STIHL BGA 100 - Battery Powered Leaf Blower Manual

Guide to Using this Manual

Pictograms

All the pictograms attached to or embossed on 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:

• A bullet marks a step or procedure.
  A description of a step or procedure that refers directly to an illustration may contain item numbers that appear in the illustration. Example:
  • Loosen the screw (1).
  • Lever (2)

In addition to the operating instructions, this manual may contain paragraphs that require your special attention. Such paragraphs are marked with the following symbols and signal words:

Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
NOTICE
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 differs from those described in this manual, please contact your STIHL dealer or the STIHL distributor for your area for assistance.

Using the Unit

Your blower is designed for one-handed operation. It can be carried by the control handle in either the right or left hand.

• Always hold the blower firmly in your hand.

Carrying ring
With the STIHL AR battery, you can attach the blower's carrying ring to a hip pad on the harness.
Use Type AR batteries only with the harness provided – do not combine with other carrying straps (e.g. shoulder strap, full harness, etc.).

Using hip pad on STIHL AR battery harness

• Fit the hip pad (1) on the harness (3) with the aid of the AR kit (2) – see leaflet supplied with AR kit.
• Use carrying ring to attach blower to hip pad.

Assembling the Blower

Nozzle

To reduce the risk of injury, operate the unit only with a properly mounted nozzle.

Mounting the Nozzle

• Push the nozzle (1) onto the blower tube (2) as far as mark that suits your height.
• Rotate the nozzle (1) in the direction of the arrow and engage it in the slot (3).

Adjusting the Nozzle

• Rotate the nozzle (1) clockwise as far as the stop.
• Slide the nozzle (1) to the appropriate mark on the blower tube (2) that suits your height.
• Rotate the nozzle (1) in the direction of the arrow and engage it in the slot (3).

Removing the Nozzle

• Rotate the nozzle (1) clockwise as far as the stop.
• Pull the nozzle (1) off the blower tube (2).

Connecting Charger to Power Supply

Power supply (mains) voltage and operating voltage must be the same.

• Insert the plug (1) in the wall outlet (2).

A self test is performed after the charger is connected to the power supply. During this process, the light emitting diode (1) on the charger lights up green for about 1 second, then red and goes off again.

Charging the Battery

A factory-new battery is not fully charged.
Recommendation: Fully charge the battery before using it for the first time.

• Connect the charger to the power supply – mains voltage and operating voltage of the charger must be the same – see "Connecting Charger to Power Supply".

Operate the charger only in enclosed and dry rooms at ambient temperatures between +5°C and +40°C (40°F and 104°F).
Only charge dry batteries. Allow a damp battery to dry before charging.

Charging STIHL AR Battery

For a description of the complete charging process on the STIHL AR battery see STIHL AR battery instruction manual.

Charging STIHL AP Battery

• Push the battery (1) into the charger (2) until noticeable resistance is felt – then push it as far as stop.

The LED (3) on the charger comes on when the battery is inserted – see "LED on Charger"
Charging begins as soon as the LEDs (4) on the battery glow green – see "LEDs on Battery".
The charge time is dependent on a number of factors, including battery condition, ambient temperature, etc., and may therefore vary from the times specified.
The battery heats up during operation in the power tool. If a hot battery is inserted in the charger, it may be necessary to cool it down before charging. The charging process begins only after the battery has cooled down. The time required for cooling may prolong the charge time.
The battery and charger heat up during the charging process.

AL 300, AL 500 Chargers
The AL 300 and AL 500 chargers are equipped with a battery cooling fan.

AL 100 Charger
The AL 100 charger has no fan and waits for the battery to cool down before starting the charging process. The battery is cooled by heat transfer to the ambient air.

End of Charge
The charger switches itself off automatically when the battery is fully charged:

• LEDs on the battery go off.
• The LED on the charger goes off.
• The charger's fan is switched off (if charger is so equipped)

Remove the fully charged battery from the charger.

LEDs on Battery

LEDs on STIHL AR Battery

For a description of the LEDs on the STIHL AR battery see STIHL AR battery instruction manual.

LEDs on STIHL AP Battery

Four LEDs show the battery's state of charge and any problems that occur on the battery or power tool.

• Press button (1) to activate the display – the display goes off automatically after 5 seconds.

The LEDs can glow or flash green or red.
LED glows continuously green.
LED flashes green.
LED glows continuously red.
LED flashes red.

During charging
The LEDs glow continuously or flash to indicate the progress of charge.
A green flashing LED indicates the capacity that is currently being charged.

The LEDs on the battery go off automatically when the charge process is completed.
If the LEDs on the battery flash or glow red – see "If the red LEDs glow continuously / flash".

During Operation
The green LEDs glow continuously or flash to indicate the state of charge.

If the LEDs on the battery flash or glow red – see "If the red LEDs glow continuously / flash".

If the red LEDs glow continuously / flash

1. When charging: Charge process starts automatically after the battery has cooled down / warmed up.
2. During operation: Power tool cuts out – allow battery to cool down; it may be necessary to take the battery out of the belt bag for this purpose.
3. Electromagnetic interference or fault. Take the battery out of the belt bag and refit it. Switch on the machine – if the LEDs continue to flash, the battery has a malfunction and must be replaced.
4. Electromagnetic interference or fault. Take the battery out of the belt bag and pull the plug out of the machine's socket. Use a blunt tool to clean dirt off the contacts in the belt bag and the connecting cord plug. Refit the battery and insert the connecting cord plug in the machine's socket. Switch on the power tool – if the light emitting diodes still flash, the power tool is faulty and must be checked by a servicing dealer – STIHL recommends an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

LED on Charger

The LED (1) on the charger may glow continuously green or flash red.

Green continuous light

... indicates the following:
The battery

• is being charged
• is too hot and must cool down before charging

See also "LEDs on battery".
The green LED on the charger goes off as soon as the battery is fully charged.

Red flashing light

... may indicate the following:

• No electrical contact between battery and charger – remove and refit the battery
• Malfunction in battery – see also "LEDs on Battery".
• Malfunction in charger – have checked by a servicing dealer. STIHL recommends an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Controls

Contents

1. Retaining latch
2. Trigger switch
3. LEDs

Function of Retaining Latch

Position

• Blower is switched off.
• Trigger switch is locked and cannot be operated.

Position

• Blower is switched on.
• Trigger switch is unlocked and can be operated.

Selecting power level
Blowing power can be adjusted with the retaining latch. Three power levels are available.
LEDs indicate the selected power level.

• If LEDs remain off: Switch on the blower - see "Switching On".
• Push the retaining latch upwards and allow it to spring back. This activates the next power level.
• Repeat the procedure until the required power level is indicated.

Power level 3 is followed by power level 1, then 2, 3, etc.

Function of Trigger Switch

Controlling blowing power
The trigger switch allows infinitely variable control of blowing power.

• Pull the trigger switch until the required blowing power is reached.

Blowing power increases as the trigger switch is squeezed - but only up to the preset power level.

Activating the boost function

The boost function can be activated independent of the preset power level.
The boost function always provides maximum blowing power.

• Override the trigger switch's end position and hold it there.

The LEDs flash in sequence.
The boost function remains active until the trigger switch is released.
The previously selected power level is restored when the trigger switch is released.

Switching On

• Mount the nozzle - see "Assembling the Blower".
  
• Line up the arrows and insert connecting cord's plug (1) in the blower's socket (2).
• Make sure you have a secure and firm footing.
• Stand upright, hold the blower and stay relaxed.
  
• Move the retaining latch (3) to .
• Operate the trigger switch (4).

Switching Off

• Release the trigger (1).
• Move the retaining latch (2) to . This locks the trigger so that it cannot be operated – the blower is switched off.
  
• Pull connecting cord plug (3) out of the socket (4) during breaks and after finishing work.
• Put the blower down so that it does not endanger others.
• Secure it against unauthorized use.

Storing the Machine

• Switch off the blower - see "Switching Off".
• Store the machine in a dry and secure location
• Keep out of the reach of children and other unauthorized persons.

Storing the Battery

• Remove the battery from the machine or charger.
• Store indoors in a dry and secure location. Keep out of the reach of children and other unauthorized persons and protected from contamination.
• Do not store spare batteries unused – use in rotation.
• To optimize the life of the battery, store it with a charge of about 30%.

Storing the Charger

• Removing the Battery
• Disconnect the plug from the wall outlet.
• Store the charger indoors in a dry and secure location. Keep out of the reach of children and other unauthorized persons and protected from contamination.

Inspection and Maintenance by User

• Check intake screen for damage before and after each use – have a damaged intake screen replaced by your servicing dealer¹⁾
• Carefully clean a dirty intake screen with a soft brush whenever required.

Maintenance and Care

The following intervals apply to normal operating conditions only. If your daily work - ing time is longer or operating conditions are difficult (very dusty work area, etc.), shorten the specified intervals accordingly. Before performing any work on the blower, move the retaining latch to and pull the connecting cord plug out of the socket.		before starting work	after finishing work or daily	weekly	monthly	every 12 months	if problem	if damaged	as required
Complete machine	Visual inspection (condition)	X
	Clean		X
Controls (retaining latch, trigger)	Check operation	X
	Clean		X						X
Intake screen	Visual inspection (condition)	X	X
	Clean								X
	Have replaced by servicing dealer1)							X
All accessible screws and nuts	Re-tighten								X
Battery	Visual inspection	X					X	X
Socket	Clean	X							X
	Check function (insert and remove con - necting cord plug)	X
Connecting cable	Visual inspection (condition)	X
Safety labels	Replace							X

1. STIHL recommends an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Main Parts

1. Nozzle
2. Blower Tube
3. Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
4. Retaining Latch
5. Trigger Switch
6. Control Handle
7. Carrying Ring
8. Socket
9. Plug of Connecting Cord
10. Intake Screen
    # Serial Number

Definitions

1. Nozzle
   Mounted on blower tube, directs airstream.
2. Blower Tube
   Directs airstream.
3. Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
   Indicate the state of power level.
4. Retaining Latch
   Locks or unlocks the trigger switch and selects the power level.
5. Trigger Switch
   Switches the motor on and off and controls the speed of the motor.
6. Control Handle
   The handle of the blower held by the operator´s hand.
7. Carrying Ring
   Connects the blower to the harness.
8. Socket
   Connects the plug of the connecting cord to the blower.
9. Plug of Connecting Cord
   Connects the connecting cord to the socket of the blower.
10. Intake Screen
    Fits over the intake opening and reduces the risk of direct contact with the axial fan, which is located under the screen.

Specifications

Battery

Type: Lithium-ion
Designation¹⁾: AP, AR
Rated capacity in Ah²⁾: See rating plate
Stored energy in Wh³⁾: See rating plate

1. Connected to machine by connecting cord
2. Rated capacity calculated pursuant to IEC 61960. Usable energy available to the operator will be less.
3. The battery is marked with its stored energy as provided by the cell manufacturer. Usable energy available to the operator will be less.

The machine may be operated only with original STIHL AP and AR rechargeable batteries.
Power tool running time is dependent on the stored energy of the battery.
STIHL AP series and AR series rechargeable batteries may be charged only with original STIHL AL series chargers.
STIHL AP series and AR series rechargeable batteries may be charged only with original STIHL AL series chargers.

Charger

AL 100
Power supply:	120 V / 60 Hz
Rated current:	1.3 A
Power consumption:	75 W
Charge current:	1.6 A
Insulation:	II, (double insulated)
AL 300
Power supply:	120 V / 60 Hz
Rated current:	4.7 A
Power consumption:	330 W
Charge current:	6.5 A
Insulation:	II, (double insulated)
AL 500
Power supply:	120 V / 60 Hz
Rated current:	4.8 A
Power consumption:	570 W
Charge current:	12 A
Insulation:	II, (double insulated)

Maximum air flow rate
with nozzle 840 m 3 /h (495 cf/min)

Maximum air velocity
with nozzle: 63 m/s (141 mph)

Maximum blowing force
with nozzle: 17 N (3.8 lbf)

Dimensions
Length: 985 mm (38.8 in)
Height: 267 mm (10.5 in)
Depth: 182 mm (7.2 in)

Weight
without connecting cord: 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs)

Transporting Batteries
STIHL batteries comply with the requirements set forth in UN-Manual ST/SG/AC.10/11/Rev.5/Part III, Subsection 38.3.
Commercial air, vessel and ground transportation of lithium ion cells and batteries is regulated. The battery is classified as a UN 3480, Class 9, packaging group 2 product. Shipping it, either as a complete tool or the battery, requires compliance with all applicable shipping regulations. Check with the ground, vessel, air cargo or passenger airline to determine if transport is prohibited or subject to restrictions or exemptions prior to shipping or travel.
Normally, no further conditions have to be fulfilled by the user to transport STIHL batteries by road to the power tool's operating site. Check and comply with any special regulations that may apply to your situation.

Troubleshooting

Before performing any work on the blower, remove the connecting cable plug from the machine's socket.

1. On STIHL AR battery: accompanied by 4 long beeps
2. On STIHL AR battery: accompanied by a rapid sequence of beeps lasting several seconds
3. STIHL recommends an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

When using an electric blower, basic precautions should always be followed, including the following:
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THE STIHL BGA BLOWER, THE BATTERY AND THE CHARGER

To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or other injury:

1. Do not leave the blower unattended when the plug of the connecting cord is inserted. Disconnect the connecting cord from the blower when blower is not in use and before servicing.
2. Avoid Unintentional Starting – Do not carry blower with finger on the trigger switch if the plug of the connecting cord is inserted. Be sure trigger switch is not depressed when inserting the plug of the connecting cord.
3. Do not expose the blower, battery and charger including plug to rain, use on wet surfaces or handle with wet hands. Store indoors in dry rooms. Also see additional instructions which comes with the charger and battery AP or AR.
4. Use only genuine STIHL chargers. Use charger only indoors in dry rooms.
5. Do not allow blower to be used as a toy. Keep Children Away – All bystanders should be kept at a distance from the work area.
6. Use only as described in this manual. Use only manufacturer's recommended attachments.
7. Do not use with damaged battery. If the blower is not working as it should, has been dropped, damaged, left outdoors, or dropped into water, take it to your STIHL servicing dealer to have it checked before further operation.
8. Do not put any object into openings. Do not use with any opening blocked; keep free of dust, lint, hair, and anything that may reduce air flow.
9. Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers and all parts of body away from openings and moving parts.
10. Turn off all controls before removing the connecting cord.
11. Use extra care when cleaning on stairs.
12. Do not use in areas where flammable or combustible liquids, such as gasoline, may be present.
13. Do not expose battery to fire or incinerate even if it is severely damaged. Battery can explode.
14. Store Idle Blower Indoors – When not in use, blower should be stored indoors in a dry, and high, locked place with connecting cord removed and retaining latch on – out of reach of children.
15. Replacement Parts – When servicing, use only identical STIHL replacement parts.

Safety Precautions and Working Techniques

Because the use of any blower may be hazardous, 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.

Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the equipment. Know how to stop the unit and disengage the controls quickly.
Have your STIHL dealer show you how to operate your power tool. Observe all applicable local safety regulations, standards and ordinances.
The use of noise emitting power tools may be restricted to certain times by national, state or local regulations.

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.
Use your blower for clearing leaves, twigs, grass, clippings, paper, debris, and dust in yards, gardens, sport stadiums, parks, paths, streets, driveways and parking lots and for similar tasks.

Do not use it for other purposes, since misuse may result in personal injury or property damage, including damage to the machine.

Minors should never be allowed to use a blower. Bystanders, especially children, and animals should not be allowed in the area where a machine is in use.

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. To do this, move retaining latch to and remove the connecting cord from the power tool.
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.
Always remove the connecting cord and move retaining latch to before transporting, storing or carrying out any work on the power tool. This avoids the risk of the motor starting unintentionally.
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.

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.

Proper Clothing

To reduce the risk of injury, the operator should wear proper protective apparel.

To reduce the risk of injury to your eyes never operate your power tool unless wearing goggles or properly fitted protective glasses with adequate top and side protection complying with ANSI Z87 "+" (or your applicable national standard).

STIHL recommends the use of sound barriers (ear plugs or ear mufflers) to protect your hearing.

Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarfs, neckties, jewelry, flared or cuffed pants, unconfined long hair or anything that could be drawn into the air intake. Secure hair so it is above shoulder level.

Good footing is very important. Do not wear sandals, flip-flops or go barefoot.

THE POWER TOOL

For illustrations and definitions of the power tool parts see the chapter on "Main Parts."

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 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.
To reduce the risk of injury, do not operate your blower unless it has a properly mounted blower tube.

Connecting Cord
Always remove the connecting cord by pulling the plug.
Do not remove the connecting cord while the motor is running.
Do not use the connecting cord to pull, hang up or transport the power tool.
Do not operate the power tool with a damaged connecting cord or plug.
Straighten a twisted connecting cord before use.
Avoid chafing, pinching or tugging the connecting cord – risk of damage.
Protect from heat, oil, pointed objects and sharp edges.
Read, fully understand and observe the instructions which comes with the STIHL Connecting Cord and keep it in a safe place.

Battery

Risk of fire, explosion and/or burns, including chemical burns. Do not disassemble, crush, heat above 212°F (100°C), expose to fire or incinerate. Never expose the battery to microwaves or high pressures.

Do not place the battery on or near fires, stoves or in other high-temperature locations. Do not place the battery in direct sunlight or store it inside a vehicle in hot weather. Doing so may cause the battery to generate heat, rupture or ignite. Using the batteries in this manner may also result in a loss of performance and a shortened battery life.
In case of fire: stay clear of any vapors or gases generated, taking wind direction into account. If possible without danger, remove battery from the vicinity of the fire. In principle, cooling the battery or extinguishing the fire with water is possible. It is preferable to extinguish the fire with a multipurpose dry chemical fire extinguisher. As for any fire, evacuate the area and fight the fire from a safe distance. Once the fire has been extinguished, the area should be monitored (fire watch) in case of a flareup, until the battery has cooled sufficiently. Restrict access to the area until completion of clean-up. Do not touch the burnt battery or any spilled liquids. Use inert absorbent to absorb spilled liquids.

Use and store the battery only within a temperature range from -10°C (14°F) up to no more than +50°C (122°F). Protect the battery from direct sunlight.

Use only STIHL AP or AR batteries with STIHL power tools, and charge them only with STIHL chargers. Replace battery with STIHL battery only. Use only genuine STIHL rechargeable batteries.
Charge the battery before use.

Do not immerse the battery in fluids. Also see additional instructions which comes with the battery AP or AR.

Do not open, drop, hit or damage battery. Never insert objects into the battery's cooling slots, since they may damage the battery. The battery contains safety features and devices which, if damaged, may cause the battery to generate heat, rupture or ignite. Never use or charge a defective, damaged, cracked or deformed battery.
Immediately discontinue use of the battery if, while using, charging or storing, it emits an unusual smell, feels hot or appears abnormal in any other way.

Fluid may leak from the battery if it is damaged or is not used properly – avoid contact with the skin! Leaking battery fluid can cause skin irritation and chemical burns. In the event of accidental contact, immediately rinse thoroughly with mild soap and water. If fluid gets into your eye(s), do not rub your eye(s) but rinse water over the open eye(s) for 15 minutes at least. Also seek medical attention immediately.

Never bridge (short circuit) the battery terminals with metallic objects, since this may damage the battery and possibly cause a fire. Keep a battery that is not in use away from metal objects (e.g. nails, coins, jewelry). Do not use metal containers for transporting batteries.
Store the battery out of reach of children in a cool and dry area away from direct sunlight and excess heat or cold (-10°C to +50°C (14°F to 122°F)).
Read, fully understand and observe the instruction manual for the STIHL battery and keep it in a safe place.
For further safety information on STIHL batteries, see www.stihl.com/safetydata-sheets

Charger
Use only genuine STIHL chargers.
Use only for charging geometrically matching STIHL batteries with a maximum rated capacity of 50 Ah and a maximum voltage of 42 V.
Never charge defective, leaking or deformed batteries.
Connect the charger only to a power supply with the voltage and frequency specified on the rating plate. Always plug the charger into a properly installed wall outlet. Do not use an extension cord unless absolutely neccessary (see below).
Never use a charger with damaged housing, damaged power supply cord or damaged plug. Do not operate the charger if it has received a sharp blow, been dropped or otherwise damaged in any way.
Do not open or dissassemble charger – there are no user serviceable parts inside.
Store charger out of the reach of children.

Protect the charger from rain and dampness. Keep charger dry.

Use and store charger only indoors in dry rooms.
Operate charger at temperatures between 5°C (41°F) and 40°C (104°F).
Allow the charger to cool down normally – do not cover it.
Never bridge the contacts of the charger with metallic objects (e.g. nails, coins, jewelry) – short circuit. The charger will be damaged by a short circuit.
In the event of smoke or fire in the charger, disconnect it from outlet immediately.

To reduce the risk of electric shock or short circuit, do not insert any objects into the charger's cooling slots.

The charger heats up during the charging process. Do not operate on an easily combustible surface (e.g. paper, cardboard, textiles) or in an easily combustible environment – risk of fire.

Do not operate in a hazardous location, i.e. in a location where there are combustible liquids (fumes), vapors or dusts. Chargers can produce sparks, which may ignite the dust or vapors – risk of explosion.

Check the charger's power supply cord and plug regularly for damage. If the power supply cord or plug is damaged, immediately disconnect the plug from the wall outlet to avoid the risk of electric shock.
Never jerk the power supply cord to disconnect it from the wall outlet. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord. Replace a damaged power supply cord or have it repaired by an experienced electrician.
Do not use the power supply cord for any other purpose, e.g. for carrying or hanging up the charger.
Never use power supply cords that do not comply with regulations.
Make sure the power supply cord is located and/or marked so that it will not be stepped on, tripped over, come in contact with sharp edges or moving parts or otherwise be subjected to damage or stress.
An extension cord should not be used unless absolutely necessary. If an extension cord must be used, plug the charger into a properly wired 16 gauge (AWG 16) or heavier gauge extension cord with blades that are the same number, size and shapes as the blades on the charger.

To reduce the risk of electric shock:

• Always connect the unit to a properly installed wall outlet.
• Make sure the insulation of the power supply cord and plug is in good condition.

Unplug the power supply cord from the outlet when charger is not in use.
Never store a battery in the charger.
Read, fully understand and observe the instruction manual for the STIHL charger and keep it in a safe place.

THE USE OF THE POWER TOOL

Transporting the Unit

Always switch off the power tool, move retaining latch to and remove the connecting cord – even when you transport the unit for short distances. Carry the machine by the control handle. When transporting it in a vehicle, properly secure the power tool to prevent turnover and damage.

Remove the connecting cord from the power tool. This avoids the risk of the motor starting unintentionally.

Before Starting Work

Always check your power tool for proper condition and operation before starting, particularly the trigger switch and retaining latch. The trigger switch must move freely and always spring back when the retaining latch is on . When the retaining latch is on , it should not be possible to depress the trigger switch. Never attempt to modify the controls or safety devices.

Never operate your power tool if it is damaged, improperly adjusted or maintained, or not completely or securely assembled.

A worn impeller housing (cracks, nicks, chips) may result in an increased risk of injury from thrown foreign objects. If the impeller housing is damaged, consult your dealer. STIHL recommends you contact a STIHL servicing dealer.
Keep the handle clean and dry at all times; it is particularly important to keep it free of moisture, pitch, oil, grease or resin in order for you to maintain a firm grip and properly control your power tool.
Check contacts in the socket for foreign matter. Keep clean.
Fit the plug of the connecting cord correctly.
For starting, see chapter on "Switching On".

Your power tool is a one-person machine. Do not allow other persons in the general work area, even when starting.

During Operation
Holding and Controlling the Power Tool

To reduce the risk of injury from loss of control, never work on a ladder, in a tree or any other insecure support. Never hold the machine above shoulder height.

The blower is designed for singlehanded operation with either the right or left hand on the control handle.
When working with the blower, always 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.
To reduce the risk of stumbling and loss of control, do not walk backward while operating the machine.
Special care must be taken in slippery conditions (wet ground, snow) and in difficult, overgrown terrain. Watch for hidden obstacles such as tree stumps, roots 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.

Working Conditions

Operate your machine outdoors under good visibility and daylight conditions only. Work carefully.
The power tool may be used in rain and wetness. Dry the power tool after finishing work.
Do not leave the machine outdoors in the rain.

Static electricity may build-up while blow-sweeping large quantities of very dusty material and suddenly discharge with a spark in certain unfavorable conditions (e.g. very dry work area).

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. 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.

If the substance being blown is a commercial substance, review, understand and follow all warnings and instructions contained on the label and in 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.

Breathing asbestos dust is dangerous and can cause severe or fatal illness, 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 stop work and contact EPA, your employer or a local OSHA representative.

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.
Pay attention to the direction of the wind, i.e., do not work against the wind.

Operating Instructions

In the event of an emergency, switch off the motor immediately, move retaining latch to and remove the connecting cord.

In order to reduce the risk of personal or even fatal injury to bystanders from blown objects keep bystanders at least 5 m (16 feet) away when the power tool is running.

To reduce the risk of damage to property, also maintain this distance from such objects as vehicles or windows.
Be particularly alert and cautious when wearing hearing protection because your ability to hear warnings (shouts, alarms, etc.) is restricted.
Switch off the motor immediately if you are approached.

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. Do not direct airblast towards pets.
When working in open ground and gardens, watch out for small animals to avoid harming them.

The blower fan between the air intake and output openings rotates whenever the motor is running. In order to reduce the risk of injury from contact with the blower fan, never operate your blower without a properly mounted blower tube or with a damaged intake screen.

Never insert any foreign object into the air intake of the machine or into the nozzle of the blower. It will damage the blower fan 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.

After Finishing Work
Always clean dust and dirt off the power tool – do not use any grease solvents for this purpose.

MAINTENANCE, REPAIR AND STORING

If you make a warranty claim for a component which has not been serviced or maintained properly, STIHL may deny coverage.

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 also refer to the maintenance chart in the manual.

Always switch off the motor, move retaining latch to and remove the connecting cord from the power tool before carrying out any repairs or maintenance work or cleaning the power tool. This avoids the risk of the motor starting unintentionally.

Do not attempt any maintenance or repair work not described in your instruction manual. Have such work performed by your STIHL servicing dealer only.
Tighten all nuts, bolts and screws after each use.
Regularly check the electrical contacts and ensure that the insulation of the power cord and plug of the charger and the connecting cord from the blower is in good condition and show no sign of aging (brittleness).
Electrical components, e.g. power cord of charger and connecting 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 or other liquid.
Do not clean your machine with a pressure washer. The solid jet of water may damage parts of the machine.
Keep the connecting cord socket free from foreign matter – clean as necessary.
Store the power tool in a dry, locked location with the retaining latch on , the connecting cord removed and out of reach of children.