Regularly check that the insulation of the power cord and plug is in good condition and shows no sign of ageing (brittleness).
Electrical components, e.g. power cord, may only be repaired or replaced by a qualified electrician.
Clean plastic components with a cloth. Do not use aggressive detergents. They may damage the plastic.
Do not spray the machine with water.
Check tightness of mounting screws on safety devices and the cutting attachment and retighten if necessary.
Clean cooling air inlets in motor housing as nec‐ essary.
Store the machine is a safe and dry place.
3 Using the Unit

3.1 Cutting season

Observe country-specific or municipal rules and regulations for cutting hedges.
Do not use your power tool during other people's rest periods.

3.2 Preparation

Use lopping shears or a chain saw to cut out thick twigs and branches first.

3.3 Cutting sequence

If a radical cut is necessary, cut a little at a time in several stages.
Cut the sides of the hedge first, then the top.

3.4 Disposal

Do not throw cuttings in the rubbish bin - they can be composted.
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