stihl blower bg 56 manual

The STIHL BG 56 is a lightweight, handheld gasoline-powered leaf blower designed for residential use. It features an easy-start system, adjustable airspeed, a translucent fuel tank, a comfortable harness, and a variable-speed throttle trigger. This manual covers safety instructions, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications to ensure safe and efficient use.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Lightweight polycarbonate housing, STIHL 2-MIX engine technology, translucent fuel tank, adjustable air nozzle, comfortable shoulder harness, and easy-start system.

Feature	Description
Engine	STIHL 2-MIX engine for reduced emissions and fuel consumption
Airflow	Adjustable airspeed up to 145 mph (air velocity) and 361 CFM (air volume)
Fuel Tank	Translucent for easy fuel level monitoring
Starting System	Easy-start system for reduced pulling force
Harness	Adjustable shoulder harness for comfortable operation
Nozzle	Adjustable air nozzle for directing airflow
Throttle Trigger	Variable-speed with lock-off feature for safety
Exhaust	Directed away from operator
Anti-Vibration	Integrated dampening system
Weight	Approximately 8.6 lbs (3.9 kg) without fuel

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before use. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

1. Always wear eye protection, hearing protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
2. Operate in well-ventilated areas only; gasoline engines produce carbon monoxide.
3. Keep bystanders, children, and pets at least 50 feet away.
4. Never point the blower at people, animals, or breakable objects.
5. Inspect the unit before each use for loose parts or damage.

WARNING! Gasoline is highly flammable. Refuel outdoors, with engine off and cool. Do not smoke near fuel.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack all parts. Assembly requires attaching the blower tube, harness, and filling with fuel/oil mix.

1. Attach blower tube: Align tube with housing outlet and twist clockwise until it locks.
2. Attach harness: Thread harness straps through brackets on blower housing and adjust for fit.
3. Fuel mix: Use STIHL 2-stroke engine oil mixed with unleaded gasoline (50:1 ratio). Shake well.
4. Fill fuel tank: Clean area around cap, fill with mixed fuel to indicated level.
5. Check air filter: Ensure clean and properly seated.

CAUTION! Use only STIHL-approved 2-stroke oil. Incorrect mix can cause engine damage.

Specifications

• Model: STIHL BG 56.
• Engine Type: STIHL 2-MIX, single-cylinder, 2-stroke.
• Displacement: 1.2 cu in (20.2 cm³).
• Power Output: 0.8 kW (1.1 bhp).
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (STIHL 2-stroke oil).
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.5 fl oz (0.4 liters).
• Sound Pressure Level: 70 dB(A) at operator's ear.
• Air Velocity: Up to 145 mph.
• Air Volume: Up to 361 CFM.
• Weight: 8.6 lbs (3.9 kg) without fuel.
• Warranty: Limited warranty for residential use.

Controls and Components

Main controls located on the handle. Components: Throttle trigger, stop switch, choke lever, primer bulb, fuel tank cap, air filter cover, spark plug, muffler.

Handle Controls: Throttle trigger (variable speed), throttle trigger lock-off (prevents accidental engagement), stop switch (O=OFF, I=ON).

Engine Controls: Choke lever (for cold starts), primer bulb (pumps fuel to carburetor).

Adjustments: Air nozzle can be rotated for optimal airflow direction. Harness straps adjustable for operator comfort.

Starting & Stopping the Engine

Follow steps carefully for safe starting.

1. Place blower on clear, level ground.
2. Move stop switch to "I" (ON).
3. Set choke lever to full choke (cold engine) or half choke (warm engine).
4. Press primer bulb 5-10 times until fuel is visible.
5. Hold blower firmly with one hand on handle, one foot on housing.
6. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires (1-5 pulls).
7. Move choke lever to run position once engine starts.
8. Allow engine to warm up at idle for 30 seconds.
9. To stop: Release throttle, move stop switch to "O" (OFF).

Tip: If engine floods, move choke to run, hold throttle wide open, and pull starter rope several times.

Operating Instructions

Operate with harness properly adjusted. Use sweeping motions for best results.

1. Adjust harness so blower rests comfortably on your back.
2. Hold handle firmly with both hands.
3. Start with low throttle; increase as needed.
4. Use sweeping side-to-side motions, keeping nozzle 2-4 inches above ground.
5. For wet leaves, use higher airspeed and closer nozzle distance.
6. Take breaks every 30-45 minutes to avoid fatigue.
7. Never operate unit above shoulder height.

WARNING! Do not modify or remove any safety devices. Operate only as intended.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures long life and safe operation. Always disconnect spark plug before servicing.

Daily: Clean exterior with damp cloth. Check for loose fasteners.

Weekly: Clean air filter (replace if damaged). Check fuel lines for cracks.

Monthly: Clean spark arrestor screen in muffler. Check blower tube for obstructions.

Seasonally: Replace spark plug annually. Have unit serviced by authorized dealer every 50 hours of operation.

CAUTION! Use only STIHL genuine parts. Improper maintenance voids warranty.

Storage

Prepare unit for storage if not used for more than 30 days.

1. Drain fuel tank completely or add fuel stabilizer.
2. Run engine until it stops to clear carburetor of fuel.
3. Clean entire unit thoroughly.
4. Remove spark plug, add teaspoon of oil to cylinder, pull starter rope slowly, reinstall plug.
5. Store in cool, dry place, out of reach of children.
6. Cover unit to prevent dust accumulation.

Important: Never store unit with fuel in tank for extended periods without stabilizer.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, flooded engine, dirty air filter, old spark plug	Check fuel level; follow flooded start procedure; clean/replace air filter; replace spark plug.
Engine runs poorly or stalls	Clogged fuel filter, dirty spark arrestor, incorrect fuel mix	Replace fuel filter; clean spark arrestor screen; use proper 50:1 fuel mix.
Loss of power	Clogged blower tube, dirty air filter, carburetor adjustment needed	Clear tube of debris; clean air filter; have carburetor adjusted by dealer.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, damaged impeller, worn mounts	Tighten all fasteners; inspect impeller for damage; check anti-vibration mounts.
Unusual noise	Foreign object in impeller, worn bearings	Stop engine immediately; inspect and clear impeller area; have bearings checked by dealer.

Reset: For electronic ignition issues, disconnect spark plug wire for 1 minute, then reconnect.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized STIHL dealer. Do not attempt major repairs yourself.

Warranty & Support

STIHL BG 56 includes a limited warranty for residential use. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or non-STIHL parts.

For technical support, parts, or dealer location:

• Visit: www.stihlusa.com
• Call: 1-800-467-8445
• Refer to your owner's manual for full warranty terms.

Always provide model number (BG 56) and serial number when contacting support.