STIHL BR 500 Backpack Blower Instruction Manual

July 23, 2024
STIHL

STIHL BR 500 Backpack Blower

STIHL-BR-500-Backpack-Blower-PRODUCT

Specifications

  • Product: Backpack Blower
  • Manufacturer: STIHL
  • Power Source: Gasoline-powered
  • Models: BR 500, 550, 600

Product Usage Instructions

Safety Precautions and Working Techniques

When using a gasoline-powered blower like this Backpack Blower, it is crucial to adhere to specific safety precautions to minimize the risk of personal injury. Ensure that you read, understand, and follow the safety precautions and warnings outlined in the instruction manual. Regularly review the manual to stay informed. Failure to use the blower correctly may lead to severe or fatal injuries. It is recommended that you seek guidance from your STIHL dealer on how to operate the power tool effectively. Additionally, comply with all local safety regulations and standards.

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance and care are essential to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Backpack Blower. Refer to the instruction manual for detailed maintenance instructions. Regularly inspect the blower for any signs of wear and tear, and address them promptly to prevent potential hazards.

Main Parts

Understanding the main parts of your blower, specifically models BR 500, 550, 600, is crucial for efficient operation. Familiarize yourself with the controls and functions of these parts by referring to the manual. Different blower models may have varying parts and controls, so always consult your specific blower’s manual for accurate information.

FAQ

Q: Can I clean my Backpack Blower with a pressure washer?

A: No, it is not recommended to clean the blower with a pressure washer as the solid jet of water may damage components of the machine. Instead, use gentle cleaning methods as advised in the maintenance section of the manual.

This manual contains the safety precautions outlined in STIHL instruction manuals for gasoline-powered blowers. Even if you are an experienced user, it is in your own interest to familiarize yourself with the latest instructions and safety precautions regarding your blower. Please note that the illustrations in the chapter “Main Parts“ in this manual show the blowers STIHL BR 500, 550, 600. Other blower models may have different parts and controls. You should therefore always refer to the instruction manual of your particular blower. Contact your STIHL dealer or the STIHL distributor for your area if you do not understand any of the instructions in this manual.

Symbol

Safety Precautions and Working Techniques

Because a blower is gasoline- powered and produces a strong airblast, 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.

Have your STIHL dealer show you how to operate your power tool. Observe all applicable local safety regulations, standards and ordinances.

WARNING

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.

WARNING

The use of this machine may be hazardous. Use your blower only for clearing leaves, grass, paper and dust in yards, gardens, sport stadiums, parks, driveways and parking lots. Do not use it for other purposes, since misuse may result in personal injury or property damage, including damage to the machine.

WARNING

Minors should never be allowed to use this power tool. Bystanders, especially children, and animals should not be allowed in the area where it is in use.

WARNING

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. 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. Do not clean your machine with a pressure washer. The solid jet of water may damage parts of the machine.

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.

WARNING

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.

WARNING

Prolonged use of a power tool (or other machines) exposing the operator to\ vibrations may produce white finger disease (Raynaud’s phenomenon) or carpal tunnel syndrome. These conditions reduce the hand’s ability to feel and regulate temperature, produce numbness and burning sensations and may cause nerve and circulation damage and tissue necrosis. All factors which contribute to white finger disease are not known, but cold weather, smoking and diseases or physical conditions that affect blood vessels and blood transport, as well as high vibration levels and long periods of exposure to vibration are mentioned as factors in the development of white finger disease. In order to reduce the risk of white finger disease and carpal tunnel syndrome, please note the following:

  • Most STIHL power tools are available with an anti-vibration (“AV”) system designed to reduce the transmission of vibrations created by the machine to the operator’s hands. An AV system is recommended for those persons using power tools on a regular or sustained basis.
  • Keep your hands warm.
  • Keep the AV system well-maintained. A power tool with loose components or with damaged or worn AV elements will tend to have higher vibration levels.
  • Maintain a firm grip at all times, butdo not squeeze the handle with constant, excessive pressure. Take frequent breaks.

All the above-mentioned precautions do not guarantee that you will not sustain white finger disease or carpal tunnel syndrome. Therefore, continual and regular users should closely monitor the condition of their hands and fingers. If any of the above symptoms appear, seek medical advice immediately.

WARNING

The ignition system of the STIHL unit produces an electromagnetic field of a very low intensity. This field may interfere with some pacemakers. To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury, persons with a pacemaker should consult their physician and the pacemaker manufacturer before operating this tool. Proper Clothing

WARNING

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). Power tool noise may damage your hearing. Wear sound barriers (ear plugs or ear mufflers) to protect your hearing. Continual and regular users should have their hearing checked regularly. Be particularly alert and cautious when wearing hearing protection because your ability to hear warnings (shouts,alarms, etc.) is restricted.

Clothing must be sturdy and snug-fitting, but allow complete freedom of movement.

  • Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarfs, neckties, jewelry, flared or cuffed \pants, unconfined long hair or anything that could become drawn into the air intake. Secure hair so it is above shoulder level.
  • Good footing is very important. Wear sturdy boots with nonslip soles. Steel-toed safety boots are recommended.

WARNING

To reduce the risk of injury when the inhalation of dust cannot be substantially controlled use an appropriate respirator for the material being blown. For more information see the “Working conditions” section of these Safety Precautions.

THE POWER TOOL

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

WARNING

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 fuel system is tight (no leaks) and 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.

WARNING

Small particles (e.g. dust) blown through the blower tubes and nozzle can cause a static charging of the blower tubes. This is especially true in low humidity and high dust conditions. In order to reduce the risk of shock from static charging and subsequent injury from loss of control, your blower has features designed to help reduce the build up of static electricity in the blower tubes and equalize the charge with the engine and/or operator: The control handle is designed to conduct static electricity through the throttle cable to the engine and from the handle through the operator to the ground. If your blower is properly assembled and you are still experiencing static shocks, \make sure that your foot ware has conductive soles and try operating your unit without gloves, which may be interfering with the conduction of the charge.

THE USE OF THE POWER TOOL

Transporting the Power Tool

WARNING

Always switch off the engine before taking the machine off your back and putting it down. When transporting it in a vehicle, properly secure it to prevent turnover, fuel spillage and damage to the unit.

Fuel

Your STIHL power tool uses an oilgasoline mixture for fuel (see the “Fuel” chapter in this instruction manual). Gasoline is an extremely flammable fuel. If spilled and ignited by a spark or other ignition source, it can cause fire and serious burn injury or property damage. Use extreme caution when handling gasoline or fuel mix. Do not smoke or bring any fire or flame near the fuel or the power tool. Note that combustible fuel vapor may escape from the fuel system.

Fueling Instructions

WARNING

To reduce the risk of fire and serious personal injury, always remove the backpack blower from the operator’s back and place it on the ground before attempting to fuel the machine.

WARNING

Pick a Safe Location

To reduce the risk of fire and explosion, fuel your power tool in a well- ventillated area, outdoors away from flames, pilot lights, heaters, electric motors, and other sources of ignition. Vapors can be ignited by a spark or flame many feet away. Select bare ground for fueling and move at least 10 feet (3 m) from the fueling spot before starting the engine. Wipe off any spilled fuel before starting your power tool. Take care not to get fuel on your clothing. If this happens, change your clothing immediately. Allow the Power Tool to Cool Before Removing the Fuel Cap

WARNING

Gasoline vapor pressure may build up inside the fuel tank. The amount of pressure depends on a number of factors such as the fuel used, altitude and temperature. To reduce the risk of\ burns and other personal injury from escaping gas, vapor and fumes, always
shut off the engine and allow it to cool before removing the fuel cap. The engine is air cooled. When it is shut off, cooling air is no longer drawn across the cylinder and engine temperatures will rise for several minutes before starting to cool. In hot environments, cooling will take longer. To reduce the risk of burns and other personal injury from escaping gas, vapor and fumes, allow the power tool to cool. If you need to refuel before completing a job, turn off the machine and allow the engine to cool before opening the fuel tank. Fuel Spraying or “Geysering”

WARNING

Removing the cap on a pressurized fuel tank can result in gasoline, vapors and fumes being forcefully sprayed out from the fuel tank in all directions. The escaping gasoline, vapors or fumes can cause serious personal injury, including fire and burn injury, or property damage. Sometimes also referred to as “fuel geysering,” fuel spraying is an expulsion  of fuel, vapors and fumes which can occur in hot conditions, or when theengine is hot, and the tank is opened without allowing the power tool to cool adequately. It is more likely to occur when the fuel tank is half full or more. Pressure is caused by fuel and heat and can occur even if the engine has not been running. When gasoline in the fuel tank is heated (by ambient temperatures, heat from the engine, or other sources), vapor pressure will increase inside the fuel tank. Some blends of gasoline, particularly those designed for use in winter, are more volatile and may cause tanks to pressurize more quickly or create greater pressure. At higher altitudes, fuel tank pressurization is more likely. How to Avoid Fuel Spraying Removing the fuel cap on a pressurized tank can result in gasoline, vapors and fumes being forcefully sprayed out from the fuel tank in all directions. To reduce the risk of burns, serious injuries or property damage from fuel spraying:

  • Follow the fueling instructions in this chapter.
  • Always assume your fuel tank is pressurized.
  • Allow the power tool to cool before removing the fuel cap.
  • In hot environments, cooling will take longer.
  • The engine is air cooled. When it is shut off, cooling air is no longer drawn across the cylinder and the engine temperature will rise for several minutes before starting to cool.

After the power tool has cooled appropriately, follow the safety instructions in this chapter for removing the cap. Never remove the fuel filler cap by turning it directly to the open position. First check for residual pressure in the tank by slowly turning the cap approximately 1/2 turn counterclockwise. The cap should be held in place by the threads while allowing residual vapor/pressure to be relieved. Once the fumes or vapor have been relieved, turn the cap further until it can be removed from the tank opening. Use only good quality fuel that is appropriate for the season (summer v. winter blends). Some blends of gasoline, particularly winter blends, are more volatile and can contribute to fuel spraying. Removing the Threaded Fuel Filler Cap

WARNING

After allowing the power tool to cool, remove the fuel filler cap slowly and carefully to allow any remaining pressure build-up in the tank to release:

  • While maintaining steady, downward pressure, slowly turn the cap approximately 1/2 turn counterclockwise.
  • If any significant venting occurs, immediately re-seal the tank by turning the cap clockwise to the closed position. Allow the power tool to cool further before attempting to open the tank.
  • Turn the cap to the open position only after the contents of the tank are no longer under pressure.
  • Never remove the cap by turning it directly to the open position. First allow the power tool to cool adequately and then release any residual pressure by slowly turning it approximately 1/2 turn counterclockwise.
  • Never attempt to remove the cap while the engine is still hot or running.

Installing the Threaded Fuel Filler Cap

WARNING

Unit vibrations can cause an improperly tightened fuel filler cap to loosen or come off and spill quantities of fuel. To reduce the risk of fuel spillage and fire, tighten the fuel filler cap by hand with as much force as possible.

Damaged or Broken Cap

If your fuel cap does not tighten properly, it may be damaged or broken. Stop using the power tool and take it to your authorized STIHL dealer for repair.

Vapor Lock

WARNING

Vapor lock occurs when fuel in the fuel line or carburetor vaporizes, causing bubbles to block the free flow of liquid fuel into the carburetor. Vapor lock cannot be relieved or affected by opening the fuel tank. Removing the fuel filler cap without first allowing the power tool to cool adequately can result in fuel spraying. Always follow the instructions in this section when removing the fuel cap.

To relieve vapor lock:

  • Press the manual fuel pump bulb at least 20 to 30 times – even if the bulb is already filled with fuel – to clear the vapor and send liquid fuel into the carburetor. Then start the power tool. For specific starting instructions, see the appropriate section of your instruction manual.
  • If the manual fuel pump bulb will not be filled, place the Choke Knob to the starting throttle positionn and pull the starter cord until the engine runs.
  • If your power tool will not restart, or if vapor lock occurs again, the power tool is being used in conditions too extreme for the fuel being used. Discontinue use and let the engine cool completely before attempting to start the power tool.

Before Operation

WARNING

Always check your power tool for proper condition and operation before starting, particularly the throttle trigger, setting lever and stop switch. The throttle trigger must move freely and always spring back to the idle position. Never attempt to modify the controls or safety devices.

WARNING

Check fuel system for leaks, especially the visible parts, e.g., filler cap, hose connections, manual fuel pump (only for power tools equipped with a manual fuel pump). Do not start the engine if there are leaks or damage – risk of fire. Have the power tool repaired by a STIHL servicing dealer before using it.

WARNING

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

WARNING

Check that the spark plug boot is securely mounted on the spark plug – a loose boot may cause arcing that could ignite combustible fumes and cause a fire. Keep the handles clean and dry at all times; it is particularly important to keep them free of moisture, pitch, oil, fuel mix, grease or resin in order for you to maintain a firm grip and properly control your power tool.

WARNING

To reduce the risk of injury from parts thrown by the fan wheel, check the fan housing for damage (cracks or holes that could allow foreign objects to contact the fan wheel). If any such damage is found, stop using the unit and contact your STIHL dealer for repair.

WARNING

Adjust carrying harness to suit your size before starting work. In an emergency, you may slip out of the harness and throw off the machine quickly. Try slipping out of the harness a number of times before using the machine in order to become accustomed to it. Do not throw off the machine while practicing as it could result in damage to the machine. For specific starting instructions, see the appropriate section of your instruction manual.

Starting

To reduce the risk of fire and burn injuries, start the engine at least 10 feet (3 m) from the fueling spot, outdoors only.

WARNING

Your power tool is a one-person machine. To reduce the risk of eye or other injury from thrown objects, insure that bystanders are at least 50 feet (15 m) away during use. Stop operation immediately if you are approached.

WARNING

This unit is equipped with an ignition system that is normally in operational readiness. After the setting lever is used to stop the engine, it automatically springs back to the “on” position. If the engine is warm, it may be possible to start it by simply pulling the starter rope, with no further adjustments. To reduce the risk of injury, be particularly alert to keep children away from the unit. For specific starting instructions, see the appropriate section of your manual. Place the power tool on firm ground or other solid surface in an open area. Maintain good balance and secure footing.

WARNING

When you pull the starter grip, do not wrap the starter rope around your hand. Do not let the grip snap back, but guide the starter rope to rewind it properly. Failure to follow this procedure may result in injury to your hand or fingers and may damage the starter mechanism. Once the engine has started, immediately blip the throttle trigger, which should cause the choke knob to move to the run position and allow the engine to slow down to idle.

During Operation

Holding and Controlling the Power Tool

The blower is designed for singlehanded operation with the right hand on the control handle. It should be carried as a backpack with the straps of the harness over both shoulders. Watch out for small animals when using the blower on open ground, in yards and gardens.

WARNING

To reduce the risk of loss of control, never carry the unit with the strap(s) over one shoulder. 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.

WARNING

Special care must be taken in slippery conditions (wet ground) and in difficult, overgrown terrain. Watch for hidden obstacles such as tree stumps, roots, rocks, holes 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. To reduce the risk of stumbling and loss of control, do not walk backward while operating the machine.

WARNING

To reduce the risk of injury from loss of control, never work on a ladder or on any other insecure support. Working ConditionsTo minimize blowing time, use a rake and broom to loosen dirt particles before you start blowing.

Save water by using a blower instead of a water hose for lawn and garden work wherever possible, e.g. for cleaning yards and patios.

Recommended working technique to minimize air pollution:

  • If conditions are very dusty, dampen surfaces slightly before blowing.
  • Pull out the nozzle to full length so that the airstream is at ground level.
  • Do not blow particles in the direction of bystanders, in particular in the direction of children, pets, open windows or freshly washed vehicles. Take special care in such situations.
  • Remove the blow-swept debris in rubbish bins – do not blow it onto the\neighbor’s land.\ Recommended working technique to minimize noise:
  • Operate your power tool at reasonable times only – not early in the morning, late at night or during \midday rest periods when people could be disturbed. Observe local rest periods.
  • Fewer engines mean less noise. Where possible, do not run more than one power tool at any time.
  • Operate blowers at the lowest engine speed necessary to accomplish the task.
  • Check your blower before starting work. Pay special attention to the muffler, air intakes and air filter.

Operate and start your power tool only outdoors in a well-ventilated area. Operate it under good visibility and daylight conditions only. Work carefully

WARNING

As soon as the engine is running, this product generates toxic exhaust fumes containing chemicals, such as unburned hydrocarbons (including benzene) and carbon monoxide, that are known to cause respiratory problems, cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. Some of the gases (e.g. carbon monoxide) may be colorless and odorless. To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury/illness from inhaling toxic fumes, never run the machine indoors or in poorly ventilated locations. If exhaust fumes become concentrated due to insufficient ventilation, clear obstructions from work area to permit proper ventilation before proceeding and/or take frequent breaks to allow fumes to dissipate before they become concentrated.

WARNING

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. This includes wood dust, especially from hardwoods, but also from some softwoods such as Western Red Cedar. 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.

WARNING

If the substance being blown is a commercial substance, review 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.

WARNING

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

WARNING

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.

Operating Instructions

WARNING

In the event of an emergency, switch off the engine immediately – move the setting lever to 0 or STOP.

WARNING

Even though bystanders should be kept away from the running power tool, never work alone. Keep within calling distance of others in case help is needed. Stop the engine immediately if you are approached.

WARNING

To reduce the risk of personal injury, do not direct air blast towards bystanders, since the high pressure of the airflow can injure eyes and can blow small objects at great speed.

WARNING

The blower fan between the air intake and output openings rotates whenever the engine is running. Never insert any foreign object into the air intake of the machine or into the nozzle of the blower. It will damage the fan wheel 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.

WARNING

Never modify your muffler. Any modification could cause an increase in heat radiation, sparks or sound level, thereby increasing the risk of fire, burn injury or hearing loss. You may also permanently damage the engine. Have your muffler serviced and repaired by your STIHL servicing dealer only.

WARNING

The muffler and other parts of the engine (e.g. fins of the cylinder, spark plug) become hot during operation and remain hot for a while after stopping the engine. To reduce risk of burns, do not touch the muffler and other parts while they are hot. Keep the area around the muffler clean. Remove excess lubricant and all debris such as pine needles, branches or leaves. Let the engine cool down sitting on concrete, metal, bare ground or solid wood away from any combustible substances.

WARNING

An improperly mounted or damaged cylinder housing or a damaged/deformed muffler shell may interfere with the cooling process of the muffler. To reduce the risk of fire or burn injury, do not continue work with a damaged or improperly mounted cylinder housing or a damaged/deformed muffler shell. Your muffler is furnished with a spark-arresting screen designed to reduce the risk of fire from the emission of hot particles. Never operate your unit with a missing or damaged spark-arresting screen. If your gas/oil mix ratio is correct (i.e., not too rich), this screen will normally stay clean as a result of the heat from the muffler and need no service or maintenance. If you experience loss of performance and you suspect a clogged screen, have your muffler maintained by a STIHL servicing dealer. Some state or federal laws or regulations may require a properly maintained spark arrestor for certain uses. See the “Maintenance, Repair and Storing” section of these Safety Precautions. Remember that the risk of a brush or forest fire is greater in hot or dry conditions.

WARNING

Some STIHL power tools are equipped with a catalytic converter, which is designed to reduce the exhaust emissions of the engine by a chemical process in the muffler. Due to this process, the muffler does not cool down as rapidly as conventional mufflers when the engine returns to idle or is shut off. To reduce the risk of fire and burn injuries when using a catalytic converter, always set your power tool down in the upright position and never locate it where the muffler is near dry brush, grass, wood chips or other combustible materials while it is still hot

MAINTENANCE, REPAIR AND STORAGE

WARNING

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 in this instruction manual. Please refer to the maintenance chart in this instruction manual.

WARNING

Always stop the engine and make sure that the fan is stopped before doing any maintenance or repair work or cleaning the power tool. Do not attempt any maintenance or repair work not described in this instruction manual. Have such work performed by your STIHL servicing dealer only. Do not clean your machine with a pressure washer. The solid jet of water may damage parts of the machine.

WARNING

Use the specified spark plug and make sure it and the ignition lead are always clean and in good condition. Always press spark plug boot snugly onto spark plug terminal of the proper size. A loose connection between spark plug terminal and the ignition wire connector in the boot may create arcing that could ignite combustible fumes and cause a fire. Keep spark plug clean, and make sure ignition lead is in good condition. Do not use a spark plug with a detachable SAE adapter terminal. Arcing may occur that could ignite combustible fumes and cause a fire. This can result in serious injuries or damage to property.

WARNING

Never test the ignition system with the boot removed from the spark plug or with a removed spark plug, since uncontained sparking may cause a fire.

WARNING

Do not operate your power tool if themuffler is damaged, missing or modified. An improperly maintained muffler will increase the risk of fire and hearing loss. Your muffler is equipped with a sparkarresting screen to reduce the risk of fire; never operate your power tool if the screen is missing, damaged or clogged. Remember that the risk of a brush or forest fire is greater in hot or dry weather. In California, it is a violation of § 4442 or § 4443 of the Public Resources Code to use or operate gasoline-powered tools on forest- covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a complying spark arrester that is maintained in effective working order. The owner/operator of this product is responsible for properly maintaining the spark arrester. Other states or governmental entities/agencies, such as the U.S. Forest Service, may have similar requirements. Contact your local fire agency or forest service for the laws or regulations relating to fire protection requirements. Tighten all nuts, bolts and screws except the carburetor adjustment screws after each use. For maintenance items please also refer to the maintenance chart in this instruction manual. Store the power tool in a dry and high or locked location out of reach of children. Before storing for longer than a few days, always empty the fuel tank. See chapter “Storing the machine” in this instruction manual. Store fuel in an approved and properly labeled safety-type canister only. Take care when handling gasoline! For health and safety reasons, avoid direct contact with the skin and avoid inhaling fuel vapor!

Maintenance and Care

The following intervals apply for normal operating conditions. The specified intervals must be shortened accordingly when working for longer than normal or under difficult cutting conditions (extensive dust, etc.).| Before starting work| At the end of work and/or daily| Whenever tank is refilled| Weekly| Monthly| Annually| If faulty| If damaged| As required
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
Complete machine| Visual inspection (condition, leaks)| X| | X| | | | | |
Clean| | X| | | | | | |
Control handle| Function test| X| | X| | | | | |
Air filter| replace| | | | | | | X| X|
Manual fuel pump| check| X| | | | | | | |
Have repaired by a specialist dealer1)| | | | | | | | X|
Filter in fuel tank| Have checked by dealer1)| | | | | | | X| |
Have replaced by servicing dealer1)| | | | | | X| | | X
Fuel tank| Clean| | | | | X| | | |
Carburetor| Check idle speed| X| | X| | | | | |
Readjust idle speed| | | | | | | | | X


Spark plug

| Adjust electrode gap| | | | | | | X| |
Replace after every 100 hours of operation| | | | | | | | |
Intake port for cooling air| Visual examination| | X| | | | | | |
Clean| | | | X| | | | |


Valve clearance

| Have checked and, if necessary, adjusted by dealer after first 139 hours of operation1)| | | | | | | | | ****

X

Spark arresting screen in muffler| Check| | | | | | | | | X
Clean or replace| | | | | | | X| |
Spacer, shim| check| X| | | | | | | |
Have replaced by servicing dealer1)| X| | | | | | X| |
All accessible screws, nuts and bolts (not adjusting screws)| Tighten| | | | | | | | | X
The following intervals apply for normal operating conditions. The specified intervals must be shortened accordingly when working for longer than normal or under difficult cutting conditions (extensive dust, etc.).| Before starting work| At the end of work and/or daily| Whenever tank is refilled| Weekly| Monthly| Annually| If faulty| If damaged| As required
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---
Anti-vibration elements| check| X| | | | | | | |
Have replaced by servicing dealer1)| | | | | | | X| X|
Blower air intake shield| check| X| | X| | | | | |
Clean| | | | | | | | | X
Base plate| check| X| | X| | | | | |
Clean| | | | | | | | | X
Throttle cable| set| | | | | | | | | X
Safety information label| replace| | | | | | | | X|

Main Parts

  1. Straight Nozzle
  2. Curved Nozzle
  3. Blower Tube (BR 550 / 600)
  4. Blower Tube (BR 500)
  5. Blower Tube (BR 500 / 550 / 600)
  6. Control Handle
  7. Throttle Trigger
  8. Setting Lever
  9. Pleated Hose
  10. Harness
  11. Backplate
  12. Screen
  13. Air Filter Cover
  14. Fuel Filler Cap
  15. Base Plate (BR 600)
  16. Spark Plug Boot
  17. Carburetor Adjusting Screws
  18. Choke Knob
  19. Manual Fuel Pump
  20. Starter Grip
  21. Fuel Tank
  22. Muffler (with Spark Arresting Screen)
  23. Spacer
    • Serial Number

Definitions

  • Straight Nozzle
    • Aims and widens the airstream.
  • Curved Nozzle
    • Aims and widens the airstream.
  • Blower Tube (BR 550 / 600)
    • Directs the airstream.
  • Blower Tube (BR 500)
    • Directs the airstream.
  • Blower Tube (BR 500 / 550 / 600)
    • Directs the airstream.
  • Control Handle
    • Handle on the flexible hose to hold and direct the tube in the required direction. Designed to help protect against static electricity.
  • Throttle Trigger
    • Controls the speed of the engine.
  • Setting Lever
    • For run and stop. Sets the throttle to various positions or stops the engine.
  • Pleated Hose
    • For blowing in the desired direction.
  • Harness
    • For carrying the unit.
  • Backplate
    • Helps protect the back of the user.
  • Screen
    • Helps prevent leaves entering intake.
  • Air Filter Cover
    • Covers and protects the air filterelement.
  • Fuel Filler Cap
    • For closing the fuel tank.
  • Base Plate (BR 600)
    • Helps prevent leaves entering intake.
  • Spark Plug Boot
    • Connects the spark plug with the ignition lead.
  • Carburetor Adjusting Screws
    • For tuning the carburetor.
  • Choke Knob
    • Eases engine starting by enriching mixture.
  • Manual Fuel Pump
    • Provides additional fuel feed for a cold start.
  • Starter Grip
    • The grip of the pull starter, for starting the engine.
  • Fuel Tank
    • For fuel and oil mixture.
  • Muffler (with Spark Arresting Screen)
    • Muffler reduces exhaust noises and diverts exhaust gases away from the operator. Spark arresting screen is designed to reduce the risk of fire.
  • Spacer
    • Designed to reduce the risk of burns and fire.

www.stihl.com

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)  >>

Download This Manual (PDF format)

Download this manual  >>

Related Manuals