BR380 STIHL Manual

The STIHL BR380 is a professional-grade backpack blower designed for demanding commercial and residential applications. It features a powerful 2-stroke engine, ergonomic harness system, variable speed throttle, and robust construction for extended operation. Below are key sections covering safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Preparation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Fuel & Lubrication 7. Starting & Stopping 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: STIHL 2-MIX engine, backpack frame with padded harness, throttle trigger with lock, adjustable air tube, spark arrestor muffler, and fuel tank with integrated filter.

FeatureDescription
Engine TypeSTIHL 2-MIX, single cylinder, 2-stroke
Displacement56.5 cc
Power Output2.5 kW (3.4 hp)
Air VolumeUp to 1,050 m³/h
Air SpeedUp to 300 km/h
Fuel Tank Capacity1.3 liters
Dry Weight9.5 kg (20.9 lbs)
Sound Pressure Level112 dB(A)
Vibration Level4.5 m/s²
Harness SystemPadded, adjustable shoulder and waist straps

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before operation. Wear appropriate PPE.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, long pants, sturdy gloves, and non-slip boots.
  2. Operating Area: Keep bystanders, especially children and pets, at least 15 meters away.
  3. Fuel Safety: Refuel in well-ventilated area, engine off and cool. Use STIHL MotoMix or 50:1 fuel/oil mix.
  4. Hot Surfaces: Avoid contact with muffler and cylinder during/after operation.

WARNING! Risk of fire and burn injury. Do not operate near flammable materials or in enclosed spaces.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble before first use.

  1. Attach Harness: Connect shoulder straps to backpack frame; adjust for snug, balanced fit.
  2. Install Air Tube: Push onto blower outlet until it clicks; secure with locking collar.
  3. Fuel Mix: Use STIHL 2-stroke engine oil mixed with unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) at 50:1 ratio.
  4. Check Fasteners: Ensure all screws and connections are tight.

CAUTION! Do not modify blower or use incompatible parts. Use only STIHL-approved accessories.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Master Control Lever: Combines choke, stop switch, and run positions. Throttle Trigger: Variable speed control with lock for continuous operation. Decompression Valve: Reduces pulling force during starting.

Operation Steps: 1. Put on harness and secure all straps. 2. Start engine on ground (see Starting Procedure). 3. Put on backpack and adjust straps. 4. Use throttle trigger to control air flow. 5. Direct nozzle 30-50 cm above ground for optimal results.

Adjustment: Harness straps for even weight distribution; blower tube angle for comfort.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use fresh unleaded gasoline with minimum 89 octane. Mix with STIHL 2-stroke engine oil at 50:1 ratio.

  1. Fuel Mix: Pour oil into clean container first, then add gasoline. Shake well.
  2. Refueling: Stop engine and allow to cool. Clean area around fuel cap. Use funnel.
  3. Storage: Use fuel within 30 days. Add STIHL Fuel Stabilizer for longer storage.
  4. Lubrication: Gearbox is factory filled; no user service required.

Tip: Never use automotive oil or fuel with more than 10% ethanol.

Starting & Stopping

Cold Start Procedure:

  1. Place blower on clear, level ground.
  2. Set Master Control Lever to choke position (full left).
  3. Press decompression valve (if equipped).
  4. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires (1-3 pulls).
  5. Move Master Control Lever to half-throttle position.
  6. Pull starter rope until engine starts.
  7. Allow 30-60 seconds warm-up at idle.

Warm Start: Master Control Lever in run position (full right). Stopping: Move Master Control Lever to STOP position. Emergency Stop: Immediately move lever to STOP.

WARNING! Never drop-start or throw starter rope. Keep firm footing during starting.

Maintenance Schedule

Daily: Check fuel level, inspect for damage, clean air filter, check screws/tightness. Every 25 Hours: Clean spark arrestor screen, check spark plug. Every 100 Hours: Replace fuel filter, clean carburetor air passage. Annual: Professional inspection recommended.

Storage Guidelines

Long-term Storage (over 30 days):

  1. Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops.
  2. Remove spark plug, add 1-2 ml engine oil to cylinder, pull starter 2-3 times, reinstall plug.
  3. Clean entire unit, especially cooling fins and air filter.
  4. Store in dry, locked area away from ignition sources.

CAUTION! Fuel left in carburetor can cause starting problems and damage.

Warranty Information

STIHL Limited Warranty: 12 months commercial use, 24 months private use from date of purchase. Proof of purchase required. Does not cover damage from misuse, improper fuel, neglect, or unauthorized modifications. For warranty service, contact authorized STIHL servicing dealer. Keep this manual with unit. For support, visit www.stihlusa.com or contact 1-800-467-8445.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, flooded, spark plugCheck fuel level; wait if flooded; check/replace spark plug.
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, old fuelClean/replace air filter; use fresh fuel mix.
Loss of powerClogged spark arrestor, carburetorClean spark arrestor screen; have dealer service carburetor.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, fan damageTighten all fasteners; inspect fan for damage.
Air output lowTube blockage, worn impellerClear obstruction; inspect impeller for wear.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized STIHL dealer.

Parts: Use only genuine STIHL replacement parts.

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