0458-725-8621-B
23
English 
8 Before Starting Work
– In the event of accidental contact, immediately rinse 
the contact area thoroughly with mild soap and 
water.
– If fluid gets into your eye(s): do not rub. Rinse water 
over the open eye(s) for at least 15 minutes and 
seek medical attention.
■ A battery fire can be dangerous. To reduce the risk of 
severe personal injury and property damage in the event 
of fire:
– Evacuate the area. Fire can spread rapidly. Stay 
clear of any vapors generated and maintain a safe 
distance.
– Contact the fire department.
– Although water can be used to put out a battery fire, 
use of a multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher 
is preferable.
– Consult the fire department regarding proper 
disposal of a burned battery.
8.1 Preparing the Trimmer for Operation
Before starting work: 
► Fully charge the battery, @ 9.
► Mount the loop handle, @ 11.1.
► Mount a deflector that is approved for use with the cutting 
attachment you intend to use, @ 11.4.1 and @ 25.
► Mount an approved mowing head, grass cutting blade or 
brush knife, @ 11.5.1 or @ 11.6.1 and @ 25.
► If using a metal cutting attachment, mount the barrier bar, 
@ 11.3.1.
► Put on and adjust the STIHL AR backpack battery, STIHL 
Battery Belt or STIHL Battery Backpack, @ 13.1.
► Adjust the loop handle, @ 11.2.
► Check the controls for proper function and condition, 
@ 16.1.
9.1 Setting up the Charger
WARNING
Read and follow the safety precautions on the battery and 
charger and all warnings and instructions that accompany 
those products. To reduce the risk of short circuit, which 
could lead to electric shock, fire and explosion, make sure 
the charger and its components are dry and not damaged; 
operate the charger indoors at an appropriate ambient 
temperature.
WARNING
A typical household electric circuit is between 15 and 20 
amps. A single STIHL AL 500 charger draws approximately 
4.8amps. A single AL 300 charger draws approximately 
4.4amps. To reduce the risk of fire from overloading an 
electrical circuit:
► Ensure the electrical system is rated to withstand the 
expected electrical draw before charging your battery.
► Charge multiple batteries one at a time or on separate 
circuits, unless you know your circuit can handle the total 
expected draw from multiple chargers.
WARNING
Since the charger heats up during the charging process, do 
not operate the charger on a combustible surface or in a 
location where combustible gases, liquids, vapors, dusts or 
other materials and substances are present.
8 Before Starting Work
9 Charging the Battery