Stihl Leaf Blower BG 86 Manual

The Stihl BG 86 is a powerful, handheld gasoline-powered leaf blower designed for residential and professional use. It features a fuel-efficient 2-stroke engine, an ergonomic design with anti-vibration system, variable speed throttle, and a robust air delivery system for effective debris clearing. This manual covers safety, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical specifications to ensure safe and optimal performance.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke engine, blower tube, throttle trigger, choke lever, fuel tank, air filter, and anti-vibration handles.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	2-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled
Displacement	27.2 cc
Fuel Tank Capacity	0.5 liters (approx.)
Airflow Velocity	Up to 200 mph (approx.)
Air Volume	Up to 430 cfm (approx.)
Weight (dry)	Approx. 4.2 kg (9.3 lbs)
Sound Power Level	Complies with relevant noise regulations
Anti-Vibration System	Reduces operator fatigue
Throttle Trigger	Variable speed control with cruise control lock
Starter	Rewind starter with decompression valve

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Wear appropriate PPE: eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy footwear.

Operate only in well-ventilated areas; gasoline engines produce carbon monoxide.
Keep bystanders, pets, and children at a safe distance (at least 50 feet).
Do not operate near flammable materials or in wet conditions.
Ensure the blower is on a stable surface before starting.
Never point the blower tube at people, animals, or windows.

WARNING! Gasoline is highly flammable. Refuel only when the engine is cool, outdoors, and away from ignition sources.

Assembly & First Use

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly typically involves attaching the blower tube and handle.

Attach blower tube: Align tube with outlet, push firmly until it clicks into place.
Check throttle operation: Ensure trigger moves freely and returns to idle.
Fuel mix: Use STIHL 2-stroke engine oil mixed with unleaded gasoline (50:1 ratio). Shake well before refueling.
Starting procedure: Set choke to cold start position, press primer bulb 5 times, engage decompression valve, pull starter cord briskly until engine fires.

CAUTION! Do not force parts during assembly. Ensure all connections are secure before starting.

Specifications

Model: STIHL BG 86
Engine Power: 0.9 kW (1.2 hp)
Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (STIHL 2-stroke oil)
Recommended Fuel: Unleaded gasoline, min. 89 octane
Idle Speed: 2,800 rpm
Maximum Speed: 12,500 rpm
Vibration Level (left/right): < 2.5 m/s²
Sound Pressure Level: < 100 dB(A)
Warranty: Limited warranty, see dealer for details

Controls and Operation

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, choke lever, stop switch, primer bulb, decompression valve, cruise control lock.

Operation Steps:

Check fuel level and air filter.
Wear PPE and clear work area.
Set choke to cold start (if engine is cold).
Press primer bulb 5 times.
Engage decompression valve (if equipped).
Pull starter cord briskly until engine fires.
Move choke to run position after engine starts.
Allow 30-second warm-up at idle before applying throttle.
Use variable throttle for desired airflow; engage cruise control for prolonged use.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use only fresh, unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) mixed with STIHL 2-stroke engine oil at 50:1 ratio.

Mix fuel in a clean, approved container.
Shake mixture thoroughly before refueling.
Refuel in a well-ventilated area with engine off and cool.
Do not overfill; leave space for expansion.
Clean fuel cap area before opening to prevent contamination.

Tip: Use fuel stabilizer if storing for more than 30 days. Never use old or contaminated fuel.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance. Refer to the table below.

Component	Check Frequency	Action
Air Filter	Before each use	Clean with soapy water; replace if damaged
Spark Plug	Every 50 hours	Clean electrode; gap to 0.5 mm; replace if worn
Fuel Filter	Every 100 hours	Replace if clogged
Blower Tube	Weekly	Inspect for cracks; clean debris
Anti-Vibration Mounts	Every 100 hours	Inspect for wear; replace if deteriorated
Exhaust Port/Spark Arrestor	Every 50 hours	Clean carbon deposits

WARNING! Perform maintenance only when the engine is cool and disconnected from ignition sources.

Storage Guidelines

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

Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops to clear carburetor.
Remove spark plug and add a teaspoon of engine oil into the cylinder. Pull starter cord slowly to distribute oil, then reinstall plug.
Clean entire unit, especially cooling fins and air filter.
Store in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and ignition sources.
Cover with a breathable cloth to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in the tank for extended periods; fuel degrades and can damage engine components.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, clogged filter, flooded engine	Check fuel level; clean/replace filter; wait 5 minutes if flooded, then restart with choke off.
Engine runs poorly or stalls	Dirty air filter, old fuel, spark plug issue	Clean air filter; use fresh fuel mix; check/replace spark plug.
Loss of power	Clogged exhaust, dirty cooling fins	Clean exhaust port and spark arrestor; remove debris from cooling fins.
Excessive vibration	Loose components, worn mounts	Tighten blower tube and handles; inspect anti-vibration mounts.
Unusual noise	Foreign object in impeller, bearing wear	Stop engine immediately; inspect impeller area; contact authorized service.

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

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

Warranty & Support

STIHL BG 86 comes with a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty period and terms vary by region; see your dealer or warranty card for details. Keep your dated proof of purchase. For support, visit www.stihlusa.com or contact your local authorized STIHL dealer. Always use genuine STIHL parts and accessories to maintain warranty and performance.