How to Start Stihl Leaf Blower Bg 86? Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

The Stihl BG 86 is one of the most popular gas-powered leaf blowers on the market, known for its lightweight design, powerful airflow, and durability for residential and light commercial use. However, many new users struggle with starting the BG 86, especially if they are unfamiliar with gas-powered outdoor equipment or have not operated a Stihl blower before. Unlike electric leaf blowers that start with the flip of a switch, the BG 86 requires a specific sequence of steps to get the engine running, and small mistakes can lead to frustrating start issues or even engine damage. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of How to Start Stihl Leaf Blower Bg 86?, from pre-start safety checks and fuel preparation to cold and warm start procedures, troubleshooting common problems, and performing basic maintenance to keep your blower running reliably for years. By following these clear, step-by-step instructions, you will be able to start your BG 86 quickly and safely every time, even on the first try.

• Introduction
• Understanding Your Stihl BG 86
  • Key Components of the BG 86
  • BG 86 Fuel and Power Requirements
• Pre-Start Safety Checks
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Workspace Preparation
• Step-by-Step Guide to Starting Your Stihl BG 86
  • Cold Start Procedure (First Use or After Long Storage)
  • Warm Start Procedure (Recent Use)
• Troubleshooting Common Start Issues
• Maintenance Tips for Reliable Starts
• Best Practices for Using Your BG 86
• Common Mistakes to Avoid When Starting the BG 86
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Understanding Your Stihl BG 86

Before you learn the exact steps to start your BG 86, it is helpful to familiarize yourself with the key components of the blower and its power requirements. The BG 86 is a 2-stroke gas-powered blower, meaning it uses a mixture of gasoline and 2-stroke oil for fuel, unlike 4-stroke engines that have separate oil and fuel reservoirs. Understanding how these components work will make the starting process far less intimidating and help you troubleshoot issues if they arise.

Key Components of the BG 86

The BG 86 has several small but critical components that play a role in the starting process. The primer bulb is a small rubber button on the side of the blower near the fuel tank; pressing it draws fuel from the tank into the carburetor to help the engine ignite. The choke lever is a small switch located near the primer bulb that controls the air-to-fuel ratio: closing the choke reduces airflow and increases fuel for a cold start, while opening it allows more air for a running engine. The throttle trigger on the handle controls engine speed, and the starter cord (pull cord) is used to crank the engine to start it. Other important components include the air filter, which prevents debris from entering the engine, the spark plug, which ignites the fuel-air mixture, and the fuel tank, which holds the gasoline and oil mix.

BG 86 Fuel and Power Requirements

Using the correct fuel mix is one of the most important factors in ensuring your BG 86 starts easily and runs reliably. Stihl recommends a 50:1 fuel-to-oil ratio, meaning you mix 50 parts unleaded gasoline with 1 part Stihl 2-stroke oil (or a high-quality equivalent 2-stroke oil designed for air-cooled engines). For every gallon of gasoline, you will need 2.6 ounces of oil. Always use unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 89, and avoid fuel with more than 10% ethanol content, as ethanol can absorb moisture, break down rubber fuel lines, and leave gummy residues in the carburetor that make starting difficult. If you are not going to use the mixed fuel within 30 days, it is best to use ethanol-free gasoline to prevent fuel degradation.

Pre-Start Safety Checks

Skipping pre-start safety checks can lead to injury, damage to your blower, or even fire hazards. Taking 2-3 minutes to complete these checks before every use will ensure a safe and smooth starting process.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Before you even approach the blower, put on the appropriate personal protective equipment. Safety glasses or goggles are essential to protect your eyes from flying debris, especially when starting the blower in an area with loose leaves, twigs, or gravel. Hearing protection is also recommended, as gas-powered leaf blowers can produce noise levels above 85 decibels, which can cause hearing damage over time. Wear durable gloves to protect your hands from the hot engine and sharp debris, and always wear closed-toe shoes and long pants to protect your legs and feet from accidental contact with the blower’s moving parts.

Workspace Preparation

Place the blower on a flat, stable surface free of debris, wet leaves, or flammable materials. Clear the area around the blower of any people, pets, or obstacles that could interfere with the starting process. If you are working on a driveway or patio, make sure there are no oil or gas stains nearby that could ignite if fuel spills. Never start the blower inside a garage, shed, or enclosed space, as the exhaust fumes contain carbon monoxide, which is odorless and deadly in enclosed areas. Always start and operate the blower in a well-ventilated outdoor space.

Step-by-Step Guide to Starting Your Stihl BG 86

The starting process for the BG 86 varies slightly depending on whether the engine is cold (first use of the day, or after being stored for more than an hour) or warm (recently used within the last hour). Following the correct procedure for your engine temperature will make starting far easier and reduce the risk of flooding the engine with excess fuel. (See Also:What Oil For Leaf Blower)

Cold Start Procedure (First Use or After Long Storage)

Follow these steps exactly for a cold start, which is the most common scenario when learning How to Start Stihl Leaf Blower Bg 86? for the first time:

1. Fill the fuel tank with the correct fuel mix. Remove the fuel cap and pour in the 50:1 gasoline and 2-stroke oil mix, being careful not to spill fuel. Wipe up any spills immediately, and replace the fuel cap tightly to prevent leaks.
2. Prime the primer bulb. Press the primer bulb 3 to 4 times, holding it down for 1-2 seconds each time. You will see fuel begin to fill the clear primer bulb after 2-3 pumps. Do not over-prime, as this will flood the engine and make starting more difficult.
3. Set the choke lever to the closed (cold start) position. The choke lever will have a symbol indicating the closed position, usually a closed circle or a line pointing to the “cold start” marking. Closing the choke enriches the fuel-air mixture to help the cold engine ignite.
4. Set the throttle to half open. Squeeze the throttle trigger halfway and lock it in place if your model has a throttle lock. This provides the engine with enough fuel to start without revving too high.
5. Pull the starter cord firmly. Grasp the starter handle firmly and pull it quickly and smoothly 3 to 4 times. Do not yank the cord violently, as this can damage the starter recoil mechanism. You may hear the engine sputter or make a “chugging” sound after a few pulls.
6. Adjust the choke lever slightly. Once you hear the engine sputter, move the choke lever to the half-open position. This reduces the fuel concentration enough to allow the engine to keep running.
7. Pull the starter cord 1 to 2 more times. The engine should start and run at a low idle. If it does not start after 2 more pulls, wait 10 seconds before pulling again to avoid overheating the starter.
8. Let the engine idle for 30 seconds. Allow the engine to warm up at low idle for 30 seconds before opening the choke fully and adjusting the throttle to your desired speed. This prevents stalling when you first start blowing leaves.

Warm Start Procedure (Recent Use)

If you have used the blower within the last hour, the engine is still warm and requires less fuel to start. Follow these steps for a quick warm start:

1. Prime the primer bulb 1 to 2 times. You only need a light press or two to draw a small amount of fuel into the carburetor, as the engine is already warm.
2. Set the choke lever to the half-open (warm start) position. This provides a balanced fuel-air mixture for a warm engine.
3. Set the throttle to half open. Just like with a cold start, this provides enough fuel for ignition without over-revving.
4. Pull the starter cord 1 to 2 times. The engine should start immediately. If it does not, check that the choke is in the correct position and that you have enough fuel in the tank.
5. Let the engine idle for 10 to 15 seconds. You can begin using the blower right away after this short warm-up period.

To make it easier to compare the two procedures, refer to the table below:

Troubleshooting Common Start Issues

Even if you follow the steps for How to Start Stihl Leaf Blower Bg 86? exactly, you may occasionally run into start issues. Most problems are easy to fix with basic troubleshooting:

• Engine will not start after multiple pulls: First, check that you are using the correct 50:1 fuel mix and that the fuel is fresh (less than 30 days old). Old fuel can separate and clog the carburetor. Next, inspect the spark plug: if it is black, dirty, or has a large gap, clean it with a wire brush or replace it entirely. Finally, check the air filter: if it is clogged with debris, clean it with soap and water or replace it if it is damaged.
• Engine starts then dies immediately: This is almost always caused by the choke lever being left in the closed position after start, or a flooded engine. Open the choke fully and let the engine idle for 30 seconds. If it still dies, the carburetor may be clogged with old fuel residue, requiring a carburetor cleaning or professional service.
• Starter cord is hard to pull or won’t pull: If the engine is flooded (from over-priming), wait 5 minutes for the excess fuel to evaporate, then pull the cord with the choke fully open. If the cord is still hard to pull, check for obstructions in the starter recoil mechanism, or if the engine is seized (which requires professional repair). Never force the starter cord, as this can break the recoil spring.
• Engine starts but runs rough or has low power: This is usually caused by a clogged air filter, dirty spark plug, or stale fuel. Clean or replace the air filter, replace the spark plug, and drain old fuel from the tank before refilling with fresh mix.

Maintenance Tips for Reliable Starts

Regular maintenance is the best way to prevent start issues and extend the life of your BG 86. Follow these simple maintenance tips to keep your blower running reliably:

• Use fresh fuel at all times. Never store mixed fuel for more than 30 days, as it will degrade and clog the carburetor. If you do not plan to use the blower for more than a month, drain the fuel tank completely and run the engine until it stops to clear the carburetor of fuel.
• Clean the air filter every 10 hours of use. Remove the air filter cover, take out the foam or paper filter, and clean it with warm soapy water if it is foam, or tap it gently to remove debris if it is paper. Replace the filter if it is torn or heavily soiled.
• Replace the spark plug every season. A worn or dirty spark plug will cause weak ignition and difficult starting. Use only Stihl-approved spark plugs for the best performance.
• Clean the carburetor annually. If you notice starting issues even after cleaning the air filter and replacing the spark plug, the carburetor jets may be clogged with old fuel residue. You can clean the carburetor with a carburetor cleaning spray, or take the blower to a Stihl authorized service center for professional cleaning.
• Store the blower in a dry, cool place. Moisture can cause rust on internal engine components and make starting difficult. Store the blower in a garage or shed away from direct sunlight and rain.

Best Practices for Using Your BG 86

Following these best practices will not only make starting easier but also extend the life of your blower and improve its performance:

• Always use the correct 50:1 fuel mix with low or no ethanol content. Never use straight gasoline or 4-stroke engine oil, as this will damage the 2-stroke engine.
• Avoid tilting the blower more than 30 degrees during operation, as this can cause fuel to flood the carburetor and make starting difficult when you next use it.
• Let the engine cool down for at least 5 minutes before storing the blower after use. A hot engine can warp internal components if stored while still warm.
• Clean the blower’s exterior and air intake vents after each use to remove grass, leaves, and debris that can block airflow and cause overheating.
• Have the blower serviced by a Stihl authorized dealer at least once a year, before the start of the leaf blowing season, to catch any potential issues before they cause start problems.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Starting the BG 86

Many start issues are caused by simple, avoidable mistakes. Avoid these common errors to make starting your BG 86 as easy as possible: (See Also:How To Test A Leaf Blower Ignition Coil)

• Using old or ethanol-heavy fuel: Fuel that is more than 30 days old, or fuel with more than 10% ethanol, will break down and clog the carburetor, making starting nearly impossible. Always use fresh fuel and opt for ethanol-free gas when possible.
• Over-priming the primer bulb: Pressing the primer bulb too many times will flood the engine with excess fuel, making it impossible to start until the fuel evaporates. Stick to 3-4 pumps for a cold start and 1-2 for a warm start.
• Leaving the choke closed after the engine starts: Forgetting to open the choke after the engine sputters will cause the engine to die immediately. Always move the choke to the fully open position once the engine is running and let it idle for 30 seconds before increasing the throttle.
• Storing the blower with fuel in the tank for long periods: Fuel left in the tank for more than 30 days will degrade and clog the carburetor. If you will not use the blower for a month or more, drain the tank completely before storing.
• Neglecting air filter cleaning: A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, making starting difficult and reducing power. Clean the air filter every 10 hours of use, or more often in dusty conditions.
• Pulling the starter cord too hard or too fast: Yanking the cord violently can damage the starter recoil spring, making it impossible to start the blower. Pull the cord quickly but smoothly, with a firm grip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many times should I pull the starter cord to start the BG 86?

For a cold start, you should pull the starter cord 3 to 4 firm times, then 1 to 2 more times after adjusting the choke lever to the half-open position. For a warm start, 1 to 2 pulls are usually enough to get the engine running. If the engine does not start after 5 to 6 total pulls, stop and check for common issues like stale fuel, a clogged air filter, or an incorrectly set choke to avoid flooding the engine.

What fuel mix should I use for the Stihl BG 86?

Stihl recommends a 50:1 ratio of unleaded gasoline (minimum 89 octane, no more than 10% ethanol) to 2-stroke engine oil. For every gallon of gasoline, mix in 2.6 ounces of high-quality 2-stroke oil designed for air-cooled engines. Using fuel with higher ethanol content or old mixed fuel can cause starting issues, carburetor clogs, and long-term engine damage.

Why does my BG 86 start then immediately die?

This is almost always caused by one of three issues: the choke lever is left in the closed position after the engine starts, the engine is flooded with excess fuel from over-priming, or the carburetor is clogged with old fuel residue. After the engine starts, open the choke fully and let it idle for 30 seconds. If it still dies, drain old fuel from the tank, clean the air filter, and if the issue persists, have the carburetor professionally cleaned.

Can I use ethanol-free fuel in my BG 86?

Yes, ethanol-free fuel is actually the preferred option for the Stihl BG 86. Ethanol can absorb moisture from the air, break down rubber fuel lines and gaskets, and leave gummy residues in the carburetor that make starting difficult. If you do use fuel with ethanol, opt for fuel with no more than 10% ethanol and use the mixed fuel within 30 days to prevent degradation.

How often should I clean the air filter on my BG 86?

You should clean the air filter every 10 hours of regular use, or more frequently if you are working in dusty, debris-heavy environments like dry, dirt-filled yards. A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, making starting difficult, reducing power, and increasing engine wear over time. If the air filter is torn or heavily soiled, replace it entirely rather than cleaning it. (See Also:How To Repair A Gas Leaf Blower)

What should I do if the starter cord won’t pull?

First, wait 5 minutes if the engine is flooded (you may have over-primed the primer bulb). Once the excess fuel has evaporated, pull the starter cord with the choke fully open. If the cord still won’t pull, check for obstructions in the starter recoil mechanism, or if the engine is seized (which can happen if the blower is stored for long periods without maintenance). Never force the starter cord, as this can break the recoil spring and require expensive repairs. If you cannot pull the cord after waiting, take the blower to a Stihl authorized service center for inspection.

Conclusion

Learning How to Start Stihl Leaf Blower Bg 86? is a simple process once you understand the key steps and avoid common mistakes. By completing pre-start safety checks, using the correct 50:1 fuel mix, following the right procedure for cold or warm starts, and performing regular maintenance, you can start your BG 86 quickly and reliably every time. Most start issues are caused by stale fuel, clogged air filters, or incorrect choke settings, all of which are easy to fix with basic troubleshooting. With proper care and maintenance, your Stihl BG 86 will provide years of reliable performance for all your leaf clearing and yard work needs.