STIHL BG 56 Handheld Blower

Product Information

Specifications

• Brand: STIHL
• Model: BG 56, 66, 86
• Power Source: Gasoline
• Application: Handheld Blower

Product Usage Instructions

Safety Precautions and Working Techniques

It is essential to follow the safety precautions and working techniques outlined in the instruction manual to ensure safe operation of the handheld blower.

1. Operator Safety

Before operating the blower, ensure you are in good physical and mental condition. Do not use the blower under the influence of substances that may impair your abilities.

2. Power Tool Safety

Always have your STIHL dealer demonstrate how to operate the blower correctly. Follow all local safety regulations and standards while using the blower.

3. Proper Use of the Power Tool

Use the blower only for its intended purpose, such as clearing leaves, twigs, grass, and debris from yards, gardens, and other designated areas. Never leave the blower unattended while it is running.

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and performance of your handheld blower. Refer to the maintenance section in the manual for detailed instructions on care practices.

Main Parts

Familiarize yourself with the main parts of the blower as illustrated in the manual. Different models may have varying controls and parts, so always refer to the specific manual for your blower model.

FAQ

• Q: Can minors use the handheld blower?
  • A: No, minors should never operate this power tool. It should only be used by individuals in good physical condition and mental health.
• Q: What should I do if I do not understand any instructions?
  • A: If you encounter any difficulties or have questions regarding the operation of the blower, contact your STIHL dealer or distributor for assistance.

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 BG 56, 66, 86. 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 thismanual.

Safety Precautions and Working Techniques

Because the use of any blower may be dangerous, 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

Use your blower for clearing leaves, twigs, grass, clippings, paper, debris, and dust in yards, gardens, sport stadiums, parks, paths, streets, driveways and parking lots and for similar tasks.Do not use it for other purposes, since misuse may result in personal injury or property damage, including damage to the machine.

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.

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 whitefinger disease (Rayn aud’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 whitefinger 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 whitefinger disease. In order to reduce the risk of whitefinger 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 antivibration system well maintained. A power tool with loose components or with damaged or worn antivibration element will tend to have higher vibration levels. Maintain a firm grip at all times, but do not squeeze the handles with constant, excessive pressure. Take frequent breaks. All the above-mentioned precautions do not guarantee that you will not sustain whitefinger 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. Do not wear sandals or go barefoot

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) b lown through the blower tube and nozzle can cause a static charging of the blower tube. 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 tube 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.

THE USE OF THE POWER TOOL

Transporting the Power Tool

WARNING

When transporting your power tool 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 place the power tool 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, pilotlights, 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 the engine 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 tocool.

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 cold start position and pull the starter cord until the engine runs. If the engine does not fire after 10 pulls in the cold start position place the Choke Knob to the warm start position and start the engine in the warm start position
• 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, and 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 an 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. To reduce the risk of injury, do not operate your blower unless it has a properly mounted blower tube.

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. For specific starting instructions, see the appropriate section of your instruction manual

Starting

WARNING

Start the engine at least 10 feet (3 meters) from the fueling spot, outdoors only.

WARNING

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

To reduce the risk of injury from loss of control, do not attempt to “drop start” your power tool.

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.

WARNING

Once the engine has started, immediately blip the throttle trigger, which should release the starting throttle and allow the engine to slow down to idle.

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 tokeep children away from the unit.

During Operation

Holding and Controlling the Power Tool

The blower is designed for singlehanded operation. It must be carried by the control handle in the right hand. Watch out for small animals when using the blower on open ground, in yards and gardens.

WARNING

Operate the unit only with a properly mounted blower tube. The round nozzle is particularly suitable for use on uneven surfaces (e.g. fields and lawns). The fan nozzle (either included with unit or available as special accessory) produces a broad and powerful airstream at ground level. It can be aimed and controlled very accurately. This nozzle is highly effective for blow sweeping sawdust, leaves, grass cuttings, etc. on paved surfaces. Special care must be taken in slippery conditions (wet ground, snow) and in difficult, overgrown terrain. Watch for hidden obstacles such as tree stumps, roots and ditches to avoid stumbling. For better footing, clear away fallen branches, scrub and cuttings. Be extremely cautious when working on slopes or uneven ground.

WARNING

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

Working conditions

To minimize blowing time, use a rakeand 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.

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. 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, understand and follow all warnings and instructions contained in the material safety data sheet for that substance and/or consult the material manufacturer/supplier. The state of California and some other authorities, for instance, have published lists of substances known to cause cancer, reproductive toxicity, etc.

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 byOSHA 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 slide control / stop switch to 0 or STOP

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

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 air flow can injure eyes and can blow small objects at great speed. Do not direct airblast towards pets.

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

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.

Using the Vacuum Attachment

(only BG 56, BG 86, SH 56, SH 86) For specific assembling instructions, see the appropriate section of your instructions manual. Do not use this appliance in vacuum mode without the catcher bag.

The vacuum attachment is designed for two-handed operation. Hold and operate the unit with your right hand on the control handle and your left hand on the assist handle. Wear the catcher bag shoulder strap over your left shoulder – not across your chest – so that you can quickly throw off the unit and catcher bag in an emergency

WARNING

To reduce the risk of injury, do not operate the machine unless it is fully assembled with a properly mounted suction tube and catcher bag

WARNING

In order to reduce the risk of injury from contact with rotating parts and damage to the engine, the intake screen must always be closed and the locking tab engaged when the suction tube is not mounted. Stop engine and wait until the fan is stopped before opening the intake screen. To reduce the risk of personal injury from fire and explosion, never attempt to vacuum hot or burning substances (e.g. smoldering ashes, glowing cigarettes) or combustible fluids (e.g. gasoline, paint thinners).

WARNING

Vacuuming unsuitable materials may block the fanwheel. Switch off the unit immediately. Then clear the blockage. Take particular care when vacuuming wet leaves since they may block the blower wheel and elbow.

WARNING

Never vacuum solid objects such as nails, steel shavings, tacks, rocks or broken glass. These objects may be struck by the fan wheel and flung away at high speed and may cause injury to the operator or bystander.

NOTICE

Vacuuming abrasive material (such as grit, stone chips, etc.) causes the blower wheel and blower housing to wear at a rapid rate. This results in a considerable loss of suction power. In such a case you should contact your dealer. STIHL recommends a STIHL servicing dealer. Watch out for small animals when using the vacuum on open ground, in yards and gardens.

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 the muffler 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 to normal operating conditions only. If your daily work- ing time is longer or operating conditions are difficult (very dusty work area, etc.), shorten the specified intervals accordingly.| before starting work| after finishing work or daily| after each refueling stop| weekly| monthly| every 12 months| if problem| if damaged| if required
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---

Complete machine

| Visual inspection (condition, wear, leaks)| x|  | x|  |  |  |  | |
Clean|  | x|  |  |  |  |  |  |
Control handle| Check operation| x|  | x|  |  |  |  |  |
Air filter| Clean|  |  |  |  |  |  | x|  | x
Replace|  |  |  |  |  |  |  | x| x
Manual fuel pump (if fitted)| Check| x|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Have repaired by servicing dealer1)|  |  |  |  |  |  |  | x|
Filter in fuel tank| Check|  |  |  |  |  |  | x|  |
Replace filter|  |  |  |  |  | x|  | x| x
Fuel tank| Clean|  |  |  |  |  |  | x|  | x
Carburetor| Check idle setting| x|  | x|  |  |  |  |  |
Readjust idle|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | x
Spark plug| Readjust electrode gap|  |  |  |  |  |  | x|  |
Replace after 100 hours of operation|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  |
Spark arresting screen2) in muffler| Check|  |  |  |  |  |  | x|  |
 | Have replaced by servicing dealer1)|  |  |  |  |  |  |  | x| x
Cooling inlets| Clean|  |  |  |  |  |  |  |  | x
All accessible screws and nuts (not adjust- ing screws)| Retighten|  |  |  | |  |  |  |  | x
Antivibration elements| Check| x|  |  |  |  |  | x|  | x
Have replaced by servicing dealer1)|  |  |  |  |  |  |  | x|
Safety labels| Replace|  |  |  |  |  |  |  | x|

1. STIHL recommends that this work be done by a STIHL servicing dealer.
2. Not in all versions, country-specific

Main Parts

1. Setting Lever (BG 86, SH 86)
2. Spark Plug Boot
3. Muffler
4. Starter Grip
5. Carburetor Adjusting Screws
6. Manual Fuel Pump
7. Choke Knob
8. Filter Housing
9. Filter Cover Lock
10. Fuel Filler Cap
11. Fuel Tank
12. Assist Handle
13. Control Handle
14. Stop Switch (BG 56, BG 66, SH 56)
15. Throttle Trigger
16. Intake Screen
17. Union Nut
18. Blower Tube (BG 56, BG 86, SH 56, SH 86)
19. Round Nozzle
20. Fan Nozzle*
21. Suction Tube*
22. Elbow*
23. Catcher Bag*
24. lower Tube Silencer (BG 66)

    Serial number

Depending on version – special accessory

Definitions

1. Setting Lever (BG 86, SH 86)
   Holds the throttle trigger in position.

2. Spark Plug Boot
   Connects the spark plug to the ignition wire.

3. Muffler
   Attenuates exhaust noises and diverts exhaust gases away from operator.

4. Starter Grip
   The grip of the pull starter, which is the device to start the engine.

5. Carburetor Adjusting Screws
   For tuning carburetor.

6. Manual Fuel Pump
   Delivers fuel for cold start.

7. Choke Knob
   Eases engine starting by enriching mixture.

8. Filter Housing
   Covers the air filter element.

9. Filter Cover Lock
   Secures the filter cover.

10. Fuel Filler Cap
    For closing the fuel tank.

11. Fuel Tank
    For fuel and oil mixture.

12. Assist Handle
    Additional handle for use with the suction tube as a vacuum and held by the left hand.

13. Control Handle
    The handle of the blower held by the right hand.

14. Stop Switch (BG 56, BG 66, SH 56)
    Switches the machine off.

15. Throttle Trigger
    Controls the speed of the engine.

16. Intake Screen
    Reduces the risk of direct contact with the fan.

17. Union Nut
    For mounting the blower tube to the blower.

18. Blower Tube (BG 56, BG 86, SH 56, SH 86)
    Directs airstream.

19. Round Nozzle
    To be mounted on the blower tube to aim the airstream.

20. Fan Nozzle
    Alternative nozzle for the blowertube to accelerate the airstream.

21. Suction Tube
    To be mounted on the blower.

22. Elbow
    Directs airstream and debris into the catcher bag.

23. Catcher Bag
    Mounts to elbow to collect the vacuumed debris.

24. Blower Tube Silencer (BG 66) Reduces blower noise.

www.stihl.com

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)  >>

Download This Manual (PDF format)

Download this manual  >>