Instructions for a Stihl Weedeater With a Gas Start

Put the weedeater on the ground with the pull starter facing up and the cutting blade (or whip) able to swing freely. If the blade hits a rock on start-up it can ricochet and cause damage to the operator. Set the choke to halfway open if this is the first time starting the weedeater for the day. If the weedeater is still warm from previous use, then open the choke all the way. Pump the fuel bulb five times to prime the combustion chamber. Do this even if the engine is still warm to ensure a proper start.

Press down and hold both the throttle trigger and the trigger interlock that "rides" the trigger. The interlock is used to lock the trigger into a certain rpm to rest the operator's hand during long shifts. While still holding down the trigger and interlock, thumb the engine control slide to "start" and hold it there. The trigger, interlock and engine control slide will now stay in place.

Pull on the starter until the slack is gone and the gearing meshes; you may be able to hear the gear teeth interlock. Now pull sharply back as hard as you can but not to the full extension of the rope. Give the throttle a slight pull to rev the engine, if the engine is now running the slide control will move to the "I" position automatically. Release the throttle and interlock and they will go back to the idle position. The engine is now started and idling. Pulling the throttle will rev both the engine and the blade from now on. When you want to stop the engine, just slide the engine control to "stop."