Stihl SH86C Manual

The Stihl SH86C is a professional-grade, handheld leaf blower and vacuum designed for demanding yard work. It features a powerful 27.2cc STIHL 2-MIX engine for reduced fuel consumption and emissions, an ergonomic design with anti-vibration system, variable speed throttle trigger, cruise control, and a metal impeller for vacuum mode. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: STIHL 2-MIX engine, metal blower tube, vacuum tube with shredder blade, collection bag, shoulder strap, throttle trigger with lock-off, and stop switch.

Feature	Description
STIHL 2-MIX Engine	27.2cc, reduced fuel consumption and emissions
Anti-Vibration System	Reduces operator fatigue during extended use
Variable Speed Throttle	Precise control of airspeed from 118 mph to 180 mph
Cruise Control	Locks throttle at a constant speed
Metal Impeller	Durable shredding of leaves and debris in vacuum mode
Ergonomic Handle	Comfortable grip with easy-access controls
Quick-Release Tubes	Easy switching between blower and vacuum modes
Large Collection Bag	45L capacity with easy-empty zipper
Shoulder Strap	Distributes weight for comfortable carrying
Stop Switch	Immediately stops engine

Safety Information

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

1. Wear eye protection, hearing protection, long pants, closed-toe shoes, and gloves.
2. Never operate in wet conditions or near flammable materials.
3. Keep bystanders, children, and pets at least 50 feet away.
4. Always hold unit with both hands during operation.
5. Use only STIHL-approved fuel mix (50:1 gasoline to 2-cycle oil).

WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death from flying debris, carbon monoxide, burns, or fire. Operate with extreme caution.

Assembly & Preparation

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

1. Attach handle: Align with mounting points and secure with provided screws.
2. Install shoulder strap: Clip to designated attachment points on the unit.
3. Attach blower tube: Push onto engine outlet until it clicks securely.
4. For vacuum mode: Remove blower tube, attach vacuum tube and collection bag.
5. Fuel mix: Fill tank with fresh STIHL 50:1 fuel mix. Do not use straight gasoline.

CAUTION! Ensure all fasteners are tight before starting. Do not force connections.

Specifications

• Engine: STIHL 27.2cc 2-MIX single-cylinder two-stroke.
• Power Output: 1.3 bhp (0.97 kW).
• Fuel Capacity: 16.9 fl oz (0.5 L).
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (STIHL 2-cycle oil).
• Sound Pressure Level: 107 dB(A) at operator's ear.
• Air Speed (Max): 180 mph (290 km/h).
• Air Volume (Max): 441 cfm (750 m³/h).
• Vacuum Shred Ratio: 10:1.
• Collection Bag Capacity: 45 L.
• Dry Weight: 10.1 lbs (4.6 kg).

Controls and Functions

Main Controls: Throttle trigger, throttle lock-off, cruise control lever, stop switch, choke lever, primer bulb.

Operation: Press throttle lock-off while squeezing trigger to start. Use choke for cold starts. Engage cruise control lever for constant speed. Press stop switch to stop engine.

Maintenance: Air filter cover, spark plug access, fuel cap, muffler cover. Adjustments: Carburetor adjustment screws (LA, H) under rubber caps.

Operation - Blower Mode

Use for clearing leaves, grass clippings, and debris from driveways, lawns, and hard surfaces.

1. Start engine: Set choke, press primer 5x, pull starter cord until engine fires.
2. Warm up: Allow engine to run at idle for 30 seconds.
3. Adjust speed: Use throttle trigger for desired airspeed.
4. Blowing technique: Hold tube at low angle, sweep side-to-side in smooth motions.
5. Cruise control: Engage lever to lock speed for extended blowing.

Tip: Start from the edges and work inward. Avoid blowing debris toward people, buildings, or streets.

Operation - Vacuum Mode

Use for collecting and shredding leaves into the attached bag.

1. Switch to vacuum: Attach vacuum tube and collection bag securely.
2. Start engine: Same procedure as blower mode.
3. Vacuuming: Hold tube intake near ground, moving slowly over debris.
4. Shredding: Metal impeller shreds leaves, reducing volume by 10:1.
5. Empty bag: When bag is ¾ full, stop engine, unzip bottom, and empty contents.

WARNING! Do not vacuum stones, metal, glass, or wet material. Keep hands away from intake.

Maintenance & Storage

Perform maintenance only when engine is cool and stopped.

1. Daily: Check for loose fasteners, clean air intake, inspect tubes for damage.
2. Weekly: Clean or replace air filter, check spark plug, clean exterior.
3. Monthly: Check fuel filter, inspect impeller blades for wear, clean spark arrestor screen.
4. Storage: Empty fuel tank, run engine dry, clean unit thoroughly, store in dry place.

CAUTION! Use only STIHL replacement parts. Never modify the unit.

Carburetor Adjustment

Factory preset; adjust only if necessary (poor performance, rough idle).

Locate LA (idle) and H (high speed) screws under rubber caps. Start with engine warm. Turn LA screw to achieve smooth idle. Turn H screw to achieve maximum RPM without hesitation. Readjust LA if idle changes.

Note: For precise adjustment, use a tachometer. Refer to service manual or dealer for detailed procedure.

Warranty Information

STIHL Limited Warranty: 2 years for residential use, 1 year for commercial use from date of retail purchase. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Not covered: normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, non-STIHL parts. For warranty service, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.stihlusa.com or call 1-800-467-8445.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, flooded, spark plug	Check fuel; wait if flooded; check/replace spark plug.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, old fuel	Clean/replace air filter; use fresh fuel mix.
Loss of power	Clogged fuel filter, muffler screen	Replace fuel filter; clean spark arrestor screen.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, damaged impeller	Tighten all fasteners; inspect impeller blades.
Bag not filling	Tube clogged, bag full	Clear debris from tube; empty collection bag.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, take to an authorized STIHL dealer.

Dealer Locator: 1-800-467-8445; www.stihlusa.com