HL-KM
English
3
Use only high quality tools and 
accessories in order to avoid the risk of 
accidents and damage to the machine.
STIHL recommends the use of original 
STIHL tools, cutting attachments and 
accessories. They are specifically 
designed to match the product and meet 
your performance requirements.
Never attempt to modify your machine in 
any way since this may increase the risk 
of personal injury. STIHL excludes all 
liability for personal injury and damage 
to property caused while using 
unauthorized attachments.
Do not use a pressure washer to clean 
your power tool. The solid jet of water 
may damage parts of the power tool.
Clothing and Equipment
Wear proper protective clothing and 
equipment.
Avoid clothing that could get caught on 
branches or brush or moving parts of the 
machine. Do not wear a scarf, necktie or 
jewelry. Tie up and confine long hair 
(e.g. with a hair net, cap, hard hat, etc.).
WARNING
Wear hearing protection, e.g. earplugs 
or ear muffs.
Wear a safety hard hat with chin strap 
where there is a danger of head injuries 
from falling objects.
STIHL offers a comprehensive range of 
personal protective clothing and 
equipment.
Transporting the Power Tool
Always shut off the engine.
Always fit the blade guard (scabbard) – 
even when you carry the unit for short 
distances.
On units with adjustable cutter bar: 
Engage the cutter bar in position.
On units with a defined transport 
position: Move the cutter bar to the 
transport position and make sure it is 
properly engaged.
Carry the power tool properly balanced 
by the drive tube – cutting blades behind 
you.
To reduce the risk of serious burn 
injuries, avoid touching hot parts of the 
machine, including the gearbox housing.
Transporting by vehicle: Properly secure 
your power tool to prevent turnover, fuel 
spillage and damage.
Before Starting
Check that your power tool is properly 
assembled and in good condition – refer 
to appropriate chapters in the 
KombiEngine and KombiTool instruction 
manuals.
– Cutting blades: Correctly 
assembled, securely mounted and 
in good condition (clean, move 
freely, not warped), properly 
sharpened and sprayed thoroughly 
with STIHL resin solvent (lubricant).
– On units with adjustable cutter bar: 
Make sure the adjuster is properly 
engaged in the required position for 
starting.
– On units with a defined transport 
position (cutter bar folded against 
drive tube): Never attempt to start 
the unit in the transport position.
– Never attempt to modify the controls 
or safety devices in any way.
– Keep the handles dry and clean – 
free from oil and dirt – for safe 
control of the power tool.
– Adjust shoulder strap and handles 
to suit your height and reach. See 
chapter on "Fitting the Harness".
To reduce the risk of accidents, operate 
your power tool only if it is in a safe 
condition.
Clothing must be sturdy 
but allow complete free-
dom of movement. Wear 
snug-fitting clothing, an 
overall and jacket combi-
nation, do not wear a 
work coat.
Wear steel-toed safety 
boots with non-slip soles.
To reduce the risk of eye 
injuries, wear close-fit-
ting safety glasses in 
accordance with Euro-
pean Standard EN 166. 
Make sure the safety 
glasses are a comforta-
ble and snug fit.
Wear heavy-duty work 
gloves made of durable 
material (e.g. leather).