STIHL PolyCut 6-3 Manual

The STIHL PolyCut 6-3 is a professional-grade nylon cord trimmer/brushcutter designed for clearing dense vegetation, grass, and light brush. It features a powerful 2-stroke engine, PolyCut head for automatic line feed, anti-vibration system, ErgoStart for easy starting, and a versatile harness system for operator comfort. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke engine, PolyCut cutting head, ErgoStart system, anti-vibration handles, adjustable harness, throttle trigger lockout, and spark arrestor muffler.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect all components. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.

1. Attach handle: Align handle with mounting points and secure with provided bolts.
2. Install harness: Connect harness loops to attachment points on the machine.
3. Fill fuel: Use STIHL MotoMix or 50:1 gasoline/oil mixture. Do not overfill.
4. Install cutting head: Ensure PolyCut head is securely attached to drive shaft.
5. Check controls: Verify throttle, trigger lockout, and stop switch function properly.

WARNING! Always wear appropriate PPE: safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, long pants, and sturdy boots. Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation.

First-Time Operation

Before starting, perform a safety check and familiarize yourself with controls.

1. Starting procedure: Set stop switch to "I", press decompression valve, set choke, pull starter cord until engine fires, then move choke to run position.
2. Warm-up: Allow engine to idle for 30 seconds before applying load.
3. Line feed test: Tap head on ground while at high idle to advance cutting line.
4. Adjust harness: Loosen/tighten straps for balanced, comfortable fit.

CAUTION! Clear work area of bystanders, pets, and debris. Maintain firm footing and secure grip at all times.

Specifications

• Engine Type: 2-stroke, single cylinder
• Displacement: 31.8 cc
• Power Output: 1.3 kW
• Fuel Capacity: 0.55 liters
• Cutting Width: Up to 42 cm (with PolyCut head)
• Weight (without cutter): 5.9 kg
• Sound Pressure Level: 96 dB(A)
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 4.2 m/s²; Rear handle: 6.5 m/s²
• Recommended Fuel: STIHL MotoMix or gasoline (min. 90 octane) with STIHL 2-stroke oil (50:1)

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on handle assembly. Throttle trigger with lockout, stop switch, choke lever, and decompression valve.

Handle Adjustments: Loosen clamp to rotate handle for optimal operating position. Harness Adjustments: Shoulder straps and waist belt for weight distribution. Cutting Height: Maintain head approximately 2-3 cm above ground for grass; angle head for edging. Line Length: Automatic feed maintains optimal length; manual bump feed available if needed.

Attachments & Accessories

Compatible with STIHL PolyCut heads, circular brush knives, and metal blades (with appropriate guard).

1. Always stop engine and disconnect spark plug before changing attachments.
2. Use only STIHL-approved attachments designed for this model.
3. Ensure correct guard is installed for each attachment type.
4. Check attachment security before each use.

Tip: Match attachment to vegetation type: nylon line for grass/weeds, brush knife for thick weeds/light brush, metal blade for heavy brush/saplings.

Operating Procedures

Designed for trimming grass, weeds, and light brush in varied terrain.

1. Starting position: Place unit on clear ground, hold handle firmly, foot in carrying handle.
2. Swing technique: Use smooth, sweeping motions from right to left (right-handed operators).
3. Line advancement: Tap head lightly on ground at high idle to feed fresh line.
4. Edging: Rotate unit 90° and guide along edge using line tip.
5. Slope operation: Always work across slope, not up/down. Maintain secure footing.
6. Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle briefly, then move stop switch to "0".

WARNING! Never operate without proper guard. Keep bystanders at least 15 meters away. Watch for hidden obstacles like rocks, wire, or glass.

Safety Features

Throttle trigger lockout: Must be depressed before throttle can be engaged. Stop switch: Immediate engine shutdown. Spark arrestor: Prevents hot particles from exiting muffler. Guard: Protects operator from thrown debris. Anti-vibration: Reduces hand-arm vibration exposure.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Daily: Clean air filter, check for loose fasteners, inspect cutting attachment.
2. Weekly: Clean cooling fins, check spark plug, clean exterior.
3. Monthly: Clean fuel filter, check anti-vibration elements, inspect harness.
4. Seasonal: Replace spark plug, clean carburetor, check all safety features.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug before maintenance. Use only STIHL genuine parts. Dispose of waste oil and fuel properly.

Regulatory Information

Complies with ANSI B175.3 and EPA Phase 2 emissions standards. Contains parts that may be hot during/after operation. Engine exhaust contains chemicals known to cause cancer and reproductive harm. For support, visit www.stihlusa.com or contact STIHL customer service at 1-800-467-8445.

Troubleshooting

Storage: Empty fuel tank, run carburetor dry, clean thoroughly, store in dry place.

Service: 1-800-467-8445; www.stihlusa.com