Stihl HS 45 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 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.

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.
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!
Other uses are not permitted and may lead to accidents or damage to the machine. 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.

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!
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.
The power tools may be fitted as standard with different fuel caps.

After fueling, tighten down the screw-type fuel cap as securely as possible.

Place the clip lock fuel cap (bayonet-type) in position, turn it until it will go no further 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
• Insert the blade lock (if fitted)
• Slide control/stop switch must move easily to STOP or 0
• Smooth action of throttle trigger lockout and throttle trigger – the throttle trigger must return automatically to the idle position
• 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.

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 slide control/stop switch to 0 or STOP.
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 and wet conditions, in snow, on slopes or uneven ground, etc. – risk of slipping!
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, 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 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 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 machine. If you have any questions in this respect, consult a servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends the use of genuine STIHL replacement parts. They are specifically designed to match your 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 unless the slide control/stop switch is on STOP or 0 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.

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 normal 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.

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.

Fuel

Your engine requires a mixture of gasoline and engine oil.

For health reasons, avoid direct skin contact with gasoline and avoid inhaling gasoline vapor.

STIHL MotoMix

STIHL recommends the use of STIHL MotoMix. This ready-to-use fuel mix contains no benzol or lead, has a high octane rating and ensures that you always use the right mix ratio.
STIHL MotoMix uses STIHL HP Ultra two-stroke engine oil for an extra long engine life.
MotoMix is not available in all markets.

Mixing Fuel

NOTICE
Unsuitable fuels or lubricants or mix ratios other than those specified may result in serious damage to the engine. Poor quality gasoline or engine oil may damage the engine, sealing rings, hoses and the fuel tank.

Gasoline
Use only high-quality brand-name gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 90 – leaded or unleaded.
Gasoline with an ethanol content of more than 10% can cause running problems in engines with a manually adjustable carburetor and should not be used in such engines.
Engines equipped with M-Tronic deliver full power when run on gasoline with an ethanol content of up to 25% (E25).

Engine Oil
If you mix the fuel yourself, use only STIHL two-stroke engine oil or another high-performance engine oil in accordance with JASO FB, JASO FC, JASO FD, ISO-L-EGB, ISO-L-EGC or ISO-L-EGD.
STIHL specifies STIHL HP Ultra twostroke engine oil or an equivalent highperformance engine oil in order to maintain emission limits over the machine's service life.

Mix Ratio
STIHL 50:1 two-stroke engine oil: 50 parts gasoline to 1 part oil
Examples

• Use a canister approved for storing fuel. Pour oil into canister first, then add gasoline and mix thoroughly.

Storing Fuel

Store fuel only in approved safety-type fuel canisters in a dry, cool and safe location protected from light and the sun.
Fuel mix ages – only mix sufficient fuel for a few weeks work. Do not store fuel mix for longer than 30 days. Exposure to light, the sun, low or high temperatures can quickly make the fuel mix unusable.
STIHL MotoMix may be stored for up to 2 years without any problems.

• Thoroughly shake the mixture in the canister before fueling your machine.

Pressure may build up in the canister – open it carefully.

• Clean the fuel tank and canister from time to time.

Dispose of remaining fuel and cleaning fluid properly in accordance with local regulations and environmental requirements.

Fueling

Preparations

• Before fueling, clean the filler cap and the area around it to ensure that no dirt falls into the tank.
• Position the machine so that the filler cap is facing up.
• Open the filler cap.

Fill 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).

After fueling, tighten down the filler cap as securely as possible by hand.

Starting/Stopping the Engine

• Observe safety precautions – see chapter on "Safety Precautions and Working Techniques".
• Move the stop switch (1) to I.
  
• Press down the lockout lever (2) and squeeze the throttle trigger (3) – hold both levers in that position.
• Press in the starting throttle lock (4).
• Let go of the lockout lever, throttle trigger and starting throttle lock.
  This is the starting throttle position.
• Set the choke lever (5) to
  if the engine is cold
  for warm start – also use this position if the engine has been running but is still cold.
• Press the manual fuel pump bulb (6) at least five times – even if the bulb is filled with fuel.

Cranking

• Place the unit on the ground.
• Remove the blade scabbard. Check that the cutting blades are not touching the ground or any other obstacles.
• Make sure you have a safe and secure footing.
• Hold the unit firmly with your left hand on the front handle and press down.
• Pull the starter grip slowly with your right hand 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.
• Do not let the starter grip snap back. Guide it slowly back into the housing so that the starter rope can rewind properly.

If the engine is cold (choke set to )

• Pull the starter rope five times.
• Set choke lever to j and
• Continue cranking until the engine runs.

If conditions are unfavorable and the engine does not start after 10 pulls with the choke lever set to :

• Set choke to and pull starter rope five times. Set choke to and continue cranking.

If the engine is warm (choke set to )

• Continue cranking until the engine runs.

As Soon as Engine Runs

• Blip the throttle trigger – the engine settles down to idle speed.

If the engine stops during warm-up or acceleration

• Repeat the starting procedure as described under "If the engine is cold".

Make sure the carburetor is correctly adjusted. The cutting blades must not move when the engine is idling.
Your machine is now ready for operation.

Stopping the Engine

• Move the stop switch to O.

Other Hints on Starting

If the engine does not start

• Make sure all settings are correct (choke shutter, throttle trigger in starting throttle position, stop switch to I).
• Repeat the starting procedure.

If the engine still does not start

• Remove the spark plug – see "Spark Plug".
• Dry the spark plug.
• Open the throttle wide.
• Crank the engine several times with the starter to clear the combustion chamber.
• Install the spark plug – see "Spark Plug".
• Move the stop switch to I.
• Set choke lever to – even if the engine is cold.
• Now start the engine.

If fuel tank has been run completely dry and then refueled

• Press the manual fuel pump bulb (6) at least five times – even if the bulb is filled with fuel.
• 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

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".

Cleaning the Air Filter

If there is a noticeable loss of engine power

• Move the choke lever to .
• Press in the tab (1) and swing the filter cover (2) down.
• Clean away loose dirt from around the filter.
• Remove the foam element (3) and felt element (4).
  
• Wash the foam element in a clean, non-flammable solution (e.g. soapy water) and then dry.
• Fit a new felt 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.
• Replace any damaged parts.
• Fit the foam element (3) in the filter cover (2) and the felt element (4) in the filter housing (5).
• Close the filter cover so that it snaps into position.

Adjusting the Carburetor

General Information
The carburetor comes from the factory with a standard setting.
This setting provides an optimum fuel-air mixture under most operating conditions.

Preparations

• Shut off the engine.
• Check the air filter and clean or replace if necessary.
• Inspect cutting blades and clean if necessary (clean, move freely, not warped).

Standard Setting

• Turn high speed screw (H) counterclockwise as far as stop (no more than 3/4 turn).
• Turn the low speed screw (L) clockwise as far as stop, then turn it back 3/4 turn.

Adjusting Idle Speed

• Carry out the standard setting.
• Start and warm up the engine.
• Adjust idle speed with the idle speed screw (LA) so that the cutting blades do not run.
  

Engine stops while idling

• Turn the idle speed screw (LA) slowly clockwise until the engine runs smoothly – the cutting blades must not run.

Cutting blades run when engine is idling

• Turn the idle speed screw (LA) counterclockwise until the cutting blades stop moving – then turn it another 1/2 to 1 turn in the same direction.

If the cutting blades continue moving when the engine is idling, have your power tool checked and repaired by your servicing dealer.

Erratic idling behavior, poor acceleration (despite correction to setting of LA screw).
Idle setting is too lean

• Turn the low speed screw (L) slowly counterclockwise until the engine runs and accelerates smoothly.

It is usually necessary to change the setting of the idle speed screw (LA) after every correction to the low speed screw (L).

Fine Tuning for Operation at High Altitude

A slight correction of the setting may be necessary if engine does not run satisfactorily:

• Carry out the standard setting.
• Warm up the engine.
• Turn high speed screw (H) slightly clockwise (leaner) – no further than stop.

NOTICE
After returning from high altitude, reset the carburetor to the standard setting.
If the setting is too lean there is a risk of engine damage due to insufficient lubrication and overheating.

Spark Plug

• If the engine is down on power, difficult to start or runs poorly at idle speed, first check the spark plug.
• 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

• Move the stop switch to O.
• Pull off the spark plug boot.
  
• Unscrew the spark plug.

Checking the Spark Plug

• Clean dirty spark plug.
• Check electrode gap (A) and readjust if necessary – see "Specifications".
  
• 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.

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.

• Use resistor type spark plugs with a properly tightened adapter nut.

Installing the spark plug

• Fit the spark plug by hand and screw it in
• Tighten spark plug with combination wrench
• Press the spark plug boot firmly onto the spark plug

Engine Running Behavior

If engine running behavior is unsatisfactory even though the air filter is clean and the carburetor is properly adjusted, the cause may be the muffler.
Have the muffler checked for contamination (carbonization) by your servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends that you have servicing and repair work carried out exclusively by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Lubricating the Gearbox

Use STIHL gear lubricant for hedge trimmers (special accessory) to lubricate the blade drive gear.
After about 50 hours of operation:

• Remove the screw plug (1) from the gearbox.
• Screw the tube of grease (2) into the filler hole.
• Squeeze up to 5 g grease into the gearbox.

NOTICE
Do not completely fill the gearbox with grease.

• Remove the tube of grease (2).
• Refit the filler plug and tighten it down firmly.

Storing the Machine

For periods of 3 months or longer

• Drain and clean the fuel tank in a well ventilated area.
• Dispose of fuel properly in accordance with local environmental requirements.
• Run the engine until the carburetor is dry – this helps prevent the carburetor diaphragms sticking together.
• Clean the cutting blades, check condition and spray with STIHL resin solvent.
• Fit the blade scabbard.
• Thoroughly clean the machine – pay special attention to the cylinder fins and air filter.
• Store the machine in a dry and safe location (use the ring integrated in the rear handle) out of the reach of children and other unauthorized persons.

Sharpening Instructions

When cutting performance and behavior begin to deteriorate, i.e. blades frequently snag on branches: Resharpen the cutting blades.
It is best to have the cutting blades resharpened by a dealer on a workshop sharpener. STIHL recommends a STIHL servicing dealer.
It is also possible to use a flat crosscut sharpening file. Hold the sharpening file at the prescribed angle (see "Specifications").

• Only sharpen the cutting edge – do not file blunt projecting parts of the cutting blade or the cutting blade guard (see "Main Parts and Controls")
• Always file towards the cutting edge.
• The file only sharpens on the forward stroke – lift it off the blade on the backstroke.
• Use a whetstone to remove burr from cutting edge.
• Remove as little material as possible.
• After sharpening, clean away filing or grinding dust and then spray the cutting blades with STIHL resin solvent.

NOTICE
Do not operate your machine with dull or damaged cutting blades. This may cause overload and will give unsatisfactory cutting results.

Inspections and Maintenance by Dealer

Maintenance Work
STIHL recommends that you have servicing and repair work carried out exclusively by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Fuel Pickup Body in Tank

• Have the pickup body in the fuel tank replaced every year.

Spark Arrestor in Muffler

• If the engine is down on power, have the spark arrestor in the muffler checked.

Maintenance and Care

1. STIHL recommends an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Main Parts

1. Rear Handle
2. Throttle Trigger Lockout
3. Throttle Trigger
4. Fuel Tank
5. Air Filter Cover
6. Carburetor Adjusting Screws
7. Screw Plug
8. Front Handle
9. Stop Switch
10. Lock Button
11. Starter Grip
12. Fuel Tank Cap
13. Muffler with Spark Arresting Screen
14. Spark Plug Boot
15. Manual Fuel Pump
16. Choke Lever
17. Cutter Guard
18. Cutting Blades
19. Blade Scabbard

Specifications

Engine
STIHL single cylinder two-stroke engine

Ignition System
Electronic magneto ignition

Fuel System
All position diaphragm carburetor with integral fuel pump
Fuel tank capacity: 225 cc (0.225 l)

Weight
Complete with cutting attachment, dry

Cutting blades

Sharpening angle to horizontal: 35°

Noise and Vibration Data
For further details on compliance with Vibration Directive 2002/44/EC see www.stihl.com/vib.

The K-factor in accordance with Directive 2006/42/EC is 2.0 dB(A) for the sound pressure level and sound power level; the K-factor in accordance with Directive 2006/42/EC is 2.0 m/s² for the vibration level.

Maintenance and Repairs

Users of this machine may only carry out the maintenance and service work described in this user manual. All other repairs must be carried out 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.
When repairing the machine, only use replacement parts which have been approved by STIHL for this power tool or are technically identical. Only use highquality replacement parts in order to avoid the risk of accidents and damage to the machine.
STIHL recommends the use of original STIHL replacement parts.
Original STIHL parts can be identified by the STIHL part number, the logo and the STIHL parts symbol (the symbol may appear alone on small parts).

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