stihl bg85 leaf blower manual

The STIHL BG 85 is a powerful, handheld gasoline-powered leaf blower designed for demanding residential and commercial cleanup tasks. It features a powerful engine, variable speed control, ergonomic design with anti-vibration system, a translucent fuel tank, and a robust air filtration system. 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 & Cleaning 8. Storage 9. Troubleshooting 10. Warranty & Support

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, Fuel Tank, Throttle Trigger, Stop Switch, Master Control Lever, Air Filter Cover, Blower Tube, and Shoulder Strap.

FeatureDescription
EnginePowerful 2-stroke gasoline engine with electronic ignition
Master Control LeverCombined choke, run, and stop positions
Anti-Vibration SystemReduces operator fatigue during extended use
Translucent Fuel TankAllows for easy fuel level monitoring
Variable Speed ControlThrottle trigger for precise airspeed adjustment
Air Filtration SystemPre-cleaner and flat filter for engine protection
Ergonomic HandleComfortable grip with integrated controls
Shoulder StrapReduces strain during operation
Blower TubeDurable, directed airflow outlet
Spark Arrestor MufflerReduces fire hazard and noise

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before operating. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

  1. PPE: Always wear eye protection, hearing protection, long pants, sturdy gloves, and non-slip footwear.
  2. Operation Area: Keep bystanders, children, and pets at least 50 feet away. Operate only in well-ventilated areas.
  3. Fuel Safety: Refuel in a well-ventilated area with the engine stopped and cool. Use only STIHL MotoMix® or a 50:1 gasoline/oil mixture. Wipe up spills immediately.
  4. Starting & Carrying: Start the blower on the ground in a clear area. Never drop-start. Carry with the blower tube directed away from people and objects.

WARNING! Risk of fire, explosion, burn, and inhalation hazards. The muffler gets extremely hot. Never operate indoors or in enclosed spaces.

Assembly & First Use

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble the blower tube and attach the shoulder strap.

  1. Attach Blower Tube: Align the tube with the blower housing outlet and push until it clicks securely into place.
  2. Attach Shoulder Strap: Connect the strap hooks to the designated rings on the blower body. Adjust for comfort.
  3. Fueling: Fill the translucent tank with the correct fuel/oil mixture. Do not overfill.
  4. Starting Procedure: Place blower on a firm, clear surface. Set Master Control Lever to choke (cold start) or run (warm start). Press the purge bulb 5-10 times. Hold the blower firmly with one hand on the handle and one foot on the rear handle. Pull the starter rope briskly until the engine fires. Move the Master Control Lever to the run position and continue pulling to start.

CAUTION! Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation. Follow the break-in procedure: avoid prolonged full throttle for the first few tanks of fuel.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Main Controls: Master Control Lever (Choke/Run/Stop), Throttle Trigger, Throttle Trigger Lockout, Stop Switch.

Operation: Start the engine as described. Allow it to warm up at idle for 30 seconds. To blow, squeeze the throttle trigger. Use the variable speed to match the task—lower speed for light debris, full throttle for wet leaves or heavy material. Always direct the airflow away from people, windows, and vehicles. Use a sweeping side-to-side motion for best results.

Stopping: Release the throttle and allow the engine to idle for 30 seconds. Press the stop switch to "0" or move the Master Control Lever to the stop position.

Fuel & Lubrication

Fuel Mixture: Use 89 octane (or higher) unleaded gasoline mixed with a high-quality 2-stroke engine oil at a 50:1 ratio. STIHL MotoMix® pre-mixed fuel is recommended for optimum performance and shelf life.

Lubrication: The engine is lubricated by the oil in the fuel mixture. No separate gearbox lubrication is required.

Warning: Never use straight gasoline, diesel, or E85 fuel. Never use motor oil or vegetable oil. Old or improperly mixed fuel is the most common cause of starting and performance problems.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Perform maintenance with the engine off and cool. Disconnect the spark plug boot for safety.

  1. Daily/Air Filter: Check and clean the air filter. Tap out loose debris or wash in soapy water (if foam). Allow to dry completely before reinstalling.
  2. Spark Plug: Check periodically. Clean electrode with a wire brush and reset gap to 0.020" (0.5 mm). Replace if worn or fouled.
  3. Spark Arrestor Screen: Clean every 25 hours of operation. Remove the muffler cover and use a wire brush to remove carbon deposits.
  4. Exterior: Keep the blower clean. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the housing. Never use a pressure washer.
  5. Fuel Filter: Replace the in-tank fuel filter annually or if clogged.

Storage

Short-Term (under 30 days): Empty the fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer. Run the engine for 2 minutes to circulate treated fuel through the carburetor.

Long-Term: Drain all fuel from the tank and carburetor. Start the engine and let it run until it stops from fuel starvation. Remove the spark plug, add a teaspoon of 2-stroke oil into the cylinder, pull the starter rope slowly 2-3 times to coat the piston, and reinstall the plug. Store in a cool, dry place, covered.

CAUTION! Storing with untreated fuel will cause gum and varnish deposits in the carburetor, preventing starting.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not startOld fuel, flooded, no sparkUse fresh fuel. Move Master Control to run, hold throttle wide open, pull starter 10x. Check spark plug.
Engine starts then diesClogged fuel filter, dirty air filterReplace fuel filter. Clean or replace air filter.
Loss of powerClogged spark arrestor, dirty air filterClean spark arrestor screen. Clean air filter.
Excessive vibrationLoose parts, damaged blower tubeTighten all screws and nuts. Inspect tube for cracks.
Airflow is weakObstruction in tube, worn impellerRemove tube and check for blockage. Inspect impeller for damage.

Note: For complex repairs, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Warranty & Support

STIHL Limited Warranty: Refer to the separate warranty document included with your purchase for specific terms and duration. This product is for commercial and residential use. For genuine STIHL parts, repairs, or technical support, contact an authorized STIHL dealer. To locate a dealer or for more information, visit www.stihlusa.com or call 1-800-467-8445.

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