STIHL BGE 71 Electric Handheld Blower Instruction Manual

: June 5, 2024
: STIHL

Table of Contents

STIHL BGE 71 Electric Handheld Blower
Safety Precautions and Working Techniques
Accessories
Assembling the Blower
Maintenance and Care
Main Parts
Specifications
Disposal
References
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STIHL BGE 71 Electric Handheld Blower

Pictograms
All the pictograms attached to the machine are shown and explained in this manual.

Symbols in text

Engineering improvements
STIHL’s philosophy is to continually improve all of its products. For this reason we may modify the design, engineering and appearance of our products periodically. Therefore, some changes, modifications and improvements may not be covered in this manual.

Safety Precautions and Working Techniques

Special safety precautions must be observed when working with this machine. The power supply is a particular source of danger.
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 even fatal injury.

WARNING

Minors should never be allowed to operate this power tool. Watch children to be sure that they do not play with the power tool.
This power tool may be operated only by persons who have been instructed in its use and proper handling.
Persons who are not able to operate the power tool safely due to limited physical, sensory or mental ability may work with it only under supervision or after being instructed appropriately by a responsible person
Do not pass on or lend the machine to persons who are not familiar with this model and its handling – always include the User Manual.
Disconnect plug from wall outlet before performing any work on the machine, e.g. cleaning, maintenance, replacing parts.
Observe all applicable local safety regulations, e.g. by trade organizations, social insurance institutions, labor safety authorities etc.
When the machine is not in use, put it in a place where it does not endanger others. Secure it against unauthorized use, disconnect the plug from the power supply.
The user is responsible for accidents or risks involving third parties or their property.
If you have not used this model before: Have your a dealer or a trained expert show you how to operate it properly and safely.
The use of noise-emitting power tools may be restricted to certain times by national or local regulations.
Before each use, check that your power tool is in good condition. Pay special attention to the power cord, mains plug and safety devices.
Do not operate your machine if any of its components are damaged.
Do not use the power cord to pull or carry the power tool.
Do not use a high-pressure washer to clean the power tool. The solid jet of water may damage parts of the unit.
Never spray water on the unit – risk of short circuit!

Physical fitness

To operate the power tool you must be rested, in the good physical condition and in mental health.
If you have any condition which may be aggravated by strenuous work, check with your doctor before operating a power tool.
Do not operate the power tool if you have consumed alcohol or taken medication, which may impair responsiveness or taken drugs.

Intended Use

The blower is designed for blow-sweeping leaves, grass, paper and similar materials, e.g. in gardens, sports stadiums, car parks and driveways.
The vacuum shredder is designed for picking up dry leaves and another lightweight, loose and noncombustible materials.
Do not blow-sweep or vacuum hazardous materials.
Do not operate your power tool indoors.
Do not use the power tool for any other purpose because of the increased risk of accidents and damage to the power tool itself.
The product must not be modified in any way – this may also lead to accidents or damage to the unit.

Operational conditions
Never work with the power tool in the rain, snow or in wet or very damp locations. Do not leave the power tool outdoors in the rain.

Clothing and equipment

Wear proper protective clothing and equipment.
Clothing must be sturdy but allow
complete freedom of movement.
Wear snug-fitting clothing, an overall
and jacket combination, do not wear
a work coat.
Avoid wearing any clothing, scarves,
neckties or jewelry which could get
into the air intake. Tie up and confine
long hair above your shoulders.

Accessories

Only use parts 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 unit.STIHL recommends the use of original STIHLparts and accessories. They are specificallydesigned 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 personalinjury. STIHL excludes all liability for personal injury and damage to property caused whileusing unauthorized attachments.

Before starting work

Check the machine
Switch/trigger must move easily to STOP or 0
The trigger/switch lever must be on STOP or
The blower tubes must be properly assembled
Handles must be clean and dry, free from oil and dirt, for safe control.
Check the condition of the blower wheel and blower housing – see chapter on “Using the Vacuum Attachment”.
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
Do not operate your power tool if any of its components are damaged or not properly mounted.
Risk of injury from contact with rotating blower wheel.Risk of injury from contact with rotating blower wheel.
Always switch off the motor and disconnect the plug from the power supply before removing the intake screen, suction tube, blower tube or
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 recommends you contact a STIHL servicing dealer
Never attempt to modify the controls or safety devices

Electrical connection.

Reduce the risk of electric shock:
Voltage and frequency of the machine (see rating plate) and the voltage and frequency of your power supply must be the same.
Examine the connecting cord, power plug and extension cord for damage. Damaged cords, couplings and plugs or connecting cords that do not comply with the regulations must not be used
Always connect the engine analyzer to a properly installed wall outlet.
Check that the insulation of the power cord, extension cord, plug and coupling is in good condition.
Never touch the power plug, power cord and extension cord and electrical plug connections with wet hands.
Position the connecting and extension cords correctly:
Check minimum cross-section of wires (wire gauge) – see “Connecting to Power Supply”.
To reduce the risk of stumbling, position and mark the connecting cord so that it cannot be damaged or endanger others.
Using unsuitable extension cords can be dangerous.
Use only extension cords approved for outdoor use which are labeled as such and have the appropriate wire gauge.
The plug and coupling of the extension cord must be water-proof and must never be immersed in water.
Do not chafe on edges, pointed or sharp objects
don’t trap or squeeze the cord in or under doors or windows
If cords are twisted – unplug the power tool and straighten them out
always unroll the connecting cord from the cable reel completely to avoid the risk of fire due to overheating

Holding and guiding the machine

The 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 power tool firmly in your hand.

Using the Vacuum Attachment

For specific assembling instructions, see the appropriate chapter in this User Manual. The vacuum attachment is designed for twohanded operation. Hold and operate the unit with your right hand on the control handle and your left hand on the assist handle (union nut). Wear the catcher bag shoulder strap over your right shoulder, not across your chest. This enables you to quickly remove the power tool and catcher bag in an emergency.

While working
If the power cord is damaged, immediately disconnect the plug from the power supply to avoid the risk of electrocution. Avoid damage to the power supply cord. Do not drive over it, pinch or tug it. Never jerk the connecting cord to disconnect it from the wall outlet. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord. The power cord and power plug must never be touched with wet hands.In case of imminent danger or in an emergency, move the trigger/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. Children, animals, and bystanders must remain a distance. 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 toward bystanders or animals – the machine may eject small objects at high speed – the 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. Walk slowly forwards as you work – observe the nozzle outlet at all times – do not walk backward– the risk of stumbling. Keep the connecting cord behind the power tool at all times – do not walk backward – risk of stumbling. Hold your power tool in a normal, relaxed working position. Make sure you always have good balance and secure footing. Take care in slippery conditions on slopes and uneven ground. Watch out for obstacles: Be careful of refuse,tree stumps, roots and ditches which could cause you to trip or stumble 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. Work calmly and carefully – in daylight conditions and only when visibility is good. Proceed with caution, do not put others in danger. Take breaks when you start getting tired or feeling fatigued – risk of accidents! Static electricity may build up while blow-sweeping large quantities of very dusty material and suddenly discharge in certain unfavorable conditions(e.g. very dry work area)Always wear a dust mask if dust is generated. Vacuuming unsuitable materials may block the impeller wheel. Switch off the unit immediately and disconnect the plug from the power supply. Then clear the blockage. Never attempt to insert objects into the impeller housing through the intake screen or the nozzle. They may be expelled at very high speed by a lower – risk of injury. If there is a noticeable change in running behavior(e.g. higher vibrations), stop work and rectify the cause of the problem.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 Work”. Make sure the safety devices are working properly. Do not continue operating the machine if it is damaged. In case of doubt, contact a dealer.If the machine continues to run (does not switch off) after the trigger switch is released, disconnect the plug from the wall outlet and consult your STIHL servicing dealer. The machine has a malfunctioned. Before leaving the power tool unattended: Switchit off and disconnect the plug from the power supply.

After finishing work

Disconnect the mains plug from the power supply. Never jerk the connecting cord to disconnect it from the wall outlet. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.N Always clean dust and dirt off the power tool – do not use any grease solvents for this purpose.

Vibrations

Prolonged use of the power tool may result in vibration-induced circulation problems in the hands (white finger 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

Use only high-quality spare parts. Otherwise, there may be a risk of accidents and damage to the unit. If you have any questions in this respect, consult a servicing dealer.
To avoid risks, work on the machine (e. g. replacing a damaged power cord) may only be carried out by authorized dealers or qualified electricians.
Clean plastic parts with a cloth. Harsh detergents can damage the plastic.
Clean ventilation slots in motor housing as needed. The machine must be serviced regularly. Do not attempt any maintenance or repair work not described in the Instruction
Manual. All other work should be carried out by a servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends the use of genuine STIHL spare parts. Such parts have been optimized for the machine and the user’s requirements.
STIHL recommends that maintenance and repair work be carried out only by authorized STIHL dealers. STIHL dealers receive regular training and are supplied with technical information

Assembling the Blower

Disconnect the plug from the power supply.

Mounting the Blower Tube

BGE 71, BGE 81:

Your blower can be switched on only when the blower tube is properly mounted. The union but activates a switch which closes the circuit to allow the motor to be switched on
Line up the recesses. The arrow (2) must be on the top of the blower tube (1).
Push the blower tube (1) into the blower housing stub (3) as far as the stop.
Push the union nut (4) over the blower housing stub (3) and turn it in the direction of the arrow until the tab (5) engages the opening (6) in the union nut.

BGE 71, BGE 81:
You will hear the safety switch being activated

Mounting the Nozzle

Push the nozzle (5) onto the blower tube (1) as far as lug (6), position (a) (long) or position (b) (short), and rotate the nozzle in the direction of the arrow to it lock in position.

Removing the Blower Tube

Switch off the motor.
Press down the lock button by inserting a suitable tool through the opening in the union nut.
Rotate the union nut (4) in the direction of arrow as far as the stop.
Remove the blower tube (1).

Assembling the Vacuum Shredder
Your vacuum shredder can be switched on only when the elbow and suction tube are properly mounted. The union nuts activate a switch which closes the circuit to allow the motor to be switched on

Mounting the Elbow

Make sure the zipper on the catcher bag is closed.
Push the elbow (1) into the catcher bag (2) as far as the mark (smaller arrow).
Tighten strap (3) on catcher bag and press down the buckle tab (4)
Line up the recesses.
Push the elbow (5) into the blower housing stub (6) as far as stop.
Push the union nut (7) over the blower housing stub (6) and turn it in the direction of the arrow as far as the stop. You will hear the safety switch being activated.

Assembling the Suction Tube

Mounting the Suction Tube

Switch off the motor.
Press down the lock button (1) by inserting a suitable tool through the opening.
Push lug (arrow) against blower housing andhold it there.
Rotate the intake screen (2) in the direction of arrow as far as the stop and lift it away
Line up the arrows (3).
Push the suction tube into the intake opening as far as the stop.
Push the handle (4) over the intake opening.
Line up the arrows (3 and 5).
Rotate the handle (4) in direction of arrow until the lever (6) engages audibly on the blower housing.

Removing the Elbow

Shut off the engine.
Press down the lock button (1) by inserting a suitable tool through the opening.
Rotate the union nut (1) in the direction of arrow as far as the stop.
Remove the elbow (2).

Removing the Suction Tube

Shut off the engine.
Press down the lock button (1) by inserting a suitable tool through the opening.
Depress lever (1) and rotate handle (2) in direction of arrow as far as the stop.
Remove the handle together with the suction tube.
Position the intake screen (3) on the intake opening.
Line up the arrows (4).
Rotate the intake screen (3) in direction of arrow until the lug (5) engages audibly on the blower housing

Connecting to Power Supply

The voltage and frequency of the machine (separating plate) must match the voltage and frequency of the power connection. The minimum fuse protection of the power connection must comply with the specifications – see”Specifications”.The machine must be connected to the power supply via an earth leakage circuit breaker to disconnect the power supply if the differential current to earth exceeds 30 mA. The power connection must correspond to IEC 60364 and relevant national regulations.

Extension cord

The design of the extension cord must at least fulfill the same features as the connecting cord on the machine. Observe the design marking (type designation) on the connecting cord. The cores in the cord must have the following minimum cross-section depending on the mains voltage and cord length

Strain relief (cord retainer)

The strain relief protects the appliance cord against damage.
Insert the plug (1) into the extension cord coupling

Connecting to Wall Outlet

Make sure your machine is switched off before you connect it to the power supply – see “Switching Off”.
► Connect the extension cord plug to a properly installed wall outlet.

Switching On

Make sure you have a secure and balanced footing.
Hold the unit in the normal working position 7 Switching Off

BGE 61, BGE 71, SHE 71

Move switch (1) to I or II (position II depends on model).
Units with single switch setting (I):
- I = full power
Units with two switch settings (I and II):
- I = half power
- II = full power

BGE 81, SHE 81

Switching Off
During long work breaks – disconnect the plug from the power supply. When the machine is not in use, shut it off so that it does not endanger others. Secure it against unauthorized use.

BGE 61, BGE 71, SHE 71
BGE 81, SHE 81

Storing the Machine

Thoroughly clean the machine.
Store the machine in a dry, high or locked location, out of the reach of children and other unauthorized persons

Maintenance and Care

The following intervals apply to normal operating conditions only. If your daily working time is longer or operating conditions are difficult (very dusty work area, etc.), shorten the specified intervals accord‐ ingly.| before starting work| after finishing work or daily| weekly| monthly| yearly| if problem| if damaged| if required
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
Complete machine| Visual inspection (con‐

dition)

Minimize Wear and AvoidDamage

Observing the instructions in this manual helps reduce the risk of unnecessary wear and damage to the power tool.
The power tool must be operated, maintained and stored with the due care and attention described in this instruction manual.
The user is responsible for all damage caused by non-observance of the safety precautions, and operating and maintenance instructions in this manual.

This includes in particular:

Alterations or modifications to the product not approved by STIHL.
Using tools or accessories which are neither approved or suitable for the product or are of apoor quality.
Using the product for purposes for which it was not designed.
Using the product for sports or competitive events.
Consequential damage is caused by continuing to use the product with defective components.

Maintenance Work

All the operations described in the “Maintenance Chart” must be performed on a regular basis. If these maintenance operations cannot be performed by the owner, they should be 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.If these maintenance operations are not carried out as specified, the user assumes responsibility for any damage that may occur. Among other things, this includes:

Damage to the motor due to neglect or deficient maintenance (e.g. not cleaning cooling air inlets).
Damage due to incorrect electrical connection(voltage, inadequately rated connecting cords).
Corrosion and other consequential damage resulting from improper storage.
Damage to the product resulting from the use of poor quality replacement parts. 10.2 Parts Subject to Wear and TearSome parts of the power tool are subject to normal wear and tear even during regular operation in accordance with instructions and, depending on the type and duration of use, have to be replaced in good time. Among other parts, this includes:
Fan wheel
Catcher bag

Main Parts

Fan nozzle
Blower tube
Union nut
Cooling inlets
Trigger (BGE 81, SHE 81 only)
Switch (BGE 61, BGE 71, SHE 71 only)
Lock button (BGE 81, SHE 81 only)
Control handle
Strain relief hook (cord retainer)
Appliance plug
Protective screen
Union nut with handle*
Suction tube*
Elbow*
Catcher bag*
Serial number

Specifications

STIHL BGE 71 Electric Handheld Blower
25

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 that have been approved by STIHL for this power tool or are technically identical. Only use high-quality replacement parts in order to avoid the risk of accidents and damage to the machine.STIHL recommends the use of original STIHLreplacement parts. Original STIHL parts can be identified by theSTIHL part number, the { logo and the theSTIHL parts symbol K (the symbol may appear alone on small parts).

Disposal

Observe all country-specific waste disposal rules and regulations. STIHL products must not be thrown in the garbage can. Take the product, accessories, and packaging to an approved disposal site for environment-friendly recycling. Contact your STIHL servicing dealer for the latest information on waste disposal

EC Declaration of Conformity

Serial identification number
conforms to the relevant provisions of Directives2011/65/EU, 2006/42/EC, 2000/14/EU and2014/30/EC and has been developed and manufactured In compliance with the following standards in the versions valid on the date of production:The measured and guaranteed sound power levels were determined according to Directive2000/14/EC, Annex V.