BG86C Stihl Blower Manual

The Stihl BG86C is a professional-grade handheld leaf blower designed for demanding landscaping and cleanup tasks. It features a powerful 2-stroke engine with STIHL anti-vibration system, variable speed throttle, cruise control, ergonomic design, and a robust air tube and nozzle. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & First Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Fuel & Lubrication 7. Maintenance Procedures 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke engine, Air tube, Nozzle, Throttle lever, Cruise control lock, Anti-vibration system, Fuel tank, Starter grip, Air filter cover.

FeatureDescription
Engine TypeSTIHL 2-stroke, single-cylinder
Anti-Vibration SystemReduces operator fatigue during extended use
Variable Speed ThrottleAllows precise control of airspeed
Cruise ControlLocks throttle at a constant speed
Ergonomic HandlePadded, adjustable for comfortable operation
Air Tube & NozzleLightweight, durable plastic construction
Fuel Tank CapacityApprox. 0.95 liters (0.25 US gal)
Starter SystemRewind starter with decompression valve
Air FiltrationHeavy-duty air filter for dusty conditions
Spark ArrestorMuffler with integrated spark screen

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Wear appropriate PPE.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
  2. Operating Area: Keep bystanders, especially children and pets, at least 50 feet away.
  3. Fuel Safety: Refuel in a well-ventilated area with engine off and cool. Use only STIHL MotoMix or equivalent 50:1 pre-mix fuel.
  4. Hot Surfaces: Avoid contact with muffler and cylinder during and immediately after operation.

WARNING! Risk of fire and burn injury. Never operate in enclosed spaces or near flammable materials. Ensure all safety devices are in place.

Assembly & First Use

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble before first operation.

  1. Attach Air Tube: Align tube with blower outlet and twist clockwise until it locks securely.
  2. Attach Nozzle: Slide nozzle onto end of air tube and secure with provided screw if necessary.
  3. Fueling: Fill tank with approved 50:1 fuel/oil mixture. Do not overfill.
  4. Starting Procedure: Set master control lever to choke (cold start) or run (warm start). Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires.

CAUTION! Ensure blower is on a stable, flat surface during starting. Keep tube and nozzle clear of debris.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Master Control Lever: Choke/Start/Run/Stop positions. Throttle Lever: Variable speed control. Cruise Control Lock: Holds throttle setting. Stop Switch: Emergency engine shut-off.

Operation: Start engine per instructions. Squeeze throttle lever to increase airspeed. Engage cruise control for prolonged use at fixed speed. Release throttle to idle. Use stop switch or master control lever to shut off engine.

Blowing Techniques: Use sweeping motions from side to side. Work with the wind when possible. For wet leaves, use short bursts at higher speed.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use only high-quality, unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 89 (RON). Mix with a high-performance 2-stroke engine oil at a 50:1 ratio. STIHL MotoMix pre-mixed fuel is recommended to ensure optimal performance and avoid fuel-related issues.

  1. Always shake fuel container before refueling.
  2. Clean area around fuel cap before opening to prevent contamination.
  3. Do not mix oil directly in the blower's fuel tank.

Tip: Use fresh fuel. Do not use fuel older than 30 days. Store fuel in an approved, sealed container.

Maintenance Procedures

Regular maintenance ensures long life and reliable operation. Perform with engine off and cool.

  1. Air Filter: Clean weekly under heavy use. Remove cover, tap out dirt, or wash in soapy water. Replace if damaged.
  2. Spark Plug: Check and clean every 50 operating hours. Adjust gap to 0.5 mm (0.020 in). Replace annually.
  3. Spark Arrestor Screen: Clean every 100 hours. Remove muffler cover and carefully brush carbon deposits.
  4. Fuel Filter: Replace every season or if fuel flow is restricted.
  5. External Cleaning: Wipe unit with a damp cloth. Keep cooling fins and air intakes clear.

WARNING! Never operate without air filter. Use only STIHL replacement parts.

Storage Guidelines

For storage longer than 30 days, prepare the blower to prevent fuel system damage.

  1. Drain all fuel from the tank and carburetor by running the engine until it stops.
  2. Remove spark plug and pour 1 teaspoon of 2-stroke oil into the cylinder. Pull starter rope slowly to distribute oil, then reinstall plug.
  3. Clean the entire unit thoroughly.
  4. Store in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Storing with fuel in the system can cause gumming and carburetor damage.

Warranty Information

STIHL Limited Warranty: Covers defects in material and workmanship for a specified period from date of retail purchase. Commercial use may have different terms. Proof of purchase is required. This warranty does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, or use of non-STIHL parts/fuel. For warranty service, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not startNo fuel, flooded, bad sparkCheck fuel level. Set master control to run and pull starter with throttle open. Check/replace spark plug.
Engine runs poorly or stallsDirty air filter, old fuel, clogged fuel filterClean/replace air filter. Drain and replace with fresh fuel. Replace fuel filter.
Loss of powerClogged spark arrestor, dirty cooling finsClean spark arrestor screen. Clean debris from cylinder cooling fins.
Excessive vibrationLoose components, damaged impellerTighten all screws and nuts. Inspect impeller for damage; replace if necessary.
Air tube/nozzle detachesNot locked properly, worn latchReattach and twist until it clicks. Inspect locking mechanism for wear.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, take the unit to an authorized STIHL dealer.

Support: 1-800-467-8445; www.stihlusa.com

BG86C Stihl Blower Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025