Stihl RMA 443 PV User manual

RMA 443 VC, 443 PV,
448 VC, 448 PV
Instruction Manual

Contents
1 Introduction............................................... 27
2 Guide to Using this Manual.......................27
3 Overview................................................... 28
4 Safety Precautions....................................29
5 Preparing the Lawn Mower for Operation. 35
6 Charging the Battery, LEDs...................... 35
7 Activating and Deactivating Bluetooth®
Radio Interface..........................................35
8 Assembling the Lawn Mower.................... 36
9 Adjusting the Lawn Mower for the User.... 37
10 Removing and Fitting the Battery..............37
English
26 0478-131-9948-D
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG 2022 0478-131-9948-D. VA4.H22.
Printed on chlorine-free paper Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
Translation of Original Instruction Manual 0000009303_009_GB

11 Inserting and Removing the Activation Key
.................................................................. 38
12 Switching the Lawn Mower On and Off.....38
13 Checking the Lawn Mower and Battery.... 39
14 Operating the Lawn Mower.......................40
15 After Finishing Work..................................41
16 Transporting..............................................41
17 Storing.......................................................42
18 Cleaning....................................................42
19 Maintenance............................................. 43
20 Repairing...................................................44
21 Troubleshooting........................................ 44
22 Specifications............................................46
23 Spare Parts and Accessories....................47
24 Disposal.................................................... 47
25 EC Declaration of Conformity................... 48
26 UKCA Declaration of Conformity.............. 48
27 Safety Information for Lawn Mowers........ 49
1 Introduction
Dear Customer,
Thank you for choosing STIHL. We develop and
manufacture our quality products to meet our
customers’ requirements. The products are
designed for reliability even under extreme con‐
ditions.
STIHL also stands for premium service quality.
Our dealers guarantee competent advice and
instruction as well as comprehensive service
support.
STIHL expressly commit themselves to a sus‐
tainable and responsible handling of natural
resources. This user manual is intended to help
you use your STIHL product safely and in an
environmentally friendly manner over a long
service life.
We thank you for your confidence in us and hope
you will enjoy working with your STIHL product.
Dr. Nikolas Stihl
IMPORTANT! READ BEFORE USING AND
KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE FOR REFERENCE.
2 Guide to Using this Manual
2.1 Applicable Documents
This instruction manual is a translation of the
original manufacturer's instructions in the sense
of EC Directive 2006/42/EC.
Local safety regulations apply.
► In addition to this instruction manual, read,
understand and keep the following documents:
–Safety information for the STIHL AP battery
–Instruction manual for the STIHL AL 101,
301, 301-4, 500 chargers
–Safety information for STIHL batteries and
products with built-in battery:
www.stihl.com/safety-data-sheets
Further information on STIHL connected, com‐
patible products and FAQs is available at
www.connect.stihl.com or from a STIHL special‐
ist dealer.
The Bluetooth® word mark and figurative marks
(logos) are registered trademarks and the prop‐
erty of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. Any use of this word
mark/figurative marks by STIHL is under license.
Batteries with are equipped with a Bluetooth®
radio interface. Local operating restrictions (e.g.
in airplanes or hospitals) must be observed.
2.2 Warning Notices in Text
DANGER
■ This notice refers to risks which result in seri‐
ous or fatal injury.
► Serious or fatal injuries can be avoided by
taking the precautions mentioned.
WARNING
■ This notice refers to risks which can result in
serious or fatal injury.
► Serious or fatal injuries can be avoided by
taking the precautions mentioned.
NOTICE
■ This notice refers to risks which can result in
damage to property.
► Damage to property can be avoided by tak‐
ing the precautions mentioned.
2.3 Symbols in Text
This symbol refers to a chapter in this
instruction manual.
1 Introduction English
0478-131-9948-D 27

3 Overview
3.1 Lawn Mower and Battery
1 Locking button
The locking button switches the blades on
and off together with the control bar for mow‐
ing.
2 Control bar for mowing
The control bar for mowing switches the
blades on and off together with the locking
button.
3 Handlebar
The handlebar is used to hold, guide and
transport the lawn mower.
4 Control bar for self-propulsion
The control bar for self-propulsion engages
and disengages self-propulsion.
5 Lever
The lever is used to set the self-propulsion
speed.
6 Level indicator
The level indicator shows how full the grass
catcher box is.
7 Grass catcher box
The grass catcher box collects the mown
grass.
8 Discharge flap
The discharge flap closes off the discharge
chute.
9 Lever
The lever is used to set the cutting height.
10 Handle
The handle is used to hold the lawn mower
when adjusting the cutting height and to
transport the lawn mower.
11 Flap
The flap covers the battery and activation
key.
12 Transport handle
The transport handle is used to transport the
lawn mower.
13 Lever
The lever is used to adjust and fold down the
handlebar.
14 Battery
The battery supplies the lawn mower with
power.
15 "BLUETOOTH®" LED (only for batteries with
)
The LED indicates whether the Bluetooth®
radio interface is enabled or disabled.
16 Button
The button activates the LEDs on the battery.
It enables and disables the Bluetooth® radio
interface (if present).
17 LEDs
The LEDs indicate the battery charge state
and faults.
18 Locking lever
The locking lever keeps the battery in the bat‐
tery compartment.
19 Battery compartment
The battery compartment holds the battery.
20 ECO switch
The ECO switch activates and deactivates
ECO mode.
21 Activation key
The activation key activates the lawn mower.
RMA 443.2 PV, RMA 448.2 PV:
22 Battery compartment
The battery compartment holds a second bat‐
tery.
RMA 443.2 VC, RMA 448.2 VC:
22 Transport compartment
The transport compartment holds a replace‐
ment battery.
# Rating plate with machine number
English 3 Overview
28 0478-131-9948-D

3.2 Symbols
The symbols can be on the lawn mower or bat‐
tery and have the following meaning:
This symbol identifies the activation
key.
This symbol identifies the key recepta‐
cle.
ECO
ECO
This symbol identifies the ECO switch.
This symbol identifies the lever for set‐
ting the cutting height.
XX
This symbol indicates the weight of the
lawn mower without battery.
1 LED illuminates red. The battery is
too warm or too cold.
4 LEDs flashing red. There is a fault in
the battery.
L
W
A
Guaranteed sound power level in
accordance with Directive 2000/14/EC
in dB(A) for the purpose of comparing
the sound emissions of products.
The battery has a Bluetooth® radio inter‐
face and can be connected to the
STIHL connected app.
The number beside the symbol indicates
the energy content of the battery according
to the cell manufacturer's specifications.
The available energy content is lower in
practice.
Do not dispose of the product with domes‐
tic waste.
Activating and deactivating the
blade.
Setting the driving speed.
The lawn mower moves at its fastest
speed in this setting.
The lawn mower moves at its slowest
speed in this setting.
4 Safety Precautions
4.1 Warning Symbols
The warning symbols on the lawn mower or bat‐
tery have the following meaning:
Follow the safety instructions and their
measures.
Read, understand and keep the
instruction manual.
Beware of objects being thrown up -
keep a safe distance and keep other
people away.
Do not touch a turning blade.
Remove the battery during work stop‐
pages, transport, storage, maintenance
or repair.
Pull out the activation key during work
stoppages, transport, storage, mainte‐
nance or repair.
Maintain a safety distance.
Protect the battery from heat and fire.
Do not immerse the battery in liquids.
Observe the permissible temperature
range for the battery.
4.2 Intended Use
The STIHL RMA 443.2 VC, RMA 443.2 PV,
RMA 448.2 VC or RMA 448.2 PV lawn mower is
used to mow dry grass.
The lawn mower is supplied with power by a
STIHL AP battery.
The battery with allows personalisation and
transmission of information to the battery in com‐
bination with the STIHL connected app on the
basis of Bluetooth® technology.
4 Safety Precautions English
0478-131-9948-D 29

WARNING
■ Batteries not approved by STIHL for the lawn
mower may cause fires and explosions. This
may result in serious or fatal injury to people
and damage to property.
►Use the lawn mower with a STIHL AP bat‐
tery.
■ Failure to use the lawn mower or battery as
intended may result in serious or fatal injury to
people and damage to property.
►Use the lawn mower as described in this
instruction manual.
► Use the battery as described in this instruc‐
tion manual, the STIHL connected app and
at www.connect.stihl.com.
4.3 Requirements for the User
WARNING
■ Uninstructed users cannot recognise or evalu‐
ate the dangers posed by the lawn mower and
battery. This may result in serious or fatal
injury to the user or other people.
► Read, understand and keep the
instruction manual.
► If passing on the lawn mower or battery to
another person: provide them with the
instruction manual also.
►Make sure that the user meets the following
conditions:
–The user is rested.
–The user is physically, sensorily and
mentally capable of operating the lawn
mower and battery and working with
them. If the user is physically, sensorily
or mentally impaired, the machine must
only be used under supervision or fol‐
lowing instruction by a responsible per‐
son.
–The user can recognise and evaluate
the dangers posed by the lawn mower
and battery.
–The user is aware that they are respon‐
sible for accidents and damage.
–The user is of legal age or the user is
being trained under supervision in a
profession in accordance with national
regulations.
–The user has received instruction from a
STIHL specialist dealer or a competent
person before using the lawn mower for
the first time.
–The user is not impaired by alcohol,
medicines or drugs.
► If anything is unclear: consult a STIHL spe‐
cialist dealer.
4.4 Clothing and Equipment
WARNING
■ Objects may be thrown up at high velocity
while working. This may result in injury to the
user.
►Wear long trousers made from resistant
material.
■ Dust may be stirred up while working. Breath‐
ing in dust may be harmful to health and
cause allergic reactions.
►If dust is stirred up: wear a dust mask.
■ Unsuitable clothing may get caught on wood,
briars and in the lawn mower. This may result
in serious injury to the user.
►Wear close-fitting clothing.
► Remove scarves and jewellery.
■ The user may come into contact with the blade
during cleaning, maintenance or transport.
This may result in injury to the user.
►Wear protective gloves.
■ Wearing unsuitable footwear may cause the
user to slip. This may result in injury to the
user.
►Wear sturdy, closed-toed footwear with
high-grip soles.
■ Material particles may be expelled when
sharpening the blade. This may result in injury
to the user.
►Wear close-fitting safety glasses. Suitable
safety glasses are tested in accordance
with EN 166 or national regulations and
available commercially with the correspond‐
ing marking.
►Wear protective gloves.
4.5 Work Area and Surroundings
4.5.1 Lawn Mower
WARNING
■Bystanding people, children and animals can‐
not recognise or evaluate the dangers posed
by the lawn mower and objects expelled at
high speed by the mower. This may result in
serious injury to bystanding people, children
and animals and damage to property.
► Keep bystanding people, children
and animals out of the work area.
► Maintain a safety distance from objects.
English 4 Safety Precautions
30 0478-131-9948-D

► Do not leave the lawn mower unattended.
► Make sure that children cannot play with
the lawn mower.
■ Working in the rain may cause the user to slip.
This may result in serious or fatal injury to the
user.
►Do not work when it is raining.
■ The lawn mower is not waterproof. Working in
the rain or in a damp environment may result
in electric shock. This may result in injury to
the user and damage to the lawn mower.
►Do not work in the rain or in a damp envi‐
ronment.
► Do not mow wet grass.
■ Electrical components of the lawn mower may
produce sparks. Sparks may cause fires and
explosions in highly flammable or explosive
environments. This may result in serious or
fatal injury to people and damage to property.
►Do not work in a highly flammable or explo‐
sive environment.
4.5.2 Battery
WARNING
■ Bystanders, children and animals cannot rec‐
ognize or assess the dangers of the battery.
Bystanders, children and animals may be seri‐
ously injured.
►Keep bystanders, children and animals
away from the work area.
► Do not leave the battery unattended.
► Make sure that children cannot play with
the battery.
■ The battery is not protected against all ambi‐
ent conditions. If the battery is exposed to cer‐
tain ambient conditions, the battery may catch
fire, explode or be irreparably damaged. This
may result in serious injury to people and
damage to property.
► Protect battery from heat and fire.
► Do not throw the battery into a fire.
► Use and store the battery at temper‐
atures between ‑ 10 °C and + 50 °C.
► Do not immerse the battery in fluids.
► Keep battery away from small metal parts.
► Do not expose the battery to high pressure.
► Do not expose the battery to microwaves.
► Protect the battery from chemicals and
salts.
4.6 Safe Condition
4.6.1 Lawn Mower
The lawn mower is in safe condition when the
following conditions are met:
–The lawn mower is undamaged.
–The lawn mower is clean and dry.
–The controls are working and have not been
modified.
–The blade is correctly attached.
–Genuine STIHL accessories for this lawn
mower are attached.
–The accessories are correctly attached.
WARNING
■ If not in safe condition, components may no
longer operate correctly and safety devices
may be disabled. This may result in serous or
fatal injury to people.
►Do not use a damaged lawn mower.
► If the lawn mower is dirty or wet: clean the
lawn mower and allow it to dry.
► Do not modify the lawn mower.
► If the controls are not working: do not use
the lawn mower.
► Attach genuine STIHL accessories for this
lawn mower.
► Attach the blade as described in this
instruction manual.
► Attach accessories as described in this
instruction manual or in the instruction man‐
ual for the accessories.
►Do not insert objects into the apertures in
the lawn mower.
► Never connect the key receptacle terminals
to metallic objects and cause a short circuit.
► Replace worn or damaged warning signs.
► If anything is unclear: consult a STIHL spe‐
cialist dealer.
4.6.2 Blade
The blade is in safe condition when the following
conditions are met:
–The blade and attachments are undamaged.
–The blade is not deformed.
–The blade is correctly attached.
–The blade is correctly sharpened.
–The blade is burr-free.
–The blade is correctly balanced.
–The minimum thickness and minimum width of
the blade are not fallen below, 22.2.
–The sharpening angle is observed, 22.2.
4 Safety Precautions English
0478-131-9948-D 31

WARNING
■ In unsafe condition, blade parts may come
loose and be expelled. This may result in seri‐
ous injury to people.
►Use an undamaged blade and attachments.
► Attach the blade correctly.
► Sharpen the blade correctly.
► If the minimum thickness or minimum width
is fallen below: replace the blade.
► Have the blade balanced by a STIHL spe‐
cialist dealer.
► If anything is unclear: consult a STIHL spe‐
cialist dealer.
4.6.3 Battery
The battery is in safe condition when the follow‐
ing conditions are met:
–The battery is not damaged.
–The battery is clean and dry.
–The battery is working and has not been modi‐
fied.
WARNING
■ The battery cannot function safely if it is not in
safe condition. There is a risk of serious injury
to persons.
►Use an undamaged and functioning battery.
► Do not charge a damaged or defective bat‐
tery.
► If the battery is dirty or wet: clean the bat‐
tery and allow it to dry.
► Do not modify the battery.
► Do not insert objects into the apertures in
the battery.
► Never connect the battery terminals to met‐
allic objects and cause a short circuit.
► Do not open the battery.
► Replace worn or damaged warning signs.
■ Fluid may leak from a damaged battery. If the
fluid contacts the skin or eyes, this may cause
irritation.
►Avoid contact with the fluid.
► In the event of contact with the skin: wash
the affected areas with plenty of soap and
water.
►In the event of contact with the eyes: rinse
the eyes with plenty of water for at least 15
minutes and seek medical attention.
■A damaged or defective battery may emit an
unusual odour, smoke or catch fire. This may
result in serious or fatal injury to people and
damage to property.
►If the battery emits an unusual odour or
smoke: do not use the battery and keep it
away from flammable materials.
►If the battery catches fire: try to extinguish
the battery using a fire extinguisher or
water.
4.7 Working
WARNING
■In certain situations, the user may no longer
be able to concentrate on their work. This may
result in the user stumbling, falling and becom‐
ing seriously injured.
►Work calmly and carefully.
► If the light and visibility conditions are poor:
do not use the lawn mower.
► Operate the lawn mower alone.
► Watch out for obstacles.
► Do not tilt the lawn mower.
► Work standing on the ground and maintain
balance.
► If signs of fatigue occur: take a break.
► If mowing on a slope: mow across the
slope.
► Do not work on slopes with an inclination
greater than 25° (46.6%).
■ The turning blade may cut the user. This may
result in serious injury to the user.
► Do not touch a turning blade.
► If the blade is blocked by an object:
switch the lawn mower off, pull out
the activation key and remove the
battery. Only then remove the object.
■If working without self-propulsion when mow‐
ing, self-propulsion may unintentionally be
engaged and the lawn mower may start mov‐
ing. This may result in serious injury to people
and damage to property.
►Only press the control bar for self-propul‐
sion if self-propulsion is to be engaged.
■ If the lawn mower changes or starts to behave
differently when working, it may not be in safe
condition. This may result in serious injury to
people and damage to property.
►Stop working, pull out the activation key,
remove the battery and consult a STIHL
specialist dealer.
■The lawn mower may cause vibrations when
working.
► Wear gloves.
► Take breaks.
► If signs of a circulatory disturbance occur:
consult a doctor.
■ If the blade hits a foreign object when working,
the foreign object or parts of it may be dam‐
aged or thrown up at high velocity. This may
result in injury to people and damage to prop‐
erty.
English 4 Safety Precautions
32 0478-131-9948-D

► Remove foreign objects from the work area.
■ When the control bar for mowing is released,
the blade continues to turn for a short time.
This may result in serious injury to people.
►Wait until the blade is no longer turning.
■ Sparks may be produced if the turning blade
hits a hard object. Sparks may cause fires in
highly flammable environments. This may
result in serious or fatal injury to people and
damage to property.
►Do not work in a highly flammable environ‐
ment.
■ If the lawn mower is stopped on a sloping sur‐
face, it may unintentionally roll away. This may
result in injury to people and damage to prop‐
erty.
►Only let go of the lawn mower if it is on a
level surface and cannot roll away by itself.
■ If objects are attached to the handlebar, the
additional weight may cause the lawn mower
to tip over. This may result in injury to people
and damage to property.
►Do not attach objects to the handlebar.
DANGER
■ If working near live wires, the blade may come
into contact with the live wires and damage
them. This may result in serious or fatal injury
to the user.
►Do not work near live wires.
■ The user may be struck by lighting if working
during a thunderstorm. This may result in seri‐
ous or fatal injury to the user.
►Do not work during thunderstorms.
4.8 Transporting
4.8.1 Lawn Mower
WARNING
■The lawn mower may tip over or move during
transport. This may result in injury to people
and damage to property.
► Pull out the activation key.
► Remove the battery.
► Secure the lawn mower with lashing straps,
belts or a net so it cannot tip over and
move.
■If the activation key and battery are inserted
during transport with self-propulsion disen‐
gaged, self-propulsion may unintentionally be
engaged and the lawn mower may start mov‐
ing. This may result in serious injury to people
and damage to property.
► Pull out the activation key.
► Remove the battery.
4.8.2 Battery
WARNING
■ The battery is not protected against all ambi‐
ent conditions. The battery may be damaged if
it is exposed to certain ambient conditions,
and damage to property may occur.
►Never transport a damaged battery.
■ The battery may turn over or shift during trans‐
port. This may result in injury to people and
damage to property.
►Pack the battery in packaging in such a way
that it cannot move.
► Secure the packaging so that it cannot
move.
4.9 Storing
4.9.1 Lawn Mower
WARNING
■Children cannot recognise or evaluate the
dangers posed by the lawn mower. There is a
risk of serious injury to children.
► Pull out the activation key.
► Remove the battery.
► Keep the lawn mower out of reach of chil‐
dren.
■ Moisture may cause corrosion to the electrical
contacts on the lawn mower and metal compo‐
nents. This may result in damage to the lawn
mower.
► Pull out the activation key.
► Remove the battery.
4 Safety Precautions English
0478-131-9948-D 33

► Keep the lawn mower clean and dry.
■ If the activation key and battery are inserted
during storage, the blade and self-propulsion
may unintentionally be engaged and the lawn
mower may start moving. This may result in
serious injury to people and damage to prop‐
erty.
► Pull out the activation key.
► Remove the battery.
■ If the lawn mower is kept on a sloping surface,
it may unintentionally roll away. This may
result in injury to people and damage to prop‐
erty.
►The lawn mower should only be kept on
level surfaces.
4.9.2 Battery
WARNING
■ Children cannot recognise or evaluate the
dangers posed by batteries. There is a risk of
serious injury to children.
►Keep the battery out of reach of children.
■ The battery is not protected against all ambi‐
ent conditions. If exposed to certain ambient
conditions, the battery may be irreparably
damaged.
►Keep the battery clean and dry.
► Store the battery in a closed room.
► Store the battery separately from the lawn
mower.
► If the battery is stored in the charger: dis‐
connect the mains plug and store the bat‐
tery at a charge state between 40% and
60% (2 LEDs illuminated green).
►Use and store the battery at temperatures
between - 10 °C and + 50 °C.
4.10 Cleaning, Maintenance and
Repair
WARNING
■If the activation key and battery are inserted
during cleaning, maintenance or repair, the
blade may unintentionally be activated. This
may result in serious injury to people and
damage to property.
► Pull out the activation key.
► Remove the battery.
■ If the activation key and battery are inserted
during cleaning, maintenance and repair, self-
propulsion may unintentionally be engaged
and the lawn mower may start moving. This
may result in serious injury to people and
damage to property.
► Pull out the activation key.
► Remove the battery.
■ Abrasive cleaning agents, using a water jet for
cleaning or sharp objects may result in dam‐
age to the lawn mower, blade and battery. If
the lawn mower, blade and battery are not
cleaned correctly, components may no longer
operate correctly and safety devices may be
disabled. This may result in serious injury to
people.
► Clean the lawn mower, blade and battery
as described in this instruction manual.
■ If the lawn mower, blade or battery are not
maintained or repaired correctly, components
may no longer operate correctly and safety
devices may be disabled. This may result in
serous or fatal injury to people.
►Do not maintain or repair the lawn mower or
battery yourself.
► If the lawn mower or battery need to be
maintained or repaired: consult a STIHL
specialist dealer.
►Maintain the blade as described in this
instruction manual.
■ The user may cut themselves on sharp cutting
edges during blade cleaning, maintenance or
repair. This may result in injury to the user.
►Wear work gloves made from resistant
material.
■ The blade may become hot during sharpening.
This may result in the user burning them‐
selves.
►Wait until the blade has cooled down.
► Wear work gloves made from resistant
material.
English 4 Safety Precautions
34 0478-131-9948-D

5 Preparing the Lawn Mower
for Operation
5.1 Preparing the Lawn Mower for
Operation
The following steps must be performed before
commencing work:
► Remove packaging material and transport
locks.
► Make sure that the following components are
in safe condition:
–Lawn mower, 4.6.1.
–Blade, 4.6.2.
–Battery, 4.6.3.
►Check the battery, 13.3.
►Fully charge the battery, 6.1.
►Clean the lawn mower, 18.2.
►Check the blade, 13.2.
►Attach the handlebar, 8.1.
►Fold up and adjust the handlebar, 9.1.
► If mowing and the mown grass is to be collec‐
ted in the grass catcher box: attach the grass
catcher box, 8.2.2.
► If mowing and the mown grass is to be ejected
to the rear: detach the grass catcher box,
8.2.3.
►Set the cutting height, 14.2.
►Check the controls, 13.1.
► If the steps cannot be performed: do not use
the lawn mower and consult a STIHL special‐
ist dealer.
5.2 Connecting a battery with Blue‐
tooth® radio interface with the
STIHL connected app
►Activate the Bluetooth® radio interface on the
mobile device.
►Activating the Bluetooth® radio interface on
the battery, 7.1.
► Download the STIHL connected app to the
mobile device from the App Store and create
an account.
► Open and sign in to the STIHL connected app.
► Add the battery in the STIHL connected app
and follow the instructions on the screen.
For contacts and other information, please visit
https://support.stihl.com or see the STIHL con‐
nected app.
The STIHL connected app is available interna‐
tionally.
6 Charging the Battery, LEDs
6.1 Charging the Battery
The charging time depends on various factors,
e.g. the battery temperature or the ambient tem‐
perature. The actual charging time may vary
from the charging time indicated. The charging
time is indicated at www.stihl.com/charging-
times.
► Recharge the battery as described in the User
Manual for the STIHL AL 101, 301, 301-4, 500
chargers.
6.2 Displaying the Charge State
► Press button (1).
The LEDs illuminate green for approx. 5 sec‐
onds to indicate the charge state.
► If the right LED flashes green: charge the bat‐
tery.
6.3 LEDs on Battery
The LEDs can show the state of charge or mal‐
functions. The LEDs can glow or flash green or
red.
The state of charge is indicated when the LEDs
glow or flash green.
► If the LEDs glow or flash red: Troubleshooting,
21.1.
There is a malfunction in the mower or battery.
7 Activating and Deactivating
Bluetooth® Radio Interface
7.1 Activating the Bluetooth® Radio
Interface
►If the battery has a Bluetooth® radio interface:
Press and hold the pushbutton until the
"BLUETOOTH®" LED next to the symbol
lights up blue for approximately 3 seconds.
The Bluetooth® radio interface on the battery
is activated.
5 Preparing the Lawn Mower for Operation English
0478-131-9948-D 35

7.2 Deactivating the Bluetooth®
Radio Interface
►If the battery has a Bluetooth® radio interface:
Press and hold the pushbutton until the
"BLUETOOTH®" LED next to the symbol
lights up blue six times.
The Bluetooth® radio interface on the battery
is deactivated.
8 Assembling the Lawn
Mower
8.1 Attaching the Handlebar
► Switch the lawn mower off, pull out the activa‐
tion key and remove the battery.
► Place the lawn mower on a level surface.
► Press sleeve (1) into the bores in upper han‐
dlebar (2).
► Fit spring washers (3) with the convex side
facing inwards onto sleeve (1).
► Guide upper handlebar (2) into handlebar
bracket (4).
► Push bolt (5) through the bores in handlebar
bracket (4) and the sleeve in upper handle‐
bar (2).
► Place nut (6) in the notch in handlebar
bracket (4).
► Tighten bolt (5).
► Press cable (7) into holders (8).
► Fasten cable (7) to the handlebar using cable
clip (9).
The handlebar must not be dismantled again.
8.2 Assembling, Attaching and
Detaching the Grass Catcher
Box
8.2.1 Assembling the Grass Catcher Box
► Fit upper part of grass catcher box (1) onto
lower part of grass catcher box (2).
► Press pins (3) through openings (4) from the
inside.
► Press upper part of grass catcher box (1)
downwards.
The upper part of the grass catcher box
engages with a click.
8.2.2 Attaching the Grass Catcher Box
► Switch the lawn mower off.
► Place the lawn mower on a level surface.
► Open discharge flap (1) and hold it open.
English 8 Assembling the Lawn Mower
36 0478-131-9948-D

► Take hold of grass catcher box (2) by han‐
dle (3) and attach to mounts (5) using
hooks (4).
► Set down discharge flap (1) on grass catcher
box (2).
8.2.3 Detaching the Grass Catcher Box
► Switch the lawn mower off.
► Place the lawn mower on a level surface.
► Open the discharge flap and hold it open.
► Remove the grass catcher box upwards by the
handle.
► Close the discharge flap.
9 Adjusting the Lawn Mower
for the User
9.1 Adjusting the Handlebar
► Switch the lawn mower off, pull out the activa‐
tion key and remove the battery.
► Place the lawn mower on a level surface.
► Hold handlebar (1).
► Press lever (2) downwards and hold.
► Move handlebar (1) into the desired position.
► Release lever(2) and ensure that the handle‐
bar fully engages again.
9.2 Folding the Handlebar
The handlebar can be folded for space-saving
transport or storage.
► Switch the lawn mower off, pull out the activa‐
tion key and remove the battery.
► Place the lawn mower on a level surface.
► Press and hold the lever.
► Fold down the handlebar forwards.
10 Removing and Fitting the
Battery
10.1 Fitting the Battery
RMA 443 PV and RMA 448 PV:
The RMA 443 PV and RMA 448 PV lawn mow‐
ers can be operated with two batteries. As soon
as the battery in the first battery compartment (3)
is discharged, the machine automatically
switches to the battery in the second battery
compartment (4). There must always be a bat‐
tery in the first battery compartment (3) when
working.
RMA 443 VC and RMA 448 VC:
The RMA 443 VC and RMA 448 VC lawn mow‐
ers are equipped with a battery compartment (3)
and a transport compartment (4). The lawn mow‐
ers can only be operated with the battery in bat‐
tery compartment (3). A replacement battery can
be carried in transport compartment (4).
► Open flap (1) as far as the stop and hold.
► Push battery (2) into battery compartment (3)
as far as it will go.
Battery (2) engages with a click and is locked
in place.
► If a second battery is to be carried: fit the bat‐
tery in battery compartment (4) or transport
compartment (4).
The battery engages with a click and is locked
in place.
► Close flap (1).
10.2 Removing the Battery
► Place the lawn mower on a level surface.
► Open flap (1) as far as the stop and hold.
9 Adjusting the Lawn Mower for the User English
0478-131-9948-D 37

► Press locking lever (2).
Battery (3) is released.
► Remove battery (3).
► Close flap (1).
11 Inserting and Removing
the Activation Key
11.1 Inserting the Activation Key
► Open flap (1) as far as the stop and hold.
► Insert activation key (2) in key receptacle (3).
► Close flap (1).
11.2 Removing the Activation Key
► Open the flap as far as the stop and hold.
► Pull out the activation key.
► Close the flap.
► Keep the activation key out of the reach of
children.
12 Switching the Lawn Mower
On and Off
12.1 Activating and Deactivating the
Blade
12.1.1 Activating the Blade
► Place the lawn mower on a level surface.
► Press locking button (1) with the right hand
and hold.
► Pull control bar for mowing (2) with the left
hand fully in the direction of handlebar (3) and
hold so the thumb encloses handlebar (3).
The blade turns.
► Release locking button (1).
► Hold handlebar (3) and control bar for mow‐
ing (2) with the right hand so the thumb enclo‐
ses handlebar (3).
12.1.2 Deactivating the Blade
► Release the control bar for mowing.
► Wait until the blade is no longer turning.
► If the blade continues to turn: pull out the acti‐
vation key, remove the battery and consult a
STIHL specialist dealer.
The lawn mower is defective.
12.2 Switching the Drive On and Off
12.2.1 Engaging Self-propulsion
The lever can be used to preselect the maximum
possible driving speed in five stages. Pushing
the lever towards increases the maximum
possible driving speed, pushing it towards
reduces it. Self-propulsion is disengaged in the
position.
The control bar for self-propulsion can be used to
continuously regulate the speed from 2.0 km/h
up to the preselected maximum speed. The fur‐
ther the control bar for self-propulsion is pulled
towards the handlebar, the higher the speed,
22.1.
The set speed influences the battery life. The
lower the speed, the longer the battery life.
► Place the lawn mower on a level surface.
► Activate the blade.
English 11 Inserting and Removing the Activation Key
38 0478-131-9948-D

► Move lever (1) to the desired position.
► Pull control bar for self-propulsion (2) fully in
the direction of handlebar (3) and hold so the
thumb encloses handlebar (2).
The lawn mower starts moving.
12.2.2 Deactivating Drive System
► Release the control bar for self-propulsion.
► Wait until the mower comes to a standstill.
► If the mower does not stop: Pull out the activa‐
tion key, remove the battery and consult a
STIHL specialist dealer for assistance.
There is a malfunction in the mower.
13 Checking the Lawn Mower
and Battery
13.1 Checking the Controls
Lockout button and switch lever for blade drive
► Pull out the activation key.
► Remove the battery.
► Depress the lockout button and release it
again.
► Pull the switch lever for blade drive fully in
direction of handle and release it again.
► If the lockout button or switch lever for blade
drive is stiff or does not spring back to the idle
position: Do not use your mower and contact
your STIHL servicing dealer for assistance.
There is a malfunction in the lockout button or
switch lever.
Switch lever for wheel drive
► Pull out the activation key.
► Remove the battery.
► Pull the switch lever for wheel drive fully in
direction of handle and release it again.
► If the switch lever for wheel drive is stiff or
does not spring back to its idle position: Do not
use your mower and contact your STIHL serv‐
icing dealer for assistance.
There is a malfunction in the switch lever for
wheel drive.
Lever
► Pull out the activation key.
► Remove the battery.
►Move lever to , and then to .
► If the lever moves too freely: Do not use your
mower and contact your STIHL servicing
dealer for assistance.
The lever is defective.
Switching on the mower
► Insert the activation key.
► Fit the battery.
► Depress the lockout button with your right
hand and hold it there.
► Pull the switch lever for blade drive fully in
direction of the handle with your left hand and
hold it so that your thumb is wrapped around
the handle.
The blade rotates.
► If 3 LEDs flash red: Remove the activation key
and battery, and contact your STIHL servicing
dealer for assistance.
There is a malfunction in the mower.
► Release lockout button and switch lever for
blade drive.
The blade stops rotating after a brief delay.
► If the blade continues to rotate: Remove the
activation key and battery, and contact your
STIHL servicing dealer for assistance.
There is a malfunction in the mower.
Switching on wheel drive
► Insert the activation key.
► Fit the battery.
► Pull the switch lever for wheel drive fully in
direction of the handle and hold it so that your
thumb is wrapped around the handle.
The mower begins to move forwards.
► Release the switch lever for wheel drive.
The mower comes to a standstill.
► If the mower does not stop: Remove the bat‐
tery and contact your STIHL dealer for assis‐
tance.
There is a malfunction in the mower.
13.2 Checking the Blade
► Switch the lawn mower off, pull out the activa‐
tion key and remove the battery.
►Upend the lawn mower, 18.1.
13 Checking the Lawn Mower and Battery English
0478-131-9948-D 39

► Measure the following:
–Thickness a
–Width b
–Sharpening angle c
► If the minimum thickness or minimum width
are fallen below: replace the blade, 22.2.
► If the sharpening angle is not observed:
sharpen the blade, 22.2.
► If anything is unclear: consult a STIHL special‐
ist dealer.
13.3 Testing the Battery
► Press button on battery.
The LEDs glow or flash.
► If the LEDs do not glow or flash: Do not use
the battery and contact your STIHL servicing
dealer.
There is a malfunction in the battery.
14 Operating the Lawn Mower
14.1 Holding and Guiding the Lawn
Mower
► Hold the handlebar with both hands so the
thumbs enclose the handlebar.
14.2 Adjusting the Cutting Height
Six cutting heights can be set:
–25 mm = position 1
–30 mm = position 2
–40 mm = position 3
–50 mm = position 4
–60 mm = position 5
–75 mm = position 6
The positions are indicated on the lawn mower.
► Hold the lawn mower at handle (1).
► Press and hold lever (2).
► Move the lawn mower to the desired position
by raising and lowering the lever.
The current cutting height can be read off at
cutting height indicator (3) by means of mark‐
ing (4).
► Release lever (2).
The lawn mower engages.
14.3 Activating ECO Mode
When ECO mode is activated, the lawn mower
detects the current working conditions and
adjusts the blade speed automatically.
This may extend the battery life.
► Open flap (1) as far as the stop and hold.
► Set ECO switch (2) to the I position.
► Close flap (1).
English 14 Operating the Lawn Mower
40 0478-131-9948-D

14.4 Mowing
► If working with self-propulsion engaged: drive
the lawn mower forwards in a controlled man‐
ner.
► If working with self-propulsion disengaged:
push the lawn mower forwards slowly and in a
controlled manner.
14.5 Emptying the Grass Catcher
Box
The flow of air generated by the blade raises
level indicator (1). The flow of air stops when the
grass catcher box is full. If the flow of air is too
low, level indicator (2) returns to its resting state.
This is a prompt to empty the grass catcher box.
The functionality of the level indicator is restric‐
ted if the flow of air is impaired. External influen‐
ces such as wet, dense or high grass, low cutting
levels, contamination or the like can impair the
flow of air and the functionality of the level indica‐
tor.
► If the level indicator drops to its resting state:
empty the grass catcher box.
► Switch the lawn mower off.
►Set driving speed lever (1) to the position.
► Detach the grass catcher box.
► Open tab (1).
► Open upper part of grass catcher box (2) by
handle (3) and hold.
► Hold lower handle (4) with the second hand.
► Empty the grass catcher box.
► Close the grass catcher box.
► Attach the grass catcher box.
15 After Finishing Work
15.1 After Finishing Work
► Switch off the mower, remove the activation
key and battery.
► If the mower is wet: Allow the mower to dry.
► If the battery is wet: Allow the battery to dry.
► Clean the mower.
► Clean the battery.
16 Transporting
16.1 Transporting the Lawn Mower
► Switch the lawn mower off.
The blade must not be turning.
► Pull out the activation key and remove the bat‐
tery.
Pushing the lawn mower
► Push the lawn mower forwards slowly and in a
controlled manner.
Carrying the lawn mower
► Wear work gloves made from resistant mate‐
rial.
15 After Finishing Work English
0478-131-9948-D 41

► If the lawn mower is being carried by two peo‐
ple:
► One person holds the lawn mower by trans‐
port handle (1) using both hands and
another person holds handlebar (2) using
both hands.
► The lawn mower must be lifted and carried
by two people.
► If the lawn mower is being carried by one per‐
son:
► Fold down the handlebar.
► Hold the lawn mower with one hand on
transport handle (1) and the other hand on
handle (2).
► Lift and carry the lawn mower.
Transporting the lawn mower in a vehicle
► Secure the lawn mower upright so that the
lawn mower does not tip over and cannot
move.
16.2 Transporting the Battery
► Switch the lawn mower off and remove the
battery.
► Make sure that the battery is in safe condition.
► Pack the battery in such a way that it cannot
move in the packaging.
► Secure the packaging so it cannot move.
The battery is subject to the requirements for
transporting hazardous goods. The battery is
classed as a UN 3480 (lithium-ion battery) and
has been tested in accordance with the UN Man‐
ual of Tests and Criteria, Part III, subsection
38.3.
Please refer to www.stihl.com/safety-data-sheets
for transport instructions.
17 Storing
17.1 Storing the Lawn Mower
► Switch the lawn mower off, pull out the activa‐
tion key and remove the battery.
► Store the lawn mower in accordance with the
following conditions:
–The lawn mower is out of reach of children.
–The lawn mower is clean and dry.
–The lawn mower cannot tip over.
–The lawn mower cannot roll away.
17.2 Storing the Battery
STIHL recommends storing the battery at a
charge state between 40% and 60% (2 LEDs illu‐
minated green).
► Store the battery in accordance with the fol‐
lowing conditions:
–The battery is out of reach of children.
–The battery is clean and dry.
–The battery is in a closed room.
–The battery is separate from the lawn
mower.
–If the battery is stored in the charger: dis‐
connect the mains plug and store the bat‐
tery at a charge state between 40% and
60% (2 LEDs illuminated green).
–The battery is in the temperature range
between ‑ 10 °C and + 50 °C.
NOTICE
■ If the battery is not stored as described in this
instruction manual, the battery may become
deeply discharged and irreparably damaged.
►Charge a discharged battery before storing
it. STIHL recommends storing the battery at
a charge state between 40% and 60% (2
LEDs illuminated green).
►Store the battery separately from the lawn
mower.
18 Cleaning
18.1 Placing the Lawn Mower in the
Cleaning Position
► Switch the lawn mower off, pull out the activa‐
tion key and remove the battery.
► Place the lawn mower on a level surface.
► Detach the grass catcher box.
►Set the cutting height to the highest setting.
14.2
► Move the upper handlebar to the lowest posi‐
tion, 9.1.
English 17 Storing
42 0478-131-9948-D

► Press lever (1) downwards with the left hand
and hold.
► Hold the lawn mower at transport handle (2)
with the right hand and upend.
18.2 Cleaning the Lawn Mower
► Switch the lawn mower off, pull out the activa‐
tion key and remove the battery.
► Clean the lawn mower with a damp cloth.
► Clean the discharge chute with a soft brush or
a damp cloth.
► Remove any foreign bodies from the battery
compartment and clean the battery compart‐
ment with a damp cloth.
► Clean the electric contacts in the battery com‐
partment with a paintbrush or a soft brush.
► Clean the ventilation slots with a paintbrush.
► Upend the lawn mower.
► Clean the area around the blade and the blade
with a stick, a soft brush or a damp cloth.
18.3 Cleaning the Battery
► Clean the battery with a damp cloth.
19 Maintenance
19.1 Removing and Attaching the
Blade
19.1.1 Removing the Blade
► Switch the lawn mower off, pull out the activa‐
tion key and remove the battery.
► Upend the lawn mower.
► Block blade (1) using a piece of wood (2).
► Unscrew screw (3) in the direction of the arrow
and remove together with washer (4).
► Remove blade (1).
► Discard screw (3) and washer (4).
Use a new screw and washer to attach
blade (1).
19.1.2 Attaching the Blade
► Switch the lawn mower off, pull out the activa‐
tion key and remove the battery.
► Upend the lawn mower.
► Lay new washer (1) on new screw (2) with the
convex side facing outwards.
► Apply Loctite 243 thread locker to the thread
of screw (2).
► Position blade (3) so that the raised areas on
contact area (4) engage in notches (5).
► Screw in screw (2) together with washer (1).
► Block blade (1) using a piece of wood (2).
► Tighten screw (3) to 65 Nm.
19.2 Sharpening and Balancing the
Blade
Sharpening and balancing the blade correctly
requires a lot of practice.
STIHL recommends having the blade sharpened
and balanced by a STIHL specialist dealer.
WARNING
■ The cutting edges of the blade are sharp. This
may result in the user cutting themselves.
► Wear work gloves made from resistant
material.
► Switch the lawn mower off, pull out the activa‐
tion key and remove the battery.
► Upend the lawn mower.
► Remove the blade.
► Sharpen the blade. Observe the sharpening
angle and cool the blade, 22.2.
Bluing of the blade during sharpening is not
permitted.
► Attach the blade.
19 Maintenance English
0478-131-9948-D 43

► If anything is unclear: consult a STIHL special‐
ist dealer.
20 Repairing
20.1 Repairing the Mower and Bat‐
tery
The mower, blade and battery cannot be
repaired by the user.
► If the mower or the blade is damaged: Do not
use your mower and contact your STIHL serv‐
icing dealer for assistance.
► If the battery has a malfunction or is damaged:
Replace the battery.
► If safety labels are illegible or damaged: Have
the labels replaced by a STIHL servicing
dealer.
21 Troubleshooting
21.1 Remedying Lawn Mower or Battery Faults
Fault LEDs on the
battery Cause Remedy
The lawn mower
does not start
when switched
on.
1 LED flashes
green. The battery charge state is too low. ► Charge the battery.
1 LED illumina‐
tes red. The battery is too warm or too cold. ► Pull out the activation key. ► Remove the battery.
► Allow the battery to cool down or warm
up.
3 LEDs flash
red. There is a fault in the lawn mower. ► Pull out the activation key. ► Remove the battery.
► Clean the electric contacts in the battery
compartment.
► Fit the battery.
► Switch the lawn mower on.
► If 3 LEDs still flash red: do not use the
lawn mower and consult a STIHL spe‐
cialist dealer.
3 LEDs illumi‐
nate red. The lawn mower is too warm. ► Pull out the activation key. ► Remove the battery.
► Allow the lawn mower to cool down.
4 LEDs flash
red. There is a fault in the battery. ► Remove the battery and fit it again. ► Switch the lawn mower on.
► If 4 LEDs still flash red: do not use the
battery and consult a STIHL specialist
dealer.
The electrical connec‐
tion between the lawn
mower and battery
has been interrupted.
► Pull out the activation key.
► Remove the battery.
► Clean the electric contacts in the battery
compartment.
► Insert the activation key.
► Fit the battery.
The lawn mower or
battery is damp. ► Pull out the activation key. ► Remove the battery.
► Clean the lawn mower.
► Allow the lawn mower or battery to dry.
The resistance at the
blade is too great. ► Set a higher cutting height. ► Switch the lawn mower on in lower
grass.
The area around the
blade is blocked. ► Clean the lawn mower.
Self-propulsion is
not working. There is a fault in the self-propulsion
mechanism.
► Consult a STIHL specialist dealer.
English 20 Repairing
44 0478-131-9948-D