0458-838-8601-A
13
English 
5 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
■ After allowing the trimmer / brushcutter to cool, remove 
the fuel filler cap slowly and carefully to allow any 
remaining pressure build-up in the tank to release:
– While maintaining steady, downward pressure, 
slowly turn the cap approximately 1/2 turn counter-
clockwise.
– If any significant venting occurs, immediately re-seal 
the tank by turning the cap clockwise to the closed 
position. Allow the trimmer / brushcutter to cool 
further before attempting to open the tank.
– Turn the cap to the open position only after the 
contents of the tank are no longer under pressure.
– Never remove the cap by turning it directly to the 
open position without first allowing the trimmer / 
brushcutter to cool adequately and then releasing 
any residual pressure by slowly turning it 
approximately 1/2 turn counter-clockwise.
– Never attempt to remove the cap while the engine is 
still hot or running.
Installing the Threaded Fuel Filler Cap
WARNING
■
■ An improperly tightened fuel filler cap can loosen or come 
off and spill quantities of fuel. To reduce the risk of fuel 
spillage and fire from an improperly installed fuel cap, 
correctly position the cap in the fuel filler opening and 
tighten it by hand until it is secure.
Damaged or Broken Cap
WARNING
■ If your fuel cap does not tighten properly, it may be 
damaged or broken. Stop using the trimmer / brushcutter 
and take it to your authorized STIHL dealer for repair.
Vapor Lock
WARNING
■ Vapor lock occurs when fuel in the fuel line or carburetor 
vaporizes, causing bubbles to block the free flow of liquid 
fuel into the carburetor.
■ Vapor lock cannot be relieved or affected by opening the 
fuel tank. Removing the fuel filler cap without first allowing 
the trimmer / brushcutter to cool adequately can result in 
fuel spraying. Always follow the instructions in this section 
when removing the fuel cap.
■ To relieve vapor lock:
– Press the manual fuel pump bulb at least 20 to 30 
times – even if the bulb is already filled with fuel – to 
clear the vapor and send liquid fuel into the 
carburetor. Then start the trimmer / brushcutter. For 
specific starting instructions, see the appropriate 
section of your instruction manual.
– If the manual fuel pump bulb does not fill after being 
depressed several times, place the Choke Lever to 
the start position  and pull the starter cord until 
the engine runs.
– If the engine does not fire after 10 pulls in the start 
position  start the engine in the run position .
– If your trimmer / brushcutter will not restart, or if 
vapor lock occurs again, the trimmer / brushcutter is 
being used in conditions too extreme for the fuel 
being used. Discontinue use and let the engine cool 
completely before attempting to start the trimmer / 
brushcutter.
– Using good quality, fresh fuel (stored less than 30 
days) also can help reduce the occurrence of vapor 
lock.