Your Free Stihl Blower Starting Guide

Understanding Your Stihl Blower Model and Engine Type

Stihl manufactures several types of blowers, each with different starting procedures and engine designs. The most common models include handheld blowers, backpack blowers, and wheeled blowers. Understanding which model you own is the first step toward successful starting. Handheld models like the BG 50 and BG 56 feature single-cylinder two-stroke engines, while larger backpack models such as the BR 600 and BR 700 use similar engine designs but with more power. Wheeled blowers typically have four-stroke engines that operate differently from their two-stroke counterparts.

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Two-stroke engines, found on most Stihl handheld and backpack blowers, complete a full combustion cycle in two piston strokes rather than four. This design requires that fuel and oil be mixed together before adding to the tank. The typical fuel-to-oil ratio for Stihl two-stroke blowers is 50:1, meaning 50 parts gasoline to 1 part two-stroke engine oil. Using the correct ratio is critical because too little oil can cause engine damage through inadequate lubrication, while too much oil creates excessive smoke and carbon buildup.

Four-stroke engines, found on some larger Stihl models, have separate oil and fuel systems. The oil goes into a dedicated crankcase, while gasoline goes into the fuel tank. These engines operate cooler and produce fewer emissions, but they require a different starting approach than two-stroke models. Your owner's manual will specify which engine type your blower uses. The manual contains your model number, which appears on the housing near the handle or fuel tank area.

Practical takeaway: Locate your blower's model number and engine type before beginning any starting procedure. Write down this information and keep it with your owner's manual for future reference.

Preparing Fuel and Checking Your Blower Before Starting

Proper fuel preparation determines whether your Stihl blower will start and run correctly. For two-stroke models, you must use fresh, high-octane gasoline mixed with two-stroke engine oil at the correct ratio. Using old fuel—gasoline stored longer than three months—causes starting problems because volatile compounds evaporate, leaving behind a sticky residue that clogs the carburetor. Seasonal fuel stabilizer can extend fuel life to about six months, but starting with fresh fuel each season provides the best results.

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To mix fuel correctly for a 50:1 ratio, measure carefully using a fuel container marked in ounces. For example, one gallon of gasoline (128 ounces) requires 2.56 ounces of two-stroke oil. Many Stihl owners purchase pre-mixed fuel sold in cans at outdoor power equipment dealers, which eliminates mixing errors. If you mix fuel yourself, pour the oil into the container first, then add gasoline, and shake thoroughly. Never pour fuel into the blower's tank from a mixing container; pour the mixture into a separate fuel can first, then transfer carefully to avoid spilling.

Before attempting to start, perform basic equipment checks. Inspect the spark plug wire to ensure it connects firmly to the spark plug. Check that the air filter is clean; a clogged filter restricts airflow and prevents starting. Stihl air filters are typically foam or pleated paper that you can tap gently to remove loose dirt or wash in warm soapy water if heavily soiled. Examine the fuel line in the tank for cracks or deterioration. Look at the blower's exterior for damage that might affect operation. Verify that the fuel tank contains the proper fuel mixture and that you have not accidentally mixed ratios from different batches.

Practical takeaway: Always prepare fresh fuel with the correct oil ratio, check your air filter for cleanliness, and inspect the spark plug connection before each starting attempt.

The Cold Start Procedure for Two-Stroke Stihl Blowers

Starting a cold two-stroke Stihl blower when the engine has not run recently requires following a specific sequence. First, place the blower on a flat surface where it will not tip during the starting process. Set the choke lever to the full choke position, typically marked with a closed or solid symbol. The choke enriches the fuel mixture for cold conditions by restricting air intake. Locate the fuel primer button if your model has one; this component appears as a small rubber bulb on the engine housing. Press this button six to ten times to push fuel into the carburetor, making starting easier.

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Next, slide the on-off switch to the "ON" position. Grasp the blower firmly using both hands—for handheld models, position yourself in a stable stance with feet shoulder-width apart. If you have a backpack blower, wear it properly across both shoulders before starting. Pull the starter cord smoothly and quickly with one arm while keeping the blower secured with your other hand. Do not jerk the cord abruptly or wind it around your hand, as sudden recoil can cause injury. Pull the cord three to five times with the choke on full position.

Once the engine starts and runs briefly, move the choke lever to the half-choke or mid-position. Pull the starter cord again. The engine should fire and continue running. As the engine warms, gradually move the choke to the open position. If the engine bogs down or stalls, wait a few seconds before pulling the starter cord again. Do not pump the primer button repeatedly once the engine has started. The entire cold start process typically takes one to three minutes. If your blower does not start after ten to fifteen pulls, stop and allow the engine to rest for several minutes before attempting again.

Practical takeaway: Follow the choke-to-half-choke-to-open progression, use the primer button when starting cold, and pull the cord with smooth, controlled motions rather than jerky movements.

Warm Start and Restart Procedures

Starting a warm engine—one that has run within the past thirty minutes—requires a different approach than cold starting. Leave the choke lever in the open position because the engine temperature already helps vaporize fuel. Set the on-off switch to the "ON" position and pull the starter cord two to three times. The engine should start within a few pulls. If it does not start after five to six attempts, turn off the blower and wait five minutes before trying again.

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Restarting immediately after stopping requires caution because the engine is still hot. A hot engine can backfire or start suddenly with considerable force. Do not hold the choke closed as you would for a cold start. Instead, keep the choke fully open. Set the switch to "ON" and pull the starter cord gently—you want one or two controlled pulls, not forceful jerking motions. Many operators make the mistake of flooding a warm engine by over-priming or using the choke, which causes difficulty restarting. Patience and proper positioning make the difference between a smooth restart and a prolonged struggle.

If your blower stops unexpectedly during use, shut off the switch immediately. Check that the fuel tank contains adequate fuel and that the mixture ratio is correct. Look for loose connections or obvious damage. Let the engine cool for at least ten minutes if it stalled from being overworked or running hot. Check the spark plug wire connection once more before restarting. If the blower still will not start after these checks, do not continue pulling the starter cord repeatedly; this can damage the engine. Allow additional cooling time and consider consulting the manual or a Stihl dealer for service.

Practical takeaway: Keep the choke open for warm starts, use gentle and controlled starter cord pulls, and allow adequate cooling time if the engine stalls unexpectedly.

Troubleshooting Common Starting Problems

Flooded engine conditions occur when too much fuel accumulates in the combustion chamber without igniting. Signs include a strong fuel smell, black smoke, or fuel leaking from the exhaust. If you suspect flooding, turn off the blower immediately. Set the choke to the fully open position and remove the spark plug by gently twisting the wire connector counterclockwise and pulling it free. Grasp the spark plug connector carefully and pull the starter cord five to ten times with the choke open and the switch on. This action draws air through the engine and helps evaporate excess fuel without ignition. Reinstall the spark plug wire by pushing it firmly onto the plug. Try starting again with the choke in the half-choke position.

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