Always remove the power tool from your back
and put it on the ground before refueling. Fuel
the machine only when it is standing on the
ground.
Open the fuel cap carefully to allow any pressure
build-up in the tank to release slowly and avoid
fuel spillage.
Only refuel the machine in a well ventilated
place. If you spill fuel, wipe the machine immedi‐
ately – if fuel gets on your clothing, change
immediately.
Check for fuel leakage! Never start
the engine if fuel has been spilled or
is leaking – Fatal burns may result!
Fuel cap
Never use a tool to open or close the screw-type
fuel cap. This could damage the cap and cause
fuel to leak out.
After fueling, tighten down the screw-
type fuel cap as securely as possible.
2.7
Before starting
Check that your machine is properly assembled
and in good condition – refer to appropriate
chapters in the instruction manual:
–
Check the fuel system for leaks, especially the
visible parts, e. g., fuel cap, hose connections,
manual fuel pump (only in machines with a
manual fuel pump). In case of leakage and
damage, do not start the engine – risk of fire!
Have the machine serviced by a dealer before
using it
–
Throttle trigger must move freely and spring
back by itself to the idle position
–
The setting lever must move easily to STOP or
†
–
The blower tubes must be properly assembled
–
Keep the handles dry and clean – free from oil
and dirt – this is important for safe control of
the machine
–
Check that the spark plug boot is secure – a
loose boot may cause sparking that could
ignite combustible fumes and cause a fire!
–
Never attempt to modify the controls or safety
devices
–
Check the condition of the blower housing
–
Check condition of harness straps and replace
damaged or worn straps
Wear of the blower housing (cracks, nicks, chips)
may result in an increased risk of injury from
thrown foreign objects. If the blower housing is
damaged, consult your dealer – STIHL recom‐
mends you contact a STIHL servicing dealer
To reduce the risk of accidents and personal
injury, do not operate your power tool if it is not
properly assembled and in good condition!
For the case of emergency: Practice quickly
releasing the shoulder straps and taking the unit
off your back.
2.8
Starting the engine
Start the engine at least 3 meters from the fuel‐
ing spot, outdoors only.
Your power tool is designed to be operated by
one person only. Do not allow other persons in
the work area – even when starting.
Do not drop start your machine – the correct
starting procedure is described in the User Man‐
ual.
Place the machine on level ground only, ensure
that you have a secure footing and hold the
machine securely.
As soon as the engine starts, the increasing air
flow may eject objects (e.g. stones).
2.9
While working
In the event of impending danger or in an emer‐
gency, switch off the engine immediately by mov‐
ing the setting lever to STOP or
†
.
To reduce the risk of injury from
thrown objects, do not allow any other
persons within 15 meters of your own
position.
This distance must also be maintained in relation
to objects (vehicles, window panes) – risk of
property damage!
Do not direct the air blast towards
bystanders or animals since the air
flow can blow small objects at great
speed – risk of injury.
When blow-sweeping (in open terrain and in gar‐
dens), look out for small animals to prevent
endangering them.
Never leave a running machine unattended.
Use caution with slippery surfaces, water, snow,
ice,
on slopes, on uneven ground - Danger of slip‐
ping!
English
2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques
4
0458-455-0121-D
