How to Start Stihl Leaf Blower BG 86: A Beginner’s Step-by-Step Guide

Start a Stihl BG 86 leaf blower by setting the switch to run, pressing the primer bulb 4–5 times, and moving the choke to cold start. Pull the starter cord until it fires, then squeeze the throttle to move the choke to run.

Understand the Controls and Safety Features

Before attempting to start your Stihl BG 86 leaf blower, familiarizing yourself with the main controls ensures both safety and efficiency. The BG 86 features a simplified starting system specifically designed to make operation accessible even for beginners.

Locate the choke symbol on your Stihl BG 86

The choke symbol is a critical component for cold starting your blower. On the Stihl BG 86, you’ll find the semi-automatic choke lever marked with clear symbols indicating different positions. This specialized choke lever serves an essential purpose beyond simply starting the engine—it helps prevent accidental flooding. When examining your blower, locate this lever on the side of the unit, typically marked with symbols representing:

• Cold start position (usually indicated by ⭓)
• Run position (typically marked with an “I” or “F”)
• Stop position (marked with “0”)

Each position plays a vital role in the starting sequence, which we’ll explore in detail later.

Understand the stop switch and throttle trigger

The Stihl BG 86 incorporates a specialized stop switch that automatically returns to the start position. This innovative feature eliminates common starting problems by ensuring the switch is always correctly positioned for your next start-up.

Furthermore, the setting lever allows the throttle trigger to be locked in any required position during operation. The throttle trigger must move freely and spring back to the idle position when released, which serves as an important safety feature. Additionally, the setting lever/switch should move easily to STOP or 0 position.

Why safety gear matters before starting

Safety should always come first when operating any power tool. Prior to starting your Stihl BG 86:

1. Wear proper eye protection to guard against flying debris
2. Use hearing protection like earplugs or ear muffs to prevent hearing damage
3. Wear protective footwear, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts to shield from potential cuts or abrasions

The manufacturer explicitly warns that improper use of this power tool may cause serious or fatal injury. Your Stihl BG 86 is designed to be operated by one person only—never allow others in the work area during operation.

Notably, persons with pacemakers should exercise caution, as the ignition system produces an electromagnetic field that may interfere with some pacemakers.

Prepare the Blower for Starting

Proper preparation of your Stihl BG 86 leaf blower significantly impacts its starting reliability and overall performance. Taking a few moments to check critical components ensures your blower starts quickly and runs efficiently.

Check fuel level and mix ratio

The Stihl BG 86 requires a specific mixture of gasoline and engine oil for optimal performance. First, ensure you’re using high-quality gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 90 – either leaded or unleaded. The manufacturer recommends a 50:1 mix ratio (20ml oil per 1 liter of fuel) when using Stihl 2-stroke oil. If you’re using a different brand of 2-stroke oil, mix at 25:1 (40ml oil per 1 liter fuel).

Consequently, fuel quality directly affects your blower’s performance and longevity. Remember that gasoline has a limited shelf life, sometimes as short as 30 days. For extended storage, consider adding Stihl fuel stabilizer, which can extend shelf life up to 12 months.

Inspect air filter and spark plug

A clean air filter is essential for proper engine function. Locate and remove the air filter cover to inspect the filter element. If it appears dirty or clogged, either clean it thoroughly or replace it if necessary.

Subsequently, check the spark plug condition. Though spark plugs don’t need frequent replacement, examine it for carbon buildup or damage. If the spark plug looks worn, gently clean it with sandpaper or replace it entirely for improved starting.

Prime the engine using the fuel pump bulb

Priming the engine is a crucial step to ensure fuel reaches the carburetor:

1. Locate the transparent fuel pump bulb (primer) on your Stihl BG 86
2. Press it firmly at least five times – even if the bulb is already filled with fuel
3. This action clears any vapor and delivers liquid fuel to the carburetor

For stubborn starting situations or vapor lock symptoms, press the manual fuel pump bulb 20-30 times to fully clear vapor from the system and ensure liquid fuel reaches the carburetor. If the primer bulb fills only partially, it may indicate carburetor issues that need attention.

After completing these preparation steps, your Stihl leaf blower BG 86 should be ready for the starting procedure.

Step-by-Step: How to Start the Stihl Leaf Blower BG 86

Following a precise starting sequence ensures your Stihl BG 86 leaf blower roars to life consistently. Let’s break down the exact steps needed for reliable starts without unnecessary strain.

Set the choke to cold start position

First, place the blower on firm ground outdoors, at least 10 feet (3 meters) from where you fueled it. Position the choke knob according to your engine’s temperature:

• For cold engine: Turn the choke knob to the “g” position
• For warm engine: Turn the choke knob to “<” position

Remember, even if the engine has been running but feels cold, use the “<” setting.

Pull the starter cord slowly until resistance

Maintain proper form to avoid injury and ensure effective starting:

1. Place the blower securely on the ground
2. Establish firm footing and grip the housing with your right hand, pressing down
3. Hold the starter grip with your left hand
4. Pull slowly until you feel resistance, then give a brisk, strong pull

Important: Never wrap the starter rope around your hand or let it snap back—guide it slowly to rewind properly.

Blip the throttle to disengage choke

Once the engine runs, immediately press and release (blip) the throttle trigger. This action:

• Automatically moves the choke to run position “F”
• Returns the engine to idle speed

Let the engine warm up before use

Allow the engine to idle briefly before operation. If the engine stops during this process:

• If it stops in “g” position: Move choke to “<” and continue cranking
• If it stops during acceleration: Adjust choke to “<” until it runs smoothly

This systematic approach maximizes your Stihl BG 86’s starting efficiency.

Common Starting Issues and Fixes

Even experienced users sometimes face challenges starting their Stihl leaf blower BG 86. Recognizing common issues can save time and frustration.

What to do if your Stihl blower is hard to start

Firstly, verify all settings are correct (choke knob, setting lever in run position F). If the blower remains stubborn, check for a worn spark plug—clean it with sandpaper or replace it entirely. A clogged carburetor from stale fuel often prevents starting, requiring thorough cleaning. Moreover, examine the air filter as dirty filters make starting notably difficult.

Avoiding engine flooding with the choke

To prevent flooding, never pull the starter cord repeatedly with the choke engaged. Instead, if the engine doesn’t start after one or two pulls in the cold start position, immediately switch to the warm start setting. Alternatively, try starting with the throttle at 75% and choke on for just one pull.

When to use the warm start setting

Use the warm start “<” position whenever:

• The engine has been running but is still cold
• The engine stops in position “g” during acceleration
• After attempting cold starts unsuccessfully

How to identify vapor lock symptoms

Vapor lock typically manifests after the blower operates in hot conditions—the fuel pump bulb won’t prime properly and the engine fails to start. To relieve this condition, press the manual fuel pump 20-30 times to clear vapor and send liquid fuel into the carburetor.

Conclusion

Mastering your Stihl BG 86 leaf blower ultimately comes down to understanding its starting sequence and maintaining proper care. Throughout this guide, we’ve covered everything from basic controls to troubleshooting techniques for this powerful 199 mph capable machine. Safety always remains paramount when operating any power tool, especially one with a 1.7 cu-in displacement engine like the BG 86.

After following our detailed steps, you should now feel confident in starting your leaf blower effectively. Remember that proper fuel mixture at the recommended 50:1 ratio (with Stihl oil) significantly impacts performance and starting reliability. Similarly, regular maintenance of the air filter and spark plug will prevent many common starting problems before they occur.

The choke settings deserve particular attention as they often cause confusion for first-time users. Therefore, practicing the correct sequence—from cold start to throttle blipping—builds muscle memory that makes future starts effortless. Most importantly, patience during the learning process pays off with consistent, reliable performance.