Stihl HT 56 C User manual

HT 56 C
Instruction Manual2 - 31

Contents
1 Guide to Using this Manual.........................2
2 Safety Precautions and Working Techni‐
ques............................................................ 3
3 Using the Unit............................................. 8
4 Assembling the Unit.................................. 10
5 Cutting Attachment................................... 11
6 Mounting the Bar and Chain..................... 11
7 Tensioning the Chain................................ 12
8 Checking Chain Tension...........................12
9 Fuel........................................................... 12
10 Fueling...................................................... 13
11 Chain Lubricant.........................................14
12 Filling Chain Oil Tank................................14
13 Checking Chain Lubrication...................... 16
14 Fitting the Harness....................................16
15 Starting / Stopping the Engine.................. 17
16 Transporting the Unit................................ 18
17 Operating Instructions...............................19
18 Taking Care of the Guide Bar................... 20
19 Cleaning the Air Filter............................... 21
20 Adjusting the Carburetor........................... 21
21 Spark Plug................................................ 21
22 Storing the Machine.................................. 22
23 Checking and Replacing the Chain
Sprocket....................................................23
24 Maintaining and Sharpening the Saw Chain
.................................................................. 23
25 Inspections and Maintenance by Dealer...27
26 Maintenance and Care..............................28
27 Main Parts.................................................29
28 Specifications............................................29
29 Maintenance and Repairs......................... 30
30 Disposal.................................................... 31
31 EC Declaration of Conformity................... 31
Dear Customer,
Thank you for choosing a quality engineered
STIHL product.
It has been built using modern production techni‐
ques and comprehensive quality assurance.
Every effort has been made to ensure your satis‐
faction and trouble-free use of the product.
Please contact your dealer or our sales company
if you have any queries concerning this product.
Your
Dr. Nikolas Stihl
1 Guide to Using this Manual
1.1 Pictograms
The meanings of the pictograms attached to the
machine are explained in this manual.
Depending on the model concerned, the follow‐
ing pictograms may be attached to your
machine.
Fuel tank; fuel mixture of gasoline
and engine oil
Chain oil tank; chain oil
Direction of chain rotation
Operate manual fuel pump
Manual fuel pump
1.2 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.
1.3 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 man‐
ual.
English
2 0458-555-8321-C
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG 2022
0458-555-8321-C. VA0.B22.
Printed on chlorine-free paper Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
Original Instruction Manual 0000007131_008_GB

2 Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
Special safety precautions must be
observed when working with the pole
pruner because it operates at a very
high chain speed, has very sharp cut‐
ters and a long reach.
Before commissioning, it is important
to read and understand the User
Manual and to keep it in a safe place
for future reference. Failure to
observe the User Manual may lead to
serious or even fatal injury.
Observe all applicable local safety regulations,
e.g., by employers' liability insurance associa‐
tions, social insurance systems, occupational
safety authorities, etc.
If you have never used a power tool before:
Have your dealer or other experienced user
show you how to operate your machine – or
attend a special course to learn how to operate
it.
Minors are not allowed to work with the power
tool – except adolescents above 16 years of age
who are instructed under supervision.
Children, animals and onlookers must remain at
a safe distance.
When not using the machine, it must be laid
down in such a way that it does not endanger
anyone. Ensure that the machine cannot be
used without authorization.
The user is responsible for accidents or risks
involving third parties or their property.
Do not lend or rent out your power tool without
the User Manual. Be sure that anyone using it
understands the information contained in this
manual.
The use of machines that emit noise may be limi‐
ted to certain hours of the day as specified by
national and/or regional or local regulations.
Anyone operating the machine must be well res‐
ted, in good physical health and in a good state
of mind.
If you have any condition that might be aggrava‐
ted by strenuous work, check with your doctor
before operating a machine.
If you have a pacemaker: The ignition system of
your machine produces an electromagnetic field
of very low intensity. This field may interfere with
some pacemakers. STIHL recommends that per‐
sons with pacemakers consult their physician
and the pacemaker manufacturer to minimize
any health risk.
Anyone who has consumed alcohol, medications
or drugs that impair their ability to react must not
operate a power tool.
Use your pole pruner for limbing only (removing
or pruning branches). Saw wood and wooden
objects only.
The machine must not be used for any other pur‐
poses – risk of accident!
Only use guide bars, saw chains, chain sprock‐
ets and accessories that are explicitly approved
for this power tool model by STIHL or are techni‐
cally identical. If you have any questions in this
respect, consult your dealer. Use only high-qual‐
ity parts and accessories. Otherwise, there may
be a risk of accidents and damage to the power
tool.
STIHL recommends the use of STIHL original
tools, guide bars, saw chains, chain sprockets
and accessories. They are specifically designed
to match the product and meet your performance
requirements.
Never attempt to modify your power tool in any
way since this may increase the risk of personal
injury. STIHL excludes all liability for personal
injury and damage to property caused while
using unauthorized attachments.
Do not use a high-pressure washer to clean the
power tool. The solid jet of water may damage
parts of the unit.
2.1 Clothing and Equipment
Wear proper protective clothing and equipment.
Clothing must be sturdy but allow
complete freedom of movement.
Wear close-fitting clothes such as a
boiler suit, not a loose jacket.
Do not wear clothing which could become trap‐
ped in wood, brush or moving parts of the
machine. Do not wear a scarf, necktie or jewelry.
Tie up and secure long hair above your should‐
ers.
Wear cut protection safety boots with
non-slip soles and steel toe caps.
2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques English
0458-555-8321-C 3

WARNING
To reduce the risk of eye injuries,
wear close-fitting safety glasses in
accordance with European Standard
EN 166. Make sure the safety
glasses are a snug fit.
Wear "personal" sound protection, e.g. ear
defenders.
Wear a safety hard hat where there is a danger
of head injuries from falling objects.
Wear sturdy protective gloves made
of a resistant material (e. g. leather).
STIHL offers a comprehensive range of personal
protective equipment.
2.2 Transporting the machine
275BA009 KN
Always stop the engine.
Always fit the chain scabbard – even when you
carry the power tool for short distances.
Ensure that the power tool is always well bal‐
anced and hold it by the shaft for carrying. Do
not touch hot parts of the machine, especially the
surface of the muffler – Risk of burns!
By vehicle: When transporting in a vehicle, prop‐
erly secure your machine to prevent turnover,
damage and fuel spillage.
2.3 Refueling
Gasoline is highly flammable – keep
away from fire or flame – do not spill
any fuel – no smoking.
Always shut off the engine before refueling.
Do not fuel a hot engine – fuel may spill and
cause a fire.
Open the fuel cap carefully to allow any pressure
build-up in the tank to release slowly and to pre‐
vent fuel spraying out.
Only refuel the machine in a well ventilated
place. If fuel has been spilled, immediately clean
the machine – do not allow your clothes to be
splashed with fuel. If that happens, change your
clothes at once.
After fueling, tighten down the screw-
type fuel cap as securely as possible.
This helps reduce the risk of unit vibrations caus‐
ing an incorrectly tightened fuel cap to loosen or
come off and spill quantities of fuel.
Check for leaks. Do not start the engine if there
is a fuel leak – serious or fatal burns could result!
2.4 Before starting
Check that your power tool is properly assem‐
bled and in good condition – refer to appropriate
chapters in the User Manual.
–Check the fuel system for leaks, especially the
visible parts, e. g., fuel cap, hose connections,
manual fuel pump (only in machines with a
manual fuel pump). In case of leakage and
damage, do not start the engine – risk of fire!
Have the machine serviced by a dealer before
using it
–Correctly mounted guide bar
–Correctly tensioned saw chain
–Slide control / stop switch must move easily to
STOP or 0
–Throttle trigger lockout (if installed) and throttle
trigger must move easily – the throttle trigger
must return to the idle position automatically
–Check that the spark plug boot is secure – a
loose boot may cause sparking that could
ignite combustible fumes and cause a fire!
–Never attempt to modify the controls or safety
devices.
–Keep the handles dry and clean – free from oil
and dirt – this is important for safe control of
the machine.
–Adjust the harness to suit your height and
reach. Observe the chapter "Fitting the Har‐
ness"
The power tool must only be operated when it is
in good operating condition – Risk of accident!
If you use a harness: Practice setting down the
machine quickly by removing the harness or by
unhooking the machine as you would in an emer‐
gency. To avoid damage, do not throw the
machine to the ground when practicing.
English 2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques
4 0458-555-8321-C

2.5 Starting the engine
Start the engine at least 3 meters from the refuel‐
ing spot and only outdoors.
Place the power tool on level ground in an open
area. Make sure you have good balance and
secure footing. Hold the power tool securely. The
chain must be clear of the ground and all other
obstructions because it may begin to run when
the engine starts.
Your power tool is designed to be operated by
one person only. Do not allow other persons
within a radius of 15 m of your own position –
even when starting the power tool – Risk of
injury!
Start the engine as described in the User Man‐
ual.
The saw chain continues running for a short
period when you release the throttle trigger – fly‐
wheel effect!
Check engine idling speed: The saw chain must
not move when the engine is idling – with the
throttle trigger released.
Keep easily flammable materials (e.g. wood
chips, bark, dry grass, fuel) away from the hot
exhaust gas flow and the hot muffler surface –
Risk of fire!
2.6 Holding and Guiding the Tool
390BA026 KN
Always hold the power tool firmly with both
hands – right hand on the control handle, left
hand on the drive tube – even if you are left-
handed. Wrap your thumbs firmly around the
control handle and shaft.
Machines with telescopic shaft: Extend the tele‐
scopic shaft only as far as the working height.
2.7 While Working
Make sure you always have a firm and secure
footing.
In the event of impending danger or in an emer‐
gency, switch off the engine immediately – move
the slide control/stop switch to STOP or 0.
This power tool is not insulated. Keep
at least 15 m away from electric
power lines – danger of fatal electric
shock!
15m (50ft)
15m (50ft)
Do not allow other persons within a radius of
15 m of your own position due to falling branches
and ejected wood particles – Risk of injury!
This distance must also be maintained in relation
to objects (vehicles, window panes) – risk of
property damage!
Keep the bar nose at least 15 m away from elec‐
tric power lines . Electric current may also arc
over from high-voltage cables at a greater dis‐
tance. Have the power switched off before start‐
ing work in the immediate vicinity of power lines.
To reduce the risk of injury, switch off the engine
before changing the saw chain!
Ensure that the engine idling speed is correct.
The saw chain must not move when the throttle
trigger has been released.
2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques English
0458-555-8321-C 5

It the saw chain continues moving, have the
machine repaired by your specialist dealer.
Check and correct the idle speed setting at regu‐
lar intervals.
Never leave a running machine unattended.
Take special care in slippery conditions – damp,
snow, ice, on slopes or uneven ground!
Watch out for obstacles: tree stumps, roots – risk
of tripping or stumbling!
2.7.1 When Working at Height:
–Always use a lift bucket
–Never use the machine while standing on a
ladder or in a tree
–never work on an unstable surface
–Never use the machine with just one hand
Be particularly alert and cautious when wearing
ear protection because your ability to hear warn‐
ings (shouts, alarms, etc.) is impaired.
Take breaks when you start getting tired or feel‐
ing fatigue – risk of accidents!
Work calmly and carefully – in daylight conditions
and only when visibility is good. Proceed with
caution, do not put others in danger.
As soon as the engine starts running,
the power tool generates toxic
exhaust gas. These gases may be
odorless and invisible and may con‐
tain unburned hydrocarbons and ben‐
zene. Never run the engine indoors or
in poorly ventilated locations, even if
your model is equipped with a cata‐
lytic converter.
To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury from
breathing toxic fumes, ensure proper ventilation
when working in trenches, hollows or other con‐
fined locations.
Stop work immediately if you start suffering from
nausea, headaches, impaired vision (e.g. your
field of vision gets smaller), impaired hearing,
dizziness, or impaired concentration – these
symptoms may possibly be the result of too-high
exhaust gas concentration – risk of accidents!
Operate your power tool in such a way that it
produces a minimum of noise and emissions –
do not run the engine unnecessarily, accelerate
the engine only when working.
To reduce the risk of fire, do not smoke while
operating or standing near your power tool. Com‐
bustible fuel vapor may escape from the fuel sys‐
tem.
Dust (e.g. sawdust), fumes and smoke, gener‐
ated while using the machine, may be hazardous
to health. Wear a dust mask in case of dust pro‐
duction.
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". Check in particular that the fuel
system has no leaks and the safety equipment is
fully operative. Never use a power tool that is no
longer safe to operate. In case of doubt, contact
a dealer.
If you use a harness, ensure that the exhaust
gas flow is diverted away from your body – Risk
of fire!
2.7.2 Delimbing
246BA030 KN
Hold the power tool at an angle. Do not stand
directly underneath the limb being cut. Do not
exceed an angle of 60° from the horizontal.
Watch for falling wood.
Keep the work area clear – remove interfering
limbs and brush.
Before sawing branches, establish an escape
route and remove all obstacles.
English 2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques
6 0458-555-8321-C

246BA032 KN
Position the housing against the branch and then
perform the cross-cut. This will prevent the
power tool from making jolting movements when
you start the separating cut.
Start the cut with the saw chain at full throttle.
Always cut with a correctly sharpened, properly
tensioned saw chain – the depth gauge setting
must not be too large.
Do not operate your power tool in the starting
throttle position – engine speed cannot be con‐
trolled in this position.
Perform cross-cut from the top downward to
avoid the chain pinching in the cut.
If branches are thick or heavy, make a relief cut –
see "Using the Pole Pruner".
Exercise extreme caution when sawing branches
under tension – Risk of injury! Always make a
relieving cut on the compression side first and
then perform the bucking cut at the tension side.
Be careful when cutting splintered wood – Risk of
injury from ejected pieces of wood!
If working on a slope, always stand uphill or to
the side of the branch which is to be sawn.
Watch out for rolling branches.
Note when reaching the end of a cut that the
power tool is no longer supported by the guide
bar in the cut. The user must bear the weight of
the machine – risk of loss of control!
Always pull the power tool out of the cut with the
saw chain running.
Use the power tool for limbing and pruning only,
not for felling – Risk of accidents!
Keep the saw chain away from any foreign
objects: Stones, nails, etc. may be ejected and
damage the saw chain.
If a rotating saw chain hits a stone or another
hard object, sparks may be generated which may
ignite easily flammable materials under certain
conditions. Dried-out plants and undergrowth are
combustible, especially in hot and dry weather. If
there is a risk of fire, do not use your pole pruner
near easily flammable materials, dry plants or
scrub. It is mandatory that you ask the responsi‐
ble forestry office about current fire hazards.
Before you leave the machine: Shut the engine
off.
2.8 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 cir‐
culation (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.
2.9 Maintenance and Repairs
Service the machine regularly. Do not attempt
any maintenance or repair work not described in
the instruction manual. Have all other work per‐
formed by a servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends that you have servicing and
repair work carried out exclusively by an author‐
ized 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 model and meet your
performance requirements.
2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques English
0458-555-8321-C 7

To reduce the risk of injury, always shut off the
enginebefore carrying out any maintenance or
repairs or cleaning the machine. – Exception:
Carburetor and idle speed adjustments.
Do not turn the engine over on the starter with
the spark plug boot or spark plug removed
unless the slide control / stop switch is on STOP
or 0 since there is otherwise a risk of fire from
uncontained sparking.
To reduce the risk of fire, do not service or store
your machine near open flames.
Check the fuel filler cap for leaks at regular inter‐
vals.
Use only a spark plug of the type approved by
STIHL and make sure it is in good condition –
see "Specifications".
Inspect the ignition lead (insulation in good con‐
dition, secure connection).
Check the condition of the muffler.
To reduce the risk of fire and damage to hearing,
do not operate your machine if the muffler is
damaged or missing.
Do not touch a hot muffler since burn injury will
result.
Stopping the engine
–before checking chain tension.
–before retensioning the chain.
–before replacing the chain.
–before rectifying problems.
Observe sharpening instructions – keep the
chain and guide bar in good condition at all times
for safe and correct handling of the saw. The
chain must be properly sharpened, tensioned
and well lubricated.
Always change the chain, guide bar and sprocket
in good time.
Store fuel and chain lubricant in properly label‐
led, safety-type canisters only. When handling
gasoline, avoid direct contact with the skin and
avoid inhaling fuel vapour – health risk.
3 Using the Unit
3.1 Preparation
► Wear suitable protective clothing, observe
safety precautions
► Starting the engine
► Fitting the harness
3.2 Cutting sequence
To allow branches to free fall, always cut the
lower branches first. Prune heavy branches
(large diameter) in several controllable pieces.
WARNING
Never stand directly underneath the branch you
are cutting – be wary of falling branches. – Note
that a branch may spring back at you after it hits
the ground – risk of injury.
3.3 Disposal
Do not throw cuttings into the garbage can – they
can be composted.
3.4 Working technique
Hold the control handle with your right hand, and
the shaft with your left hand. Your left arm should
be extended to the most comfortable position.
Always hold the shaft with your left hand in the
area of the handle hose.
246BA030 KN
The shaft should always be held at an angle of
60° or less.
The least tiring working position is a tool angle of
60°.
Any lesser angle may be used to suit the situa‐
tion.
English 3 Using the Unit
8 0458-555-8321-C

3.4.1 Cross-cut
0000013689_002
To avoid pinching the saw in the cut, position the
bar in the area of the housing against the branch
and then perform the cross-cut from the top
downward. The saw chain can be positioned pre‐
cisely using the gauge bar.
3.4.2 Relieving cut
2
1
246BA033 KN
To avoid tearing the bark on thick branches,
always start by performing a
► Relieving cut (1) on the underside of the
branch. To do so, position the cutting attach‐
ment and guide it downward to the bar nose in
an arc
► Performing the cross cut (2): Position the bar
in the area of the housing against the branch.
3.4.3 Flush-cutting thick branches
3
4
A
390BA024 KN
If the branch diameter is more than 10 cm (4 in),
first
► perform the undercut (3) and then cross-cut at
a distance of about 20 cm/8 in (A) from the
final cut. Then carry out the flush-cut (4), start‐
ing with a relieving cut and finishing with a
cross-cut.
3 Using the Unit English
0458-555-8321-C 9

3.4.4 Cutting above obstacles
0000-GXX-2158-A0
The machine's long reach makes it possible to
prune branches that are overhanging obstacles,
such as rivers or lakes. The tool angle in this
case depends on the position of the branch.
3.4.5 Cutting from a lift bucket
0000-GXX-2159-A0
The machine's long reach enables cutting to be
performed next to the trunk without the risk of the
lift bucket damaging other branches. The tool
angle in this case depends on the position of the
branch.
4 Assembling the Unit
4907BA017 KN
The unit features a split drive tube that helps
save space during transportation. It unit can be
easily disassembled for transportation – see
“Transporting the Power Tool".
4.1 Connecting the Drive Tube
WARNING
Do not mount KombiTools – only use the drive
tube with the splined shaft supplied with the
machine.
1
4907BA008 KN
► Pull the cap (1) off the end of the front drive
tube and keep it in a safe place for later use –
see "Storing the Machine".
► Put the powerhead on the ground so that it
rests on the machine support.
2
4907BA009 KN
4
3
English 4 Assembling the Unit
10 0458-555-8321-C

► Slide the lug (2) on the front drive tube (3) into
the slot (4) in the coupling sleeve as far as
stop – if necessary, turn the front drive
tube (3) back and forth while pushing it
home.
6
5
4907BA010 KN
When correctly installed, the red line (5) (arrow
point) must be flush with the end of the coupling
sleeve.
► Tighten down the wing screw (6) firmly.
► Attach shoulder strap to the carrying ring.
5 Cutting Attachment
A cutting attachment consists of the saw chain,
guide bar and chain sprocket.
The cutting attachment that comes standard is
designed to exactly match the pole pruner.
001BA248 KN
1
2
3
a
–The pitch (t) of the saw chain (1), chain
sprocket and the nose sprocket of the Rollo‐
matic guide bar must match.
–The drive link gauge (2) of the saw chain (1)
must match the groove width of the guide
bar (3).
If non-matching components are used, the cut‐
ting attachment may be damaged beyond repair
after a short period of operation.
5.1 Chain Scabbard
001BA244 KN
The scope of supply includes a bar scabbard that
matches the cutting attachment.
If guide bars of different lengths are mounted to
the pole pruner, always use a chain scabbard of
the correct length which covers the complete
guide bar.
The length of the matching guide bars is marked
on the side of the chain scabbard.
6 Mounting the Bar and
Chain
6.1 Removing the chain sprocket
cover
246BA021 KN
► Unscrew the nut and remove the chain
sprocket cover
1
2
246BA022-A1
► Turn the screw (1) clockwise until the ten‐
sioner slide (2) butts against the right end of
the housing slot.
5 Cutting Attachment English
0458-555-8321-C 11

6.2 Fitting the saw chain
390BA003 KN
WARNING
Wear work gloves to protect your hands from the
sharp cutters.
► Fit the saw chain – start at the bar nose
1
4
3
246BA023 A1
5
► Fit the guide bar over the screw (3) and
engage peg of tensioner slide in the hole (4) –
place the saw chain over the chain
sprocket (5) at the same time
► Turn the tensioning screw (1) counterclock‐
wise until there is very little chain sag on the
underside of the bar – and the drive link tangs
are engaged in the bar groove.
► Refit the chain sprocket cover and then screw
on the nut by hand until it is finger-tight
► Go to chapter on "Tensioning the Saw Chain"
7 Tensioning the Chain
1
246BA024 KN
Re-tensioning during cutting work:
► Shut off the engine.
► Loosen the nut.
► Hold the bar nose up.
► Use a screwdriver to turn the tensioning
screw (1) counterclockwise until the chain fits
snugly against the underside of the bar.
► While still holding the bar nose up, tighten
down the nut firmly.
► Go to "Checking Chain Tension".
A new chain has to be re-tensioned more often
than one that has been in use for some time.
► Check chain tension frequently – see chapter
on "Operating Instructions".
8 Checking Chain Tension
246BA025 KN
► Shut off the engine.
► Wear work gloves to protect your hands.
► The chain must fit snugly against the under‐
side of the bar and it must still be possible to
pull the chain along the bar by hand.
► If necessary, re-tension the chain.
A new chain has to be re-tensioned more often
than one that has been in use for some time.
► Check chain tension frequently – see chapter
on "Operating Instructions".
9 Fuel
The engine requires a mixture of gasoline and
engine oil.
English 7 Tensioning the Chain
12 0458-555-8321-C

WARNING
Avoid direct skin contact with fuel and breathing
in of gasoline fumes.
9.1 STIHL MotoMix
STIHL recommends using STIHL MotoMix. This
pre-blended fuel is free of benzene and lead, is
distinguished by a high octane rating, and
always provides the proper mixing ratio.
STIHL MotoMix uses STIHL HP Ultra two-stroke
engine oil for optimum engine life.
MotoMix is not available in all markets.
9.2 Mixing fuel
NOTICE
Unsuitable fuels or a mixing ratio that deviates
from the specification can lead to severe engine
damage. The engine, seals, fuel lines and fuel
tank may be damaged if low-quality gasoline or
engine oil is used.
9.2.1 Gasoline
Use only high-quality gasoline with an octane rat‐
ing of at least 90 ROC – leaded or unleaded.
Gasoline with an alcohol component exceeding
10% can cause impaired engine performance in
engines with manually adjustable carburetors
and thus should not be used in these engines.
Engines with M-Tronic deliver full engine per‐
formance using gasoline with an alcohol compo‐
nent of up to 27% (E27).
9.2.2 Engine oil
If you mix the fuel yourself, use only STIHL two-
stroke engine oil or another high-performance
engine oil classified as JASO FB, JASO FC,
JASO FD, ISO-L-EGB, ISO-L-EGC or ISO-L-
EGD.
STIHL specifies STIHL HP Ultra two-stroke
engine oil or an equivalent high-performance
engine oil in order to maintain emission limits
over the machine’s service life.
9.2.3 Mixing ratio
with STIHL two-stroke engine oil 1:50; 1:50 =
1 part oil + 50 parts gasoline
9.2.4 Examples
Quantity of gaso‐
line
STIHL two-stroke
engine oil 1:50
Liters Liters (ml)
1 0.02 (20)
5 0.10 (100)
10 0.20 (200)
15 0.30 (300)
20 0.40 (400)
25 0.50 (500)
► Pour oil into an approved safety fuel canister
first, then add gasoline and mix thoroughly
9.3 Storing fuel mixture
Store in approved safety fuel canisters only in a
dry, cool and secure place protected against light
and sunlight.
Fuel mixture deteriorates with age – mix only as
much as needed for a few weeks. Do not store
fuel mixture for longer than 30 days. The fuel
mixture can become unusable more quickly if
exposed to light, sunlight or low or high tempera‐
tures.
STIHL MotoMix however can be stored for up to
5 years without any problems.
► Shake the canister containing the fuel mixture
thoroughly before refueling
WARNING
Pressure may have built up in the canister –
open it carefully.
► The fuel tank and the canister in which fuel
mixture is stored should be cleaned thoroughly
from time to time
Residual fuel and the liquid used for cleaning
must be disposed of in accordance with regula‐
tions and without harming the environment!
10 Fueling
10.1 Preparations
547BA045 KN
10 Fueling English
0458-555-8321-C 13

► Before fueling, clean the filler cap and the area
around it to ensure that no dirt falls into the
tank.
► Position the machine so that the filler cap is
facing up.
10.2 Opening screw-type tank cap
002BA447 KN
► Turn the cap counterclockwise until it can be
removed from the tank opening.
► Remove the cap.
10.3 Filling up with fuel
Take care not to spill fuel while fueling and do
not overfill the tank. STIHL recommends you use
the STIHL filler nozzle (special accessory).
10.4 Closing screw-type tank cap
002BA448 KN
► Place the cap in the opening.
► Turn the cap clockwise as far as stop and
tighten it down as firmly as possible by hand.
11 Chain Lubricant
For automatic and reliable lubrication of the
chain and guide bar – use only an environmen‐
tally compatible quality chain and bar lubricant.
Rapidly biodegradable STIHL BioPlus is recom‐
mended.
NOTICE
Biological chain oil must be resistant to aging
(e.g. STIHL BioPlus), since it will otherwise
quickly turn to resin. This results in hard deposits
that are difficult to remove, especially in the area
of the chain drive and chain. It may even cause
the oil pump to seize.
The service life of the chain and guide bar
depends on the quality of the lubricant. It is
therefore essential to use only a specially formu‐
lated chain lubricant.
WARNING
Do not use waste oil. Renewed contact with
waste oil can cause skin cancer. Moreover,
waste oil is environmentally harmful.
NOTICE
Waste oil does not have the necessary lubricat‐
ing properties and is unsuitable for chain lubrica‐
tion.
12 Filling Chain Oil Tank
NOTICE
A full chain oil tank is sufficient for only half a
tankful of fuel. Check the oil level regularly during
cutting work. Never allow the oil tank to run dry.
12.1 Preparations
246BA026 KN
► Thoroughly clean the tank cap and the area
around it to ensure that no dirt falls into the
tank.
► Position the machine so that the tank cap
faces up.
English 11 Chain Lubricant
14 0458-555-8321-C

12.2 Opening
0000,GXX-0135-A0 KN
► Raise grip to vertical position.
0000-GXX-0136-A0
► Turn the cap counterclockwise (about a quar‐
ter turn).
0000-GXX-0137-A0 KN
Marks on tank cap and oil tank must line up.
0000-GXX-0138-A0 KN
► Remove the tank cap.
12.3 Filling Up with Chain Oil
► Fill the tank with chain oil.
Take care not to spill chain oil while refilling and
do not overfill the tank.
STIHL recommends you use the STIHL filler noz‐
zle for chain oil (special accessory).
12.4 Closing
0000-GXX-0137-A0 KN
Grip must be vertical:
► Fit the cap – marks on tank cap and oil tank
must line up.
► Press the cap down as far as stop.
0000-GXX-0139-A0 KN
► While holding the cap depressed, turn it clock‐
wise until it engages in position.
0000-GXX-0140-A0 KN
The marks on the cap and oil tank are then in
alignment.
12 Filling Chain Oil Tank English
0458-555-8321-C 15

0000-GXX-0141-A0 KN
► Fold the grip down.
0000-GX-0142 A0 KN
Tank cap is locked.
If the oil level in the tank does not go down, the
reason may be a problem in the oil supply sys‐
tem: Check chain lubrication, clean the oilways,
contact your dealer for assistance if necessary.
STIHL recommends that you have servicing and
repair work carried out exclusively by an author‐
ized STIHL servicing dealer.
12.5 If the tank cap cannot be
locked in the oil tank opening
Bottom of cap is twisted in relation to top.
► Remove the cap from the oil tank and check it
from above.
002BA584 KN
1
Left: Bottom of cap is twisted – inner
mark (1) in line with outer mark.
Right: Bottom of cap in correct position –
inner mark is under the grip. It is not
in line with the outer mark.
0000-GXX-0136-A0
► Place the cap on the opening and rotate it
counterclockwise until it engages the filler
neck.
► Continue rotating the cap counterclockwise
(about a quarter turn) – this causes the bottom
of the cap to be turned to the correct position.
► Turn the cap clockwise and lock it in position –
see section on "Closing".
13 Checking Chain Lubrica‐
tion
246BA027 KN
The saw chain must always throw off a small
amount of oil.
NOTICE
Never operate your machine without chain lubri‐
cation. If the chain runs dry, the whole cutting
attachment will be irretrievably damaged within a
very short time. Always check chain lubrication
and the oil level in the tank before starting work.
Every new chain has to be broken in for about 2
to 3 minutes.
After breaking in the chain, check chain tension
and adjust if necessary – see "Checking Chain
Tension".
14 Fitting the Harness
The type and style of the shoulder strap depend
on the market.
English 13 Checking Chain Lubrication
16 0458-555-8321-C

14.1 Shoulder strap
2
4907BA000 KN
1
► Put on the shoulder strap (1).
► Adjust the length of the strap.
► With the power tool attached, the carabiner (2)
must be at about the same height as your right
hip.
15 Starting / Stopping the
Engine
15.1 Controls
31
2
4907BA001 KN
1 Throttle trigger lockout
2 Throttle trigger
3 Stop switch with Run and 0 = Stop positions.
15.1.1 Function of stop switch and ignition
system
The stop switch is normally in the Run position,
i.e. when it is not depressed: The ignition is
switched on – the engine is ready to start. If the
stop switch is moved to the 0 position, the igni‐
tion is switched off. The ignition is switched on
again automatically after the engine stops.
15.2 Starting the Engine
4
547BA015 KN
► Press the manual fuel pump bulb (4) at least
five times – even if the bulb is filled with fuel.
15.2.1 Cold engine (cold start)
5
547BA016 KN
►Press in the choke knob (5) and turn it to g
at the same time.
15.2.2 Warm engine (warm start)
5
547BA017 KN
►Press in the choke knob (5) and turn it to < at
the same time.
Also use this setting if the engine has been run‐
ning but is still cold.
15.2.3 Cranking
► Remove the chain guard.
15 Starting / Stopping the Engine English
0458-555-8321-C 17

246BA034 KN
► Place the machine on the ground: It must rest
securely on the engine support and the hook.
If necessary, rest the hook on a raised support
(e.g. a branch, mound or something similar).
Check that the chain is not touching any object
or the ground.
WARNING
Check that nobody is standing within the working
range of the pruner.
► Make sure you have a safe and secure foot‐
ing.
► Hold the unit firmly on the ground with your left
hand and press down – do not touch the throt‐
tle trigger or throttle trigger lockout.
NOTICE
Do not stand or kneel on the shaft.
► Hold the starter grip with your right hand.
► Pull the starter grip steadily.
NOTICE
Do not pull out the starter rope all the way – it
might otherwise break.
► Do not let the starter grip snap back. Guide it
slowly back into the housing so that the starter
rope can rewind properly.
► Continue cranking until the engine runs.
15.2.4 As soon as the engine runs
547BA021 KN
► Press down the throttle trigger lockout and
open the throttle – the choke knob moves to
the run position F. After a cold start, warm up
the engine by opening the throttle several
times.
WARNING
Make sure the carburetor is correctly adjusted.
The saw chain must not move when the engine
is idling.
Your machine is now ready for operation.
15.3 Stopping the Engine
► Move the stop switch in the direction of 0 – the
engine stops – release the stop switch – it
springs back to the run position.
15.4 Other Hints on Starting
Engine stalls in cold start position g or under
acceleration.
►Move the choke knob to < and continue
cranking until the engine runs.
Engine does not start in warm start position <
►Move the choke knob to g and continue
cranking until the engine runs.
If the engine does not start
► Check that all settings are correct.
► Check that there is fuel in the tank and refuel if
necessary.
► Check that the spark plug boot is properly con‐
nected.
► Repeat the starting procedure.
Fuel tank run until completely dry
► After refueling, press the manual fuel pump
bulb at least five times – even if the bulb is
already filled with fuel.
► Set the choke knob to suit the engine temper‐
ature.
► Now start the engine.
16 Transporting the Unit
4907BA017 KN
English 16 Transporting the Unit
18 0458-555-8321-C

The unit features a split drive tube that helps
save space during transportation.
16.1 Disconnecting the Drive Tube
► Disconnect the shoulder strap from the carry‐
ing ring.
► Place the unit on the ground:
1
4907BA005 KN
3
2
► Loosen the star knob (1) – do not remove it.
► Pull the drive tube (2) out of the coupling
sleeve (3).
4
4907BA011 KN
► Fit the cap (4) on the end of the drive tube.
NOTICE
Make sure the ends of the drive tube are clean.
16.2 Connecting the Drive Tube
► Pull the cap off the drive tube and keep it in a
safe place.
► Put the powerhead on the ground so that it
rests on the machine support.
► Examine ends of drive tube for dirt and clean if
necessary.
5
4907BA006 KN
6
2
► Slide the lug (5) on the front drive tube (2) into
the slot (6) in the coupling sleeve as far as
stop – if necessary, turn the front drive tube (2)
back and forth while pushing it home.
7
4907BA007 KN
1
When correctly installed, the red line (7) (arrow
point) must be flush with the end of the coupling
sleeve.
► Tighten down the star knob (1) firmly.
► Attach the harness to the carrying ring.
17 Operating Instructions
17.1 During Break-In Period
A factory-new machine should not be run at high
revs (full throttle off load) for the first three tank
fillings. This avoids unnecessary high loads dur‐
ing the break-in period. As all moving parts have
to bed in during the break-in period, the frictional
resistances in the engine are greater during this
period. The engine develops its maximum power
after about 5 to 15 tank fillings.
17 Operating Instructions English
0458-555-8321-C 19

17.2 During Operation
NOTICE
Do not make the mixture leaner to achieve an
apparent increase in power – this could damage
the engine – see "Adjusting the Carburetor".
17.2.1 Check chain tension frequently
A new chain has to be retensioned more often
than one that has been in use for some time.
17.2.2 Chain cold
Tension is correct when the chain fits snugly
against the underside of the bar and can still be
pulled along the bar by hand. Retension if neces‐
sary – see "Tensioning the Saw Chain".
17.2.3 Chain at operating temperature
The chain stretches and begins to sag. The drive
links must not come out of the bar groove – the
chain may otherwise jump off the bar. Retension
the chain – see "Tensioning the Saw Chain".
NOTICE
The chain contracts as it cools down. If it is not
slackened off, it can damage the gear shaft and
bearings.
17.2.4 After long period of full-throttle opera‐
tion
Allow engine to run for a short while at idle speed
so that engine heat can be dissipated by the flow
of cooling air. This protects engine-mounted
components (ignition, carburetor) from thermal
overload.
17.3 After Finishing Work
► Slacken off the chain if you have retensioned it
at operating temperature during cutting work.
NOTICE
Always slacken off the chain after finishing work.
The chain contracts as it cools down. If it is not
slackened off, it can damage the gear shaft and
bearings.
17.3.1 Storing your saw for a short period
Fit the chain scabbard and allow engine to cool
down. To avoid condensation, fill the fuel tank
and keep the machine in a dry place, well away
from sources of ignition, until you need it again.
17.3.2 Storing for a long period
See chapter on "Storing the Machine"
18 Taking Care of the Guide
Bar
1
2
3
246BA028 KN
► Turn the bar over – every time you sharpen
the chain and every time you replace the chain
– this helps avoid one-sided wear, especially
at the nose and underside of the bar.
► Regularly clean the oil inlet hole (1), the oil‐
way (2) and the bar groove (3).
► Measure the groove depth – with the scale on
the filing gauge (special accessory) – in the
area used most for cutting.
Chain type Chain pitch Minimum
groove
depth
Picco 1/4" P 4.0 mm
If groove depth is less than specified:
► Replace the guide bar.
The drive link tangs will otherwise scrape along
the bottom of the groove – the cutters and tie
straps will not ride on the bar rails.
English 18 Taking Care of the Guide Bar
20 0458-555-8321-C