0478 193 9905 C - EN
70
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.
Completely inspect the area on which the 
machine is to be used and remove any 
stones, sticks, wires, toys and other 
foreign objects that 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) that 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.
Never use the machine with damaged 
safety devices or with safety devices 
removed.
Spring-loaded mechanisms may release 
stored energy. Spring-loaded mechanisms 
must be undamaged and working. 
The screwed-on discharge port (discharge 
chute on mowing deck) must always be 
securely fastened to the mowing deck. It 
must not be damaged and, if necessary, it 
must be replaced by a technician.
The braking function must be checked 
before each use. (Ö 12.5)
Before each use, check whether:
– the cutting tool and the entire cutting 
unit (mowing blade, blade clutch, blade 
brake, retaining pin, mowing deck 
housing) are in good condition. 
Particularly check for secure fastening, 
damage and wear.
– the tank cap is securely attached.
– the tank and fuel-carrying parts as well 
as the tank cap are in good condition.
– the safety devices are in good condition 
and function correctly.
– the tyres (inflation pressure, damage, 
wear) and frame are in good condition. 
Check that all screw connections are 
securely fastened. In particular, all 
maintenance operations listed in the 
maintenance schedule under the 
heading "Before each use" must be 
carried out. (Ö 14.1)
If necessary, consult a specialist dealer. 
STIHL recommends STIHL specialist 
dealers.
4.7 During operation
Never work in the vicinity of 
other people, particularly 
children, or animals. Ensure 
that the grass is never 
discharged in the direction of other people.
Do not operate the machine in the rain or 
during thunder storms, particularly when 
there is  a risk of lightning strike.
Exhaust gases:
The machine generates 
poisonous exhaust gases when 
the engine is running. The 
gases contain poisonous 
carbon monoxide, a colourless and 
odourless gas, as well as other pollutants. 
The engine must never be operated in 
closed or poorly ventilated spaces.
The engine exhaust is released into the air 
in front of the left rear wheel. When 
working with the machine, ensure that this 
area is always kept clean and is never 
covered in order to prevent the 
accumulation of exhaust gasses.
Starting:
The machine must only be started from the 
driver's seat.
Start the machine on level ground, not on 
a slope.
The engine may only be started in a well 
ventilated working area, sufficient 
ventilation must be ensured, particularly in 
garages.
Before starting the engine, disengage the 
cutting tool, attachments and drive and 
press down the brake pedal fully.
When starting, it must be ensured that 
there is sufficient clearance between the 
feet and the cutting tool.
Danger to life through poisoning!
In the case of nausea, headache, 
impaired vision (e.g. decreasing 
field of view) hearing disorder, 
dizziness, decreasing power of 
concentration, stop working 
immediately. These symptoms may 
be caused by excessively high 
exhaust gas concentrations.