Stihl BG 55 Owners Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
This comprehensive guide details the Stihl BG 55 blower, offering crucial instructions for safe operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting․ Always read the manual thoroughly before use!
Understanding the manual ensures proper handling and maximizes the blower’s lifespan, preventing potential hazards and maintaining optimal performance․
The Stihl BG 55 is a powerful and versatile handheld blower, designed for efficient clearing of leaves, grass clippings, and debris from various surfaces․ This manual serves as your primary resource for understanding its features, operation, and maintenance requirements․ Stihl emphasizes safety, and this guide details crucial precautions to prevent injury during use․
Before operating the BG 55, familiarize yourself with all control elements and their functions․ Proper understanding of the engine’s starting procedures, both cold and warm, is essential for reliable performance․ This blower is intended for residential and light commercial use, offering a balance of power and user comfort․ Always refer to the complete owner’s manual for detailed instructions and warnings․
Contact your local STIHL dealer if you have any questions or require assistance with understanding the manual’s contents․
Understanding the Manual’s Importance
This owner’s manual is not merely a guide; it’s a critical component of safe and effective Stihl BG 55 operation․ Thoroughly reading and understanding its contents minimizes the risk of personal injury and ensures the longevity of your equipment․ Stihl prioritizes user safety, and this manual details essential warnings and precautions․
Ignoring the instructions within can lead to improper use, potentially causing damage to the blower or, more seriously, harm to yourself or others․ The manual provides detailed information on starting, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting the BG 55․ Always consult it before performing any maintenance or repairs․
If any instructions are unclear, contact your STIHL dealer for clarification before proceeding․
Safety Precautions
Operating a Stihl BG 55 blower requires strict adherence to safety guidelines․ Always read and understand all warnings before use, as improper operation can result in serious injury․ Never operate the blower with missing or damaged parts․ Ensure a secure footing and maintain a safe distance from bystanders․
Avoid directing the airflow towards people or animals․ Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including eye and hearing protection․ Do not drop start the blower; always follow the correct starting procedure outlined in the manual․ Be mindful of your surroundings and potential hazards․
Contact your STIHL dealer if you have any safety concerns․
General Safety Warnings
Before using the Stihl BG 55, familiarize yourself with general power tool safety․ Always disconnect the spark plug wire before performing any maintenance or adjustments․ Never modify the blower or use unauthorized attachments․ Keep children and bystanders away from the operating area․
Inspect the blower for damage before each use․ Do not operate the blower in enclosed spaces or near flammable materials․ Be aware of potential hazards like overhead power lines and uneven terrain․ Ensure adequate ventilation when working indoors․
Follow all local safety regulations and guidelines․ Contact your STIHL dealer for clarification if needed․
Specific Safety Instructions for Blowers
When operating the Stihl BG 55 blower, avoid directing the airflow towards people or animals․ Never use the blower to blow debris towards roadways or where it could create a hazard․ Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including eye and hearing protection․
Be mindful of the noise level and avoid prolonged exposure․ Do not operate the blower in windy conditions, as this can increase the risk of debris being blown uncontrollably․ Ensure a firm grip and stable footing during operation․
Avoid inhaling dust and debris; use a dust mask if necessary․ Always shut off the engine before setting the blower down․
Component Identification
Familiarize yourself with the Stihl BG 55’s parts, including the blower housing, engine, handle, and controls, as detailed in the owner’s manual․
Understanding each component’s location and function is vital for safe operation and effective maintenance procedures․
BG 55 Parts Overview
The Stihl BG 55 consists of several key components crucial for its operation․ These include the housing, which directs airflow, and the powerful two-stroke engine providing the necessary force․ The handle assembly offers comfortable control, while the throttle trigger regulates blowing speed․
Important parts also encompass the air filter, protecting the engine from debris, and the spark plug, essential for ignition․ The fuel tank stores the required fuel mixture, and the blower tube directs the air stream․ Additionally, the muffler reduces engine noise, and the anti-vibration system minimizes operator fatigue․ Refer to the detailed parts diagram in your owner’s manual for precise identification and proper assembly․
Fuel and Oil Specifications
The Stihl BG 55 requires a specific fuel mixture to ensure optimal engine performance and longevity․ Use only fresh, unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 90․ Crucially, this must be mixed with a high-quality two-stroke engine oil․
The recommended fuel-to-oil ratio is 50:1, meaning 50 parts gasoline to 1 part oil․ Stihl recommends using Stihl HP Ultra two-stroke oil for superior lubrication and reduced emissions․ Always thoroughly mix the fuel and oil in a clean container before adding it to the fuel tank․ Never use oil intended for four-stroke engines, as this will cause severe engine damage․
Control Elements and Their Functions
The Stihl BG 55 features several key control elements for safe and efficient operation․ The on/off switch controls engine starting and stopping, often combined with a choke lever for cold starts․ The throttle trigger regulates engine speed, providing variable blowing power․ A locking button secures the throttle at desired settings․
Additionally, a purge pump bulb primes the carburetor for easier starting, especially after fuel depletion․ Understanding these controls is vital for proper operation․ Always familiarize yourself with their location and function before using the blower, ensuring safe and controlled performance․
Operation Instructions
Proper operation of the Stihl BG 55 requires following specific starting procedures and blowing techniques, ensuring both safety and optimal performance․
Always consult the manual for detailed guidance before each use․
Starting the BG 55
Successfully starting your Stihl BG 55 requires adherence to specific procedures, differing between cold and warm engine conditions․ Always ensure the blower is placed on a level surface and you have a firm footing․
Before starting, verify the fuel tank contains a proper fuel mixture and the air filter is clean․ Engage the choke for cold starts, and follow the manual’s instructions for priming the carburetor․ Pull the starter cord firmly and repeatedly until the engine ignites․ For warm starts, reduce or eliminate choke usage․
Never drop-start the blower; always initiate the engine as described in the instruction manual․ Improper starting can lead to engine damage or personal injury․
Cold Start Procedure
To initiate a cold start on your Stihl BG 55, first ensure the choke lever is fully engaged․ This enriches the fuel mixture for easier ignition in cold conditions․ Next, prime the carburetor by pressing the primer bulb several times until fuel is visible within it – typically 5-10 pumps․
Place the blower on a level surface, secure your footing, and grasp the starter handle firmly․ Pull the starter cord with a smooth, deliberate motion․ Repeat this process until the engine attempts to start; then, gradually disengage the choke as it runs․
Avoid flooding the engine by excessive priming or prolonged choking․ Refer to the owner’s manual for detailed illustrations and specific instructions․
Warm Start Procedure
When restarting a warm engine on your Stihl BG 55, the procedure differs from a cold start․ Typically, the choke lever should not be engaged․ Instead, set it to the run position․ Priming is usually unnecessary as residual fuel remains in the carburetor․
Firmly grasp the starter handle and pull the cord with a smooth, consistent motion․ The engine should ignite with minimal effort․ If it fails to start after a few attempts, briefly engage the choke and repeat the pulling process․
Avoid excessive pulling, which can flood the engine․ Consult the owner’s manual for specific guidance and illustrations tailored to your Stihl BG 55 model․
Blowing Techniques
Effective blowing with your Stihl BG 55 requires proper technique․ Begin by sweeping from the edges towards the center, creating a concentrated pile of debris․ Maintain a consistent distance from the surface – too close can stir up dust, while too far reduces efficiency․
Angle the nozzle slightly downwards to prevent scattering materials․ For stubborn debris, use a sweeping motion, overlapping each pass․ Be mindful of wind direction, working with it to maximize clearing power․
Always direct airflow away from people, animals, and open windows․ Avoid blowing debris onto roadways or neighboring properties․ Prioritize safety and responsible operation․
Stopping the Engine
To safely stop the Stihl BG 55, first release the throttle control, allowing the engine to return to idle speed․ Then, depress the stop switch until the engine shuts off completely․ Never simply pull the spark plug wire, as this can damage the ignition system․
Ensure the blower is placed on a stable, level surface before stopping․ Allow the engine to cool down before storing or transporting․ After stopping, inspect the unit for any damage or debris accumulation․
Always follow these procedures to prevent accidental restarts and ensure safe operation․ Proper shutdown contributes to the longevity of your Stihl blower․
Maintenance and Care
Regular maintenance, including air and fuel filter checks, spark plug inspection, and proper lubrication, is vital for optimal Stihl BG 55 performance and longevity․
Air Filter Cleaning
Maintaining a clean air filter is crucial for ensuring optimal engine performance of your Stihl BG 55 blower․ A dirty air filter restricts airflow, leading to reduced power and potential engine damage․ Regularly inspect the air filter for dirt and debris․
To clean the filter, gently tap it to remove loose particles․ For more stubborn dirt, use warm, soapy water, rinsing thoroughly and allowing it to dry completely before reinstalling․ Avoid using solvents or compressed air, as these can damage the filter material․
Inspect the filter for tears or damage; replace it if necessary․ Frequency of cleaning depends on usage, but check it after each use in dusty conditions․ A clean air filter promotes efficient combustion and extends the life of your blower․
Spark Plug Inspection and Replacement
Regular spark plug inspection is vital for maintaining consistent ignition and engine performance in your Stihl BG 55․ Inspect the plug periodically for fouling, wear, or damage․ A properly functioning spark plug ensures efficient combustion and easy starting․
To inspect, disconnect the spark plug wire and carefully remove the plug using a spark plug wrench․ Check the electrode for carbon buildup or corrosion․ Clean a lightly fouled plug with a wire brush; replace it if heavily fouled or damaged․
When replacing, use only the recommended spark plug specified in the owner’s manual․ Ensure the plug is properly gapped before installation․ A faulty spark plug can cause starting problems and reduced power․
Fuel Filter Replacement
Maintaining a clean fuel filter is crucial for optimal Stihl BG 55 performance, preventing debris from reaching the carburetor․ Replace the fuel filter regularly, especially if you notice reduced engine power or difficulty starting․ A clogged filter restricts fuel flow, impacting operation․
To replace, shut off the fuel supply and disconnect the fuel line from the carburetor․ Carefully remove the old filter and install the new one, ensuring the correct flow direction․ Securely reconnect the fuel line and check for leaks․
Always use a genuine Stihl replacement filter to guarantee compatibility and proper filtration․ Ignoring fuel filter maintenance can lead to carburetor damage and engine issues․
Fuel Mixture Ratio
The Stihl BG 55 requires a precise fuel mixture of unleaded gasoline and high-quality 2-stroke engine oil for reliable operation and longevity․ Always adhere to the recommended ratio to avoid engine damage․ Using the incorrect mixture can cause overheating, piston seizure, or exhaust port blockage․
The standard fuel mixture ratio is 50:1 – meaning 50 parts gasoline to 1 part 2-stroke oil․ Ensure the oil is specifically formulated for air-cooled 2-stroke engines․ Thoroughly mix the fuel and oil in a clean container before adding it to the fuel tank․
Never use fuel containing ethanol above 10%, as it can damage fuel system components․
Lubrication
Proper lubrication is vital for the Stihl BG 55’s smooth operation and extended lifespan․ While the engine utilizes the fuel/oil mixture for internal lubrication, certain components require additional attention․ Regularly check and lubricate the blower housing and fan impeller with a high-quality lithium-based grease․
Apply a small amount of grease to the impeller shaft and bearings to minimize friction and wear․ Avoid over-lubrication, as excess grease can attract dirt and debris․ Inspect the air filter frequently and clean or replace it as needed to ensure optimal airflow and prevent engine damage․
Maintaining adequate lubrication safeguards against premature component failure and ensures consistent performance․
Troubleshooting Common Issues
This section addresses frequent problems like starting difficulties, power loss, and unusual noises․ Refer to the manual for detailed diagnostic steps and solutions․
Always prioritize safety and consult a STIHL dealer if issues persist․
Engine Won’t Start
If the engine fails to start, first verify the fuel tank contains a fresh fuel mixture, adhering to the correct ratio as outlined in the manual․ Ensure the spark plug is clean and properly gapped, or consider replacement if damaged․
Check the air filter for obstructions and clean or replace it as needed, as a clogged filter restricts airflow․ Confirm the choke is engaged correctly for cold starts and disengaged for warm starts․ Inspect the fuel lines for kinks or blockages preventing fuel delivery․
Additionally, verify the ignition switch is functioning correctly and the safety lockout is released․ If the problem persists, consult a qualified STIHL servicing dealer for further diagnosis and repair․
Loss of Power
Experiencing a loss of power during operation often indicates a fuel delivery issue․ Check the fuel filter for clogging and replace it if necessary, ensuring unrestricted fuel flow․ Verify the fuel mixture is correct, as an improper ratio can cause performance decline․
Inspect the air filter; a dirty filter significantly restricts airflow, reducing engine efficiency․ Examine the spark plug for fouling or damage, cleaning or replacing it as needed․ Ensure the carburetor is properly adjusted, as improper settings can lead to power loss․
If the issue continues, a professional inspection by a STIHL dealer is recommended to diagnose potential internal engine problems․
Unusual Noises
Hearing unusual noises while operating your Stihl BG 55 demands immediate attention․ Rattling sounds could indicate loose components; carefully inspect all screws and bolts, tightening them as needed․ Whining noises might suggest a failing bearing within the engine or fan housing, requiring professional repair․
Clicking sounds could stem from debris impacting the fan․ Stop the engine and clear any obstructions․ If the noise persists after inspection, avoid continued use and consult a STIHL dealer․ Ignoring unusual sounds can lead to further damage and costly repairs․
Always prioritize safety and seek expert assistance when diagnosing unfamiliar noises․
Technical Specifications
The Stihl BG 55 boasts detailed specifications including dimensions, weight, engine displacement, and noise/vibration levels for optimal performance understanding․
Dimensions and Weight
Understanding the physical characteristics of the Stihl BG 55 is crucial for handling and storage․ The blower’s compact design contributes to its maneuverability, making it suitable for various landscaping tasks․ Precise dimensions allow for efficient storage in limited spaces, while the weight impacts user fatigue during prolonged operation․
Typically, the BG 55 measures approximately 31․5 inches (800 mm) in length․ Its width is around 11․8 inches (300 mm), and the height reaches about 10․6 inches (270 mm)․ The dry weight of the unit, without attachments, is approximately 12․1 pounds (5․5 kg)․ These specifications are vital for assessing its suitability for specific applications and user capabilities, ensuring safe and comfortable operation․
Engine Details
The Stihl BG 55 is powered by a 2-stroke engine, renowned for its power-to-weight ratio and simplicity․ This engine type requires a specific fuel mixture of gasoline and 2-cycle engine oil, crucial for lubrication and optimal performance․ The displacement is approximately 45․7 cc (2․79 cubic inches), delivering sufficient power for blowing leaves and debris effectively․
The engine features a displacement compensator, maintaining consistent carburetor performance even with minor air filter contamination․ It also incorporates an electronic ignition system for reliable starting and efficient combustion․ Understanding these engine details is vital for proper maintenance, fuel mixing, and troubleshooting potential issues, ensuring longevity and peak operation․
Noise and Vibration Levels
The Stihl BG 55 blower produces a sound pressure level of 99 dB(A) under typical operating conditions, highlighting the necessity of wearing appropriate hearing protection during use․ Prolonged exposure to such noise levels can cause hearing damage․ Vibration levels, measured at the handle, reach approximately 4․0 m/s², impacting operator comfort during extended periods․
Stihl incorporates anti-vibration technology to minimize these vibrations, reducing fatigue and improving control․ Understanding these noise and vibration characteristics is crucial for prioritizing operator safety and implementing preventative measures, like ear defenders and limiting continuous use․
Storage and Transportation
Proper storage and transportation are vital for maintaining the Stihl BG 55’s condition․ Secure the unit, empty the fuel tank, and store it in a dry location․
Long-Term Storage Procedures
Preparing your Stihl BG 55 for extended storage requires careful attention to detail․ First, completely drain the fuel tank to prevent fuel degradation and potential carburetor issues․ Run the engine until it stalls to ensure the carburetor is empty․
Next, remove the spark plug and add a tablespoon of 2-stroke engine oil into the cylinder․ Pull the starter cord several times to distribute the oil, then reinstall the spark plug․ Clean the blower thoroughly, removing any debris or dirt․ Store the unit in a dry, dust-free environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures․
Consider covering the blower to protect it from dust and damage․ Periodically check the unit during storage to ensure no issues arise․ Following these steps will help ensure your Stihl BG 55 is ready for use when you need it again․
Safe Transportation Guidelines
When transporting your Stihl BG 55, prioritize safety to prevent damage and potential hazards․ Ensure the engine is completely cool before transport․ Always engage the transport latch or locking mechanism to secure the throttle․
If transporting in a vehicle, use a secure cargo area, preventing the blower from shifting during travel․ Consider using tie-down straps for added security․ Never transport the blower with fuel in the tank; drain it beforehand․
Protect the blower from impacts and extreme temperatures during transport․ Always cover the intake and exhaust ports to prevent debris from entering․ Following these guidelines ensures safe and damage-free transportation of your Stihl BG 55․
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