Stihl HL User manual

{
STIHL HL
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

Original Instruction ManualPrinted on chlorine-free paper
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2015
0458-401-8621-A. VA5.E15.
0000000305_005_GB
HL
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 basic power tool and
your hedge trimmer attachment to
operate this power tool combination.
To receive maximum performance and
satisfaction from your STIHL hedge
trimmer attachment, 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 hedge
trimmer attachment. 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 this
manual.
WARNING
Because a power tool power head and
shaft equipped with a hedge trimmer
attachment is a high-speed, fast-cutting
power tool, 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.
Interchangeable Attachments 2
Guide to Using this Manual 2
Safety Precautions and Working
Techniques 3
Using the Unit 8
Approved Basic Power Tools 11
Mounting the Attachment 12
Adjusting the Cutter Bar 14
Fitting the Harness 16
Starting / Stopping the Engine 17
Lubricating the Gearbox 18
Storing the Machine 19
Maintenance and Care 19
Sharpening Instructions 19
Main Parts 20
Specifications 21
Maintenance and Repairs 21
Disposal 22
Trademarks 22

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The STIHL interchangeable attachment
may be mounted to different STIHL
power tools.
The approved power tool models are
listed in the chapter on "Approved Basic
Power Tools".
In this instruction manual the functional
unit formed by the basic power tool and
interchangeable attachment is referred
to as the power tool.
Therefore, the separate instruction
manuals for the basic power tool and
attachment 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.
Interchangeable
Attachments
.
.
.
.
002BA531 KN
+
+
Guide to Using this Manual

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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 for your
basic power tool and your hedge
trimmer attachment. 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 power tool power head and
shaft equipped with a hedge trimmer
attachment 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 basic
power tool and your hedge trimmer
attachment 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 power tool
power head and shaft
equipped with a hedge
trimmer attachment 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 for
your basic power tool and
your hedge trimmer
attachment periodically.
Careless or improper use
may cause serious or
fatal injury.

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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 for the basic
power tool you are using.
THE POWER TOOL
For illustrations and definitions of the
power tool parts see the chapter on
"Main Parts."
WARNING
Never modify this power tool in any way.
Only attachments supplied by STIHL or
expressly approved by STIHL for use
with the specific STIHL basic power tool
model are authorized. Although certain
unauthorized attachments are useable
with STIHL power tools, their use may,
in fact, be extremely dangerous.
If this tool is subjected to unusually high
loads for which it was not designed (e.g.
heavy impact or a fall), always check
that it is in good condition before
continuing work. Check in particular that
the 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
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.
WARNING
Always switch off the engine and fit the
scabbard over the cutting blades before
transporting the power tool over long
distances.
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.

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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 basic power
tool and your hedge trimmer attachment
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.
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.
002BA254 KN

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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 for
your basic power tool.
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 /
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.
002BA080 KN
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.
Inhalation of certain
dusts, especially organic
dusts such as mold or
pollen, can cause sus-
ceptible persons to have
an allergic or asthmatic
reaction.

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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 basic power tool
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.
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.
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.

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–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 the instruction manuals
for your basic power tool and your hedge
trimmer attachment. Have such work
performed by 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 attach-
ments 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 the 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 customary 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.
NStart the engine.
NIf you use a harness: Put on the
harness and attach it to the
machine.
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

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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.
WARNING
K versions (HL 95 K / HL 100 K) are not
approved for cutting close to the ground.
Vertical Cut (with cutter bar at an angle)
Cutting without standing directly next to
the hedge, e.g. flowerbed between
operator and hedge.
Swing the cutter bar up and down in an
arc as you move along the hedge – use
both sides of the cutting blades.
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.
388BA029 KN
388BA030 KN
389BA050 KN

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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)
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.
388BA031 KN
388BA032 KN
388BA033 KN

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WARNING
This interchangeable attachment is only
approved for use on a basic power tool
equipped with one of the following
handle systems:
–Loop handle (1).
–Handle hose (2).
Operation of this interchangeable
attachment is permitted only with the
following basic power tools:
All models
Models with a short drive tube (K
versions) must not be used for ground-
level cutting.
The HL-0° is not approved for ground-
level cutting.
WARNING
Other combinations with basic power
tools not listed here are not permitted
since they may result in accidents or
serious personal injury.
NOTICE
The attachment may only be mounted to
models with a rigid shaft in the drive
tube, but not to models FS 85 R from
serial number 2 49 848 196 up to
2 53 552 820, FS 85 RX and FS 110 RX
with a rigid hollow shaft in the drive tube.
Models with loop handle
HL-0° and HL-135°
–STIHL FC 85, FC 95, FC 110
–STIHLFS85R, FS90R,
FS 110 R, FS 130 R
–STIHLHL75, HL100
–STIHL KW 85
Machines with handle hose, without
bike-handle or loop-handle
HL-0°
–STIHL HL 75, HL 100
–STIHL HT 70 1), HT 101
HL-135°
–STIHL HL 75, HL 100 The HL-135°
in combination with basic power
tools with a handle hose is not
approved for ground-level cutting.
Approved Basic Power Tools
2
1
002BA323 KN
1
002BA656 KN
1) not approved for models with flexible
shaft
002BA370 KN

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Preparations for Mounting the
Attachment
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, always shut
off the engine before converting the
basic power tool.
NOTICE
Make sure the work area is clean before
mounting or removing the attachment.
NRest the power tool on the machine
support.
Removing the protective cap
If a cap is fitted on the end of the power
tool's drive tube:
NPull the protective cap off the end of
the drive tube and keep it in a safe
place.
If the plug comes out of the drive tube
when you pull off the cap:
NPush the plug into the drive tube as
far as stop.
Removing the gearbox or attachment
Remove any existing gearbox or
interchangeable attachment from the
basic power tool.
Mounting the Attachment
413BA014 KN
002BA248 KN
228BA092 KN
BF
228BA090 KN
FCS
228BA091 KN
FCS
FH/HL
228BA081 KN
FS
228BA083 KN
FS
228BA086 KN

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NLoosen the clamp screws (arrows)
on the gearbox housing – do not
remove them.
NPull the gearbox off the drive tube.
If the drive shaft slips out of the tube
when you pull off the gearbox:
NPush the drive shaft into the tube.
The drive shaft must not project from the
tube more than L = 22 mm (7/8 in).
If dimension (L) is not correct:
NApply slight pressure to the drive
shaft and rotate it slowly at the same
time until it can be pushed in to the
specified length.
Mounting the Gearbox
NLoosen the clamp screws (1) on the
gearbox – do not remove them.
NPush the gearbox (2) onto the drive
tube (3), turn the gearbox back and
forth as necessary.
Once the end of the drive tube is
inserted beyond the slot in the clamp (4):
NPush the gearbox (5) fully home as
far as stop.
NTighten down the clamp screws
moderately.
NLine up the gearbox (5) on the drive
tube so that the machine support on
the engine points down and the
blades are horizontal.
NTighten down the clamp screws on
the gearbox firmly.
WARNING
It must not be possible to rotate the
gearbox on the drive tube.
Models with Loop Handle
NLoosen the screws on the loop
handle.
HT
228BA082 KN
KB/KW
228BA089 KN
381BA015 KN
L
3
1
2
1
401BA007 KN
4
5
401BA008 KN

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NAlign the loop handle (1) and move
it to the most comfortable position.
Distance (A) must not be more than
55 cm (22 in) (recommended:
about 35 cm (14 in)).
On HL 75 K, HL 100 K: Distance (A)
must not be more than 30 cm (12 in)
(recommended: about 25 cm (10 in)).
NTighten down the screws firmly –
lock the nuts if necessary.
Fitting the carrying ring
A carrying ring is necessary if the power
tool is to be used with a shoulder
strap/harness. Not all versions of basic
power tools are equipped with a carrying
ring.
A carrying ring is available as a special
accessory and is mounted as described
below.
NMount the carrying ring (1) at
distance A = about 5 cm (2 in) from
the control handle (2).
NPlace the open carrying ring (1)
against the drive tube with the
tapped hole on the left (viewed from
engine).
NSqueeze the ends of the carrying
ring together and insert the M6x14
screw (3).
NLine up the carrying ring and tighten
down the screw firmly.
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.
002BA183 KN
1
A
A
1
3
1
413BA012 KN
2
2
Adjusting the Cutter Bar

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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).

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Not all basic power tools are equipped
with a harness and carrying ring.
NFit the carrying ring – see "Mounting
the Attachment".
The shoulder strap is available as a
special accessory.
The type of carrying ring and shoulder
strap depends on the market and the
basic power tool.
Shoulder Strap
NPut on the shoulder strap (1).
NAdjust the length of the strap – with
the machine attached, the
carabiner (3) must be at about the
same height as your right hip.
Harness
NPut on the harness (1) and close the
locking plate (3).
NAdjust the length of the strap – with
the machine attached, the
carabiner (2) must be at about the
same height as your right hip.
Attaching Machine to Shoulder Strap
On some loop-handled machines the
carrying ring is integrated in the front
end of the control handle.
NAttach the carabiner (1) to the
carrying ring (2).
NCheck that the carabiner is at about
hip height – adjust if necessary.
Detaching Machine from Shoulder Strap
NPress down the bar on the
carabiner (1) and pull the carrying
ring (2) out of the carabiner.
Throwing Off Machine
WARNING
The machine must be quickly thrown off
in the event of imminent danger. To
throw off the machine, use the
procedure described under "Detaching
the machine from the harness". Practice
removing and putting down the machine
Fitting the Harness
1
002BA441 KN
2
1
002BA440 KN
3
2
1
2
1
2
002BA311 KN
1
2
1
2
002BA312 KN

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as you would in an emergency. To avoid
damage, do not throw the machine to
the ground when practicing.
If a harness is worn, the locking plate
must be opened before throwing off the
machine.
Starting the Engine
Always follow the starting procedure
described in the basic power tool
instruction manual.
NPosition the unit securely for
starting: It must rest on the machine
support and the blade gearbox.
NOn units with adjustable cutter bar:
Set the cutter bar to the straight (0°)
position.
NRemove the blade scabbard. Check
that the cutting blades are not
touching the ground or any other
obstacles. If necessary, rest the
gearbox on a raised support (e.g.
mound, brick or something similar).
NMake sure you have a safe and
secure footing.
NHold the unit firmly on the ground
with your left hand and press down
– do not touch the throttle trigger or
trigger interlock.
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.
Now follow the starting procedure
described in the basic power tool
instruction manual.
Stopping the Engine
NSee basic power tool instruction
manual.
Starting / Stopping the
Engine
002BA038 KN
002BA072 KN

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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
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.
Lubricating the Gearbox
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