Stihl HT 131 Manual

The Stihl HT 131 is a professional-grade pole pruner designed for demanding arborist work and tree maintenance. It features a powerful 2-stroke engine, a lightweight yet durable telescopic shaft, a high-performance cutting attachment, and ergonomic controls for extended use. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Powerful 2-stroke engine, Telescopic shaft, HT 131 cutting attachment (guide bar and chain), Ergonomic rear handle with controls, Anti-vibration system.

Feature	Description
Engine	STIHL 2-MIX engine technology for reduced emissions and fuel consumption
Shaft	Lightweight, telescopic aluminum shaft for adjustable reach
Cutting Attachment	HT 131 cutter with .325" pitch guide bar and oilomatic chain
Controls	Ergonomic rear handle with throttle trigger, stop switch, and choke lever
Anti-Vibration	Integrated system to reduce operator fatigue
Decompression Valve	Easier starting
Chain Brake	Inertia-activated for operator safety
Automatic Oiling	Adjustable chain lubrication system
Weight	Approximately 15.2 lbs (without cutting attachment)
Fuel Tank Capacity	24.3 fl. oz.

Safety Instructions

Read and understand all instructions before use. Always wear appropriate PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, hard hat, and cut-resistant leg protection.
2. Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 50 feet away. Be aware of falling branches.
3. Tool Handling: Always hold the unit firmly with both hands. Maintain secure footing.
4. Kickback Awareness: Be alert to prevent kickback; do not let the chain contact foreign objects.

WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death. Never operate a pole pruner above shoulder height or on a ladder. Do not operate if tired or under the influence of drugs/alcohol.

Assembly & Preparation

Assemble the pole pruner before first use.

1. Attach the shaft: Connect the drive shaft sections by aligning and twisting until they lock.
2. Install the cutting attachment: Mount the guide bar, fit the chain, and tension correctly.
3. Fuel mix: Use only STIHL MotoMix or a 50:1 mixture of high-quality 2-cycle oil and 89 octane gasoline.
4. Fill oil tank: Use STIHL chain oil or a quality biodegradable bar & chain oil.

CAUTION! Ensure all connections are secure before starting. Use only STIHL-approved fuel and lubricants.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 3.0 cu. in. (49.4 cc).
• Powerhead Weight: Approx. 15.2 lbs.
• Maximum Reach: Up to 14 feet (with telescopic shaft extended).
• Guide Bar Lengths: Available in 12" to 16".
• Chain Pitch: .325".
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 24.3 fl. oz.
• Oil Tank Capacity: 11.8 fl. oz.
• Sound Power Level: 112 dB(A).
• Vibration Levels: Front Handle: 4.2 m/s², Rear Handle: 3.9 m/s².

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before operation.

Rear Handle: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, stop switch, choke lever, decompression valve, primer bulb.

Shaft: Telescopic adjustment lock, drive shaft.

Cutting Attachment: Guide bar, chain, chain tensioner, chain brake, sprocket nose, automatic oiler adjustment.

Operation: To start, set choke, press decompression valve, pull starter rope. To operate, squeeze throttle trigger. To stop, release throttle and press stop switch.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use correct fuel mix and chain oil for optimal performance and longevity.

1. Fuel: 50:1 mix of 89 octane gasoline and STIHL 2-cycle oil, or use STIHL MotoMix.
2. Chain Oil: Use STIHL chain oil or a quality biodegradable bar & chain oil.
3. Filling: Clean area around caps. Fill fuel and oil tanks before each use.
4. Disposal: Dispose of fuel and oil according to local regulations.

Tip: Never use fuel older than 60 days. Always shake fuel mix before refueling.

Starting & Operation

Follow proper starting procedure for safe and efficient operation.

1. Cold Start: Place unit on firm ground. Set choke to closed, press decompression valve, pump primer bulb 5-10 times. Pull starter rope until engine fires. Move choke to open/half-throttle. Pull starter rope to start.
2. Warm Start: Choke open/half-throttle. Pull starter rope.
3. Operation: Allow engine to warm up at idle. Grip handles firmly. Squeeze throttle trigger to engage chain. Make smooth, controlled cuts. Let chain do the work.
4. Shutdown: Release throttle, allow engine to idle briefly, press stop switch.

WARNING! Always engage the chain brake when starting, carrying, or when not making a cut. Be aware of kickback zone.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures safety and performance.

Interval	Task
Daily/Before Use	Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Inspect for loose parts or damage.
Every 10 Hours	Clean air filter. Check spark plug.
Every 20 Hours	Clean spark arrestor screen (if equipped).
Every 50 Hours	Replace fuel filter. Clean cooling fins.
Annually/As Needed	Replace spark plug. Have unit serviced by an authorized STIHL dealer.

CAUTION! Perform maintenance only when the engine is off and cool. Disconnect the spark plug boot for safety.

Storage

Prepare the unit properly for short or long-term storage.

1. Short-term (less than 30 days): Empty fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer. Run engine to distribute stabilized fuel through carburetor. Store in a dry, secure place.
2. Long-term: Empty fuel tank completely. Start and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor. Remove chain, clean, and coat with oil. Store unit in original box or cover in a dry location.

CAUTION! Never store the unit with fuel in the tank indoors or in an enclosed space due to fire and fume hazards.

Warranty Information

STIHL Limited Warranty: The STIHL HT 131 is backed by a limited warranty for residential use. Warranty period and terms vary by region. Proof of purchase from an authorized STIHL dealer is required. This warranty does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, or use of non-STIHL parts/fuel. For full warranty details, contact your STIHL dealer or visit www.stihlusa.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No fuel, flooded, spark plug faulty	Check fuel level. Wait if flooded; start with choke open. Check/replace spark plug.
Engine starts then dies	Clogged fuel filter, dirty air filter	Replace fuel filter. Clean air filter.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, dirty spark arrestor	Clean air filter and spark arrestor screen.
Chain does not turn	Drive shaft disconnected, clutch faulty	Check shaft connections. See authorized dealer.
Chain does not oil	Empty oil tank, clogged oil passage	Fill oil tank. Clean oil outlet hole in guide bar.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, unbalanced chain	Tighten all fasteners. Sharpen or replace chain.

Service: For repairs not covered in this manual, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer. Find a dealer at www.stihlusa.com or call 1-800-467-8445.