Wiktor Wise
Hedge trimmers are essential tools for gardening and landscaping, and they can get very messy. STIHL, a manufacturer of outdoor power tools, provides detailed instructions for cleaning and maintaining its hedge trimmers. Regular maintenance and cleaning of STIHL electric hedge trimmers are crucial to ensure optimal performance and extend the tool's lifespan. This includes tasks such as cleaning the blades, lubricating the moving parts, and inspecting the machine for any damage. In this paragraph, we will explore the topic of cleaning STIHL electric hedge trimmers, covering various aspects such as the recommended cleaning methods, the frequency of cleaning, and the benefits of proper maintenance.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How often to clean | After each use, especially if storing for several months or if it's not working properly |
| What to clean | Cutting blades, spark plugs, the gear unit, connecting rod, battery, charger, electrical contacts on the charger, housing |
| How to clean | Use a brush to clean the cutting attachment, then spray with resin solvent or a product like WD-40 to dissolve resin and sap. Wipe the battery, charger, and housing with a damp cloth. Clean electrical contacts with a paintbrush or soft brush. |
| Blade maintenance | Keep blades sharp to ensure effectiveness and clean them with a suitable oil. |
| Storing | Store in a dry, dust- and frost-free place. Remove the battery from the hedge trimmer and store it separately, charged to 40-60%. |
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What You'll Learn
Cleaning the blades
To clean the blades of your Stihl electric hedge trimmer, start by removing any large debris, like leaves and branches, using a brush. Then, spray the blades with a resin solvent, such as Stihl Superclean resin solvent, which provides corrosion protection and dissolves resin and sap. Alternatively, you can use WD-40 to clean the sap.
After spraying the blades, run the hedge trimmer very briefly to distribute lubricant onto all the individual teeth and into the gaps. This will help prevent gummed-up and corroded blades, which can cause the trimmer to stop working.
If your blades are already gummed up and corroded, you may need to disassemble them for a more thorough cleaning. Take the blades apart and clean them on a wire wheel, then lubricate them with a suitable oil or lubricant. You can use bar and chain oil, motor oil, or a spray lubricant.
In addition to cleaning the blades, it is important to regularly sharpen them as they can become blunt with use, leading to jagged cuts and damage. This can leave your shrubs vulnerable to disease and cause the tool to work harder.
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Removing debris
Step 1: Use a Brush
Use a brush to clean the cutting attachment and remove any large debris, such as leaves and branches. This is an essential first step to prevent scratches or damage when handling the blades.
Step 2: Spray with Solvent
After brushing off the large debris, use a resin solvent to spray the blades. This will help dissolve any remaining resin, sap, or gum buildup between the blades. Stihl offers a specific product, the Stihl Superclean resin solvent, which provides corrosion protection in addition to dissolving residue.
Step 3: Run the Trimmer
After applying the resin solvent, run the hedge trimmer briefly. This helps distribute the lubricant onto all the individual teeth and into the gaps, ensuring the blades remain well-maintained and corrosion-free.
Step 4: Wipe Down
Use a damp cloth to wipe down the housing, battery, and charger. This will remove any remaining debris or residue. Ensure that you remove the battery before cleaning and store it separately in a dry place.
Step 5: Clean Electrical Contacts
Use a paintbrush or soft brush to clean the electrical contacts on the charger. This step is crucial to maintaining the functionality of your hedge trimmer and preventing any electrical issues.
Remember to perform these cleaning steps regularly and always before storing your hedge trimmer for an extended period. By keeping your trimmer clean and free of debris, you will extend its lifespan and ensure optimal performance.
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Using a lubricant
Regularly cleaning your Stihl electric hedge trimmer is essential for keeping it in good working order. When you use your hedge trimmer, the blades accumulate sap, resin, and dirt, which can quickly impair its cutting performance if left alone. Therefore, it is recommended to give your hedge trimmer a basic clean after every use.
- Before you start cleaning, ensure that your hedge trimmer is switched off and cannot start accidentally. For an electric trimmer, disconnect the plug. It is important to wear sturdy gloves and safety glasses to prevent injury.
- Use a brush to clean the cutting attachment and remove any large debris, such as leaves and branches.
- Next, apply a resin solvent to the blades. Stihl Superclean resin solvent is recommended as it provides corrosion protection and dissolves resin and sap.
- Run the hedge trimmer very briefly to distribute the lubricant onto all the individual teeth and into the gaps.
- After lubricating and cleaning the blades, wipe the housing, battery, and charger with a damp cloth.
- If necessary, clean the electrical contacts on the charger with a paintbrush or a soft brush.
- Finally, put the hedge trimmer scabbard on and store your tools in a dry place, away from the hedge trimmer and charger.
It is important to note that you should always refer to the operating manual for your specific Stihl electric hedge trimmer model for detailed instructions on cleaning and maintenance. Additionally, deep cleaning your hedge trimmer before storing it for an extended period is recommended.
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Storing the trimmer
Storing your Stihl electric hedge trimmer properly is essential to ensure its longevity and top performance. Here are some detailed steps to guide you through the process:
Clean the Trimmer:
Before storing your hedge trimmer for an extended period, it is crucial to give it a thorough clean. Start by using a brush to remove any large debris, such as leaves and branches, from the cutting attachment. Then, spray the blades with a resin solvent, such as the Stihl Superclean resin solvent, to dissolve any sap or resin buildup and provide corrosion protection. You can also use alternatives like WD-40 or Stihl's Hedge Trimmer Blade Cleaner. Run the trimmer briefly to distribute the lubricant onto the teeth and gaps.
Wipe Down and Inspect:
Wipe the housing, battery, and charger with a damp cloth. If necessary, use a soft brush to clean the electrical contacts on the charger. As you clean, inspect the blades for any signs of dulling or damage. Keeping the blades sharp is crucial for effective cutting and preventing damage to branches and twigs. If the blades are dull, sharpen them before storing the trimmer.
Prepare for Storage:
Remove the battery from the trimmer and store it separately in a dry place. The battery should be charged to 40-60% before storing, and it is recommended to disconnect the plug from the mains during storage to prevent the risk of injury. If you have a petrol hedge trimmer, empty the fuel tank and run the engine at idle speed until it stops. This ensures that there is lubrication in the system.
Choose a Suitable Storage Location:
Choose a dry and, if possible, dust- and frost-free location to store your hedge trimmer. This will help maintain the condition of your trimmer and prevent any moisture-related damage or corrosion during storage.
Long-Term Storage Considerations:
If you plan to store your hedge trimmer for an extended period, such as over 30 days, there are a few additional steps to take. For petrol trimmers, clean the fuel tank, air filter, and spark plugs. Check the spark plug for excessive carbon buildup and adjust the electrode gap to its specification before carefully reinstalling it. Also, check the spark arresting screen, a small screen at the muffler exhaust, and clean or replace it if necessary.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your Stihl electric hedge trimmer is properly stored and maintained, extending its lifespan and ensuring optimal performance for seasons to come.
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Troubleshooting
Firstly, if your trimmer has stopped working, check for a build-up of sap or gum between the blade surfaces. This will appear as a brown/black rough texture. If this is the issue, you can try lubricating the blades, using a product like Stihl's hedge trimmer spray, which is designed to clean and lubricate. Alternatively, you could try a product like WD-40 to clean the sap, followed by a spray lubricant. If this doesn't work, you may need to disassemble the blades for a more thorough clean.
If your trimmer is not the issue, the next step is to inspect the gearcase. If you are comfortable with disassembling the trimmer, you can do this yourself. The problem could be the bearings on the connecting rods on the eccentric gear. If you are not confident in doing this yourself, take your trimmer to your local Stihl dealer.
If your trimmer is a petrol model, there are a few additional things to check. Firstly, ensure that the fuel tank, air filter, and spark plugs are clean and in good condition. You should also check the spark plug for excessive carbon buildup and adjust the electrode gap to its specification. The spark-arresting screen should also be cleaned or replaced if necessary.
Finally, if you are having issues with your battery-powered trimmer, always ensure that you are removing the battery and storing it separately from the machine when not in use. Check that the LEDs work and flash as they should; if they light up in red or not at all, remove the battery and refer to the troubleshooting section in the operating manual. Always ensure that the battery is stored in a dry place.
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Frequently asked questions
You should give your trimmer a basic clean after every use and a deep clean before storing it away for an extended period.
First, use a brush to clean the cutting attachment and remove any large debris, such as leaves and branches. Then, spray the blades with a resin solvent and briefly run the trimmer to distribute lubricant. Finally, wipe the housing, battery, and charger with a damp cloth.
You can use a resin solvent such as STIHL Superclean or WD-40 to clean the blades and a damp cloth to wipe down the housing, battery, and charger. You can also use a paintbrush or soft brush to clean the electrical contacts on the charger.
If you notice sap or gum buildup between the blade surfaces, this is a sign that your trimmer needs cleaning and lubrication. You may also notice that the blades are not cutting effectively or are stopping after a few seconds of use.
Yes, in addition to cleaning, you should regularly inspect and sharpen the blades as they can become blunt with use. You should also check the spark plug for excessive carbon buildup and adjust the electrode gap or replace it if necessary. Regular maintenance will extend the life of your tool and reduce the risk of accidents.
