How To Start A Blower

Follow these tips on how to properly start your gas-powered STIHL blower.

• Always read and follow the instruction manual.
• Familiarize yourself with the location and function of the controls.
• Make sure fuel and oil caps are tight and that the blower is wiped clean.
• Inspect the unit to make sure nothing is missing, loose or broken.
• Always wear proper protective gear, designed and rated for your task – boots, gloves, eye protection, and hearing protection.

• Never start or operate gasoline-powered equipment indoors.
• Always start gas-powered equipment a minimum distance of 10 feet away from fuel, oil or other combustibles.
• Stay 50 feet away from people and pets when using your blower.

• Place the blower on a level, dust-free surface.
• Make sure the power switch is on, the master control is in the cold-start position and the throttle interlock is engaged, if so equipped (consult manual).
• Press the manual fuel pump a minimum of 5 times.
• HANDHELD: Hold the blower firmly with your right hand and press against ground. Grab the starter handle with your left hand.
• BACKPACK: Use your left hand to grip the blower handle and put your right foot against the base plate to secure it in place. Use your right hand to grab the starter handle.
• Pull starter handle until you feel resistance, then give it a brisk pull. Always guide rope back into the housing.
• Repeat until you hear the blower burp or try to start. Switch the master control to the run position.
• Pull the starter handle using the same technique as before until the blower starts.
• Squeeze throttle to release throttle lock and the engine will return to idle speed.
• If anyone comes near while the blower is running, direct the tube away from them and stop the engine.