Stihl HS 45, HS 56 C, HS 56, HS 46 C Instruction Manual
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STIHL HS 46, 56
Instruction Manual
Notice d’emploi
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F Notice d’emploi
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Original Instruction ManualPrinted on chlorine-free paper
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2011
0458-447-8221-A. M1-2.G11.PM.
0000005080_002_GB
HS 46, HS 46 C, HS 56 C
English
1
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Contents
Dear Customer,
Thank you for choosing a quality
engineered STIHL product.
This machine has been built using
modern production techniques and
comprehensive quality assurance.
Every effort has been made to ensure
your satisfaction and troublefree use of
the machine.
Please contact your dealer or our sales
company if you have any queries
concerning your machine.
Your
Hans Peter Stihl
Guide to Using this Manual 2
Safety Precautions and Working
Techniques 2
Using the Unit 7
Fuel 8
Fueling 9
Starting / Stopping the Engine 13
Operating Instructions 15
Cleaning the Air Filter 15
Engine Management 16
Adjusting the Carburetor 16
Spark Arresting Screen in Muffler 17
Checking the Spark Plug 18
Lubricating the Gearbox 19
Rewind Starter 19
Storing the Machine 20
Sharpening Instructions 20
Maintenance and Care 21
Main Parts 23
Specifications 24
Special Accessories 25
Maintenance and Repairs 26
STIHL Limited Emission Control
Warranty Statement 26
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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.
Symbols in text
Warning where there is a risk of an
accident or personal injury or serious
damage to property.
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.
Observe all applicable local safety
regulations, standards and ordinances.
If you have not used this type of power
tool before: Have your dealer or other
experienced user show you how to
operate your power tool or attend a
special course in its operation.
Minors should never be allowed to use a
power tool.
Keep bystanders, especially children,
and animals away from the work area.
When the power tool is not in use, shut it
off so that it does not endanger others.
Secure it against unauthorized use.
The user is responsible for avoiding
injury to third parties or damage to their
property.
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.
Guide to Using this Manual
Fuel tank; fuel mixture of
gasoline and engine oil
Operate manual fuel
pump
Filler hole for gear
lubricant
Blade lock
Rotating handle
Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
Special safety precau-
tions 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
instruction manual before
first use and keep the
manual in a safe place for
future reference. Non-
observance of the
instruction manual may
result in serious or even
fatal injury.
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The use of noise emitting power tools
may be restricted to certain times by
national or local regulations.
To operate the power tool you must be
rested, in good physical condition and
mental health.
If you have any condition that might be
aggravated by strenuous work, check
with your doctor before operating a
power tool.
Persons with pacemakers only: The
ignition system of your power tool
produces an electromagnetic field of a
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.
Do not operate the power tool if you are
under the influence of any substance
(drugs, alcohol) which might impair
vision, dexterity or judgment.
Use your hedge trimmer only for cutting
hedges, shrubs, scrub and similar
materials. Do not use your power tool for
any other purpose because of the
increased 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 parts and accessories that are
explicity approved for this power tool by
STIHL or are technically identical. If you
have any questions in this respect,
consult a servicing 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 replacement parts. They are
specifically designed to match your
model and meet your performance
requirements.
Never attempt to modify your unit 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 pressure washer to clean
the power tool. The solid jet of water
may damage parts of the power tool.
Clothing and Equipment
Wear proper protective clothing and
equipment.
Avoid clothing that could get caught on
branches or brush or moving parts of the
machine. Do not wear a scarf, necktie or
jewelry. Tie up and confine long hair
(e.g. with a hair net, cap, hard hat, etc.).
Wear sturdy shoes with non-slip soles.
STIHL offers a comprehensive range of
personal protective clothing and
equipment.
Transporting the Power Tool
Always turn off the engine.
Always fit the blade guard (scabbard)
before carrying your hedge trimmer
short distances.
Carry the power tool by the handle –
cutting blades behind you. Avoid
touching hot parts of the machine,
especially the muffler and gear housing
– you could suffer serious burns.
Transporting in a vehicle: Properly
secure your power tool to prevent
turnover, fuel spillage and damage.
Fueling
Clothing must be sturdy
but allow complete free-
dom of movement. Wear
snug-fitting clothing, an
overall and jacket combi-
nation, do not wear a
work coat.
Wear safety glasses and
hearing protection, e.g.
earplugs or ear muffs.
Wear heavy-duty gloves.
Gasoline is an extremely
flammable fuel. Keep
clear of naked flames. Do
not spill any fuel – do not
smoke.
0008BA024 KN
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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.
Fuel your power tool only in well-
ventilated areas. If you spill fuel, wipe
the machine immediately – if fuel gets on
your clothing, change immediately.
This reduces the risk of unit vibrations
causing the fuel cap to loosen or come
off and spill quantities of fuel.
To reduce the risk of serious or fatal
burn injuries, check for fuel leakage. If
fuel leakage is found, do not start or run
the engine until leak is fixed.
Before Starting
Check that your power tool is properly
assembled and in good condition – refer
to appropriate chapters in the instruction
manual.
– Master Control lever must move
easily in direction of STOP or † and
spring back to the normal run
position F.
– 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 normal run
position F when the throttle trigger
lockout and throttle trigger are
squeezed.
– Check that the spark plug boot is
secure – a loose boot may cause
arcing that could ignite combustible
fumes and cause a fire.
– Cutting blades securely mounted
and in good condition (clean, move
freely, not warped), properly
sharpened and thoroughly sprayed
with STIHL resin solvent (lubricant).
– Check cutter guard (if fitted) for
damage.
– Never attempt to modify the controls
or safety devices in any way.
– Keep the handles dry and clean –
free from oil and dirt – for safe
control of the power tool.
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.
To reduce the risk of injury, avoid
contact with the cutting blades.
Do not drop start the power tool – start
the engine as described in the
instruction manual.
Note that the cutting blades continue to
run for a short period after you let go of
the throttle trigger – flywheel effect.
Check idle speed setting: The cutting
blades must not move when the engine
is idling with the throttle trigger released.
Holding and Controlling the Power Tool
Always hold the power tool firmly with
both hands on the handles. Wrap your
fingers and thumbs around the handles.
Insert the fuel cap with
hinged grip (bayonet-type
cap) correctly in the
opening, turn it clockwise
as far as stop and fold the
grip down.
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Right-handers
Right hand on the control handle and left
hand on the front handle.
Left-handers
Left hand on the control handle and right
hand on the front handle.
Make sure you have firm and secure
footing and hold the power tool so that
the cutting blades are always away from
your body.
During Operation
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 †.
Check that there are no bystanders in
the general work 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.
Make sure the idle speed setting is
correct. The cutting blades must not run
when the engine is idling with the throttle
trigger released.
If the cutting blades still run, have your
dealer check your machine and make
proper adjustments or repairs. Check
and correct the idle speed setting
regularly.
Note that the cutting blades continue to
run for a short period after you let go of
the throttle trigger – flywheel effect.
The gearbox becomes hot during
operation. To reduce the risk of burn
injury, do not touch the gearbox 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: Roots, tree
stumps or holes which could cause you
to trip or stumble.
Make sure you always have good
balance and secure footing.
When working at heights:
– Always use a lift bucket
– Never work on a ladder or in a tree
– Never work on an insecure support
– Never operate your power tool with
one hand
Be particularly alert and cautious when
wearing hearing protection because
your ability to hear warnings (shouts,
alarms, etc.) is restricted.
To reduce the risk of accidents, take a
break in good time to avoid tiredness or
exhaustion.
Work calmly and carefully – in daylight
conditions and only when visibility is
good. Stay alert so as not to endanger
others.
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.
To reduce the risk of accidents, stop
work immediately in the event of
nausea, headache, visual disturbances
(e.g. reduced field of vision), problems
with hearing, dizziness, deterioration in
ability to concentrate. Apart from other
possibilities, these symptoms may be
caused by an excessively high
concentration of exhaust gases in the
work area.
0008BA001 KN
0008BA002 KN
Your power tool produces
toxic exhaust fumes as
soon as the engine is
running. These fumes
may be colorless and
odorless and contain
unburned hydrocarbons
and benzol. Never run
the engine indoors or in
poorly ventilated loca-
tions, even if your model
is equipped with a cata-
lytic converter.
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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. Note that 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 the fuel system
in particular for leaks and make sure the
safety devices are working properly. Do
not continue operating your power tool if
it is damaged. In case of doubt, have the
unit checked by your servicing 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.
– When working close to the ground,
make sure that no sand, grit or
stones get between the blades.
– Take particular care when cutting
hedges next to or against wire
fences.
To avoid the risk of electrocution, do not
touch electric power lines – never cut
through electric power lines.
Opening the throttle while the blades are
blocked increases the load and reduces
engine speed. The clutch then slips
continuously and this causes
overheating and damage to important
components (e.g. clutch, polymer
housing components) – and this can
increase the risk of injury from the
blades moving while the engine is idling.
If the hedge is very dusty or dirty, spray
the blades with STIHL resin solvent from
time to time during cutting. This helps
reduce blade friction as well as the
aggressive effects of sap and the build-
up of dirt particles.
The dust that occurs during operation
may be harmful to health. If dust levels
are very high, wear a suitable respirator.
Before leaving the power tool
unattended: Shut off the engine.
Check the cutting blades at regular short
intervals during operation or
immediately if there is a noticeable
change in cutting behavior:
– Stopping the engine
– Wait until the cutting blades have
come to a complete standstill.
– Check condition and tightness, look
for cracks.
– Check sharpness.
To reduce the risk of fire, always clean
plant residue, chips, leaves and excess
lubricant off the engine and muffler.
After Finishing Work
Always clean dust and dirt off the
machine – do not use any grease
solvents for this purpose.
Spray the 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
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
Do not touch the cutting
blades while the motor is
running. If the cutting
blades become jammed
by thick branches or
other obstructions, switch
off the engine immedi-
ately before attempting to
free the blades.
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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 enginebefore 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 or if nonapproved replacement
parts were used, 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.
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!
Using the Unit
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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.
This engine is certified to operate on
unleaded gasoline and with the mix ratio
50:1.
Your engine requires a mixture of high-
quality premium gasoline and high-
quality two-stroke air-cooled engine oil.
Use premium branded unleaded
gasoline with a minimum octane rating
of 89 RON.
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.
0008BA003 KN
0008BA004 KN
0008BA005 KN
Fuel
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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 air-
cooled engine oils for mixing.
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 (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 3 months of storage.
Store in approved safety fuel-canisters
only. When mixing, pour oil into the
canister first, and then add gasoline.
Dispose of empty mixing-oil canisters
only at authorized disposal locations.
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.
Tank cap markings
Tank caps and fuel tanks may be
marked in different ways
Depending on the version, your machine
may be equipped with a tank cap and
fuel tank with or without symbols.
Examples
Gasoline Oil (STIHL 50:1 or equiva-
lent high-quality oils)
liters liters (ml)
10.02(20)
5 0.10 (100)
10 0.20 (200)
15 0.30 (300)
20 0.40 (400)
25 0.50 (500)
Fueling
0008BA025 KN
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Tank cap without symbols
Opening
N Swing the grip to the upright
position.
N Rotate the tank cap about a quarter
turn counterclockwise.
N Remove the cap.
Filling up with fuel
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 up with fuel.
Closing
Grip must be vertical:
N Fit the cap – positioning marks on
tank cap and filler neck must be in
alignment.
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 flush with the top of the
cap.
Checking security of cap
– The lug on the grip must fully
engage the recess (arrow).
Left: Tank cap without symbols
Right: Tank cap with markings and
symbols on cap and tank
001BA240 KN
001BA218 KN
001BA219 KN
001BA224 KN
001BA220 KN
001BA221 KN
001BA222 KN
001BA223 KN
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N Grip the cap – it is properly locked if
it cannot be turned or removed.
If the cap can be turned or removed
Bottom of cap is twisted in relation to
top:
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 and lock the cap clockwise –
see sections on "Closing" and
"Checking security of cap".
Tank cap with markings and symbols
Opening
N Raise the grip until it is upright.
N Turn the cap counterclockwise
(about a quarter turn).
Marks on tank cap and fuel tank must
line up.
N Remove the cap.
Filling up with fuel
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 up with fuel.
Left: Bottom of cap twisted
Right: Bottom of cap correctly
positioned
001BA225 KN
001BA227 KN
001BA226 KN
001BA236 KN
001BA232 KN
001BA234 KN
001BA237 KN
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Closing
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.
The marks on the tank cap and fuel tank
are then in alignment.
N Fold the grip down so that it is flush
with the top of the cap.
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.
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".
001BA234 KN
001BA233 KN
001BA231 KN
001BA235 KN
001BA241 KN
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.
1
001BA238 KN
001BA239 KN
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Positions and Functions of Master
Control Lever
STOP or † – Master Control lever must
be pushed in direction of STOP or † to
switch off the 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 normal
run position F.
Starting the Engine
N Press the 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.
Cold engine (cold 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
l.
N Release the throttle trigger
lockout (1), throttle trigger (2) and
Master Control lever.
Starting / Stopping the
Engine
0
0008BA007 KN
STOP
0008BA008 KN
3
0008BA009 KN
1
2
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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.
Starting
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 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.
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 Press down the throttle trigger
lockout and open the throttle – the
Master Control lever moves to the
run position F. After a cold start,
warm up the engine by opening the
throttle several times.
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.
Shut off 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.
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.
3
0008BA010 KN
1
2
0008BA011 KN
0008BA012 KN
0008BA013 KN
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Engine does not start in warm start
position n.
N Move the Master Control lever to l
and continue cranking until the
engine runs.
If the 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 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 Start the engine.
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 engine-
mounted components (ignition,
carburetor) from thermal overload.
After Finishing Work
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-of-
service periods – see "Storing the
Machine".
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.
Operating Instructions Cleaning the Air Filter
1
0008BA014 KN
2
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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.
General Information
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 Inspect cutting blades and clean if
necessary (clean, move freely, not
warped).
N Check the air filter and clean or
replace if necessary.
N Check the spark arresting screen
(not in all models, country-specific)
in the muffler and clean or replace if
necessary.
N Turn high speed screw (H)
counterclockwise as far as stop (no
more than 3/4 turn).
N Turn the low speed screw (L)
carefully counterclockwise as far as
stop (no more than 3/4 turn).
N Start and warm up the engine.
Adjusting Idle Speed
Engine stops while idling
N Carry out the standard setting.
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 Carry out the standard setting.
N Turn the idle speed screw (LA)
counterclockwise until the cutting
blades stop moving – then turn it
another 1 full turn in the same
direction.
If the cutting blades continue moving
when the engine is idling, have your
hedge trimmer checked and repaired by
your servicing dealer.
Engine Management Adjusting the Carburetor
0008BA016 KN
L H
LA
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Erratic idling behavior, poor acceleration
N Idle setting is too lean: Rotate the
low speed screw (L) about 1/4 turn
counterclockwise (no further than
stop) until the engine runs and
accelerates smoothly.
Machine stops when it is swung at idle
speed
N Idle setting is too rich: Rotate the
low speed screw (L) about 1/4 turn
clockwise (no further than stop) until
the engine idles smoothly.
It is usually necessary to change the
setting of the idle speed screw (LA) after
every correction to the low speed
screw (L).
Fine Tuning for Operation in Mountains
or at Sea Level
A slight correction of the setting of the
high speed screw (H) may be necessary
if engine power is not satisfactory when
operating at high altitude or at sea level.
N Check the standard setting.
N Warm up the engine.
N Adjust idle speed properly.
At high altitude
N Turn high speed screw (H)
clockwise (leaner) – no further than
stop.
At sea level
N Turn high speed screw (H)
counterclockwise (richer) – no
further than stop.
If the setting is too lean there is a risk of
engine damage due to insufficient
lubrication and overheating.
In some countries the muffler is
equipped with a spark arresting screen.
N If the engine is down on power or
maximum speed is irregular, check
the spark arresting screen in the
muffler.
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.
Spark Arresting Screen in
Muffler
0008BA015 KN
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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.
If the spark plug comes with a
detachable adapter nut (1), screw the
adapter onto the thread and tighten it
down firmly to reduce the risk of arcing
and fire.
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.
N Close the flap (1), top first, then the
bottom, tabs (arrows) must snap
into position.
Checking the Spark Plug
0008BA017 KN
0008BA018 KN
2
000BA039 KN
A
1
000BA045 KN
0008BA019 KN
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