0478 111 9953 B - EN
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Do not transport the machine with the 
engine running. Switch off the engine, let 
the blades come to a standstill and remove 
the spark plug socket prior to transport.
Only transport the machine once the 
engine has cooled down and with an 
empty fuel tank.
Use suitable loading aids (loading ramps, 
lifters).
Secure the machine and any machine 
components being transported (e.g. grass 
catcher box) on the load floor using 
fastening material of adequate size (belts, 
ropes, etc.).
Avoid contact with the mowing blade when 
lifting and carrying the machine.
Observe the information in the section 
"Transport". It describes how to lift and 
lash the machine. ( 15.)
When transporting the machine, always 
observe regional legislation, especially 
regarding load security and the transport 
of objects on load floors.
Do not leave the battery inside a vehicle 
and protect unused batteries against direct 
sunlight.
Lithium-ion batteries must be treated with 
special care during transport. In particular, 
short-circuit protection must be ensured. 
Transport the battery either in the original 
packaging or in a suitable non-metal 
transport container.
5.6 Before operation
Make sure that only persons who are 
familiar with the instruction manual are 
permitted to use the machine.
Remove the packaging material and 
transport locks before using the machine 
for the first time.
Check the fuel system (particularly visible 
parts such as e.g. tank, tank cap, hose 
connections) before operating the 
machine. In the event of any leaks or 
damage, do not start the engine – fire 
hazard!
Have the machine repaired by a specialist 
dealer prior to operation.
Observe the local regulations regarding 
permitted operating times for gardening 
power tools with combustion engines.
Carefully inspect the complete area on 
which the machine is to be used and 
remove any stones, sticks, wires, bones 
and other foreign objects which could be 
thrown up by the machine. Obstacles (e.g. 
tree stumps, roots) can be easily 
overlooked in long grass.
For this reason, mark all foreign objects 
(obstacles) which are hidden in the lawn 
and cannot be removed before 
commencing work with the machine.
All faulty, worn or damaged parts must be 
replaced before using the machine. 
Replace any illegible or damaged danger 
signs and warnings on the machine. Your 
STIHL specialist has a supply of 
replacement stickers and all the other 
spare parts.
Check secure seating of the spark plug 
socket on the spark plug before using the 
machine.
The machine must only be used in good 
operating condition. Before each use, 
check whether:
– The machine is properly assembled.
– The cutting tool and the entire cutting 
unit (mowing blade, fastening elements, 
mowing deck housing) are in good 
condition. In particular check for secure 
fastening, damage (notches or cracks) 
and wear. ( 14.3), ( 14.12)
– The mulch insert is in good condition. 
– The tank cap is properly attached.
– The tank and fuel-carrying parts as well 
as the tank cap are in good condition.
– The safety devices (e.g. motorstop 
lever, discharge flap, housing, 
handlebar, protective grille) are in good 
condition and working properly.
– The blade brake clutch is working 
properly. ( 13.1)
– The grass catcher box is undamaged 
and correctly installed; a damaged 
grass catcher box must not be used.
– The battery (RM 650 VE) is not 
damaged or deformed.
– The oil closure screw is properly 
attached.
Carry out any necessary work or consult a 
specialist dealer. STIHL recommends 
STIHL specialist dealers.
5.7 During operation
Keep other people out of the 
danger area. Never work when 
animals or people, particularly 
children, are in the danger area.
Risk of injury!
Worn or damaged parts (e.g. blunt 
blades) can affect the safety of the 
machine and result in injury to the 
user.