Stihl HSA 100 Setup guide

HSA 100 Hedge Trimmer
Owners Instruction Manual
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.
2 - 27 Instruction Manual
27 - 56 Manual de instrucciones

Contents
1 Introduction................................................. 2
2 Guide to Using this Manual.........................2
3 Main Parts...................................................2
4 Safety Symbols on the Products.................3
5 General Power Tool Safety Warnings.........4
6 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS....6
7 Battery Safety........................................... 11
8 Maintenance, Repair and Storage............ 13
9 Before Starting Work.................................14
10 Charging the Battery................................. 14
11 LED Diagnostics and Acoustic Signals..... 15
12 Adjusting the Hedge Trimmer................... 16
13 Inserting and Removing the Battery..........17
14 Switching the Hedge Trimmer On and Off 18
15 Checking the Hedge Trimmer................... 18
16 During Operation.......................................19
17 After Finishing Work..................................20
18 Transporting..............................................20
19 Storing.......................................................21
20 Cleaning....................................................22
21 Inspection and Maintenance..................... 22
22 Troubleshooting Guide..............................24
23 Specifications............................................25
24 Replacement Parts and Equipment.......... 26
25 Disposal.................................................... 26
26 Limited Warranty.......................................27
27 Trademarks...............................................27
28 Addresses................................................. 27
1 Introduction
Thank you for your purchase. The information
contained in this manual will help you receive
maximum performance and satisfaction from
your hedge trimmer and, if followed, reduce the
risk of injury from its use.
SAVE THIS MANUAL!
Because a hedge trimmer is a
high-speed cutting tool, special
safety precautions must be
observed to reduce the risk of per‐
sonal injury.
Read this instruction manual thor‐
oughly before use and periodically
thereafter. Follow all safety pre‐
cautions. Careless or improper
use can cause serious or fatal
injury.
Do not lend or rent the hedge trimmer without
this instruction manual. Allow only persons who
fully understand the information in this manual to
operate the hedge trimmer.
For further information, or if you do not under‐
stand any of the instructions in this manual,
please go to www.stihlusa.com or contact your
authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
2 Guide to Using this Manual
2.1 Signal Words
This manual contains safety information that
requires your special attention. Such information
is introduced with the following symbols and sig‐
nal words:
DANGER
■ Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
■ Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
NOTICE
■ Indicates a risk of property damage, including
damage to the machine or its individual com‐
ponents.
2.2 Symbols in Text
The following symbol is included to assist you
with the use of the manual:
Refers to a designated chapter or sub-
chapter in this instruction manual.
3 Main Parts
3.1 Hedge Trimmer and Battery
4
5
2
1
3
8
9
7
6
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
#
0000100618_001
#
English
2 0458-020-8601-A
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG 2022
0458-020-8601-A. VA0.E22.
Printed on chlorine-free paper Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
Original Instruction Manual 0000009971_001_GB

1 Blade Scabbard
Covers the cutting blades when the hedge
trimmer is not in use.
2 Loop Handle
Handle for the operator's front hand.
3 Switch Lever
Activates the cutting attachment when
depressed in combination with the trigger
switch.
4 Battery Compartment
Holds the battery.
5 Locking Lever
Secures the battery in the battery compart‐
ment.
6 Trigger Switch Lockout
Prevents activation of the trigger switch until
depressed.
7 Ergo-Lever
Holds the trigger switch lockout in the
unlocked position.
8 Control Handle
Handle for the operator's rear hand.
9 Trigger Switch
Activates the cutting attachment when
depressed in combination with the switch
lever.
10 Blocking Lever
Lever for rotating the rear handle.
11 Screw Plug
Seals the grease filler opening at the gear‐
box.
12 Hand Guard
Helps protect the operator's front hand from
projecting branches and other materials and
contact with the cutting blades.
13 Cutting Blade Guard
Helps protect the operator from contact with
the cutting blades.
14 Cutting Blades
Steel blades for cutting hedges, shrubs and
bushes.
15 Tip Guard
Helps protect the tip of the cutting blades
from contact with solid objects.
16 Battery
Supplies electrical power to the motor.
17 Battery LEDs
Indicate the battery's state of charge and dis‐
play error messages regarding potential mal‐
functions in the battery or power tool.
18 Push Button
Activates the battery's LEDs.
# Rating Plate
Contains electrical information and the pro‐
duct's serial number.
4 Safety Symbols on the
Products
4.1 Hedge Trimmer
The following safety symbols are found on the
hedge trimmer:
To reduce the risk of injury, follow
the specified safety precautions.
Read and follow all safety precau‐
tions in the instruction manual.
Improper use can lead to serious
or fatal personal injury or property
damage.
To reduce the risk of cut injuries,
keep hands, feet and other body
parts away from the cutting
blades, 6.5.4.
To reduce the risk of eye injury,
always wear proper eye protec‐
tion, 6.3.
To reduce the risk of injury or
property damage from unintended
activation, remove the battery any
time the hedge trimmer is not in
use, 6.4.
4.2 Battery
The following safety symbols are found on the
AR series backpack battery and the AP series
battery:
To reduce the risk of injury, follow
the specified safety precautions.
Read and follow all safety precau‐
tions in the battery's instruction
manual and the manual for the
STIHL tool powered by this bat‐
tery. Improper use can lead to
serious or fatal personal injury or
property damage.
4 Safety Symbols on the Products English
0458-020-8601-A 3

To reduce the risk of personal
injury or property damage from
fire, explosion or burns, including
chemical burns, do not disassem‐
ble, crush, drop, damage or heat
above 212 °F (100 °C). Never
expose to fire or incinerate, 7.
To reduce the risk of personal
injury or property damage from
fire, use and store only within an
ambient temperature range of
14 °F to 122 °F (‑ 10 °C to 50 °C),
7.
AR 1000, 2000, 3000 Backpack Batteries
To reduce the risk of personal
injury or property damage from a
short circuit, fire or explosion,
keep dry. Protect from rain, water,
liquids and damp conditions.
Never immerse in water or other
liquids, 7.
AR L Backpack Batteries
To reduce the risk of personal
injury or property damage from a
short circuit, fire or explosion,
keep dry. Never immerse in water
or other liquids, 7.
AP Series Batteries
To reduce the risk of personal
injury or property damage from a
short circuit, fire or explosion,
keep dry. Never immerse in water
or other liquids, 7.
Batteries sold separately.
5 General Power Tool Safety
Warnings
5.1 Introduction
This chapter contains the prescribed general
safety warnings and instructions for handheld,
motor-operated electric power tools. Additional
important warnings and instructions are provided
in subsequent chapters of this manual.
WARNING
■Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustra‐
tions and specifications provided with this
power tool. Failure to follow all instructions lis‐
ted below may result in electric shock, fire
and/or serious injury.
■Save all warnings and instructions for future
reference.
The term "power tool" in the warnings refers to
your mains-operated (corded) power tool or bat‐
tery-operated (cordless) power tool.
5.2 Work Area Safety
a)Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered
or dark areas invite accidents.
b)Do not operate power tools in explosive
atmospheres, such as in the presence of
flammable liquids, gases or dust. Power
tools create sparks which may ignite the dust
or fumes.
c)Keep children and bystanders away while
operating a power tool. Distractions can
cause you to lose control.
5.3 Electrical Safety
a)Power tool plugs must match the outlet.
Never modify the plug in any way. Do not
use any adapter plugs with earthed (groun‐
ded) power tools. Unmodified plugs and
matching outlets will reduce the risk of elec‐
tric shock.
b)Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded
surfaces, such as pipes, radiators, ranges
and refrigerators. There is an increased risk
of electric shock if your body is earthed or
grounded.
c)Do not expose power tools to rain or wet
conditions. Water entering a power tool will
increase the risk of electric shock.
d)Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord
for carrying, pulling or unplugging the power
tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp
edges or moving parts. Damaged or entan‐
gled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
e)When operating a power tool outdoors, use
an extension cord suitable for outdoor use.
Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use
reduces the risk of electric shock.
f)If operating a power tool in a damp location
is unavoidable, use a residual current device
(RCD) or ground fault circuit interruptor
(GFCI) protected supply. Use of an RCD or
GFCI reduces the risk of electric shock.
5.4 Personal Safety
a)Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use
common sense when operating a power tool.
Do not use a power tool while you are tired
or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or
medication. A moment of inattention while
English 5 General Power Tool Safety Warnings
4 0458-020-8601-A

operating power tools may result in serious
personal injury.
b)Use personal protective equipment. Always
wear eye protection. Protective equipment
such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes,
hard hat, or hearing protection used for
appropriate conditions will reduce personal
injuries.
c)Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the
switch is in the off-position before connecting
to power source and/or battery pack, picking
up or carrying the tool. Carrying power tools
with your finger on the switch or energizing
power tools that have the switch on invites
accidents.
d)Remove any adjusting key or wrench before
turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key
left attached to a rotating part of the power
tool may result in personal injury.
e)Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and
balance at all times. This enables better con‐
trol of the power tool in unexpected situa‐
tions.
f)Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or
jewellery. Keep your hair and clothing away
from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery
or long hair can be caught in moving parts.
g)If devices are provided for the connection of
dust extraction and collection facilities,
ensure these are connected and properly
used. Use of dust collection can reduce dust-
related hazards.
h)Do not let familiarity gained from frequent
use of tools allow you to become complacent
and ignore tool safety principles. A careless
action can cause severe injury within a frac‐
tion of a second.
5.5 Power Tool Use and Care
a)Do not force the power tool. Use the correct
power tool for your application. The correct
power tool will do the job better and safer at
the rate for which it was designed.
b)Do not use the power tool if the switch does
not turn it on and off. Any power tool that
cannot be controlled with the switch is dan‐
gerous and must be repaired.
c)Disconnect the plug from the power source
and/or remove the battery pack, if detacha‐
ble, from the power tool before making any
adjustments, changing accessories, or stor‐
ing power tools. Such preventive safety
measures reduce the risk of starting the
power tool accidentally.
d)Store idle power tools out of the reach of
children and do not allow persons unfamiliar
with the power tool or these instructions to
operate the power tool. Power tools are dan‐
gerous in the hands of untrained users.
e)Maintain power tools and accessories.
Check for misalignment or binding of moving
parts, breakage of parts and any other condi‐
tion that may affect the power tool's opera‐
tion. If damaged, have the power tool
repaired before use. Many accidents are
caused by poorly maintained power tools.
f)Keep cutting tools sharp and clean. Properly
maintained cutting tools with sharp cutting
edges are less likely to bind and are easier
to control.
g)Use the power tool, accessories and tool bits
etc. in accordance with these instructions,
taking into account the working conditions
and the work to be performed. Use of the
power tool for operations different from those
intended could result in a hazardous situa‐
tion.
h)Keep handles and grasping surfaces dry,
clean and free from oil and grease. Slippery
handles and grasping surfaces do not allow
for safe handling and control of the tool in
unexpected situations.
5.6 Battery Tool Use and Care
a)Recharge only with the charger specified by
the manufacturer. A charger that is suitable
for one type of battery pack may create a risk
of fire when used with another battery pack.
b)Use power tools only with specifically desig‐
nated battery packs. Use of any other battery
packs may create a risk of injury and fire.
c)When battery pack is not in use, keep it
away from other metal objects, like paper
clips, coins, keys, nails, screws or other
small metal objects that can make a connec‐
tion from one terminal to another. Shorting
the battery terminals together may cause
burns or a fire.
d)Under abusive conditions, liquid may be
ejected from the battery; avoid contact. If
contact accidentally occurs, flush with water.
If liquid contacts eyes, additionally seek
medical help. Liquid ejected from the battery
may cause irritation or burns.
5 General Power Tool Safety Warnings English
0458-020-8601-A 5

e)Do not use a battery pack or tool that is dam‐
aged or modified. Damaged or modified bat‐
teries may exhibit unpredictable behaviour
resulting in fire/explosion or risk of injury.
f)Do not expose a battery pack or tool to fire or
excessive temperature. Exposure to fire or
temperatures above 130 °C / 265 °F may
cause explosion.
g)Follow all charging instructions and do not
charge the battery pack or tool outside the
temperature range specified in the instruc‐
tions. Charging improperly or at tempera‐
tures outside the specified range may dam‐
age the battery and increase the risk of fire.
5.7 Service
a)Have your power tool serviced by a qualified
repair person using only identical replace‐
ment parts. This will ensure that the safety of
the power tool is maintained.
b)Never service damaged battery packs. Serv‐
ice of battery packs should only be per‐
formed by the manufacturer or authorized
service provider.
5.8 Hedge Trimmer Safety Warn‐
ings
a)Keep all parts of the body away from the
blade. Do not remove cut material or hold
material to be cut when blades are moving.
Blades continue to move after the switch is
turned off. A moment of inattention while
operating the hedge trimmer may result in
serious personal injury.
b)Carry the hedge trimmer by the handle with
the blade stopped and taking care not to
operate any power switch. Proper carrying of
the hedge trimmer will decrease the risk of
inadvertent starting and resultant personal
injury from the blades.
c)When transporting or storing the hedge trim‐
mer, always fit the blade cover. Proper han‐
dling of the hedge trimmer will decrease the
risk of personal injury from the blades.
d)When clearing jammed material or servicing
the unit, make sure all power switches are off
and the battery pack is removed or discon‐
nected. Unexpected actuation of the hedge
trimmer while clearing jammed material or
servicing may result in serious personal
injury.
e)Hold the hedge trimmer by insulated gripping
surfaces only, because the blade may con‐
tact hidden wiring. Blades contacting a "live"
wire may make exposed metal parts of the
hedge trimmer "live" and could give the oper‐
ator an electric shock.
f)Keep all power cords and cables away from
cutting area. Power cords or cables may be
hidden in hedges or bushes and can be acci‐
dentally cut by the blade.
g)Do not use the hedge trimmer in bad
weather conditions, especially when there is
a risk of lightning. This decreases the risk of
being struck by lightning.
6 IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS
6.1 Intended Use
WARNING
■ This hedge trimmer is designed for trimming
hedges, shrubs and bushes in yards and gar‐
dens. Use of the hedge trimmer for operations
different than intended could result in serious
injury or death.
■Improper use could result in personal injury or
property damage, including damage to the
hedge trimmer.
–Use the hedge trimmer only as described
in this manual.
–Never attempt to modify or override the
hedge trimmer's controls or safety devices
in any way.
–Never use a hedge trimmer that has been
modified or altered from its original
design.
–Be sure to read and follow the warnings
and instructions for your battery and
charger before charging or starting work.
■This power tool may be powered by a STIHL
AP series battery. Alternatively, it may be pow‐
ered by a STIHL AR series backpack battery
in combination with an AP Adapter.
Batteries, chargers and other accessories are
sold separately.
6.2 Operator
WARNING
■Working with the hedge trimmer can be stren‐
uous. The operator must be in good physical
condition and mental health. To reduce the
risk of personal injury from fatigue and loss of
control:
English 6 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
6 0458-020-8601-A

–Check with your doctor before using the
hedge trimmer if you have any health con‐
dition that may be aggravated by strenu‐
ous work.
–Do not operate the hedge trimmer while
under the influence of any substance
(drug, alcohol or medication, etc.) that
might impair vision, balance, dexterity or
judgment.
–Be alert. Do not operate the hedge trim‐
mer when you are tired. Take a break if
you become tired.
–Do not permit minors to use the hedge
trimmer.
■ According to STIHL's current knowledge, the
electric motor of this hedge trimmer should not
interfere with a pacemaker.
–However, persons with a pacemaker or
other implanted medical device should
consult their physician and device manu‐
facturer before operating this hedge trim‐
mer.
6.3 Personal Protective Equipment
WARNING
■ To reduce the risk of personal injury:
–Always wear proper clothing and protec‐
tive apparel, including proper eye protec‐
tion.
■Loss of control and severe cut injuries may
result if hair, clothing or apparel make contact
with the moving cutting blades or otherwise
become entangled in the components of the
hedge trimmer. To reduce the risk of severe
personal injury:
–Wear sturdy and snug-fit‐
ting clothing that also
allows complete freedom
of movement.
–Wear overalls or long
pants made of heavy
material to help protect
your legs. Do not wear
shorts.
–Wear a long-sleeve shirt or jacket.
–Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarves, neck‐
ties, flared or cuffed pants, jewelry and
any other apparel that could be caught on
branches, brush or the moving cutting
attachment.
–Secure hair above shoulder level before
starting work.
■ To reduce the risk of eye injury:
–Always wear goggles or
close-fitting protective
glasses with adequate
side protection that are
impact-rated and marked
as complying with ANSI
Z87 "+".
■Good footing is very important. To help main‐
tain a secure footing and reduce the risk of
injury while working:
–Wear substantial footwear
with non-slip soles. Do not
wear sandals, flip-flops,
open-toed or similar foot‐
wear.
■To improve your grip and help protect your
hands:
–Always wear heavy-duty
non-slip work gloves
made of leather or another
wear-resistant material
when handling the hedge
trimmer or its cutting
blades.
6.4 Hedge Trimmer
WARNING
■ To reduce the risk of electric shock:
–Do not immerse the hedge trimmer in
water or other fluids.
–Store the hedge trimmer indoors.
■ The cutting blades have many sharp cutters.
Making contact with the cutters may result in
serious laceration injuries, even if the cutting
blades are not moving. To reduce the risk of
such injuries:
–Keep hands, feet and other parts of your
body away from the cutting blades.
–Never hold the material to be cut.
–Never remove cut material without first
releasing the trigger switch and removing
the battery.
–Wear heavy-duty work gloves when han‐
dling the hedge trimmer or its cutting
blades.
–Never touch the moving cutting blades
with your hand or any other part of your
body.
–Cover the cutting blades with a blade
scabbard before transporting or storing
the hedge trimmer to reduce the risk of
inadvertent contact.
■This battery-powered hedge trimmer is inten‐
ded only for garden and landscape mainte‐
nance. Use for other purposes may increase
the risk of personal injury and property dam‐
age.
6 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS English
0458-020-8601-A 7

–Do not attempt to cut any material other
than hedges, shrubs, bushes or similar
soft vegetation. Do not cut stems,
branches or other vegetation greater than
0.59 in. (15 mm) thick.
–Read and follow the operating instructions
in this manual for approved applications,
16.
■To reduce the risk of personal injury to the
operator and bystanders:
–Always release the trigger
switch and remove the
battery before assembling,
transporting, adjusting,
inspecting, cleaning, serv‐
icing, maintaining or stor‐
ing the hedge trimmer,
and any other time it is not
in use.
–Release the trigger switch and remove the
battery before clearing jammed material.
–Never leave the hedge trimmer unatten‐
ded when the battery is inserted.
■ Although certain unauthorized attachments
may fit your STIHL hedge trimmer, their use
may be extremely dangerous. Only attach‐
ments supplied by STIHL or expressly
approved by STIHL for use with this specific
model are recommended.
–Use only attachments supplied or
expressly approved by STIHL.
–Never modify this hedge trimmer in any
way.
–Never attempt to modify or override the
hedge trimmer's controls or safety devices
in any way.
–Never use a hedge trimmer that has been
modified or altered from its original
design.
■If the hedge trimmer is dropped or subjected
to similar heavy impacts:
–Check that it is undamaged, in good con‐
dition and functioning properly before con‐
tinuing work.
–Check that the controls and safety devi‐
ces are working properly.
–Check the LEDs on the battery for error
messages, 22.
–Never work with a damaged or malfunc‐
tioning hedge trimmer or battery. In case
of doubt, have the hedge trimmer and bat‐
tery checked by your authorized STIHL
servicing dealer.
■If the hedge trimmer or battery is damaged,
not working properly, has been left outdoors or
dropped into water or other liquid, its compo‐
nents may no longer function properly and
safety devices may be inoperative. To reduce
the risk of personal injury and property dam‐
age:
–Take the hedge trimmer and battery to
your authorized STIHL servicing dealer to
be checked before further operation.
■Genuine STIHL replacement parts are specifi‐
cally designed to match your hedge trimmer
and meet safety and performance require‐
ments. Use of parts that are not authorized or
approved by STIHL may cause serious or fatal
injury or property damage.
–STIHL recommends that only identical
STIHL replacement parts be used.
6.5 Using the Hedge Trimmer
6.5.1 Before Operation
WARNING
■ Misuse or unauthorized use may result in per‐
sonal injury and property damage.
–Use the hedge trimmer only as described
in this instruction manual.
■ Using a hedge trimmer that is modified, dam‐
aged, improperly adjusted or maintained, or
not completely and securely assembled can
lead to a malfunction and increase the risk of
serious personal injury or death.
–Never operate a hedge trimmer that is
modified damaged, improperly maintained
or not completely and securely assem‐
bled.
–Always check your hedge trimmer for
proper condition and operation before
starting work, particularly the trigger
switch lockout, ergo-lever, trigger switch,
switch lever, front hand guard and cutting
blades.
–Ensure that the trigger switch lockout,
ergo-lever, trigger switch and switch lever
move freely and spring back into place
when released.
–Never attempt to modify or override the
controls or safety devices in any way.
–The cutting blades must move only when
the battery is inserted and the trigger
switch and switch lever are depressed.
–If your hedge trimmer or any part is dam‐
aged or does not function properly, take it
to your authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
Do not use the hedge trimmer until the
problem has been corrected.
■Before inserting the battery:
English 6 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
8 0458-020-8601-A

–Check the contacts in the battery com‐
partment for corrosion or other foreign
matter and keep clean.
–Never insert or use a malfunctioning,
damaged, cracked, leaking or deformed
battery.
–Read and follow the instructions on
switching on the hedge trimmer, 14.1.
■ To help reduce the risk of serious personal
injury or death from unintentional starting:
–Be sure the trigger switch lockout is in the
locked position and the trigger switch is in
the off position before inserting the bat‐
tery.
–Never carry the hedge trimmer with your
finger on the trigger switch.
–Release the trigger switch before remov‐
ing the battery.
–Remove the battery
before assembling, trans‐
porting, adjusting, inspect‐
ing, cleaning, servicing,
maintaining or storing the
hedge trimmer, and any
other time it is not in use.
–Never leave the hedge trimmer unatten‐
ded when the battery is inserted.
–Never store the battery in the hedge trim‐
mer.
■ Before switching on your hedge trimmer, take
the following steps to reduce the risk of per‐
sonal injury, loss of control or inadvertent con‐
tact with the cutting attachment:
–Be sure that the cutting blades are clear
of you and all other obstructions and
objects, including the ground.
–Never switch on the hedge trimmer with
material between the cutting blades.
–Read and follow the instructions on
switching on the hedge trimmer, 14.1.
6.5.2 Holding and Controlling the Hedge
Trimmer
0000-GXX-1455-A0
WARNING
■To maintain a firm grip and properly control
your hedge trimmer:
–Keep the handles clean and dry at all
times. Keep them free of moisture, pitch,
oil, grease and resin.
■To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries to
the operator or bystanders from loss of con‐
trol:
–Always hold the hedge trimmer firmly with
both hands when you are working.
–Wrap your fingers tightly around the han‐
dles, keeping the handles cradled
between your thumb and forefinger (see
illustration).
–Position the hedge trimmer in such a way
that all parts of your body are clear of the
cutting attachment whenever the battery
is inserted.
■Operating the hedge trimmer with one hand
may lead to loss of control and is therefore
extremely dangerous. To reduce the risk of
serious or fatal injury to the operator or
bystanders from loss of control:
–Never attempt to operate
the hedge trimmer with
one hand.
–Never hold the material to
be cut. Never remove cut
material without first
releasing the trigger
switch and removing the
battery.
–Release the trigger switch
and remove the battery
before clearing jammed
material.
■ To reduce the risk of serious or fatal cut inju‐
ries to the operator or bystanders from loss of
control, keep proper footing and balance at all
times:
–Never work on a ladder, roof, in a tree or
while standing on any other insecure sup‐
port.
–Take special care in overgrown or wet ter‐
rain and always watch for hidden obsta‐
cles such as tree stumps, roots, rocks,
holes and ditches to avoid stumbling or
falling.
–Be extremely cautious when working on
slopes or uneven ground.
–For better footing, always clear away
fallen branches, scrub, cuttings and other
material, objects or vegetation that can
increase the danger of slipping, tripping or
falling.
–Never operate the hedge trimmer above
shoulder height.
–Do not overreach. Keep proper footing
and balance at all times.
6 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS English
0458-020-8601-A 9

■ To reduce the risk of serious or fatal cut inju‐
ries to the operator or bystanders from blade
contact:
–Keep hands, feet and
other body parts away
from the cutting blades.
–Do not touch the cutting blades while the
battery is inserted.
–Never touch moving cutting blades with
your hand or any other part of your body.
–If the cutting blades
become jammed by thick
branches or other obstruc‐
tions, release the trigger
switch, trigger switch lock‐
out and switch lever
immediately and remove
the battery before attempt‐
ing to free the blades.
6.5.3 Working Conditions
WARNING
■ Operate your hedge trimmer only under good
visibility during favorable daylight conditions.
–Postpone the work if the weather is windy,
foggy, rainy or inclement.
■ Your hedge trimmer is a one-person machine.
–Bystanders, especially children, and ani‐
mals should not be allowed in the area
where it is in use.
–Switch off the hedge trimmer immediately
if you are approached.
■ To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders and
unauthorized users:
–Never leave the hedge trimmer unatten‐
ded when the battery is inserted.
–Switch off the hedge trimmer and remove
the battery during work breaks and any
other time the hedge trimmer is not in use.
■Sparks generated from operation of the hedge
trimmer may be capable of igniting combusti‐
ble gases, liquids, vapors, dusts or other com‐
bustible materials and substances. To reduce
the risk of fire and explosion:
–Never operate the hedge trimmer in a
location where combustible gases, liquids,
vapors, dusts or other combustible materi‐
als and substances are present.
–Read and follow recommendations issued
by government authorities (e.g., OSHA)
for identifying and avoiding the hazards of
combustible gases, liquids, vapors, dusts
or other combustible materials and sub‐
stances.
■Use of this hedge trimmer (including sharpen‐
ing the cutting blades) can generate dust and
other substances containing chemicals known
to cause respiratory problems, cancer, birth
defects and other reproductive harm.
–Consult governmental agencies such as
EPA, OSHA, CARB and NIOSH and other
authoritative sources on hazardous mate‐
rials if you are unfamiliar with the risks
associated with the particular substances
you are cutting or with which you are
working.
■Inhalation of certain dusts, especially organic
dusts such as mold or pollen, can cause sus‐
ceptible persons to have an allergic or asth‐
matic reaction. Substantial or repeated inhala‐
tion of dust or other airborne contaminants,
especially those with a smaller particle size,
may cause respiratory or other illnesses.
–Control dust at the source where possible.
–Always work with properly sharpened cut‐
ting blades.
–To the extent possible, operate the hedge
trimmer so that the wind or operating
process directs any dust, mist or other
particulate matter raised by the hedge
trimmer away from the operator.
–When respirable dust or other particulate
matter cannot be kept at or near back‐
ground levels, always wear a respirator
that is approved by NIOSH and rated for
worksite-specific conditions. Follow the
recommendations of governmental
authorities (e.g., OSHA/NIOSH) and occu‐
pational and trade associations.
■ If the vegetation being cut or the surrounding
ground is coated with a chemical substance,
such as pesticide or herbicide:
–Read and follow the instructions and
warnings that accompanied the substance
coating the vegetation or surrounding
ground.
6.5.4 Operating Instructions
DANGER
■Contact with blade will result in serious per‐
sonal injury.
–Keep hands away from blade.
WARNING
■To reduce the risk of serious or fatal cut inju‐
ries to the operator or bystanders from blade
contact:
English 6 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
10 0458-020-8601-A

–Keep hands, feet and
other body parts away
from the cutting blades.
–Do not touch the cutting
blades while the battery is
inserted.
–Never touch moving cut‐
ting blades with your hand
or any other part of your
body.
–Never hold the material to
be cut. Never remove cut
material without first
releasing the trigger
switch and removing the
battery.
–Release the trigger switch
and remove the battery
before clearing jammed
material.
■ To reduce the risk of severe personal injuries
from unintentional starting:
–Never touch the cutting blades with your
hand or any other part of your body when
the battery is inserted, even when the cut‐
ting blades are not moving.
–If the cutting blades
become jammed by
branches or other obstruc‐
tions, switch off the hedge
trimmer immediately and
remove the battery before
attempting to free the
blades.
■The cutting blades continue to move for a
short period after the trigger switch or switch
lever is fully released.
–Wait for the cutting blades to stop before
walking with the hedge trimmer or putting
it down.
■In the event of an emergency:
–Switch off the motor immediately and
remove the battery.
■ Contacting foreign objects while cutting could
damage the cutting blades and may cause
them to crack, chip, break or jam. To reduce
the risk of severe personal injury or death from
loss of control, and to reduce the risk of dam‐
age to the hedge trimmer:
–Inspect the material to be cut and the sur‐
rounding area for stones, fence wire,
metal or other foreign objects before start‐
ing work. Do not use the hedge trimmer in
areas where the cutting blades could con‐
tact such objects.
–Take particular care when cutting next to,
against or near 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.
–Do not cut any areas of the hedge, bush,
shrub or other vegetation that you cannot
see.
■To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders:
–Do not allow other persons in the general
work area.
–If cutting the top of a taller hedge, check
the other side of the hedge frequently for
bystanders, animals and obstructions.
■Check the cutting blades at regular short inter‐
vals during operation, or immediately if there is
a change in cutting behavior:
–Switch off the hedge trimmer and remove
the battery.
–Check the condition, tightness and sharp‐
ness of the cutting blades.
–Inspect the hedge trimmer for loose parts
(nuts, screws, etc.) and for cracked, bent,
warped or damaged cutting blades.
Replace damaged cutting blades before
using the hedge trimmer.
–Always keep the cutting blades sharp.
■ To reduce blade friction and the buildup of dirt,
which can interfere with the proper functioning
of the hedge trimmer:
–STIHL recommends that you spray the
cutting blades with a resin solvent, such
as STIHL Resin Remover and Lubricant,
before starting work.
DANGER
■To reduce risk of electrocution:
–Never operate this hedge
trimmer in the vicinity of
any wires or cables that
may be carrying electric
current.
–Do not rely on the hedge
trimmer's insulation
against electric shock.
7 Battery Safety
7.1 Warnings and Instructions
WARNING
■Read and follow the safety precautions on the
battery and all warnings and instructions that
accompany it.
■Use of unauthorized batteries can damage the
power tool and result in fire, explosion and
personal injury and property damage.
–Use only genuine STIHL AR or AP series
batteries with this power tool.
7 Battery Safety English
0458-020-8601-A 11

■ Use of STIHL AR or AP series batteries for
any purpose other than powering STIHL prod‐
ucts could be extremely dangerous.
–Use STIHL AR and AP series batteries
only to power compatible STIHL products.
■ Use of unauthorized chargers can damage the
battery and result in fire, explosion and per‐
sonal injury and property damage.
–Charge STIHL AP series batteries only
with genuine STIHL AL 101, AL 301,
AL 301-4 or AL 500 series chargers.
–Charge STIHL AR series backpack batter‐
ies only with genuine STIHL AL 301,
AL 301-4 or AL 500 series chargers.
■The battery contains safety features and devi‐
ces which, if damaged, may allow the battery
to generate heat, rupture, leak, ignite or
explode.
–Never heat the battery
above 212 °F (100 °C).
–Never incinerate or place
the battery on or near
fires, stoves or other high-
temperature locations.
–Never use or charge a malfunctioning,
damaged, cracked, leaking or deformed
battery.
–Never open, disassemble, crush, drop,
subject to heavy impact or otherwise dam‐
age the battery.
–Never expose the battery to microwaves
or high pressures.
–Never insert objects into the battery's
cooling slots.
■ Extreme temperatures may cause the battery
to generate heat, rupture, leak, ignite or
explode, resulting in severe or fatal personal
injury and property damage. Exposure to tem‐
peratures outside the recommended tempera‐
ture range may also reduce battery life and
performance.
–Use and store the battery
only within an ambient
temperature range of
14 °F to 122 °F (-10 °C to
50 °C).
■To reduce the risk of personal injury and prop‐
erty damage in the event the battery emits
smoke, has an unusual smell or feels unusu‐
ally hot while using, charging or storing:
–Immediately discontinue using or charging
the battery. Contact the authorities in the
event of fire or explosion.
■To reduce the risk of a short circuit, which
could lead to electric shock, fire and explosion:
–Keep STIHL AR 1000,
2000, 3000 backpack bat‐
teries dry. Protect from
rain, water and other liq‐
uids. Attach the rain cover
to the battery before start‐
ing work in rain or in very
damp conditions.
–If a STIHL AP or AR L bat‐
tery has been exposed to
rain during work, remove it
from the product and allow
it to dry indoors. Make
sure it is completely dry
before charging or using.
–Never immerse any STIHL
battery in water or other
liquids.
–Never bridge the battery terminals with
wires or other metallic objects.
–Keep a battery that is not in use away
from small metal objects capable of con‐
ducting electricity (e.g., paper clips, nails,
coins, keys).
–Store the battery indoors in a dry room.
–Never store the battery in damp or corro‐
sive environments or in conditions that
could lead to corrosion of its metal com‐
ponents.
–Never store the battery in the power tool.
–When storing the battery, maintain a
charge of 40 % to 60 % for STIHL AP ser‐
ies batteries and a charge of 30 % to
45 % for STIHL AR series batteries (2
green LEDs).
–If storing the battery in the charger, dis‐
connect the charger from the outlet.
–Protect the battery from exposure to cor‐
rosive agents such as garden chemicals
and de-icing salts.
–Protect the battery from exposure to con‐
ductive liquids such as salt water.
–Do not attempt to repair, open or disas‐
semble the battery. There are no user-
serviceable parts inside.
■Leaking battery fluid is potentially harmful and
can cause skin and eye irritation, chemical
burns and other serious personal injury.
–Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
–Use an inert absorbent such as sand on
spilled battery fluid.
–In the event of accidental contact, immedi‐
ately rinse the contact area thoroughly
with mild soap and water.
–If fluid gets into your eye(s): do not rub.
Rinse water over the open eye(s) for at
least 15 minutes and seek medical atten‐
tion.
English 7 Battery Safety
12 0458-020-8601-A

■ A battery fire can be dangerous. To reduce the
risk of severe personal injury and property
damage in the event of fire:
–Evacuate the area. Fire can spread rap‐
idly. Stay clear of any vapors generated
and maintain a safe distance.
–Contact the fire department.
–Although water can be used to put out a
battery fire, use of a multi-purpose dry
chemical fire extinguisher is preferable.
–Consult the fire department regarding
proper disposal of a burned battery.
8 Maintenance, Repair and
Storage
8.1 Warnings and Instructions
WARNING
■ There are no user-authorized repairs for the
hedge trimmer, battery or charger. To reduce
the risk of fire, electric shock or other personal
injury and property damage:
–Users may carry out only the cleaning and
maintenance operations described in this
manual.
–Strictly follow the cleaning and mainte‐
nance instructions in the appropriate sec‐
tions of this instruction manual.
–STIHL recommends that all repair work be
performed by authorized STIHL servicing
dealers.
■Unintentional starting may result in personal
injury or property damage. To reduce the risk
of personal injury and property damage from
unintentional starting:
–Remove the battery
before inspecting the
hedge trimmer or carrying
out any cleaning, mainte‐
nance or repair work,
before storing, and any
other time the hedge trim‐
mer is not in use.
■The cutting blades are the only user-servicea‐
ble parts of the hedge trimmer. Proper mainte‐
nance will help maintain cutting performance
and reduce the risk of personal injury.
–Wear heavy-duty non-slip work gloves
when handling the cutting blades.
–Keep the cutting blades clean and sharp.
–Tighten all nuts, bolts and screws after
each use.
–Never attempt to repair damaged cutting
blades by welding, straightening or modi‐
fying the shape. This may cause parts of
the cutting blades to experience uneven
or excessive wear or other damage that
can lead to a malfunction or breakage
during operation, resulting in serious or
fatal injuries.
■Use of parts that are not authorized or
approved by STIHL may cause serious or fatal
injury or property damage.
–STIHL recommends that only identical
STIHL replacement parts be used for
repair or maintenance.
■To reduce the risk of electric shock:
–Unplug the charger from the electrical out‐
let before inspecting or cleaning the
charger.
–Regularly check the charger and ensure
that the insulation of the power supply
cord and plug are in good condition and
show no signs of aging (brittleness), wear
or damage.
–Have a damaged power supply cord
replaced by an authorized STIHL servic‐
ing dealer.
■To reduce the risk of short circuit and fire:
–Keep the battery guides free of foreign
matter. Clean as necessary with a dry
cloth or soft, dry brush.
■Improper storage can result in unauthorized
use, damage to the hedge trimmer, battery
and charger, and an increased risk of fire,
electric shock and other personal injury or
property damage.
–Remove the battery from the hedge trim‐
mer before storing.
–Never store the hedge trimmer with the
battery inserted.
–When storing the battery, maintain a
charge of 40 % to 60 % for STIHL AP ser‐
ies batteries and a charge of 30 % to
45 % for STIHL AR series batteries (2
green LEDs).
–If storing the battery in the charger, dis‐
connect the charger from the outlet.
–Store the hedge trimmer, battery and
charger indoors in a dry, secure place that
cannot be accessed by children or other
unauthorized users.
–Never store the battery in the hedge trim‐
mer or in a container with small metal
objects capable of conducting electricity
(e.g., paper clips, nails, coins, keys).
8 Maintenance, Repair and Storage English
0458-020-8601-A 13

9 Before Starting Work
9.1 Preparing the Hedge Trimmer
for Operation
Before starting work:
►Fully charge the battery, 10.
► Check the controls for proper function and
condition, 15.1.
► Check the cutting attachment for damage or
other problems.
10 Charging the Battery
10.1 Setting up the Charger
WARNING
■ Read and follow the safety precautions on the
battery and charger and all warnings and
instructions that accompany those products.
To reduce the risk of short circuit, which could
lead to electric shock, fire and explosion,
make sure the charger and its components are
dry and not damaged; Read and follow the
warnings and instructions in your charger's
manual. For optimum performance, STIHL
recommends operating the charger within an
ambient temperature range of 41 °F to 104 °F
(5 °C to 40 °C).
WARNING
■ A typical household electric circuit is between
15 and 20 amps. A single STIHL AL 500
charger draws approximately 4.8 amps. A sin‐
gle AL 301 or AL 301-4 charger draws approx‐
imately 4.4 amps and an AL 101 approxi‐
mately 1.3 amps. To reduce the risk of fire
from overloading an electrical circuit:
–Ensure the electrical system is rated to
withstand the expected electrical draw
before charging your battery.
–Charge multiple batteries one at a time or
on separate circuits, unless you know
your circuit can handle the total expected
draw from multiple chargers.
WARNING
■ Since the charger heats up during the charg‐
ing process, do not operate the charger on a
combustible surface or in a location where
combustible gases, liquids, vapors, dusts or
other materials and substances are present.
To set up the charger:
3
2
4
1
1
2
3
4
0000082682_004
► Insert the plug (3) into a properly installed
electrical outlet (4) matching the voltage and
electrical frequency stated on the charger's
rating plate.
The charger runs a self-test immediately after it
is plugged in. The charger LED (1) will glow
green for about 1 second, then it will glow red
briefly before going out. Once the LED goes out,
the self-test is complete and the charger is ready
to charge the battery.
► Position the power supply cord (2) so that it
will not be stepped on, tripped over, come in
contact with sharp objects or moving parts or
otherwise be subjected to damage or stress.
10.2 Charging
WARNING
■ STIHL batteries contain safety features and
devices which, if damaged, may allow the bat‐
tery to generate heat, rupture, leak, ignite or
explode. Never charge a malfunctioning, dam‐
aged, cracked, leaking or deformed battery, or
use a charger that has been damaged. Never
insert a wet battery or battery adapter. Never
use a wet charger. Follow all product-specific
warnings and instructions accompanying your
battery and charger.
A battery is not fully charged when it ships from
the factory. STIHL recommends that you fully
charge the battery before using it the first time.
Read and follow the warnings and instructions in
your charger's manual. For optimum perform‐
ance, STIHL recommends operating the charger
within an ambient temperature range of 41 °F to
104 °F (5 °C to 40 °C).
The battery heats up during operation of the
power tool. If a hot battery is connected to the
charger, it may be necessary for it to cool down
before charging starts. The charging process
begins only after the battery has cooled down
sufficiently.
English 9 Before Starting Work
14 0458-020-8601-A

Charging time depends on a number of factors,
including battery condition and the ambient tem‐
perature. For a complete list of approximate
charging times, see www.stihl.com/charging-
times.
To charge an AR battery:
3
1
3
45
4
5
2
0000081894_003
► Push the plug of the connecting cord (1) into
the socket (2) of the AP Adapter (3) until it
stops.
► Push the AP Adapter into the charger (5) until
it stops.
The LED (4) on the charger glows green when
the battery is charging.
The LEDs on the AR battery glow green and
show the state of charge.
When the LEDs on the battery turn off, the
charging process is complete and the charger
will shut itself off. The AP Adapter can be
removed from the charger.
► Disconnect the power supply cord from the
electrical outlet when the charger is not in use
for extended periods of time.
► Charge STIHL AR backpack batteries only
with genuine STIHL AL 301, AL 301-4 or AL
500 series chargers.
To charge an AP battery:
2
3
4
1
0000083481_002
► Push the battery (2) into the charger (3) until it
stops.
The LED on the charger glows green when the
battery is charging.
The LEDs (1) on the AP battery glow green
and show the state of charge.
When the LEDs on the battery go out, the
charging process is complete and the charger
will shut itself off. The AP battery can be
removed from the charger.
► Disconnect the power supply cord from the
electrical outlet when the charger is not in use
for extended periods of time.
► Charge STIHL AP series batteries only with
genuine STIHL AL 101, AL 301, AL 301-4 or
AL 500 series chargers.
11 LED Diagnostics and
Acoustic Signals
11.1 STIHL AR Backpack Battery
11.1.1 Battery Status
Six LEDs and an acoustic signal indicate the sta‐
tus of the battery.
1
2
3.......
0000-GXX-3229-A1
1 A short beep
The acoustic signal works as it should.
2 Four or six (AR L) long beeps
The battery's charge is low. Recharge the
battery.
3 Rapid succession of short beeps
There is a malfunction in the battery. The sig‐
nal stops automatically after a few seconds.
Do not attempt to charge, use or store the
battery. Replace the battery.
These LEDs can glow or flash green or red.
If one LED glows red continu‐
ously: the battery is either too hot
or too cold. Allow the battery to
warm up or cool down gradually at
an ambient temperature of about
50 °F to 68 °F (10 °C to 20 °C).
If the four right side LEDs flash
red and a rapid succession of sev‐
eral short beeps is emitted: the
battery has a malfunction and
must be replaced. Do not attempt
to charge, use or store the bat‐
tery.
► Be aware that your ability to hear the acoustic
signal may be reduced when wearing hearing
protection.
11 LED Diagnostics and Acoustic Signals English
0458-020-8601-A 15

11.1.2 Power Tool Status
When the battery is connected to the power tool,
the same LEDs on the battery will indicate the
status of the power tool.
If three LEDs glow red continuously: the power
tool motor is too hot. Allow the motor to cool
down.
If three LEDs flash red when you activate the
trigger switch: the power tool has an electrical
malfunction. Do not operate the power tool. Have
it checked by an authorized STIHL servicing
dealer before use or storage.
For troubleshooting information, 22.
11.1.3 Charge Status
The LEDs and acoustic signals on the battery
also indicate the battery's state of charge.
To determine the battery's state of charge:
0000-GXX-2673-A0
100 % 0 %
► Press the button (1) on the backpack battery.
A single short beep will be emitted. The LEDs on
the battery will glow or flash green for about
5 seconds and indicate the state of charge (see
illustration).
For example:
If six green LEDs glow continuously: full charge.
If one green LED is flashing and four long beeps
are emitted: less than 20 % charge.
11.2 STIHL AP Battery
11.2.1 Battery Status
Four LEDs show the status of the battery. These
LEDs can glow or flash green or red.
If one LED glows red continu‐
ously: the battery is either too hot
or too cold. Allow the battery to
warm up or cool down gradually at
an ambient temperature of about
50 °F to 68 °F (10 °C to 20 °C).
If all 4 LEDs flash red: the battery
has a malfunction and must be
replaced. Do not attempt to
charge, use or store the battery.
11.2.2 Power Tool Status
The same LEDs on the battery will indicate the
status of the power tool.
If three LEDs glow red continuously: the power
tool motor is too hot. Allow the motor to cool
down.
If three LEDs flash red when you activate the
trigger switch: the power tool has an electrical
malfunction. Do not operate the power tool. Have
it checked by an authorized STIHL servicing
dealer before use or storage.
For troubleshooting information, 22.
11.2.3 Charge Status
The LEDs on the battery also show the battery's
state of charge.
To determine the battery's state of charge:
0000079877_002
20-40%
40-60%
60-80%
80-100%
0-20%
1
► Press the button (1) on the battery.
The LEDs on the battery will glow or flash
green for about 5 seconds and indicate the
state of charge (see illustration).
For example:
If four green LEDs glow continuously: full charge.
If one green LED is flashing: less than 20 %
charge.
12 Adjusting the Hedge Trim‐
mer
12.1 Rotating the Control Handle
The control handle can be rotated to any one of
three positions to suit the application.
To rotate the control handle:
►Switch off the hedge trimmer, 14.2.
English 12 Adjusting the Hedge Trimmer
16 0458-020-8601-A

12
0000099673_001
► Pull up on the blocking lever (1) and hold it in
this unlocked position.
► Rotate the control handle (2) clockwise or
counter-clockwise.
► Release the blocking lever and return it to the
locked position.
► Rotate the control handle clockwise or coun‐
ter-clockwise to make sure it has engaged in
position.
13 Inserting and Removing
the Battery
13.1 Inserting the Battery
WARNING
■ Never use a malfunctioning, damaged,
cracked, leaking or deformed battery, 7.
Use and store the battery only within an ambi‐
ent temperature range of 14 °F to 122 °F (-
10 °C to 50 °C), 7.
WARNING
■ To reduce the risk of unintended activation,
never store the battery in the hedge trimmer,
19.2.
To insert the battery:
1
2
0000084681-002
► Place the hedge trimmer on a level surface.
► Insert the battery (1) into the battery compart‐
ment (2) until it stops.
The battery is properly inserted when you hear
an audible click and the battery is flush with
the top of the housing. In this position, there is
electrical contact between the battery and the
hedge trimmer.
Since a new battery is not fully charged, STIHL
recommends that you fully charge the battery
before using it the first time, 10.
13.2 Removing the Battery
WARNING
■ To reduce the risk of severe personal injury
from unintended activation, always remove the
battery before assembling, transporting,
adjusting, cleaning, servicing, maintaining or
storing the hedge trimmer, and any other time
it is not in use.
WARNING
■ Use care when ejecting the battery to prevent
it from falling and causing personal injury or
property damage.
To remove the battery:
► Release the trigger switch.
► Place the hedge trimmer on a level surface.
► Position your hand behind the battery.
1
2
0000084682_002
► Compress the locking levers (1) to eject the
battery (2) from the battery compartment.
NOTICE
■ Avoid exposing the battery to excessive heat
or prolonged periods of direct sunlight. Use or
storage outside the recommended ambient
temperature range can reduce the perform‐
ance and/or service life of the battery.
13 Inserting and Removing the Battery English
0458-020-8601-A 17

14 Switching the Hedge Trim‐
mer On and Off
14.1 Switching On
WARNING
■ To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries to
the operator or bystanders from blade contact,
keep hands, feet and other parts of the body
away from the cutting blades, 6.5.2. Do not
touch the cutting blades while the battery is
inserted. Never touch moving cutting blades
with your hand or any part of your body,
6.5.4.
WARNING
■ Never operate your hedge trimmer if it is modi‐
fied, damaged, improperly adjusted or main‐
tained, not completely and securely assem‐
bled or not functioning properly, 6.4. To
reduce the risk of personal injury, always wear
proper clothing and protective apparel, includ‐
ing proper eye protection, when operating your
hedge trimmer, 6.3. To reduce the risk of
serious or fatal injury from loss of control,
always hold the hedge trimmer with both
hands when you are working, 6.5.2.
Before switching on:
► Make sure you have a secure and firm footing.
► Stand upright.
► Always hold and operate the hedge trimmer
with one hand firmly on the rear or control
handle and the other hand firmly on the front
or loop handle.
To switch the hedge trimmer on:
2
3
1
4
0000099672_001
► Depress and hold the switch lever (1).
► Unlock the trigger switch lockout (2) by push‐
ing it downwards with your thumb. Hold it in
this unlocked position.
► Squeeze the trigger switch (4) with your index
finger.
The cutting blades will start moving.
Once the trigger switch is activated, you may
release the trigger switch lockout. Holding the
ergo-lever (3) down keeps the trigger switch
lockout unlocked.
If you release the trigger switch and ergo-lever,
you have to unlock the trigger switch lockout
again.
14.2 Switching Off
WARNING
■ The cutting blades will continue to move for a
short while after the trigger switch or switch
lever is released. To avoid serious or fatal
injury, avoid contact with the moving cutting
blades. To reduce the risk of personal injury
from unintended activation or unauthorized
use, switch off the motor, ensure the cutting
blades have stopped and remove the battery
before transporting or putting the hedge trim‐
mer down.
To switch the hedge trimmer off:
► Release the trigger switch and ergo-lever so
that the trigger switch springs back to the
locked position. In the locked position, activa‐
tion of the trigger switch is once again blocked
by the trigger switch lockout.
The cutting blades will continue to move for a
short time after the trigger switch or switch lever
is released. Take care to avoid contact after
releasing the trigger switch and when setting
down the hedge trimmer.
15 Checking the Hedge Trim‐
mer
15.1 Testing the Controls
Before starting work, confirm that the switch
lever (1), trigger switch lockout (2), ergo-lever (3)
and trigger switch (4) are undamaged and func‐
tioning properly:
2
3
1
4
0000099672_001
English 14 Switching the Hedge Trimmer On and Off
18 0458-020-8601-A

Trigger Switch Lockout (2), Ergo-Lever (3) and
Trigger Switch (4)
WARNING
■ To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries,
keep hands, feet and other parts of the body
away from the cutting blades. Do not touch the
cutting blades while the battery is inserted.
Never touch moving cutting blades with your
hand or any part of your body, 6.5.2. Keep
bystanders out of the area while testing the
controls.
To test the trigger switch lockout, ergo-lever and
trigger switch:
► Remove the battery.
► Attempt to depress the trigger switch.
If the trigger switch can be depressed without
first unlocking the trigger switch lockout, take
the hedge trimmer to an authorized STIHL
servicing dealer to be repaired before use.
► Press down on the ergo-lever. Make sure it
moves freely and springs back into place
when released.
► Unlock the trigger switch lockout by pushing it
downwards.
When you release the trigger switch lockout it
should return to the locked position.
► Unlock the trigger switch lockout and depress
the ergo-lever at the same time to keep the
trigger switch lockout unlocked.
When you release the trigger switch lockout, it
should remain unlocked as long as you hold
down the ergo-lever.
► Release the trigger switch lockout and ergo-
lever.
► Insert the battery.
► Hold the hedge trimmer firmly with one hand
on the control handle and with the other hand
firmly on the loop handle depressing the
switch lever. While pushing the trigger switch
lockout downwards, squeeze the trigger switch
with your index finger.
The hedge trimmer should switch on. If it does
not, take the hedge trimmer to an authorized
STIHL servicing dealer to be repaired before
use.
► Release the trigger switch.
The hedge trimmer should switch off.
If the hedge trimmer does not switch off after
you release the trigger switch, remove the bat‐
tery and take the hedge trimmer to an author‐
ized STIHL servicing dealer to be repaired
before use.
Switch Lever (1)
WARNING
■ To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries,
keep hands, feet and other parts of the body
away from the cutting blades. Do not touch the
cutting blades while the battery is inserted.
Never touch moving cutting blades with your
hand or any part of your body, 6.5.2. Keep
bystanders out of the area while testing the
controls.
To test the switch lever:
► Insert the battery.
► Unlock the trigger switch lockout by pushing it
downwards with your thumb.
► Hold the trigger switch lockout in the unlocked
position.
► Depress the trigger switch lockout and the trig‐
ger switch only. Do not depress the switch
lever.
The cutting blades should not start moving. If
they do start moving, take the hedge trimmer
to an authorized STIHL servicing dealer to be
repaired before use.
► Next, hold the hedge trimmer firmly with both
hands, your fingers wrapped tightly around the
handles. Now switch on the hedge trimmer by
depressing the trigger switch lockout, trigger
switch and switch lever momentarily. The
blades should start moving. Then release the
trigger switch or switch lever. The blades
should stop moving.
If the cutting blades do not start when you
depress the trigger switch and switch lever, or if
they do not stop after you release the trigger
switch or switch lever, remove the battery and
take the hedge trimmer to an authorized STIHL
servicing dealer to be repaired before use.
16 During Operation
16.1 Using the Hedge Trimmer
WARNING
■ To reduce the risk of personal injury, never
work with the hedge trimmer in the rain or in
wet or damp conditions, 6.4. Always wear
proper clothing and protective apparel, includ‐
ing proper eye protection, 6.3. Work care‐
fully and maintain proper control of the hedge
trimmer, 6.5.2.
16 During Operation English
0458-020-8601-A 19

WARNING
■ To avoid serious or fatal injury, avoid contact
with the moving cutting blades. Never hold the
material to be cut. Never remove cut material
without first releasing the trigger switch and
removing the battery. Release the trigger
switch and remove the battery before clearing
jammed material, 6.5.4.
The hedge trimmer is designed for two-handed
operation.
► Before starting work with the hedge trimmer,
remove thick branches with a hand pruning
saw, loppers, chain saw or other appropriate
tool.
► Do not cut stems, branches or other vegeta‐
tion greater than 0.59 in. (15 mm) thick.
0-10°
0000-GXX-1456-A0
Cutting in a Vertical Plane
► Swing the cutting attachment from the bottom
of the hedge upwards in a controlled arc (see
illustration above).
► Lower the nose of the cutting attachment,
move along the hedge and swing the cutting
attachment up again in a controlled arc.
Cutting in a Horizontal Plane
► Hold the cutting attachment at an angle of 0°
to 10° as you move the cutting attachment
horizontally, using both sides of the cutting
attachment (see illustration above).
Observe all applicable laws, regulations, stand‐
ards and ordinances.
17 After Finishing Work
17.1 Preparing for Transportation or
Storage
WARNING
■ To reduce the risk of personal injury from unin‐
tended activation or unauthorized use, switch
off the motor, ensure the cutting blades have
stopped and remove the battery before trans‐
porting the hedge trimmer or putting it down.
To prepare the hedge trimmer for transportation
or storage:
►Switch off the hedge trimmer, 14.2.
►Remove the battery, 13.2.
► Slide a blade scabbard over the cutting blades
so that it covers the entire cutting attachment.
► If the hedge trimmer or battery became wet
during operation, allow them to dry completely
before charging or storing.
18 Transporting
18.1 Hedge Trimmer
WARNING
■ To reduce the risk of personal injury from unin‐
tended activation, never transport the hedge
trimmer with the battery inserted.
WARNING
■ Cover the entire length of the cutting blades
with a blade scabbard before transporting or
storing the hedge trimmer to reduce the risk of
cut injuries from inadvertent contact.
When transporting the hedge trimmer:
► Slide a blade scabbard over the cutting blades
so that it covers the entire cutting attachment.
0000-GXX-1475-A0
► When transporting the hedge trimmer by hand,
hold it by the loop handle with the cutting
blades pointing backwards, opposite the direc‐
tion in which you are walking.
English 17 After Finishing Work
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