STIHL HS 46, 56
Instruction Manual
Notice d’emploi
G Instruction Manual
1 - 25
F Notice d’emploi
26 - 54
Contents
English
Guide to Using this Manual 2
Safety Precautions and Working
Techniques 2
Using the Unit 7
Fuel 8
Fueling 9
Starting / Stopping the Engine 11
Operating Instructions 13
Original Instruction ManualPrinted on chlorine-free paper
Cleaning the Air Filter 14
Engine Management 14
Adjusting the Carburetor 14
Spark Arresting Screen in Muffler 15
Checking the Spark Plug 15
Lubricating the Gearbox 16
Storing the Machine 17
Sharpening Instructions 17
Maintenance and Care 18
Main Parts 20
Specifications 21
Maintenance and Repairs 22
Disposal 23
STIHL Limited Emission Control
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
Warranty Statement 23
Dear Customer,
Thank you for choosing a quality
engineered STIHL product.
It has been built using modern
production techniques and
comprehensive quality assurance.
Every effort has been made to ensure
your satisfaction and trouble-free use of
the product.
Please contact your dealer or our sales
company if you have any queries
concerning this product.
Your
Dr. Nikolas Stihl
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2020
0458-447-8221-C. VA1.H20.
0000008860_002_GB
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
This instruction manual is protected by copyright. All rights reserved, especially the rights to reproduce, translate and process
with electronic systems.
1
English
Guide to Using this Manual
Pictograms
The meanings of the pictograms
attached to the machine are explained in
this manual.
Depending on the model concerned, the
following pictograms may be attached to
your machine.
Fuel tank; fuel mixture of
gasoline and engine oil
Operate manual fuel
pump
Filler hole for gear
lubricant
Blade lock
Rotating handle
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.
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 manual.
Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
Special safety precautions must be observed
when working with this
power tool because it has
very sharp, high-speed
cutting blades.
It is important you read
and understand the User
Manual before commissioning and keep it in a
safe place for future reference. Non-compliance
with the User Manual
may cause serious 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
not be allowed near the machine.
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.
2
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
English
0008BA024 KN
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 understands the
information contained in this manual.
The use of machines that emit noise
may be limited to certain hours of the
day as specified by national and/or
regional or local regulations.
Anyone operating the machine must be
well rested, in good physical health and
in good mental condition.
If you have any condition that might be
aggravated by strenuous work, check
with your doctor before operating a
machine.
If you have a pacemaker: The ignition
system of your machine produces an
electromagnetic field of very low
intensity. This field may interfere with
some pacemakers. STIHL recommends
that persons with pacemakers consult
their physician and the pacemaker
manufacturer to reduce any health risk.
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. The machine must not be used for
any other purposes – risk of accidents!
Never attempt to modify your power tool
in any way since this may result in
accidents or damage to the machine.
Only use cutting blades and accessories
that are explicitly approved for this
power tool by STIHL or are technically
identical. If you have any questions 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.
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 trapped 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
shoulders.
Wear sturdy shoes with 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 "personal" sound protection, e.g.
ear defenders.
Wear sturdy protective
gloves made of a resistant material (e. g.
leather).
STIHL can supply a comprehensive
range of personal protective equipment.
Transporting the machine
Always stop the engine.
Attach the blade scabbard even when
carrying the machine over short
distances.
Carry the power tool by the handle –
cutting blades behind you. Do not touch
hot parts of the machine, especially the
muffler and gear housing – risk of burns!
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
3
English
By vehicle: When transporting in a
vehicle, properly secure your machine to
prevent turnover, damage and fuel
spillage.
Refueling
Gasoline is an extremely
flammable fuel. Keep
clear of naked flames. Do
not spill any fuel – do not
smoke.
Always shut off the engine before
refueling.
Do not fuel a hot engine – fuel may spill
and cause a fire.
Open the fuel cap carefully to allow any
pressure build-up in the tank to release
slowly and avoid fuel spillage.
Only refuel the machine in a well
ventilated place. If fuel has been spilled,
immediately clean the machine – do not
allow your clothes to be splashed with
fuel. If that happens, change your
clothes at once.
Place the clip lock fuel
cap (bayonet-type) in
position, turn it as far as it
will and fold the clip lock
down.
This helps reduce the risk of unit
vibrations causing an incorrectly
tightened fuel cap to loosen or come off
and spill quantities of fuel.
Check for leaks. Do not start the engine
if there is a fuel leak – serious or fatal
burns could result!
Before starting
Check that your power tool is properly
assembled and in good condition – refer
to appropriate chapters in the User
Manual:
– Check the fuel system for leaks,
especially the visible parts, e. g.,
fuel cap, hose connections, manual
fuel pump (only in machines with a
manual fuel pump). In case of
leakage and damage, do not start
the engine – risk of fire! Have the
machine serviced by a dealer
before using it
– The Master Control Lever must
move easily in direction of STOP or
† and then spring back to operating
positionF
– Action of Master Control Lever,
Throttle Trigger Lockout and
Throttle Trigger must be smooth –
the Throttle Trigger must return
automatically to the idle position.
The Master Control Lever must
spring back from the l and n
positions to the operating position F
while the Throttle Trigger Lockout
and Throttle Trigger are
simultaneously squeezed
– Check that the spark plug boot is
secure – a loose boot may cause
sparking that could ignite
combustible fumes and cause a fire!
– Cutting blades must be properly
tightened and in safe operating
condition (clean, sharp, not bent or
warped), correctly mounted and
thoroughly sprayed with STIHL
resin solvent (lubricant)
– Check cutter guard (if fitted) for
damage
– 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
To reduce the risk of personal injury, do
not operate your power tool if it is
damaged or not properly assembled!
Starting the engine
Start the engine at least 3 meters from
the fueling spot, outdoors only.
Place the power tool on firm ground in
an open area. Make sure you have good
balance and secure footing. Hold the
power tool securely. The cutting blades
must be clear of the ground and all other
obstructions because they may begin to
run when the engine starts.
Your power tool is designed to be
operated by one person only. Do not
allow other persons in the work area –
even when starting.
Avoid contact with the cutting blades –
risk of injury!
Do not drop-start the engine – start it as
described in the User Manual.
Note that the cutting blades continue to
run for a short period after you let go of
the throttle trigger - flywheel effect!
Check engine idling: The cutting blades
must remain at a standstill when the
engine idles – throttle trigger released.
4
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
English
0008BA001 KN
0008BA002 KN
Holding and guiding the machine
Always hold the unit firmly with both
hands on the handles. Wrap your fingers
and thumbs around the handles.
Right-handed users
Right hand on the control handle and left
hand on the handlebar.
Left-handed users
Left hand on the control handle and right
hand on the handlebar.
Make sure you always have a good
footing and hold the machine so that the
cutting blades are always facing away
from your body.
While working
In the event of impending danger or in
an emergency, switch off the engine
immediately – move the Master Control
Lever in the direction of STOP or †.
Ensure that there are no bystanders
within the working area.
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.
Check for correct idling, so that the
cutting blades stop moving when the
throttle trigger is released.
If the cutting blades still move, have the
machine repaired by your specialist
dealer. Check and correct the idle speed
setting at regular intervals.
Note that the cutting blades continue to
run for a short period after you let go of
the throttle trigger - flywheel effect!
The gearhead becomes hot during
operation. To reduce the risk of burn
injury, do not touch the gear housing!
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.
When working at heights:
– Always use a lift bucket
– Never use the machine while
standing on a ladder or in a tree
– 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 feeling 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.
As soon as the engine is
running, the power
machine generates toxic
exhaust gas. These
gases may be odorless
and invisible and may
contain unburned hydrocarbons and benzene.
Never run the engine
indoors or in poorly ventilated locations, even if
your model is equipped
with a catalytic converter.
To reduce the risk of serious or fatal
injury from breathing toxic fumes,
ensure proper ventilation when working
in trenches, hollows or other confined
locations.
Stop work immediately if you start
suffering from nausea, headaches,
impaired vision (e.g. your field of vision
gets smaller), impaired hearing,
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
5
English
dizziness, or impaired concentration –
these symptoms may possibly be the
result of too-high exhaust gas
concentration – Risk of accidents!
Operate your power tool so that it
produces a minimum of noise and
emissions – do not run the engine
unnecessarily, accelerate the engine
only when working.
To reduce the risk of fire, do not smoke
while operating or standing near your
power tool. Combustible fuel vapor may
escape from the fuel system.
If your power 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 – see also
"Before Starting". Check in particular
that the fuel system has no leaks and the
safety equipment is fully operative.
Never use a power tool that is no longer
safe to operate. In case of doubt, contact
a dealer.
Do not operate your power tool in the
starting throttle position – engine speed
cannot be controlled in this position.
Inspect the hedge and work area to
avoid damaging the cutting blades:
– Remove stones, rocks, pieces of
metal and other solid objects
– Ensure that no sand or small stones
get between the cutting blades, e.g.
when working close to the ground
– When cutting hedges next to or
against wire fences, do not touch
wire with the cutting blades
Do not touch electric power lines – never
cut through electric power lines – risk of
electrocution!
Do not touch the cutting
blades.while the engine
is running. If the cutting
blades become jammed
by an object, switch off
the engine immediately
before attempting to
remove the object – risk
of injury!
Opening the throttle when the cutting
blades are jammed increases the load
and reduces the working speed of the
engine. The clutch then slips
continuously and this causes
overheating and damage to important
components (e.g. clutch, plastic housing
components) – as a result, there is a risk
of injury! from the idling cutting blades
If the hedge is very dusty or dirty, spray
the cutting 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 which is generated during
operation may be harmful to health.
Wear a dust mask in case of dust
formation.
Before you leave the machine: Shut the
engine off.
Check the cutting blades at regular short
intervals during operation or
immediately if there is a noticeable
change in cutting behavior:
– Shut off the engine
– Wait for cutting blades to come to a
standstill
– Check the condition and firm seat,
watch out for fine cracks
– Ensure that the cutting blades are
sharp
Always clean plant residue, chips,
leaves and excess lubricant off the
engine and muffler – risk of fire!
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 solvent. Run the motor briefly so
that the solvent is evenly distributed.
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
6
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
English
The period of usage is shortened by:
– Any personal tendency to suffer
from poor circulation (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.
Maintenance and Repairs
Service the machine regularly. Do not
attempt any maintenance or repair work
not described in the instruction manual.
Have all other work performed by a
servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends that you have
servicing and repair work carried out
exclusively by an authorized 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 power tool. If you
have any questions in this respect,
consult a servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends the use of original
STIHL replacement parts. They are
specifically designed to match your
model and meet your performance
requirements.
To reduce the risk of injury, always shut
off the engine before carrying out any
maintenance or repairs or cleaning the
machine. – Exception: Carburetor and
idle speed adjustments.
Do not turn the engine over on the
starter with the spark plug boot or spark
plug removed since there is otherwise a
risk of fire from uncontained sparking.
To reduce the risk of fire, do not service
or store your machine near open flames.
Check the fuel filler cap for leaks at
regular intervals.
Use only a spark plug of the type
approved by STIHL and make sure it is
in good condition – see "Specifications".
Inspect the ignition lead (insulation in
good condition, secure connection).
Check the condition of the muffler.
To reduce the risk of fire and damage to
hearing, do not operate your machine if
the muffler is damaged or missing.
Do not touch a hot muffler since burn
injury will result.
Vibration behavior is influenced by the
condition of the AV elements – check the
AV elements at regular intervals.
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 maintained
properly, STIHL may deny coverage.
For any maintenance please refer to the
maintenance chart and to the warranty
statement near the end of the instruction
manual.
Using the Unit
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.
Cutting Sequence
Use lopping shears or a chain saw to cut
out thick branches first.
Cut both sides of the hedge first, then
the top.
Disposal
Do not throw cuttings into the garbage
can – they can be composted!
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
7
English
0008BA003 KN
0008BA004 KN
0008BA005 KN
Working Technique
Vertical cut
Swing the cutting blade from the bottom
upwards in an arc – lower the nose of the
blade, move along the hedge and then
swing the blade up again in an arc.
Any working position above head height
is tiring. To minimize the risk of
accidents, work in such positions for
short periods only.
Horizontal cut
Hold the cutter bar at an angle of 0° to
10° as you swing the hedge trimmer
horizontally.
Swing the cutting blade in an arc
towards the outside of the hedge so that
the cuttings are swept to the ground.
Repeat the procedure several times on
wide hedges.
Fuel
This engine is certified to operate on
unleaded gasoline and with the mix ratio
50:1.
Your engine requires a mixture of highquality premium gasoline and highquality two-stroke air-cooled engine oil.
Use premium branded unleaded
gasoline with a minimum octane rating
of 89 (R+M)/2.
Note: Models equipped with a catalytic
converter require unleaded gasoline. A
few tankfuls of leaded gasoline can
reduce the efficiency of the catalytic
converter by more than 50%.
Fuel with a lower octane rating may
result in preignition (causing "pinging")
which is accompanied by an increase in
engine temperature. This, in turn,
increases the risk of the 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 as
well. This could cause running problems
or even damage the engine. For this
reason it is essential that you use only
high-quality fuels!
Fuels with different percentages of
ethanol are being offered. Ethanol can
affect the running behaviour of the
engine and increase the risk of lean
seizure.
8
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
English
0008BA025 KN
001BA236 KN
Gasoline with an ethanol content of
more than 10% can cause running
problems and major damage in engines
with a manually adjustable carburetor
and should not be used in such engines.
Engines equipped with M-Tronic can be
run on gasoline with an ethanol content
of up to 25% (E25).
Use only STIHL two-stroke engine oil or
equivalent high-quality two-stroke aircooled engine oils for mixing.
We recommend STIHL 50:1 two-stroke
engine oil since it is specially formulated
for use in STIHL engines.
To ensure the maximum performance of
your STIHL engine, use a high quality 2cycle engine oil. To help your engine run
cleaner and reduce harmful carbon
deposits, STIHL recommends using
STIHL HP Ultra 2-cycle engine oil or ask
your dealer for an equivalent fully
synthetic 2-cycle engine oil.
To meet the requirements of EPA and
CARB we recommend to use STIHL HP
Ultra oil.
Do not use BIA or TCW (two-stroke
water cooled) mix oils!
Use only STIHL 50:1 heavy-duty engine
oil or an equivalent quality two-stroke
engine oil for the fuel mix in models
equipped with a catalytic converter.
Take care when handling gasoline.
Avoid direct contact with the skin and
avoid inhaling fuel vapour.
The canister should be kept tightly
closed in order to avoid any moisture
getting into the mixture.
The fuel tank and the canister in which
fuel mix is stored should be cleaned
from time to time.
Fuel mix ratio
Only mix sufficient fuel for a few days
work, not to exceed 30 days of storage.
Store in approved safety fuel-canisters
only. When mixing, pour oil into the
canister first, and then add gasoline.
Examples
Gasoline Oil (STIHL 50:1 or equiva-
lent high-quality oils)
liters liters (ml)
1 0.02 (20)
5 0.10 (100)
10 0.20 (200)
15 0.30 (300)
20 0.40 (400)
25 0.50 (500)
Dispose of empty mixing-oil canisters
only at authorized disposal locations.
Fueling
Preparations
N Before fueling, clean the filler cap
and the area around it to ensure that
no dirt falls into the tank.
N Position the machine so that the
filler cap faces up.
Opening
N Raise grip to vertical position.
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
9
English
001BA232 KN
001BA234 KN
001BA237 KN
001BA234 KN
001BA233 KN
001BA231 KN
001BA235 KN
001BA241 KN
Closing
N Turn the cap counterclockwise
(about a quarter turn).
Marks on tank cap and fuel tank must
line up.
N Remove the tank cap.
Filling Up with Fuel
Grip must be vertical:
N Fit the cap – marks on tank cap and
fuel tank must line up.
N Press the cap down as far as stop.
N While holding the cap depressed,
turn it clockwise until it engages in
position.
N Fold the grip down.
Tank cap is locked.
If the tank cap cannot be locked in the
fuel tank opening
Bottom of cap is twisted in relation to
top.
N Remove the cap from the fuel tank
and check it from above.
Take care not to spill fuel while fueling
and do not overfill the tank.
STIHL recommends you use the STIHL
filler nozzle for fuel (special accessory).
N Fill the fuel tank.
10
The marks on the tank cap and fuel tank
are then in alignment.
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
English
1
001BA238 KN
001BA239 KN
0
0008BA007 KN
STOP
Left: Bottom of cap is twisted –
inner mark (1) in line with
outer mark.
Right: Bottom of cap in correct posi-
tion – inner mark is under the
grip. It is not in line with the
outer mark.
N Place the cap on the opening and
rotate it counterclockwise until it
engages the filler neck.
N Continue rotating the cap
counterclockwise (about a quarter
turn) – this causes the bottom of the
cap to be turned to the correct
position.
N Turn the cap clockwise and lock it in
position – see section on "Closing".
Starting / Stopping the
Engine
Positions and functions of Master
Control lever
STOP or † – Master Control lever must
be pushed in direction of STOP or † to
switch off ignition. When released, the
Master Control lever springs back to the
normal run position F and the ignition is
switched on again.
Normal run position (F) – engine runs or
can fire.
Starting throttle n – this position is
used to start a warm engine. The Master
Control lever moves to the normal run
position F when the throttle trigger is
squeezed.
Choke closed l – this position is used
to start a cold engine. The Master
Control lever moves to the normal run
position F when the throttle trigger is
squeezed.
Setting the Master Control Lever
To move the Master Control lever from
the normal run position (F) to choke
closed (l), press down the throttle
trigger lockout and squeeze the throttle
trigger at the same time and hold them in
that position – now set the Master
Control lever.
To select the starting throttle
position (n), move the Master Control
lever to choke closed (l) first, then
push it into the starting throttle
position (n).
The Master Control lever moves from
the starting throttle position n or choke
closed position l to the normal run
position F when you press down the
throttle trigger lockout and blip the
throttle trigger at the same time.
To switch off the engine, move the
Master Control lever in the direction of
STOP or † – when released, the Master
Control lever springs back to the run
position F.
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
11
English
0008BA008 KN
3
0008BA009 KN
1
2
3
0008BA010 KN
1
2
0008BA011 KN
0008BA012 KN
Starting the Engine
N Press the fuel pump bulb at least
eight times – even if the bulb is filled
with fuel.
N Set the Master Control lever to suit
the engine temperature.
Cold engine (cold start)
Warm engine (warm start)
N Depress the throttle trigger
lockout (1) and the throttle
trigger (2) at the same time – hold
both levers in that position.
N Move the Master Control lever (3) to
n.
N Release the throttle trigger
lockout (1), throttle trigger (2) and
Master Control lever.
Also use this setting if the engine has
been running but is still cold.
Cranking
N Make sure you have a safe and
secure footing.
N Hold the unit firmly with your left
hand on the fan housing and press
down.
N Hold the starter grip with your right
hand.
Version without Easy2Start
N Pull the starter grip slowly until you
feel it engage and then give it a brisk
strong pull.
NOTICE
Do not pull out the starter rope all the
way – 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.
Version with Easy2Start
N Pull the starter grip steadily.
As soon as the engine runs
N Depress the throttle trigger
lockout (1) and the throttle
trigger (2) at the same time – hold
both levers in that position.
N Move the Master Control lever (3) to
l.
N Release the throttle trigger
lockout (1), throttle trigger (2) and
Master Control lever.
12
N Place the unit on the ground.
N Remove the blade scabbard. Check
that the cutting blades are not
touching the ground or any other
obstacles.
N Press down the throttle trigger
lockout and open the throttle – the
Master Control lever moves to the
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
English
0008BA013 KN
run position F. After a cold start,
warm up the engine by opening the
throttle several times.
WARNING
Make sure the carburetor is correctly
adjusted. The cutting attachment must
not rotate when the engine is idling.
Your machine is now ready for
operation.
Stopping the engine
N Move the Master Control lever in the
direction of STOP or † – when
released, the Master Control lever
springs back to the normal run
position F.
Engine does not start in warm start
position n.
N Move the Master Control lever to l
and continue cranking until the
engine runs.
Engine does not start
N Check that all settings are correct.
N Check that there is fuel in the tank
and refuel if necessary.
N Check that the spark plug boot is
properly connected.
N Repeat the starting procedure.
Fuel tank run until completely dry
N After refueling, press the manual
fuel pump bulb at least five times –
even if the bulb is filled with fuel.
N Set the Master Control lever to suit
the engine temperature.
N Now start the engine.
Operating Instructions
During break-in period
A factory-new machine should not be
run at high revs (full throttle off load) for
the first three tank fillings. This avoids
unnecessary high loads during the
break-in period. As all moving parts
have to bed in during the break-in
period, the frictional resistances in the
engine are greater during this period.
The engine develops its maximum
power after about 5 to 15 tank fillings.
During Operation
After a long period of full throttle
operation, allow the engine to run for a
short while at idle speed so that engine
heat can be dissipated by the flow of
cooling air. This protects enginemounted components (ignition,
carburetor) from thermal overload.
After Finishing Work
Other Hints on Starting
Engine stalls in cold start position l or
under acceleration
N Move the Master Control lever to n
and continue cranking until the
engine runs.
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
Storing for a short period: Wait for the
engine to cool down. Empty the fuel tank
and keep the machine in a dry place,
well away from sources of ignition, until
you need it again. For longer out-ofservice periods – see "Storing the
Machine".
13
English
1
0008BA014 KN
2
Cleaning the Air Filter
If there is a noticeable loss of engine
power
N Loosen the captive screw (1) and
remove the filter cover (2).
N Clean away loose dirt from around
the filter.
N Remove the filter element (3).
N Fit a new filter element. As a
temporary measure you can knock it
out on the palm of your hand or blow
it out with compressed air. Do not
wash.
N Replace any damaged parts.
N Fit the filter element (3).
N Fit the filter cover (2) and screw it
down firmly.
Engine Management Adjusting the Carburetor
Exhaust emissions are controlled by the
design of the engine and components
(e.g. carburation, ignition, timing and
valve or port timing).
The carburetor has been set at the
factory to provide an optimum fuel-air
mixture under most operating
conditions.
Adjusting Idle Speed
L H
LA
N Start and warm up the engine.
Engine stops while idling
N Turn the idle speed screw (LA)
clockwise until the cutting blades
begin to run – then back it off
about 1 full turn.
Cutting blades run when engine is idling
N Turn the idle speed screw (LA)
counterclockwise until the cutting
blades stop moving – then turn it
about another full turn in the same
direction.
0000-GXX-B008
WARNING
If the cutting blades continue to run while
the engine is idling, have your power tool
checked and repaired by your servicing
dealer.
14
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
English
0008BA015 KN
0008BA017 KN
0008BA018 KN
2
000BA039 KN
A
Spark Arresting Screen in
Muffler
N If the engine is down on power or
maximum speed is irregular, check
the spark arresting screen in the
muffler.
WARNING
Wait for the engine to cool down
completely before performing this work.
N Use a 15 mm socket wrench to
unscrew the spark arresting screen.
N Clean the spark arresting screen. If
the screen is damaged or heavily
carbonized, fit a new one.
N Refit the spark arresting screen and
tighten it down firmly.
Checking the Spark Plug
N If the engine is down on power,
difficult to start or runs poorly at idle
speed, first check the spark plug.
N Fit a new spark plug after about 100
operating hours – or sooner if the
electrodes are badly eroded. Install
only suppressed spark plugs of the
type approved by STIHL – see
"Specifications".
Removing the Spark Plug
N Stopping the Engine
N Carefully pry open the flap (1) with a
suitable tool (e.g. combination
wrench).
N Remove the spark plug boot (2)
using a suitable tool (e.g.
combination wrench).
N Unscrew the spark plug.
Checking the Spark Plug
N Clean dirty spark plug.
N Check electrode gap (A) and
readjust if necessary – see
"Specifications".
N Rectify the problems which have
caused fouling of the spark plug.
Possible causes are:
– Too much oil in fuel mix.
– Dirty air filter.
– Unfavorable running conditions.
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
15
English
1
000BA045 KN
0008BA019 KN
2
0000-GXX-3986-A0
1
3
1
1
1
4
0008BA021 KN
5
6
2
0000-GXX-3987-A0
1
3
1
1
1
WARNING
Arcing may occur if the adapter nut (1) is
loose or missing. Working in an easily
combustible or explosive atmosphere
may cause a fire or an explosion. This
can result result in serious injuries or
damage to property.
N Use resistor type spark plugs with a
properly tightened adapter nut.
Installing the Spark Plug
N Insert and screw home the spark
plug by hand.
N Tighten down the spark plug.
N Press the spark plug boot firmly
onto the spark plug.
Lubricating the Gearbox
Commercial usage only – check every
25 hours of operation
HS 46
Use STIHL gear lubricant for hedge
trimmers (special accessory) to lubricate
the blade drive gear.
N Remove the screws (1) from the
underside of the unit.
N Remove the retaining plate (2) and
gearbox cover (3).
hex key to distribute the grease
evenly – avoid contact with the
cutting blades.
NOTICE
Do not completely fill the gearbox with
grease.
N Fit the retaining plate (2) so that it is
flush with the gearbox housing.
N Fit the gearbox cover (3), insert the
screws (1) and tighten them down
firmly.
HS 56
Use STIHL gear lubricant for hedge
trimmers (special accessory) to lubricate
the blade drive gear.
N Close the flap (1), top first, then the
bottom, tabs (arrows) must snap
into position.
16
N Squeeze grease into the gearbox
housing (arrow) between the
cam (4) and cutting blade (5) a little
at a time (max. 5 g (1/5 oz)) while
turning the drive pinion (6) with a
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
Loading...