Stihl HL-KM User manual

{
STIHL HL-KM
WARNING
Read Instruction Manual thoroughly
before use and follow all safety
precautions – improper use can
cause serious or fatal injury.
ADVERTENCIA
Antes de usar la máquina lea y siga
todas las precauciones de
seguridad dadas en el manual de
instrucciones – el uso incorrecto
puede causar lesiones graves o
mortales.
Instruction Manual
Manual de instrucciones

Instruction Manual
1 - 21
Manual de instrucciones
22 - 44

Original Instruction ManualPrinted on chlorine-free paper
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2015 0458-475-8621-B. VA0.C15. 0000000482_005_GB
HL-KM
English
1
{This instruction manual is protected by copyright. All rights reserved, especially the rights to reproduce, translate and process
with electronic systems.
Contents
Allow only persons who fully understand
the manuals of the KombiEngine and
hedge trimmer KombiTool to operate
this power tool combination.
To receive maximum performance and
satisfaction from your STIHL
KombiTool, it is important that you read,
understand and follow the safety
precautions and the operating and
maintenance instructions in chapter
"Safety Precautions and Working
Techniques" before using your
KombiTool. For further information you
can go to www.stihlusa.com.
Contact your STIHL dealer or the STIHL
distributor for your area if you do not
understand any of the instructions in the
two manuals.
WARNING
Because a KombiEngine equipped with
a hedge trimmer KombiTool has a high-
speed cutting attachment some special
safety precautions must be observed to
reduce the risk of personal injury.
Careless or improper use may cause
serious or even fatal injury.
KombiSystem 2
Guide to Using this Manual 2
Safety Precautions and Working
Techniques 3
Using the Unit 8
Approved KombiEngines 11
Assembling the Unit 11
Mounting the KombiTool 12
Adjusting the Cutter Bar 12
Fitting the Harness 14
Starting / Stopping the Engine 15
Lubricating the Gearbox 15
Storing the Machine 16
Maintenance and Care 17
Sharpening Instructions 17
Main Parts 18
Specifications 19
Maintenance and Repairs 19
Disposal 20
Trademarks 20

HL-KM
English
2
In the STIHL KombiSystem a number of
different KombiEngines and KombiTools
can be combined to produce a power
tool. In this instruction manual the
functional unit formed by the
KombiEngine and KombiTool is referred
to as the power tool.
Therefore, the separate instruction
manuals for the KombiEngine and
KombiTool should be used together for
the power tool.
Always read and and make sure you
understand both instruction manuals
before using your power tool for the first
time and keep them in a safe place for
future reference.
Pictograms
All the pictograms attached to or
embossed on the machine are shown
and explained in this manual.
Symbols in Text
Many operating and safety instructions
are supported by illustrations.
The individual steps or procedures
described in the manual may be marked
in different ways:
NA bullet marks a step or procedure.
A description of a step or procedure that
refers directly to an illustration may
contain item numbers that appear in the
illustration. Example:
NLoosen the screw (1).
NLever (2) ...
In addition to the operating instructions,
this manual may contain paragraphs
that require your special attention. Such
paragraphs are marked with the
following symbols and signal words:
DANGER
Indicates an imminent risk of severe or
fatal injury.
WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, could result in severe or
fatal injury.
NOTICE
Indicates a risk of property damage,
including damage to the machine or its
individual components.
Engineering Improvements
STIHL’s philosophy is to continually
improve all of its products. As a result,
engineering changes and improvements
are made from time to time. Therefore,
some changes, modifications and
improvements may not be covered in
this manual. If the operating
characteristics or the appearance of
your machine differs from those
described in this manual, please contact
your STIHL dealer or the STIHL
distributor for your area for assistance.
KombiSystem
.
.
.
.
002BA530 KN
+
+
Guide to Using this Manual

HL-KM
English
3
Have your STIHL dealer show you how
to operate your power tool. Observe all
applicable local safety regulations,
standards and ordinances.
WARNING
Do not lend or rent your power tool
without the instruction manuals of your
KombiEngine and KombiTool. Be sure
that anyone using it understands the
information contained in these manuals.
WARNING
The use of this machine may be
hazardous. If the cutting tool comes in
contact with your body, it will cut you.
Use your KombiEngine equipped with
the hedge trimmer KombiTool only for
cutting hedges, shrubs, scrub, bushes
and similar material.
WARNING
Do not use it for other purposes, since
misuse may result in personal injury or
property damage, including damage to
the machine.
WARNING
Minors should never be allowed to use
this power tool. Bystanders, especially
children, and animals should not be
allowed in the area where it is in use.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders
and damage to property, never let your
power tool run unattended. When it is
not in use (e. g. during a work break),
shut it off and make sure that
unauthorized persons do not use it.
Most of these safety precautions and
warnings apply to the use of all STIHL
hedge trimmers. Different models may
have different parts and controls. See
the appropriate section of your
KombiEngine and KombiTool instruction
manuals for a description of the controls
and the function of the parts of your
model.
Safe use of a power tool involves
1. the operator
2. the power tool
3. the use of the power tool.
THE OPERATOR
Physical Condition
You must be in good physical condition
and mental health and not under the
influence of any substance (drugs,
alcohol, etc.) which might impair vision,
dexterity or judgment. Do not operate
this machine when you are fatigued.
WARNING
Be alert – if you get tired, take a break.
Tiredness may result in loss of control.
Working with any power tool can be
strenuous. If you have any condition that
might be aggravated by strenuous work,
check with your doctor before operating
this machine.
Proper Clothing
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, the operator
should wear proper protective apparel.
Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
Because a KombiEngine
equipped with a hedge
trimmer KombiTool is a
high-speed, fast-cutting
power tool with sharp cut-
ting blades, special
safety precautions must
be observed to reduce
the risk of personal injury.
It is important that you
read, fully understand
and observe the following
safety precautions and
warnings. Read the
instruction manuals and
the safety precautions of
your KombiEngine and
KombiTool periodically.
Careless or improper use
may cause serious or
fatal injury.

HL-KM
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4
WARNING
Be particularly alert and cautious when
wearing hearing protection because
your ability to hear warnings (shouts,
alarms, etc.) is restricted.
Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarfs,
neckties, jewelry, flared or cuffed pants,
unconfined long hair or anything that
could become caught on branches,
brush or the moving parts of the unit.
Secure hair so it is above shoulder level.
For further instructions on proper
clothing see the safety precautions in
the instruction manual of the
KombiEngine you are using.
THE POWER TOOL (KOMBIENGINE
EQUIPPED WITH HEDGE TRIMMER
KOMBITOOL)
For illustrations and definitions of the
power tool parts see the chapter on
"Main Parts."
WARNING
Never modify this power tool in any way.
Only attachments supplied by STIHL or
expressly approved by STIHL for use
with the specific STIHL KombiEngine
are authorized. Although certain
unauthorized attachments are useable
with STIHL power tools, their use may,
in fact, be extremely dangerous.
If this tool is subjected to unusually high
loads for which it was not designed (e.g.
heavy impact or a fall), always check
that it is in good condition before
continuing work. Check in particular that
the controls and safety devices are
working properly. Do not continue
operating this machine if it is damaged.
In case of doubt, have it checked by your
STIHL servicing dealer.
THE USE OF THE POWER TOOL
(KOMBIENGINE EQUIPPED WITH
HEDGE TRIMMER KOMBITOOL)
Transporting the Power Tool
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury from blade
contact, never carry or transport your
power tool with the cutting blades
moving.
To reduce the risk of
injury to your eyes never
operate your power tool
unless wearing goggles
or properly fitted protec-
tive glasses with
adequate top and side
protection complying with
ANSI Z87 "+" (or your
applicable national stand-
ard). To reduce the risk of
injury to your face STIHL
recommends that you
also wear a face shield or
face screen over your
goggles or protective
glasses.
Wear an approved safety
hard hat to reduce the
risk of injury to your head
when there is a danger of
head injuries.
Power tool noise may
damage your hearing.
Wear sound barriers (ear
plugs or ear mufflers) to
protect your hearing.
Continual and regular
users should have their
hearing checked
regularly.
Always wear heavy duty
work gloves (e.g. made of
leather or other wear
resistant material) when
handling the machine
and the cutting tool.
Heavy-duty, nonslip
gloves improve your grip
and help to protect your
hands.
Clothing must be sturdy
and snug-fitting, but allow
complete freedom of
movement. Wear long
pants made of heavy
material to help protect
your legs. Do not wear
shorts, sandals or go
barefoot.
Good footing is very
important. Wear sturdy
boots with nonslip soles.
Steel-toed safety boots
are recommended.

HL-KM
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5
WARNING
Always switch off the engine and fit the
scabbard over the cutting blades before
transporting the power tool over long
distances.
It may be carried only in a horizontal
position. Grip the shaft in a manner that
the machine is balanced horizontally.
Keep the hot muffler away from your
body and the cutting attachment behind
you.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of burn injury, do not
touch hot parts of the machine and the
gear housing when they are hot.
WARNING
When transporting it in a vehicle,
properly secure it to prevent turnover,
fuel spillage and damage to the unit.
On machines with an adjustable cutter
bar: Make sure the cutter bar is secured
in position. See chapter in this
instruction manual entitled "Adjusting
the Cutter Bar." On machines with a
transport position: Move cutter bar to
transport position and secure.
Before Starting
WARNING
Always check your power tool for proper
condition and operation before starting.
Never attempt to modify the controls or
safety devices.
WARNING
Never operate your power tool if it is
damaged, improperly adjusted or
maintained, or not completely or
securely assembled.
WARNING
The cutting attachment must be properly
tightened and in safe operating
condition. Inspect for loose parts (nuts,
screws, etc.) and for cracked, bent,
warped or damaged blades. Regularly
check the condition of the cutting blades
– with the engine stopped! Replace
damaged cutting blades before using
the power tool. Always keep blades
sharp.
Keep the handles clean and dry at all
times; it is particularly important to keep
them free of moisture, pitch, oil, fuel mix,
grease or resin in order for you to
maintain a firm grip and properly control
your power tool.
STIHL recommends that you always
spray the cutting blades with STIHL
resin solvent before starting work – with
the engine stopped! You can obtain this
protective spray from your dealer. Apply
generously.
Adjust harness and hand grip to suit
your size before starting work. To be
better prepared in case of an
emergency, practice releasing the unit
from the harness as quickly as possible.
Starting
On machines with an adjustable cutter
bar: Secure the cutter bar in the starting
position as described in the chapter
"Starting / Stopping the Engine." If this
starting position is not the desired
cutting position, you will then need to
carefully adjust the machine to the
desired position once the engine has
returned to idle and the blades are no
longer moving.
On machines with a defined transport
position (cutter bar folded against the
drive tube): Never start the machine in
the transport position, since the blades
are not engaged in that position and you
therefore cannot visually check to see
that they will be stopped at idle when
you start to adjust the cutter bar to the
desired cutting position (where the
blades are engaged).
Start the engine at least 10 feet (3 m)
from the fueling spot, outdoors only.
For specific starting instructions, see the
appropriate section of your
KombiEngine and KombiTool manuals.
Place the power tool on firm ground or
other solid surface in an open area.
Maintain good balance and secure
footing.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury from loss of
control, do not attempt to "drop start"
your power tool.
002BA254 KN

HL-KM
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WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury from loss of
control, be absolutely sure that the
cutting tool is clear of you and all other
obstructions and objects, including the
ground, because when the engine starts
at starting-throttle, engine speed will be
fast enough for the clutch to engage and
move the blades on the cutting tool.
Once the engine has started,
immediately blip the throttle trigger,
which should release the starting throttle
and allow the engine to slow down to
idle.
With the engine running only at idle,
attach the power tool to the spring hook
of your harness (see appropriate
chapter of this manual).
WARNING
Your power tool is a one-person
machine. Do not allow other persons in
the general work area, even when
starting.
See also the Safety Precautions on
Starting in the instruction manual of the
KombiEngine.
During Operation
Holding and Controlling the Power Tool
Always hold the unit firmly with both
hands on the handles while you are
working. Wrap your fingers and thumbs
around the handles.
Your right hand should grip the rear
handle. This also applies to left-handers.
WARNING
WARNING
Do not overreach. Keep proper footing
and balance at all times. Special care
must be taken in slippery conditions (wet
ground, snow) and in difficult, overgrown
terrain. Watch for hidden obstacles such
as tree stumps, roots and ditches to
avoid stumbling. For better footing, clear
away fallen branches, scrub and
cuttings. Be extremely cautious when
working on slopes or uneven ground.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury from loss of
control, never work on a ladder, in a tree
or any other insecure support. Never
hold the machine above shoulder
height.
Working Conditions
Operate and start your power tool only
outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
Operate it under good visibility and
daylight conditions only. Work carefully.
WARNING
If the vegetation being cut or the
surrounding ground is coated with a
chemical substance (such as an active
pesticide or herbicide), read and follow
the instructions and warnings that
accompanied the substance at issue.
WARNING
Substantial or repeated inhalation of
dust and other airborne contaminants, in
particular those with a smaller particle
size, may cause respiratory or other
illnesses. Control dust at the source
where possible. Use good work
practices, such as operating the unit so
that the wind or operating process
directs any dust raised by the power tool
away from the operator. Follow the
recommendations of EPA / OSHA /
Never attempt to operate
your power tool with one
hand. Loss of control of
the power tool resulting in
serious or fatal injury may
result. To reduce the risk
of cut injuries, keep
hands and feet away
from the cutting tool.
Never touch a moving
cutting tool with your
hand or any other part of
your body.
002BA080 KN
Inhalation of certain
dusts, especially organic
dusts such as mold or
pollen, can cause sus-
ceptible persons to have
an allergic or asthmatic
reaction.

HL-KM
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NIOSH and occupational and trade
associations with respect to dust
("particulate matter"). When the
inhalation of dust cannot be
substantially controlled, i.e., kept at or
near the ambient (background) level, the
operator and any bystanders should
wear a respirator approved by NIOSH /
MSHA for the type of dust encountered.
Operating Instructions
WARNING
Do not operate your power tool using the
starting throttle lock, as you do not have
control of the engine speed.
In the event of an emergency, switch off
the engine immediately – move the slide
control / stop switch / momentary stop
switch to 0 or STOP.
See section of your KombiEngine
instruction manual on the proper use of
the slide control / stop switch /
momentary stop switch.
WARNING
The cutting blades continue to move for
a short period after the throttle trigger is
released.
Accelerating the engine while the blades
are blocked increases the load and will
cause the clutch to slip continuously.
This may result in overheating and
damage to important components (e.g.
clutch, polymer housing components) –
which can then increase the risk of injury
from the blades moving while the engine
is idling.
WARNING
On units with an adjustable cutter bar:
Carefully adjust the cutter bar to the
desired cutting position.To reduce the
risk of injury, never touch the cutting
blades while making adjustments. Only
adjust the cutter bar when the blades are
no longer moving.
Stop the engine immediately if you are
approached.
WARNING
Before you start work, examine the
hedge area for stones, glass, fence wire,
metal, trash or other solid objects which
could damage the cutting blades.
Take particular care when cutting
hedges next to or against wire fences.
Do not touch the wire with the cutting
blades. When working close to the
ground, make sure that no sand, grit or
stones get between the cutting blades.
Striking solid foreign objects such as
stones, fence wire or metal could
damage the cutting attachment and may
cause blades to crack, chip or break.
STIHL does not recommend the use of
your power tool when cutting in areas
where the blades could contact such
objects.
WARNING
Observe the cutting blades at all times –
do not cut any areas of the hedge that
you cannot see. When cutting the top of
a taller hedge, check the other side of
the hedge frequently for bystanders,
animals and obstructions.
DANGER
WARNING
If the cutting tool becomes clogged or
stuck, always shut off the engine and
make sure the cutting tool has stopped
before cleaning. Grass, weeds, etc.
should be cleaned off the cutting tool at
regular intervals.
The power tool
has a large range.
In order to reduce
the risk of per-
sonal or even fatal
injury to bystand-
ers from falling
objects or inad-
vertent contact
with the moving
cutting blades of
your power tool
always keep
bystanders at least
50 feet (15 m)
away when the
power tool is
running.
15m (50ft)
Your power tool is not
insulated against electric
shock. To reduce the risk
of electrocution, never
operate this power tool in
the vicinity of any wires or
cables (power, etc.)
which may be carrying
electric current.

HL-KM
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8
Check the cutting blades at regular short
intervals during operation, or
immediately if there is a noticeable
change in cutting behavior:
–Shut off the engine.
–Wait until the cutting blades have
come to a complete standstill.
–Check condition and tightness, look
for cracks.
–Check sharpness.
–Replace damaged or dull cutting
tools immediately, even if they have
only superficial cracks.
WARNING
MAINTENANCE, REPAIR AND
STORING
WARNING
Always stop the engine and make sure
that the cutting attachment is stopped
before doing any maintenance or repair
work or cleaning the power tool. Do not
attempt any maintenance or repair work
not described in your KombiEngine and
KombiTool instruction manuals. Have
such work performed at your STIHL
servicing dealer only.
Always clean dust and dirt off the
machine – do not use any grease
solvents for this purpose.
Spray the blades with STIHL resin
solvent. Start and run the engine briefly
so that the solvent is evenly distributed.
WARNING
Use only identical STIHL replacement
parts for maintenance and repair. Use of
non-STIHL parts may cause serious or
fatal injury.
Wear gloves when handling or
performing maintenance on blades.
WARNING
Never repair damaged cutting
attachments by welding, straightening or
modifying the shape. This may cause
parts of the cutting attachment to come
off and result in serious or fatal injuries.
Keep blades sharp. Tighten all nuts,
bolts and screws, except the carburetor
adjustment screws, after each use.
Do not clean your machine with a
pressure washer. The solid jet of water
may damage parts of the machine.
Store the power tool in a dry and high or
locked location out of reach of children.
Cutting Season
Observe country-specific or municipal
rules and regulations for cutting hedges.
Do not use your hedge trimmer during
rest periods cutomary in the
neighborhood.
Cutting Sequence
If a radical cut is necessary, cut a little at
a time in several stages.
Use lopping shears to cut out thick
branches first.
Cut the sides of the hedge first, then the
top.
Disposal
Do not throw cuttings into the garbage
can – they can be composted.
Preparations
NAdjustable gearbox: Set cutter bar
to required angle.
NRemove the blade scabbard.
NStarting the Engine
NFitting the shoulder strap
NAttaching machine to shoulder strap
The gearbox becomes
hot during operation. To
reduce the risk of burn
injury, do not touch the
gear housing when it is
hot.
Using the Unit

HL-KM
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9
Working Technique
Horizontal Cut (with cutter bar at an
angle)
Cutting close to the ground from a
standing position, e.g. low shrubs.
Swing the cutter bar back and forth in an
arc as you move along – use both sides
of the cutting blades.
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.
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.
389BA044 KN
389BA049 KN
475BA000 KN

HL-KM
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10
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.
Recommendation: Only cut hedges that
are no more than chest height.
388BA021 KN
475BA005 KN
389BA010 KN

HL-KM
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11
KombiEngines
Only KombiEngines supplied by STIHL
or expressly approved by STIHL for use
with the specific model are authorized.
Only use this KombiTool with the
following KombiEngines:
STIHL KM 55 R, KM 56 R, KM 85 R,
KM 90 R, KM 94 R, KM 110 R,
KM 130 R
WARNING
For machines with a loop handle, the clip
(barrier bar) must be installed.
NPull the protective caps off the ends
of the drive tube and keep them in a
safe place for later use – see
"Storing the Machine".
NOTICE
The plug may come out of the drive tube
when you pull off the cap. Push it back
into the drive tube as far as stop.
Mounting the Gearbox
NLoosen the clamp screws (1).
NPush the gearbox (2) onto the drive
tube (3), turn the gearbox (2) back
and forth as necessary.
Approved KombiEngines Assembling the Unit
413BA014 KN
002BA248 KN
2
11
475BA006 KN
3

HL-KM
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12
Once the end of the drive tube is
inserted beyond the slot in the clamp (4):
NPush the gearbox (2) fully home as
far as stop.
NTighten down the clamp screws
moderately.
NLine up the gearbox (2) on the drive
tube so that the machine support on
the engine points down and the
blades are horizontal.
NTighten down the clamp screws
firmly.
NPush the lug (1) on the drive tube
into the slot (2) in the coupling
sleeve as far as stop.
When correctly installed, the red line (3)
(arrow point) must be flush with the end
of the coupling sleeve.
NTighten down the star knob (4)
firmly.
Removing the KombiTool
NReverse the above sequence to
remove the drive tube.
135° Version
The angle of th cutter bar can be
adjusted upwards in 4 stages from 0°
(straight) to 45°, and downwards in 8
stages from 0° to 90° (right angle facing
down). There are therefore 13 possible
working positions.
There is also a special transport position
for the cutter bar.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, carry out the
adjustment only when the cutting blades
are at a standstill – engine at idle speed.
4
2
475BA007 KN
Mounting the KombiTool
1
002BA326 KN
2
3
002BA327 KN
4
Adjusting the Cutter Bar

HL-KM
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13
WARNING
The gearbox becomes hot during
operation. To reduce the risk of burn
injury, do not touch the gear housing.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, never touch
the blades while making adjustments.
NPull back the sliding sleeve (1) and
use the lever (2) to adjust the joint
by one or several holes.
NRelease the sliding sleeve (1) and
make sure the lock pin engages the
quadrant (3).
The sliding sleeve butts against the
housing when the pin is properly
engaged (after making adjustment).
Transport Position
The cutter bar can be folded flat against
the drive tube and locked in position to
save space during transportation.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, always shut
off the engine – move slide control to
STOP or stop switch to 0 – and fit the
blade scabbard before moving the cutter
bar to the transport position or from the
transport position to the normal working
position.
WARNING
The gearbox becomes hot during
operation. To reduce the risk of burn
injury, do not touch the gear housing.
NShut off the engine.
NFit the blade scabbard.
NPull back the sliding sleeve (1) and
use the lever (2) to swing the joint
upwards – in direction of drive tube
– until the cutter bar is flat against
the drive tube.
NRelease the sliding sleeve (1) and
make sure the lock pin engages the
quadrant (3).
The sliding sleeve butts against the
housing when the pin is properly
engaged (after making adjustment).

HL-KM
English
14
The type and style of the harness and
carabiner (spring hook) 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.
Full Harness
NPut on the full harness (1).
NAdjust the length of the strap so that
the carabiner (2) is about a hand’s
width below your right hip.
Attaching Machine to Harness
NAttach the carabiner (1) to the
carrying ring (2) on the drive tube –
hold the carrying ring steady.
Detaching Machine from Harness
NPress down the bar on the
carabiner (1) and pull the carrying
ring (2) out of the carabiner.
Throwing Off the Machine
WARNING
The machine must be quickly thrown off
in the event of imminent danger.
Practice removing and putting down the
power tool as you would in an
emergency. To avoid damage, do not
throw the power tool to the ground when
practicing.
Practice quickly detaching the power
tool from the carabiner as described
under "Detaching Machine from
Harness".
If you are using a shoulder strap:
Practice slipping the strap off your
shoulder.
If you are using a full harness: Practice
quickly opening the locking plate and
slipping the harness straps off your
shoulders.
Fitting the Harness
1
002BA374 KN
2
1
002BA307 KN
2
3
1
002BA308 KN
2
1
2
1
002BA310 KN
2
1
2

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Starting the Engine
Always follow the operating instructions
for the KombiEngine and basic power
tool.
NPlace the machine on the ground so
that it rests securely on the engine
support and the gearbox.
NOn models with an adjustable cutter
bar: Set the cutter bar to the straight
(0°) position.
NRemove the blade scabbard.
To reduce the risk of accidents, check
that the cutting attachment is not
touching the ground of any other
obstacles.
NIf necessary, rest the gearbox on a
raised support (e.g. mound, brick or
something similar).
NMake sure you have a firm footing,
either standing, stooping or
kneeling.
NHold the machine with you left hand
and press it down firmly – do not
touch the controls on the control
handle – see KombiEngine or basic
power tool instruction manual.
NOTICE
Do not stand or kneel on the drive tube.
WARNING
The cutting attachment may begin to
move as soon as the engine starts. For
this reason, blip the throttle after starting
– the engine returns to idling speed.
The starting procedure is now as
described in the instruction manual of
the KombiEngine or basic power tool
you are using.
Stopping the Engine
NSee instruction manual of the
KombiEngine or basic power tool.
Blade Drive Gear
Lubricate the blade drive gear with
STIHL gear lubricant for hedge trimmers
(Special Accessory).
0° version
Adjustable 135° version
NCheck the lubricant level at regular
intervals of about every 25 hours of
operation. Unscrew the filler
Starting / Stopping the
Engine
002BA038 KN
002BA072 KN
Lubricating the Gearbox

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plug (1) – if no grease can be seen
on the inside of the filler plug, screw
the tube of grease into the filler hole.
NSqueeze up to 5 g (1/5 oz) grease
into the gearbox.
NOTICE
Do not completely fill the gearbox with
grease.
NRefit the filler plug and tighten it
down firmly.
Angle Drive
Lubricate the angle drive with STIHL
gear lubricant for brushcutters (Special
Accessory).
0° version
Adjustable 135° version
NCheck the lubricant level at regular
intervals of about every 25 hours of
operation. Unscrew the filler
plug (2) – if no grease can be seen
on the inside of the filler plug, screw
the tube of grease into the filler hole.
NSqueeze up to 5 g (1/5 oz) grease
into the gearbox.
NOTICE
Do not completely fill the gearbox with
grease.
NRefit the filler plug and tighten it
down firmly.
For periods of 3 months or longer
NClean the cutting blades, check
condition and spray them with
STIHL resin solvent.
NFit the blade scabbard.
NIf the KombiTool is removed from
the KombiEngine and stored
separately: Fit the protective cap on
the drive tube to avoid dirt getting
into the coupling.
NStore the machine in a dry, high or
locked location – out of the reach of
children and other unauthorized
persons.
Storing the Machine

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The following intervals apply to normal
operating conditions only. If your daily
working time is longer or operating
conditions are difficult (very dusty work
area, etc.), shorten the specified
intervals accordingly.
All accessible screws and nuts
NCheck and retighten if necessary
(not screws and nuts on cutting
blades)
Cutting blades
NVisual inspection before starting
work
NResharpen as necessary
NReplace if damaged
Gearbox lubrication
NCheck before starting work
NReplenish as necessary
Safety labels
NReplace illegible safety labels
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.
NOTICE
Do not operate your machine with dull or
damaged cutting blades. This may
cause overload and will give
unsatisfactory cutting results.
Maintenance and Care Sharpening Instructions

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1Cutting Blades
2Blade Drive Gear
3Angle Drive
4Drive Tube
5Sliding Sleeve
6Adjusting Lever
7Quadrant
8Blade Scabbard
Main Parts
2
8
4
1
5
7
4
3
2
475BA008 KN
6
3