How to Start Stihl Leaf Blower Br 600?

Introduction

Starting a Stihl leaf blower BR 600 correctly ensures reliable performance and extends the life of your equipment. Whether you are a first-time owner or returning to seasonal yard work, understanding the proper startup procedure helps prevent frustration and potential damage. This guide walks you through every step needed to get your Stihl BR 600 running smoothly, from pre-start checks to troubleshooting common issues. By following these instructions, you will build confidence in operating your blower safely and efficiently.

Table of Contents

• Overview of the Stihl BR 600
• Safety First
• Pre-Start Checklist
• Fuel and Oil Mixture
• Priming the Engine
• Starting Procedure: Step by Step
• Choke Positions Explained
• Warm vs Cold Start
• After Start Procedure
• Comparison with Other Models
• Tips and Best Practices
• Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting
• Maintenance Schedule
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Overview of the Stihl BR 600

The Stihl BR 600 is a powerful backpack blower designed for professional landscapers and serious homeowners. It features a robust 62.5 cc engine that delivers impressive airflow and air speed, making it ideal for clearing leaves, grass clippings, and debris across large areas. Unlike handheld blowers, the backpack design distributes weight evenly across your shoulders and back, reducing fatigue during extended use. The BR 600 also includes ergonomic padding, adjustable straps, and intuitive controls that enhance comfort and usability.

Understanding the key components of your blower is essential before attempting to start it. These include the engine, air filter, spark plug, fuel tank, primer bulb, choke lever, throttle trigger, and starter rope. Each component plays a role in the starting process, and familiarity with their functions helps you identify and resolve problems quickly.

Safety First

Before handling your Stihl BR 600, always prioritize safety. Operating a gas-powered blower involves moving parts, high temperatures, and combustible fuel, all of which pose risks if not managed properly.

• Wear protective gear including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and sturdy footwear.
• Ensure the work area is clear of flammable materials, people, and pets.
• Never start the engine indoors or in enclosed spaces due to carbon monoxide risk.
• Check that the throttle trigger is in the off position before pulling the starter rope.
• Inspect the spark plug wire and ensure it is securely connected.
• Allow the engine to cool completely before performing any maintenance or refueling.

Following these safety guidelines protects both you and your equipment, setting the stage for a successful startup every time.

Pre-Start Checklist

Completing a thorough pre-start checklist minimizes the chance of encountering problems during startup. Skipping even one check can lead to unnecessary delays or mechanical issues.

1. Inspect the air filter. A dirty or clogged air filter restricts airflow and prevents proper combustion. Clean or replace it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
2. Check the spark plug. Remove the spark plug cap and inspect the plug for fouling or wear. Clean it with a wire brush or replace it if necessary. Reconnect the cap securely.
3. Verify fuel levels. Ensure there is fresh gasoline mixed with the correct amount of two-stroke oil. Old or improperly mixed fuel can cause starting difficulties.
4. Examine the primer bulb. Press it several times to confirm it is not cracked or hardened. A functional primer bulb delivers fuel to the carburetor efficiently.
5. Confirm throttle position. Make sure the throttle trigger lockout is engaged and the trigger itself is in the idle position.
6. Check the choke lever. Position it correctly based on whether you are performing a cold or warm start.
7. Inspect the starter rope. Ensure it is free of kinks or damage and recoils smoothly after each pull.

Taking these steps before starting saves time and reduces the likelihood of repeated attempts.

Fuel and Oil Mixture

Proper fuel preparation is critical for the performance and longevity of your Stihl BR 600 engine. The blower uses a two-stroke engine that requires a mixture of gasoline and specialized two-stroke oil.

Use unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 89 or higher. Mix it with Stihl HP Ultra or another high-quality two-stroke oil at a ratio of 50:1. This means 2.6 ounces of oil per gallon of gasoline. Always mix the fuel in a clean container and shake thoroughly to ensure proper blending.

Fresh fuel is essential because ethanol-blended gasoline can separate and cause gum formation over time. If you store fuel for more than 30 days, add a fuel stabilizer to maintain its integrity. Never use fuel that appears cloudy, discolored, or contains water.

Store mixed fuel in a tightly sealed container away from heat sources and open flames. Label the container clearly with the mixing date and ratio to avoid confusion during future use.

Priming the Pump

Priming the engine involves manually supplying fuel to the carburetor before starting. This step is especially important for cold starts and ensures that the engine receives adequate fuel during ignition.

To prime the engine, locate the primer bulb near the carburetor. Press it slowly several times until it becomes firm and resistant to additional pressure. Do not over-prime, as excess fuel can flood the engine and make starting more difficult.

If the primer bulb does not become firm after multiple presses, check for blockages in the fuel line or carburetor. Clogged passages may require professional cleaning or adjustment. Additionally, verify that the fuel valve is open and that there is sufficient fuel in the tank.

After priming, wait a few seconds to allow the fuel to settle before proceeding to the choke and starting sequence.

Starting Procedure: Step by Step

With your pre-start checks complete and the engine primed, you are ready to begin the actual starting procedure. Follow these steps carefully to achieve a smooth startup:

1. Set the choke. For a cold start, move the choke lever to the fully closed position. For a warm start, set it to the half-open position.
2. Engage the throttle lockout. Hold down the safety lock on the throttle handle to prevent accidental acceleration during startup.
3. Pull the starter rope. Grasp the starter handle firmly and pull the rope sharply toward your body in a single, smooth motion. Do not let the rope snap back forcefully.
4. Repeat if necessary. If the engine does not start within three pulls, return the choke to the starting position and try again. Avoid excessive pulling, which can strain the starter mechanism.
5. Adjust the choke once running. Once the engine fires and begins to idle, gradually open the choke to the fully open position as the engine warms up.
6. Release the throttle lockout. After confirming stable operation, release the safety lock and gently squeeze the throttle to test responsiveness.

These steps form the foundation of the startup process and should be adapted based on specific conditions such as temperature and fuel freshness.

Choke Positions Explained

The choke lever controls the air-fuel mixture during startup. Understanding its three positions helps you optimize engine performance under varying conditions.

Fully Closed (Cold Start): This position enriches the fuel mixture, providing extra fuel needed for ignition when the engine is cold. Use this setting for initial startup after extended storage or overnight cooling.

Half-Open (Warm Start): Ideal for engines that have been used recently but are no longer at operating temperature. The half-open choke balances fuel delivery without over-riching the mixture.

Fully Open (Running): Once the engine is running and warmed up, the choke should remain fully open to allow normal airflow and prevent stalling. Leaving the choke closed during operation can foul the spark plug and waste fuel.

Adjusting the choke appropriately ensures efficient combustion and prevents common issues such as flooding or hesitation.

Warm vs Cold Start

The difference between a warm and cold start lies in the engine temperature and fuel vaporization. Recognizing these distinctions helps you apply the correct startup technique.

Cold Start: Occurs when the engine has been idle for several hours or exposed to low temperatures. Fuel tends to condense in the crankcase, requiring additional priming and a richer mixture via the choke. Expect two to four pulls before successful ignition.

Warm Start: Happens when the engine was recently turned off and is still relatively warm. Less fuel is needed, so reduce priming efforts and use the half-open choke position. Warm engines typically start within one to two pulls.

Attempting a cold start with warm-start settings often results in prolonged cranking or failure to ignite. Conversely, using full choke on a warm engine can flood the system and delay startup unnecessarily.

After Start Procedure

Once your Stihl BR 600 starts successfully, follow these steps to transition into normal operation:

• Allow the engine to idle briefly while gradually opening the choke.
• Monitor RPM stability and listen for unusual sounds or vibrations.
• Check that the throttle responds smoothly when engaged.
• Inspect for fuel leaks around the tank and carburetor area.
• Verify that all safety features, including the throttle lockout, function properly.

Performing these post-startup checks confirms that your blower is operating safely and ready for use.

Comparison with Other Models

Different Stihl blowers vary in starting mechanisms and complexity. Understanding these differences helps you appreciate the BR 600’s design advantages.

This comparison highlights why the BR 600 stands out for demanding applications where power and endurance matter most.

Tips and Best Practices

Adopting best practices enhances reliability and reduces wear on your equipment:

• Always use fresh fuel and drain old fuel at the end of the season.
• Clean the air filter regularly and replace it when airflow becomes restricted.
• Store the blower in a dry, sheltered location away from direct sunlight.
• Perform routine spark plug inspections and replacements every 100 hours.
• Use the correct throttle technique to avoid over-revving the engine.
• Break in new engines with lighter loads for the first few uses.
• Keep tools handy for quick adjustments and emergency repairs.

Implementing these habits keeps your BR 600 in peak condition and ready whenever duty calls.

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

Even experienced users encounter occasional challenges. Here are some common mistakes and their solutions:

Engine Won’t Start

If the engine refuses to start, check the following:

• Is the fuel fresh and properly mixed?
• Is the spark plug clean and connected?
• Is the choke set correctly for the current temperature?
• Has the primer bulb been pressed sufficiently?
• Could the engine be flooded from over-priming?

To address flooding, remove the spark plug, pull the starter rope a few times to expel excess fuel, then reinstall the plug and restart normally.

Engine Stalls After Starting

A stall shortly after startup usually points to a choke or fuel issue:

• Ensure the choke opens fully once the engine warms up.
• Check for restricted airflow caused by a dirty air filter.
• Verify that the fuel line is intact and free of cracks.
• Consider adjusting the idle screw if stalling persists.

Persistent stalling may indicate internal engine problems requiring professional attention.

Excessive Smoke

Blue or white smoke signals oil burning, often due to:

• Over-priming or excessive fuel in the crankcase.
• Worn piston rings or cylinder walls.
• Incorrect oil-to-fuel ratio.

Reduce priming frequency and consult the manual for recommended ratios. Persistent smoke warrants a visit to an authorized Stihl dealer.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance keeps your BR 600 performing at its best. Below is a general maintenance timeline:

Sticking to this schedule ensures optimal performance and longevity for your investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Pulls Does It Take to Start?

On average, expect two to four pulls for a cold start and one to two pulls for a warm start. Excessive pulling indicates a problem that should be diagnosed promptly.

Can I Use Ethanol Gas?

Stihl recommends using fuel with no more than 10% ethanol content. Higher concentrations can degrade rubber components and lead to carburetor clogging over time.

What If the Primer Bulb Is Hard?

A hard primer bulb suggests blockage in the fuel line or carburetor. Inspect connections and clean passages according to the service manual instructions.

Should I Choke a Warm Engine?

No. Using choke on a warm engine can flood it. Instead, set the choke to the half-open position and rely on natural fuel vaporization for smooth startup.

How Often Should I Change Oil?

Since the BR 600 uses a premixed fuel blend, there is no separate oil reservoir to change. However, periodically inspect the crankcase vent and seals for signs of leakage.

Why Does It Stall When Idling?

Low idle speed, dirty carburetor, or improper choke adjustment can cause stalling. Adjust the idle screw slightly upward or clean the carburetor if the issue persists.

Conclusion

Mastering how to start your Stihl leaf blower BR 600 involves preparation, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols. By conducting thorough pre-start checks, preparing the correct fuel mixture, priming appropriately, and following the step-by-step starting procedure, you set yourself up for success every time. Familiarity with choke positions, warm versus cold starts, and post-startup procedures further enhances your ability to operate confidently and troubleshoot effectively.

Remember that consistency breeds reliability. Establishing regular maintenance routines and avoiding common mistakes ensures that your BR 600 remains a dependable tool for years to come. With practice and patience, starting your blower becomes second nature, allowing you to focus on completing your outdoor tasks efficiently and safely.