Stihl HLE 71 User manual

{
STIHL HLE 71 Instruction Manual

Original Instruction ManualPrinted on chlorine-free paper
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2016 0458-277-0121-A. VA1.D16. 0000000888_010_GB
HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
1
{This instruction manual is protected by copyright. All rights reserved, especially the rights to reproduce, translate and process
with electronic systems.
Contents
Dear Customer,
Thank you for choosing a quality
engineered STIHL product.
It has been built using modern
production techniques and
comprehensive quality assurance.
Every effort has been made to ensure
your satisfaction and troublefree use of
the product.
Please contact your dealer or our sales
company if you have any queries
concerning this product.
Your
Dr. Nikolas Stihl
Guide to Using this Manual 2
Safety Precautions and Working
Techniques 2
Using the Unit 7
Mounting the Drive Tube 9
Mounting the Loop Handle 9
Mounting the Gearbox 10
Adjusting the Cutter Bar 10
Fitting the Harness 12
Connecting to Power Supply 12
Switching On 13
Switching Off 13
Overload Cutout 14
Lubricating the Gearbox 14
Storing the Machine 15
Sharpening Instructions 15
Maintenance and Care 16
Minimize Wear and Avoid Damage 17
Main Parts 18
Specifications 19
Maintenance and Repairs 20
Disposal 20
EC Declaration of Conformity 20
General Power Tool Safety
Warnings 21

HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
2
Pictograms
All the pictograms attached to the
machine are shown and explained in this
manual.
Symbols in text
WARNING
Warning where there is a risk of an
accident or personal injury or serious
damage to property.
NOTICE
Caution where there is a risk of
damaging the machine or its individual
components.
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.
Observe all applicable local safety
regulations, standards and ordinances.
If you have not used this type of power
tool before: Have your dealer or other
experienced user show you how to
operate your machine or attend a
special course in its operation.
Minors should never be allowed to use a
power tool.
Keep bystanders, especially children,
and animals away from the work area.
When the power tool is not in use, shut it
off so that it does not endanger others.
Secure it against unauthorized use.
The user is responsible for avoiding
injury to third parties or damage to their
property.
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.
The use of noise emitting power tools
may be restricted to certain times by
national or local regulations.
To operate the power tool you must be
rested, in good physical condition and
mental health.
If you have any condition that might be
aggravated by strenuous work, check
with your doctor before operating a
power tool.
Do not operate the power tool if you are
under the influence of any substance
(drugs, alcohol) which might impair
vision, dexterity or judgment.
Use your hedge trimmer only for cutting
hedges, shrubs, scrub and similar
materials.
It must not be used for any other
purpose because of the increased risk of
accidents and damage to the machine.
To reduce the risk of accidents, always
disconnect the plug from the power
supply before carrying out any work on
the power tool.
Never jerk the power cord to disconnect
it from the wall outlet. To unplug, grasp
the plug, not the cord.
Unsuitable extension cords can be
extremely dangerous.
Make sure that the conductor cross
section (wire gauge) of extension cords
meets the minimum requirements – see
chapter on "Connecting to Power
Supply".
Guide to Using this Manual Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
Because this unit is a
high-speed, fast-cutting
power tool with very
sharp cutting blades and
a long reach, special
safety precautions must
be observed during
operation.
It is important that you
read the instruction man-
ual before first use and
keep it in a safe place for
future reference. Non-
observance of the
instruction manual may
result in serious or even
fatal injury.

HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
3
When you use an extension cord, make
sure the plug and coupling are
waterproof or positioned in such a way
that they cannot come into contact with
water.
Only use cutting blades and accessories
that are explicitly approved for this
power tool by STIHL or are technically
identical. If you have any questions in
this respect, consult a servicing dealer.
Use only high quality tools and
accessories in order to avoid the risk of
accidents and damage to the machine.
STIHL recommends the use of genuine
STIHL tools and accessories. They are
specifically designed to match the
product and meet your performance
requirements.
Never attempt to modify your machine in
any way since this may increase the risk
of personal injury. STIHL excludes all
liability for personal injury and damage
to property caused while using
unauthorized attachments.
Do not use a pressure washer to clean
the unit. The solid jet of water may
damage parts of the unit.
Do not spray the power tool with water.
Clothing and Equipment
Wear proper protective clothing and
equipment.
Avoid clothing that could get caught on
branches or brush or moving parts of the
machine. Do not wear a scarf, necktie or
jewelry. Tie up and confine long hair
(e.g. with a hair net, cap, hard hat, etc.).
WARNING
Wear hearing protection, e.g. earplugs
or ear muffs.
Wear a safety hard hat with chin strap
where there is a danger of head injuries
from falling objects.
STIHL offers a comprehensive range of
personal protective clothing and
equipment.
Transporting the Power Tool
Always switch off the power tool and
unplug it from the power supply.
Always fit the blade guard (scabbard)
before carrying your hedge trimmer
short distances.
On units with adjustable cutter bar:
Engage the cutter bar in position.
On units with a defined transport
position: Move the cutter bar to the
transport position and make sure it is
properly engaged.
Carry the power tool properly balanced
by the drive tube – cutting blades behind
you. To reduce the risk of burn injury, do
not touch the gearbox housing.
Transporting by vehicle: Properly secure
the power tool to prevent turnover and
damage.
Before Starting Work
Check that your power tool is properly
assembled and in good condition – refer
to appropriate chapters in the instruction
manual.
–Voltage and frequency of the power
tool (see rating plate) and the
voltage and frequency of your
power supply must be the same.
–Check the connecting cord, plug
and extension cord for damage.
Never use damaged cords,
couplings and plugs or connecting
cords that do not comply with
regulations.
–Receptacles of extension cords
must be splash-proof.
–Position and mark the power supply
cord so that it cannot be damaged
or stepped on, tripped over or
endanger others.
Clothing must be sturdy
but allow complete free-
dom of movement. Wear
snug-fitting clothing, an
overall and jacket combi-
nation, do not wear a
work coat.
Wear steel-toed safety
boots with non-slip soles.
To reduce the risk of eye
injuries, wear close-fit-
ting safety glasses in
accordance with Euro-
pean Standard EN 166.
Make sure the safety
glasses are a snug fit.
Wear robust work gloves
made of durable material
(e.g. leather).

HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
4
–Starting lockout lever and trigger
switch must move freely – the switch
must return to the idle position when
it is released.
–Cutting blades securely mounted
and in good condition (clean, move
freely, not warped), properly
sharpened and thoroughly sprayed
with STIHL resin solvent (lubricant).
–On units with adjustable cutter bar:
Make sure the adjuster is properly
engaged in the required position for
starting.
–On units with a defined transport
position (cutter bar folded against
drive tube): Never operate the unit
in the transport position.
–Never attempt to modify the controls
or safety devices in any way.
–Keep the handles dry and clean –
free from oil and dirt – for safe
control of the power tool.
–Adjust shoulder strap and handles
to suit your height and reach. See
chapter on "Fitting the Harness".
To reduce the risk of accidents, do not
operate your power tool if it is damaged
or not properly assembled.
If you use a shoulder strap or full
harness: Practice removing and putting
down the machine as you would in an
emergency. To avoid damage, do not
throw the machine to the ground when
practicing.
To reduce the risk of electric shock:
–Always connect the power tool to a
properly installed wall outlet.
–Make sure the extension cord used
complies with the regulations for the
intended application.
–Check that the insulation of the
power cord, extension cord, plug
and coupling is in good condition.
Holding and Controlling the Power Tool
Always hold the power tool firmly with
both hands on the handles.
Right hand on control handle, left hand
on loop handle on drive tube, even if you
are left-handed. Wrap fingers and
thumbs firmly around the handles.
Make sure you have firm and secure
footing and hold the power tool so that
the cutting blades are always away from
your body.
Some versions of the machine can be
carried on a harness to relieve the
weight on the operator's arms.
During Operation
In case of imminent danger or in an
emergency, switch off the motor
immediately – release the trigger switch
and starting lockout.
To reduce the risk
of injury from
moving blades or
falling cuttings, do
not allow
bystanders within
5 meters of your own position. To
reduce the risk of damage to property,
also maintain this distance from other
objects (vehicles, windows).
Watch the cutting blades at all times – do
not cut areas of the hedge that you
cannot see.
Be extremely careful when cutting tall
hedges, check the other side of the
hedge before starting work.
Do not leave the power tool outdoors in
the rain.
Take special care in slippery conditions
(ice, wet ground, snow), on slopes or
uneven ground.
277BA020 KN
To reduce the risk of
electrocution, keep well
clear of electric power
lines.
The drive motor is not
waterproof. To reduce
the risk of a short circuit
or electrocution, never
work with the power tool
in the rain or in wet or
very damp locations.
5m (17ft)

HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
5
Clear away fallen branches, scrub and
cuttings.
Watch out for obstacles: Roots and tree
stumps which could cause you to trip or
stumble.
Make sure you always have good
balance and secure footing.
When working at heights:
–Always use a lift bucket
–Never work on a ladder
–Never work on an insecure support
–Never operate your power tool with
one hand
Be particularly alert and cautious when
wearing hearing protection because
your ability to hear warnings (shouts,
alarms, etc.) is restricted.
To reduce the risk of accidents, take a
break in good time to avoid tiredness or
exhaustion.
Work calmly and carefully – in daylight
conditions and only when visibility is
good. Stay alert so as not to endanger
others.
The gearbox becomes hot during
operation. To reduce the risk of burn
injury, do not touch the gearbox housing.
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 your power tool if
it is damaged. In case of doubt, consult
your servicing dealer.
Inspect the hedge and work area to
avoid damaging the cutting blades:
–Remove stones, rocks, pieces of
metal and other solid objects.
–When working close to the ground,
make sure that no sand, grit or
stones get between the blades.
–Take particular care when cutting
hedges next to or against wire
fences.
To avoid the risk of electrocution, do not
touch electric power lines – never cut
through electric power lines.
If the hedge is very dusty or dirty, spray
the blades with STIHL resin solvent from
time to time during cutting. This helps
reduce blade friction as well as the
aggressive effects of sap and the build-
up of dirt particles.
The dust that occurs during operation
may be harmful to health. If dust levels
are very high, wear a suitable respirator.
Never jerk the power cord to disconnect
it from the wall outlet. To unplug, grasp
the plug, not the cord.
Avoid damage to the power supply cord.
Do not drive over it, pinch or tug it.
Position the connecting and extension
cords correctly:
–Do not chafe on edges, pointed or
sharp objects
–Do not squeeze through gaps in
doors or windows
–If cords are twisted – unplug the
power tool and straighten them out
–Never touch the cutting attachment
–Always unwind the extension cord
completely from the cable drum to
reduce the risk of fire from
overheating.
Before leaving the power tool
unattended: Switch off the power tool
and unplug it from the power supply.
Check the cutting blades at regular short
intervals during operation or
immediately if there is a noticeable
change in cutting behavior:
–Switch off the power tool, wait for
the cutting blades to come to a
standstill, disconnect plug from
power supply.
–Check condition and tightness, look
for cracks.
–Check sharpness.
Always switch off the power tool and
unplug it from the power supply before
replacing the cutting blades. This avoids
the risk of injury from the motor starting
unintentionally.
Do not touch the cutting
blades while the motor is
running. If the cutting
blades become jammed
by thick branches or
other obstructions, switch
off immediately and dis-
connect the plug from the
power supply before
attempting to free the
blades.
If the power supply cord
is damaged, immediately
disconnect the plug from
the wall outlet to avoid
the risk of electric shock.

HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
6
To reduce the risk of fire, always clean
plant residue, chips, leaves and excess
lubricant off the motor.
After Finishing Work
Always clean dust and dirt off the
machine – do not use any grease
solvents for this purpose.
Spray the blades with STIHL resin
solvent. Run the motor briefly so that the
solvent is evenly distributed.
Vibrations
Prolonged use of the power tool may
result in vibration-induced circulation
problems in the hands (whitefinger
disease).
No general recommendation can be
given for the length of usage because it
depends on several factors.
The period of usage is prolonged by:
–Hand protection (wearing warm
gloves)
–Work breaks
The period of usage is shortened by:
–Any personal tendency to suffer
from poor circulation (symptoms:
frequently cold fingers, tingling
sensations).
–Low outside temperatures.
–The force with which the handles
are held (a tight grip restricts
circulation).
Continual and regular users should
monitor closely the condition of their
hands and fingers. If any of the above
symptoms appear (e.g. tingling
sensation in fingers), seek medical
advice.
Maintenance and Repairs
Always switch off the machine and
disconnect the plug from the power
supply before carrying out any
maintenance work to reduce the risk of
injury from the motor starting
unintentionally.
Service the machine regularly. Do not
attempt any maintenance or repair work
not described in the instruction manual.
Have all other work performed by a
servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends that you have
servicing and repair work carried out
exclusively by an authorized STIHL
servicing dealer. STIHL dealers are
regularly given the opportunity to attend
training courses and are supplied with
the necessary technical information.
Only use high-quality replacement parts
in order to avoid the risk of accidents
and damage to the machine. If you have
any questions in this respect, consult a
servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends the use of genuine
STIHL replacement parts. They are
specifically designed to match your
machine model and meet your
performance requirements.
Never attempt to modify your power tool
in any way since this will increase the
risk of personal injury.
Regularly check that the insulation of the
power cord and plug is in good condition
and shows no sign of ageing
(brittleness).
Electrical components, e.g. power cord,
may only be repaired or replaced by a
qualified electrician.
Clean plastic components with a cloth.
Do not use aggressive detergents. They
may damage the plastic.
Do not spray the machine with water.
Check tightness of mounting screws on
safety devices and the cutting
attachment and retighten if necessary.
Clean cooling air inlets in motor housing
as necessary.
Store the machine is a safe and dry
place.

HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
7
Cutting Season
Observe country-specific or municipal
rules and regulations for cutting hedges.
Do not use your power tool during other
people's normal rest periods.
Preparations
Use lopping shears or a chain saw to cut
out thick branches first.
Cutting Sequence
If a radical cut is necessary, cut a little at
a time in several stages.
Cut the sides of the hedge first, then the
top.
Disposal
Do not throw cuttings into the garbage
can – they can be composted.
Working Technique
Horizontal Cut (with cutter bar at an
angle)
Cutting close to the ground from a
standing position, e.g. low shrubs.
WARNING
The K version is not approved for cutting
close to the ground.
Vertical Cut (with cutter bar at an angle)
Cutting without standing directly next to
the hedge, e.g. flowerbed between
operator and hedge.
Swing the cutter bar up and down in an
arc as you move along the hedge – use
both sides of the cutting blades.
Using the Unit
277BA021 KN
277BA022 KN

HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
8
Vertical Cut (with straight cutter bar)
Extra long reach without the need for
other aids.
Swing the cutter bar up and down in an
arc as you move along the hedge – use
both sides of the cutting blades.
Overhead Cut (with cutter bar at an
angle)
Hold the hedge trimmer vertically and
swing it in an arc to make maximum use
of its reach.
WARNING
Any working position above head height
is tiring. To minimize the risk of
accidents, work in such positions for
short periods only. Set angle of
adjustable cutter bar to maximum so that
the unit can be held in a lower, less tiring
position (with shoulder strap) while still
providing adequate reach.
Horizontal Cut (with straight cutter bar)
Cutting without standing directly next to
the hedge, e.g. flowerbed between
operator and hedge.
Hold the cutter bar at an angle of 0° to
10° as you swing the hedge trimmer
horizontally.
Swing the cutter bar in an arc towards
the outside of the hedge so that the
cuttings are swept to the ground.
389BA050 KN
277BA023 KN
277BA024 KN

HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
9
NPull the protective cap off the drive
tube.
NPush the drive tube (1) into the
motor housing (2) as far as the mark
(A), turning the drive tube back and
forth at the same time.
NTighten down the screw (3) in the
housing firmly.
NPlace the clamp (1) in the loop
handle (2) and position them both
against the drive tube (5) between
the carrying ring (3) and handle
hose (4).
NPlace the clamp (6) against the
drive tube.
NLine up the holes.
NInsert the screws (7) with
washers (8).
NFit the square nuts (9) and screw
home the screws.
NAlign the loop handle (2) and move
it to the most comfortable position.
Distance (A) must not be more than
45 cm. Recommendation: about 35 cm.
NTighten down the screws firmly.
Mounting the Drive Tube
1
238BA016 KN
3
A
2
A
Mounting the Loop Handle
7
8
2
277BA025 KN
1
6
7
8
9
9
3
277BA026 KN
A
2

HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
10
NLoosen the clamp screws (1).
NLine up the sliding sleeve (2) – it
must be in line with the opening in
the angle drive.
NPush the gearbox (3) onto the drive
tube (4), turn the gearbox back and
forth as necessary.
NOnce the end of the drive tube is
inserted beyond the slot in the
clamp (5), push the gearbox fully
home.
NTighten down the clamp screws
moderately.
NLine up the gearbox (3).
NTighten down the clamp screws
firmly.
Adjustment mechanism 125°
In this version, the angle of the cutting
bar relative to the shaft is adjustable
from 0° (completely straight) to 45° (in
4 stages upward) and to 80° (in 7 stages
downward). Twelve individually
adjustable working positions are
possible.
Additionally, the cutting bar can be set to
a defined transport position.
WARNING
Make adjustments only when the cutting
blades are at a standstill – motor
switched off.
Mounting the Gearbox
2
3
277BA007 KN
11
4
277BA027 KN
3
5
Adjusting the Cutter Bar
277BA016 KN

HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
11
WARNING
The gearbox becomes hot during
operation. Never touch the gear housing
– risk of burns!
WARNING
Never grab the blade when making
adjustments – risk of injury!
NPull back the sliding sleeve (1) and
use the lever (2) to move the joint by
one or more holes in the perforated
strip
NRelease the sliding sleeve (1) again
and allow the bolt to engage in the
perforated strip (3)
When the bolt is engaged (after
completion of adjustment), the sliding
sleeve will be flush with the housing
again.
Transport position
For compact transport of the machine, in
this version, the cutter bar can be swung
parallel to the shaft and locked in this
position.
WARNING
The cutter bar must only be moved from
working position into transport position
or the other way around when the motor
is switched off and the blades are
covered by the blade guard.
WARNING
The gearbox becomes hot during
operation. Never touch the gear housing
– risk of burns!
NSwitch off the motor
NSlide on the blade guard
NPull back the sliding sleeve (1) and
use the lever (2) to pivot the joint
upward toward the shaft until the
cutter bar is parallel to the shaft
NRelease the sliding sleeve (1) again
and allow the bolt to engage in the
position provided for this in the
housing
When the bolt is engaged (after
completion of adjustment), the sliding
sleeve will be flush with the housing
again.
3
277BA009 KN
2
1
277BA010 KN
3
277BA011 KN

HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
12
Some versions of the machine can be
carried on a harness.
The type and style of the harness
depend on the market.
Shoulder strap
NPut on the shoulder strap (1).
NAdjust the length of the strap so that
the carabiner (2) is about a hand’s
width below your right hip.
The voltage and frequency of the
machine (see rating 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.
NInsert the plug (1) into the extension
cord coupling (2).
Strain Relief
The strain relief (cord retainer) protects
the appliance cord against damage.
Fitting the Harness
2
1
277BA028 KN
Connecting to Power Supply
Cord length Minimum cross-
section
220 V – 240 V:
Up to 20 m 1.5 mm2
20 m to 50 m 2.5 mm2
100 V – 127 V:
Up to 10 m AWG 14 / 2.0 mm2
10 m to 30 m AWG 12 / 3.5 mm2
238BA008 KN
12

HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
13
NMake a loop (3) in the extension
cord.
NPass the loop (3) through the
opening (4).
NSlip the loop (3) over the hook (5)
and pull it tight.
NConnect the extension cord plug to
a properly installed wall outlet.
NMake sure you have a secure and
firm footing.
NHold your unit with both hands –
right hand on the control handle –
left hand on the loop handle.
NStand upright – hold the unit in a
relaxed position and always on right
side of your body.
NMake sure the cutting attachment is
not touching the ground or any other
objects.
NPress down the starting lockout
lever (1) and hold it in that position.
NSqueeze the trigger switch (2) and
hold it in that position.
NRelease the trigger switch and
starting lockout lever.
WARNING
Note that the cutting attachment
continues to run for a short period after
you let go of the throttle trigger and
starting lockout lever – flywheel effect.
During longer 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.
4
238BA009 KN
5
3
Switching On
2
1
277BA029 KN
Switching Off

HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
14
The machine is equipped with an
overload cutout.
The overload cutout disconnects the
power supply in the event of mechanical
overload, e. g., due to
–Excessive feed effort
–"Killing" of the motor speed
–Pinching of the trimmer blades in
the cut
If the overload cutout has disconnected
the power:
NRemove the trimmer blades from
the cut
NWait for approx. 3 minutes until the
overload cutout has cooled down
Do not switch on the machine during this
time, because this substantially extends
the cooling down period.
Once the machine starts again:
NLet the machine run for approx.
15 seconds without load – this cools
the windings of the motor and
substantially delays renewed
triggering of the overload cutout
Blade drive
For the blade drive, use STIHL gear
lubricant for hedge trimmers (special
accessory).
NCheck lubricant filling periodically
and after approx. every 25 hours of
operation
NUnscrew the locking screw (1) – if
no lubricant is visible on the inside
of it, then screw in the lubricant tube
NSqueeze up to 5 g of lubricant into
the gear unit
NOTICE
Do not completely fill the gear unit with
lubricant.
NUnscrew lubricant tube
NRefit locking screw (1) and tighten
securely
Angle drive
For the angle drive, use STIHL gear
lubricant for hedge trimmers (special
accessory).
NCheck lubricant filling periodically
and after approx. every 25 hours of
operation
NUnscrew the locking screw (2) – if
no lubricant is visible on the inside
of it, then screw in the lubricant tube
NSqueeze up to 5 g of lubricant into
the gear unit
NOTICE
Do not completely fill the gear unit with
lubricant.
NUnscrew lubricant tube
NRefit locking screw (2) and tighten
securely
Overload Cutout Lubricating the Gearbox

HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
15
If the machine is to remain out of use for
approx. 3 months or more
NClean the cutting blades, check
condition and spray with STIHL
resin solvent
NFit blade guard over the blades
NThoroughly clean the machine,
especially the ventilation slots
NStore the machine in a dry, secure
place using the built-in ring on the
bottom of the motor housing.
Protect against unauthorized use
(e. g., by children)
When cutting performance and behavior
begin to deteriorate, i.e. blades
frequently snag on branches:
Resharpen the cutting blades.
It is best to have the cutting blades
resharpened by a dealer on a workshop
sharpener. STIHL recommends a STIHL
servicing dealer.
It is also possible to use a flat crosscut
sharpening file. Hold the sharpening file
at the prescribed angle (see
"Specifications").
NOnly sharpen the cutting edge – do
not file blunt projecting parts of the
cutting blade or the cutting blade
guard (see "Main Parts and
Controls")
NAlways file towards the cutting
edge.
NThe file only sharpens on the
forward stroke – lift it off the blade
on the backstroke.
NUse a whetstone to remove burr
from cutting edge.
NRemove as little material as
possible.
NAfter sharpening, clean away filing
or grinding dust and then spray the
cutting blades with STIHL resin
solvent.
NOTICE
Do not operate your machine with dull or
damaged cutting blades. This may
cause overload and will give
unsatisfactory cutting results.
Storing the Machine Sharpening Instructions

HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
16
Maintenance and Care
The following maintenance intervals apply in 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 weekly monthly yearly if faulty if damaged as required
Complete machine
Visual inspection X
clean X
Intake port for cooling air
Visual inspection X
clean X
Cutting blades
Visual inspection X
clean2) X
sharpen1)2) X
have them replaced by a specialist dealer
1) X
Gear lubrication
check X
Top up X
Carbon brushes
inspection by a specialist dealer after every
100 hours of operation1)
have them replaced by a specialist dealer
1) X
All accessible screws, nuts and bolts retighten X
Safety information labels replace X
1) STIHL recommends STIHL servicing dealers
2) Afterwards spray the blades with STIHL resin solvent

HLE 71, HLE 71K
English
17
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, 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 a poor quality.
–Using the product for purposes for
which it was not designed.
–Using the product for sports or
competitive events.
–Consequential damage 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.
Parts Subject to Wear and Tear
Some 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:
–Cutting blades
Minimize Wear and Avoid
Damage

HLE 71, HLE 71K
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18
1Loop handle
2Drive tube
3Carrying ring (HLE 71)
4Starting lockout
5Switch
6Strain relief (cord retainer)
7Power cord
8Angle screwdriver
9Cutting blades
10 Blade guard (scabbard)
11 Gearbox
12 Screw plug, blade drive
13 Screw plug, angle drive
14 Quadrant
15 Adjusting lever
16 Sliding sleeve
#Serial number
Main Parts
34
5
10
13
16
12
11 14
1
2#
7
8
15
6
277BA030 KN