Instruction Manual

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 you spill fuel, wipe the machine immedi‐
ately – if fuel gets on your clothing, change
immediately.
Check for fuel leakage! Never start
the engine if fuel has been spilled or
is leaking – Fatal burns may result!
After fueling, tighten down the screw-
type fuel cap as securely as possible.
This helps reduce the risk of unit vibrations caus‐
ing an incorrectly tightened fuel cap to loosen or
come off and spill quantities of fuel.
2.7 Before starting
Check that your machine is properly assembled
and in good condition – refer to appropriate
chapters in the instruction 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
–
Throttle trigger must move freely and spring
back by itself to the idle position
–
Setting lever/switch must move easily to
STOP or 0
–
Keep the handles dry and clean – free from oil
and dirt – this is important for safe control of
the machine
–
The blower tubes must be properly assem‐
bled.
–
Check that the spark plug boot is secure – a
loose boot may cause sparking that could
ignite combustible fumes and cause a fire!
–
Check the condition of blower wheel and
blower housing.
Wear of the blower housing (cracks, nicks, chips)
may result in an increased risk of injury from
thrown foreign objects. If the blower housing is
damaged, consult your dealer – STIHL recom‐
mends you contact a STIHL servicing dealer.
Never attempt to modify the controls or safety
devices
To reduce the risk of accidents and personal
injury, do not operate your power tool if it is not
properly assembled and in good condition.
2.8 Starting the engine
Start the engine at least 3 meters from the fuel‐
ing spot, outdoors only.
Your power tool is designed to be operated by
one person only. Do not allow other persons in
the work area – even when starting.
Do not drop-start the power tool – start the
engine as described in the user manual.
Place the machine on level ground only, ensure
that you have a secure footing and hold the
machine securely.
As soon as the engine starts, the increasing air
flow may eject objects (e.g. stones).
2.9 While working
In the event of impending danger or in an emer‐
gency, switch off the engine immediately by mov‐
ing the setting lever / switch to STOP or 0.
Your power tool is designed to be operated by
one person only. Do not allow other persons in
the work area.
To reduce the risk of injury from
thrown objects, do not allow any other
persons within 5 meters of your own
position.
This distance must also be maintained in relation
to objects (vehicles, window panes) – risk of
property damage!
Do not direct the air blast towards
bystanders or animals since the air
flow can blow small objects at great
speed – risk of injury.
When blow-sweeping and vacuum shredding (in
open ground and gardens), watch out for small
animals to avoid harming them.
Never leave a running machine unattended.
Take special care in slippery conditions – damp,
snow, ice, on slopes or uneven ground.
Watch out for obstacles: Be careful of refuse,
tree stumps, roots and ditches which could
cause you to trip or stumble.
Do not work on a ladder or in unstable locations.
Be particularly alert and cautious when wearing
hearing protection because your ability to hear
warnings (shouts, alarms, etc.) is restricted.
English 2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques
4 0458-296-8321-F