BGE 61 - Leaf blower STIHL - Free user manual and instructions
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| Product Type | Electric Leaf Blower |
| Model | STIHL BGE 61 |
| Power Supply | 120 V, 60 Hz, 9.2 A |
| Power Rating | 1100 W |
| Maximum Air Flow (Blower Mode) | 394 cf/min (670 m³/h) |
| Air Velocity with Nozzle | 148 mph (66 m/s) |
| Weight | 6.6 lbs (3.0 kg) |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 8.3 x 13.1 x 13 in (210 x 334 x 330 mm) |
| Insulation Type | Double Insulation (Class II) |
| Overload Protection | Overload Circuit Breaker (auto reset after cooling) |
| Recommended Extension Cord | 16 AWG up to 50 ft, 14 AWG up to 100 ft, 12 AWG up to 150 ft |
| Blower Tube Attachment | Safety switch activated by union nut |
| Nozzle Types | Round nozzle (uneven surfaces) and Fan nozzle (paved surfaces) |
| Speed Settings | Single speed (I) |
| Operation Mode | One-handed (blower only) |
| Vacuum Function | Not available (BGE 61 model) |
| Cord Retention | Strain relief hook on handle |
| Maintenance Intervals | Clean cooling inlets every 10 hours of operation |
| Cleaning Method | Wipe with cloth; do not spray water or use strong detergents |
| Storage | Dry, locked location out of reach of children |
| Warranty | Limited warranty – see STIHL policy (www.stihlusa.com/warranty.html) |
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USER MANUAL BGE 61 STIHL
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StiHL BGE 71 electric shaver with black body and white handle (no visible text or symbols on device body)WARNING
Read Instruction Manual thoroughly before use and follow all safety precautions – improper use can cause serious or fatal injury.
ADVERTENCIA
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Two black-and-white warning symbols: a triangular warning triangle with an exclamation mark and a circle with a person reading a book (no text or symbols present)Instruction Manual
1 - 21
Guide to Using this Manual 2
IMPORTANT SAFETY
INSTRUCTIONS 2
Safety Precautions and Working
Techniques 3
Using the Unit 9
Assembling the Blower 10
Assembling the Vacuum
Attachment 11
Connecting to Power Supply 13
Switching On 14
Switching Off 14
Storing the Machine 15
Maintenance and Care 16
Main Parts 17
Specifications 18
Maintenance and Repairs 19
Disposal 19
Limited Warranty 20
Trademarks 20
Addresses 21
This manual contains operating and safety instructions for all STIHL BGE blowers. Allow only persons who fully understand this manual to operate your blower.
To receive maximum performance and satisfaction from your STIHL blower, it is important that you read, understand and follow the safety precautions and the operating and maintenance instructions before using your blower. For further information you can go to www.stihlusa.com.
Contact your STIHL dealer or the STIHL distributor for your area if you do not understand any of the instructions in this manual.
The STIHL BGE 61, 71 blowers are consumer-type power tools.

WARNING
Because a blower is a high-speed tool, some special safety precautions must be observed as with any other power tool to reduce the risk of personal injury. Careless or improper use may cause serious or even fatal injury.
STIHL®
BGE 61, BGE 71
This instruction manual is protected by copyright. All rights reserved, especially the rights to reproduce, translate and process with electronic systems.
Guide to Using this Manual
Pictograms
All the pictograms attached to or embossed on the machine are shown and explained in this manual.
Symbols in Text
Many operating and safety instructions are supported by illustrations.
The individual steps or procedures described in the manual may be marked in different ways:
●A bullet marks a step or procedure.
A description of a step or procedure that refers directly to an illustration may contain item numbers that appear in the illustration. Example:
●Loosen the screw (1).
●Lever (2) ...
In addition to the operating instructions, this manual may contain paragraphs that require your special attention. Such paragraphs are marked with the following symbols and signal words:
DANGER
Indicates an imminent risk of severe or fatal injury.
WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in severe or fatal injury.
NOTICE
Indicates a risk of property damage, including damage to the machine or its individual components.
Engineering Improvements
STIHL's philosophy is to continually improve all of its products. As a result, engineering changes and improvements are made from time to time. Therefore, some changes, modifications and improvements may not be covered in this manual. If the operating characteristics or the appearance of your machine differs from those described in this manual, please contact your STIHL dealer or the STIHL distributor for your area for assistance.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
When using an electric blower, basic precautions should always be followed, including the following:
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING THE STIHL BGE BLOWER
WARNING!
To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or other injury:
- Do not leave the blower unattended when plugged in. Unplug from outlet when not in use and before servicing.
- Do not expose to rain. Store indoors.
- Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when used near children.
- Use only as described in this manual. Use only manufacturer's recommended attachments.
- Do not use with damaged cord or plug. If the blower is not working as it should, has been dropped, left outdoors, or dropped into water, return it to your STIHL servicing dealer.
-
Do not pull or carry by cord, use cord as a handle, close a door on cord, or pull cord around sharp edges or corners. Keep cord away from heated surfaces.
-
Do not unplug by pulling on cord. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord.
- Do not handle plug or appliance with wet hands.
- Do not put any object into openings. Do not use with any opening blocked; keep free of dust, lint, hair, and anything that may reduce air flow.
- Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers and all parts of body away from openings and moving parts.
- Turn off all controls before unplugging.
- Use extra care when cleaning on stairs.
- Do not use to pick up flammable or combustible liquids such as gasoline or use in areas where they may be present.
- This blower is provided with double insulation. Use only identical replacement parts. See instructions for "Servicing of Double-Insulated Blowers."
WHEN VACUUM ATTACHMENT IS EMPLOYED
- Do not use vacuum attachment on wet surfaces. Never attempt to vacuum any liquid or wet material (e.g., wet leaves or grass).
- Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.
-
Do not use this power tool in vacuum mode without dust bag in place.
-
Unplug before connecting the vacuum attachment.
- Unplug before opening the intake screen or removing the vacuum attachment.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Polarized Plug
To reduce the risk of electric shock, this equipment has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). This plug will fit in a polarized outlet one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician to install the proper outlet. Do not change the plug in any way. Replace damaged cords or have them repaired by your authorized STIHL servicing dealer only.
Safety Precautions and Working Techniques

Because the use of any blower may be dangerous, special safety precautions must be observed to reduce the risk of personal injury.

It is important that you read, fully understand and observe the following safety precautions and warnings. Read the instruction manual and the safety precautions periodically. Careless or improper use may cause serious or fatal injury.
Be thoroughly familiar with the controls and the proper use of the equipment. Know how to stop the unit and disengage the controls quickly.
Have your STIHL dealer show you how to operate your power tool. Observe all applicable local safety regulations, standards and ordinances.
WARNING
Do not lend or rent your power tool without the instruction manual. Be sure that anyone using it understands the information contained in this manual.
WARNING
Use your blower for clearing leaves, twigs, grass, clippings, paper, debris, and dust in yards, gardens, parks, paths, streets, driveways and parking lots and for similar tasks.
English
Do not use it for other purposes, since misuse may result in personal injury or property damage, including damage to the machine.

WARNING
Minors should never be allowed to use a blower. Bystanders, especially children, and animals should not be allowed in the area where a machine is in use. Never let the unit run unattended.

WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury to bystanders and damage to property, never let your power tool run unattended. When it is not in use (e.g. during a work break), shut it off and make sure that unauthorized persons do not use it.
Most of these safety precautions and warnings apply to the use of all STIHL blowers. Different models may have different parts and controls. See the appropriate section of your instruction manual for a description of the controls and the function of the parts of your model.
Safe use of a blower involves
- the operator
- the power tool
- the use of the power tool.
THE OPERATOR
Physical Condition
You must be in good physical condition and mental health and not under the influence of any substance (drugs,
alcohol, etc.) which might impair vision, dexterity or judgment. Do not operate this machine when you are fatigued.

WARNING
Be alert – if you get tired, take a break. Tiredness may result in loss of control. Working with any power tool can be strenuous. If you have any condition that might be aggravated by strenuous work, check with your doctor before operating this machine.
Proper Clothing

WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, the operator should wear proper protective apparel.

WARNING

To reduce the risk of injury to your eyes never operate your power tool unless wearing goggles or properly fitted protective glasses with adequate top and side protection complying with ANSI Z87 "+" (or your applicable national standard).
Power tool noise may damage your hearing. Wear sound barriers (ear plugs or ear mufflers) to protect your hearing. Continual and regular users should have their hearing checked regularly.
Be particularly alert and cautious when wearing hearing protection because your ability to hear warnings (shouts, alarms, etc.) is restricted.
THE POWER TOOL
For illustrations and definitions of the power tool parts see the chapter on "Main Parts."

WARNING
Never modify this power tool in any way. Only attachments supplied by STIHL or expressly approved by STIHL for use with the specific STIHL model are authorized. Although certain unauthorized attachments are useable with STIHL power tools, their use may, in fact, be extremely dangerous.
If this tool is subjected to unusually high loads for which it was not designed (e.g. heavy impact or a fall), always check that it is in good condition before continuing work. Check in particular that the controls and safety devices are working properly. Do not continue operating this machine if it is damaged. In case of doubt, have it checked by your STIHL servicing dealer.

WARNING
Never operate your machine if it is damaged or not completely and securely assembled.
To reduce the risk of injury, do not operate your blower unless it has a properly mounted blower tube.
WARNING
Small particles (e.g. dust) blown through the blower tube and nozzle can cause a static charging of the blower tube. This is especially true in low humidity and high dust conditions. In order to reduce the risk of shock from static charging and subsequent injury from loss of control, your blower has features designed to help reduce the build up of static electricity in the blower tube and equalize the charge with the engine and/or operator.
THE USE OF THE ELECTRIC BLOWER
Electrical Precautions
See also the electrical safety precautions listed under "Important safety precautions" at the beginning of this manual.
WARNING
Special precautions for electric blowers must be observed to reduce the risk of personal injury and property damage from fire and electric shock.
WARNING
When servicing, use only identical replacement parts. Only authorized personnel should repair or replace damaged cords. Never attempt unauthorized repairs or open the powerhead.
WARNING
The voltage of the power supply must agree with the voltage specified on the blower's machine label. Improper voltage will damage the blower and may cause personal injury.
WARNING
Be sure switch is off when plugging the unit into the power supply in order to reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock from arcing and the risk of injury from unintended blowing.
WARNING

In order to reduce the risk of serious injury from electrocution, never use your blower if the power supply cord or plug is cut, cracked, worn or damaged.
Have a dealer replace such a power supply cord.
WARNING

To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not use the blower in damp or wet locations. Do not use on wet surfaces. Do not expose to or use in rain. Do not handle the plug or the unit with wet hands.
WARNING
When using the electric blower, always keep the power supply cord behind you. Always ensure that your power supply cord does not become entangled with obstacles or objects. Damaged cables may cause electrocution. Always disconnect the plug from the power supply when you take a break.
Cord Sets
WARNING
To reduce the risk of electric shock use only extension cords that are intended for outdoor use. Do not use damaged extension cords. Examine extension cord before using and replace if damaged. When using an extension cord, be sure to use one heavy enough to carry the current your blower will draw. An undersized extension cord will cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating. The table in chapter "Important Safety Precautions" shows the correct gauge extension cord to use depending on cord length for 120 Volt power tools using 6 - 10 amps.
Appropriate extension cords are available in special stores for electrical equipment. Cords should be suitable for outdoor use and marked "Suitable For Use With Outdoor Appliances – Store Indoors."
WARNING
To reduce the likelihood of disconnection and the risk of electric shock, always attach the extension cord to the blower using the strain relief hook
English
on the handle as shown in the chapter entitled "Connecting to Power Supply" in your instruction manual.

WARNING
Avoid damage to the power supply cord and extension cord. Keep cord away from heat, oil and sharp edges. Never carry blower by power cord or jerk power cord to disconnect the plug from the wall outlet. To unplug, grasp the plug not the cord.
Transporting the Electric Blower
Always switch off the motor before putting down blower. When transporting your unit in a vehicle, properly secure it to prevent turnover and damage to the machine.
Preparation for the Use of the Electric Blower
Always check your electric blower for proper condition and operation before starting, particularly the power supply cord, plug and switch.

WARNING
Inspect the power supply cord, extension cords and plugs before and after each use for signs of damage or aging.
Working Conditions

WARNING

In order to reduce the risk of personal or even fatal injury to bystanders from blown objects keep bystanders at least 16 feet (5m) away when the power tool is running.
Stop the engine immediately if you are approached.

WARNING
To reduce the risk of personal injury, do not direct air blast towards bystanders, since the high pressure of the air flow can injure eyes and can blow small objects at great speed. Do not direct airblast towards pets.

WARNING
Operate your machine outdoors under good visibility and daylight conditions only. Work carefully.
When working with the blower, always wrap your fingers tightly around the handle, keeping the control handle cradled between your thumb and forefinger. Keep your hand in this position to have your machine under control at all times. Make sure your control handle (and grip for vacuum attachment) are in good condition and free of moisture, pitch, oil or grease.

WARNING
Inhalation of certain dusts, especially organic dusts such as mold or pollen, can cause susceptible persons to have an allergic or asthmatic reaction. Substantial or repeated inhalation of dust and other airborne contaminants, in particular those with a smaller particle size, may cause respiratory or other illnesses. Control dust at the source where possible. Use good work practices, such as operating the unit so that the wind or operating process directs any dust raised by the power tool away from the operator. Follow the recommendations of EPA/OSHA/NIOSH and occupational and trade associations with respect to dust ("particulate matter"). When the inhalation of dust cannot be substantially controlled, i.e., kept at or near the ambient (background) level, the operator and any bystanders should wear a respirator approved by NIOSH/MSHA for the type of dust encountered.

WARNING
If the substance being blown is a commercial substance, review, understand and follow all warnings and instructions contained in the material safety data sheet for that substance and/or consult the material manufacturer/supplier. The state of California and some other authorities, for instance, have published lists of substances known to cause cancer, reproductive toxicity, etc.
WARNING
Breathing asbestos dust is dangerous and can cause severe or fatal injury, respiratory illness or cancer. The use and disposal of asbestos-containing products have been strictly regulated by OSHA and the Environmental Protection Agency. If you have any reason to believe that you might be blowing or otherwise disturbing asbestos, immediately contact EPA, your employer or a local OSHA representative.
WARNING
Dust with silica in its composition may contain crystalline silica. Silica is a basic component of sand, quartz, brick, clay, granite and numerous other minerals and rocks, including masonry and concrete products. Repeated and / or substantial inhalation of airborne crystalline silica can cause serious or fatal respiratory disease, including silicosis. In addition, the state of California and some other authorities have listed respirable crystalline silica as a substance known to cause cancer. When encountering such materials, always follow the respiratory precautions mentioned above.
WARNING
Always switch off the motor before cleaning or servicing the unit or replacing parts. The blower fan between the air intake and output openings rotates whenever the engine is running. In order to reduce the risk of injury from contact with the fan wheel, never operate your blower without a properly
mounted intake screen and blower tube. Never insert any foreign object into the air intake or output openings of the machine.
Pay attention to the direction of the wind, i.e., do not work against the wind.
To reduce the risk of stumbling and loss of control, do not walk backward while operating the machine.
WARNING
If the motor continues to run even when the switch has been moved to 0 : Pull the plug out of the socket and contact a STIHL dealer. The device is defect.
Using the Vacuum Attachment
(special accessory for BGE 71)
The vacuum attachment for the BGE 71 is a special accessory and only available from your STIHL dealer.
For specific assembling instructions, see the appropriate section of your instructions manual. Do not use this appliance in vacuum mode without the catcher bag.

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Line drawing of a person using a long-handled tool to clean grass, wearing a hooded shirt and carrying a bag (no text or symbols)The vacuum attachment is designed for two-handed operation. Hold and operate the unit with your right hand on the control handle and your left hand on the assist handle.
Wear the catcher bag shoulder strap over your right shoulder – not across your chest – so that you can quickly throw off the unit and catcher bag in an emergency.
WARNING

To reduce the risk of injury, do not operate the machine unless it is fully assembled with a properly mounted suction tube and catcher bag.
English

WARNING

In order to reduce the risk of injury from contact with rotating parts and damage to the motor, the intake screen must always be secured in place when the suction tube is not mounted. Stop engine and wait until the fan is stopped before opening the intake screen.

WARNING

To reduce the risk of personal injury from fire and explosion, never attempt to vacuum hot or burning substances (e.g. smoldering ashes, glowing cigarettes) or combustible fluids (e.g. gasoline, paint thinners).


WARNING
In order to reduce the risk of personal or even fatal injury from electrocution, never attempt to vacuum any liquid (e.g. water, gasoline) or wet material (e.g. wet leaves or grass).

WARNING
Vacuuming unsuitable materials may block the fanwheel. Switch off the unit immediately and disconnect the plug from the power supply. Then clear the blockage.

WARNING
Never vacuum solid objects such as nails, steel shavings, tacks, rocks or broken glass. These objects may be struck by the fan wheel and flung away at high speed and may cause injury to the operator or bystander.
MAINTENANCE, REPAIR AND STORING
Servicing of double-insulated Appliance
Your STIHL blower/vac is double-insulated. In a double-insulated appliance, two systems of insulation are provided instead of grounding. No grounding means is provided on a double-insulated appliance, nor should a means for grounding be added to the appliance. Servicing a double-insulated appliance requires extreme care and knowledge of the system, and should be done only by qualified service personnel. Replacement parts for a double-insulated power tool must be identical to the parts they replace.
Use only identical STIHL replacement parts for maintenance and repair. Use of parts manufactured by others may cause serious or fatal injury. Follow the maintenance and repair instructions in the appropriate section of your instruction manual.

WARNING

Aways switch off the motor, disconnect the plug from the power supply and make sure that the fan wheel is stopped before doing any maintenance or repair work or cleaning the blower. Do not attempt any maintenance or repair work not described in your instruction manual. Have such work performed at your STIHL service shop only.
Service the blower regularly.
STIHL recommends that you have servicing and repair work carried out exclusively by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends the use of genuine STIHL replacement parts. They are specifically designed to match your unit and meet your performance requirements.
Never attempt to modify your blower in any way since this will increase the risk of personal injury.
Regularly inspect the power supply cord and plug for signs of damage and ageing. Always repair a damaged unit before further use.
Do not change the plug in any way. Replace damaged cords or have them repaired by your authorized STIHL servicing dealer only.
Check cooling air inlets about every ten hours of operation and clean if necessary.
Clean plastic components with a cloth. Do not use any strong detergents on the plastic housing or handle. These parts can be attacked by certain house-hold cleaners containing aromatic oils such as pine or lemon, or by solvents such as kerosene.
Do not spray water on the blower, moisture can cause an electric shock hazard. Wipe moisture off the unit with a cloth.
Store blower in a dry and high or locked location and out of reach of children.
Using the Unit
Using the Blower

Your blower is designed for one-handed operation. It can be carried by the control handle in either the right or left hand.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, operate the unit only with a properly mounted blower tube.
The round nozzle is particularly suitable for use on uneven surfaces (e.g. fields and lawns).
The fan nozzle produces a broad and powerful airstream at ground level. It can be aimed and controlled very accurately. This nozzle is highly effective for blow-sweeping sawdust, leaves, grass cuttings and similar materials from paved surfaces.
Watch out for small animals when blow-sweeping in open areas, yards and gardens.
Using the Vacuum Attachment
BGE 71 only

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Line drawing of a person using a long-handled tool to clean grass, no text or symbols presentThe vacuum attachment is designed for two-handed operation. Hold and operate the unit with your right hand on the control handle and your left hand on the assist handle (union nut).
Wear the catcher bag shoulder strap over your right shoulder, not across your chest. This enables you to quickly remove the power tool and catcher bag in an emergency.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, operate the unit only with a properly mounted suction tube and catcher bag.
English
NOTICE
Vacuuming abrasive material (such as grit, stone chips, etc.) causes the blower wheel and blower housing to wear at a rapid rate. This results in a considerable loss of suction power. In such a case you should contact your dealer. STIHL recommends a STIHL servicing dealer.
Take particular care when vacuuming wet leaves since they may block the blower wheel and elbow.
Watch out for small animals when vacuuming in open areas, yards and gardens.
Assembling the Blower
●Disconnect the plug from the power supply.
Mounting the Blower Tube
BGE 71, BGE 81:
Your blower can be switched on only when the blower tube is properly mounted. The union nut activates a switch which closes the circuit to allow the motor to be switched on.

●Line up the recesses. The arrow (2) must be on the top of the blower tube (1).
●Push the blower tube (1) into the blower housing stub (3) as far as the stop.
●Push the union nut (4) over the blower housing stub (3) and turn it in the direction of the arrow until the tab (5) engages the opening (6) in the union nut.
BGE 71, BGE 81:
●You will hear the safety switch being activated.
Mounting the Nozzle

●Push the nozzle (5) onto the blower tube (1) as far as lug (6), position (a) (long) or position (b) (short), and rotate the nozzle in the direction of the arrow to it lock in position.
Removing the Blower Tube

●Switch off the motor.
- Press down the lock button by inserting a suitable tool through the opening in the union nut.
- Rotate the union nut (4) in the direction of arrow as far as the stop.
- Remove the blower tube (1).
Assembling the Vacuum Attachment
BGE 71 only
Your vacuum shredder can be switched on only when the elbow and suction tube are properly mounted. The union nuts activate a switch which closes the circuit to allow the motor to be switched on.
●Disconnect the plug from the power supply.
Mounting the Elbow

WARNING
Make sure the zipper on the catcher bag is closed.

●Push the elbow (1) into the catcher bag (2) as far as the mark (smaller arrow).
●Tighten strap (3) on catcher bag and press down the buckle tab (4).

●Line up the recesses.
●Push the elbow (5) into the blower housing stub (6) as far as stop.
●Push the union nut (7) over the blower housing stub (6) and turn it in the direction of the arrow as far as the stop. You will hear the safety switch being activated.
Assembling the Suction Tube

●Line up the arrows on the suction tube and extension tube. Push together and lock in position.
Mounting the Suction Tube

●Shut off the engine.
- Press down the lock button (1) by inserting a suitable tool through the opening.
●Push lug (arrow) against blower housing and hold it there.
- Rotate the intake screen (2) in the direction of arrow as far as the stop and lift it away.

●Line up the arrows (3).
●Push the suction tube into the intake opening as far as the stop.
English

●Push the union nut (4) over the intake opening.
●Line up the arrows (3 and 5).
- Rotate the union nut (4) in direction of arrow until the lever (6) engages audibly on the blower housing.

Lock button (arrow) must engage in position.
Removing the Elbow

●Shut off the engine.
- Press down the lock button (1) by inserting a suitable tool through the opening.
- Rotate the union nut (1) in the direction of the arrow as far as the stop.
- Remove the elbow (2).
Removing the Suction Tube

●Shut off the engine.
- Press down the lock button (1) by inserting a suitable tool through the opening.
●Depress lever (1), rotate the union nut (2) in direction of arrow as far as the stop and remove together with the suction tube.

●Position the intake screen (3) on the intake opening.
●Line up the arrows (4).
- Rotate the intake screen (3) in direction of arrow until the lug (5) engages audibly on the blower housing.

Lock button (arrow) must engage in position.
Connecting to Power Supply
The voltage and frequency of your power supply and the voltage and frequency specified on the unit must be the same.
The connection to the power supply must be protected by a fuse or a circuit breaker with a minimum rating in accordance with the specifications – see "Specifications."
The power tool must be connected to the power supply via a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). Receptacles are available having built-in GFCI protection and may be used for this measure of safety.
The electrical power supply connection must comply with all applicable standards and regulations.
Polarized Plug
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, this equipment has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). The plug of the power tool will fit into a polarized extension cord only one way. If the plug does not fit fully into the extension cord, reverse the plug. If the plug still does not fit, obtain a correct polarized extension cord. A polarized extension cord will require the use of a polarized wall outlet. This plug will fit in a polarized wall outlet one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician to install the proper wall outlet. Do not change the equipment plug, extension cord receptacle, or extension cord plug in any way.
Extension Cords
Make sure your electrical cord set is in good condition and suitable for outdoor use. When using an extension cord, be sure to use one heavy enough to carry the current your product will draw. An undersized extension cord may cause a drop in line voltage resulting in loss of power and overheating. The table below shows the correct size (AWG) to use for your machine (Cord types SJW or SJTW) depending on cord length and nameplate ampere rating. If in doubt, use the next heavier gauge. The smaller the gauge number, the heavier the cord.
Cord length (ft) Wire gage (AWG)
50 16
100 14
150 12
Appropriate extension cords are available in special stores for electrical equipment or from your STIHL dealer.
Strain relief (cord retainer)
The strain relief protects the appliance cord against damage.

- Insert the plug (1) into the extension cord coupling (2).

●Make a loop in the extension cord.
●Pass the loop (3) through the opening (4).
●Slip the loop over the hook (5) and pull it tight.
Connecting to Wall Outlet
Make sure your machine is switched off before you connect it to the power supply – see "Switching Off".
- Connect the extension cord plug to a properly installed wall outlet.
English
Switching On
●Make sure you have a secure and firm footing.
●Hold the unit in the normal working position.

BGE 61
BGE 71
- Move the switch (1) to I.
- Move the switch (1) to I or II.
I = half power
II = full power
Overload Circuit Breaker
The overload circuit breaker cuts off the power supply to the unit in case of mechanical overload. This can occur, for example, if the blower wheel is blocked.
If the overload circuit breaker has cut off the power supply:
●Switch off the unit and disconnect the plug from the power outlet.
●Determine why the overload circuit breaker has tripped and rectify the problem.
- Wait about 3 to 5 minutes for the overload circuit breaker to cool down – do not switch on the unit during this period because the cooling down time will otherwise be much longer.
- Connect the plug to the power outlet and switch on the unit.
If the motor does not start when you switch on, the overload circuit breaker has not cooled down sufficiently.
Switching Off
During longer work breaks – disconnect the plug from the power supply.
When the machine is not in use, shut it off so that it does not endanger others.
Secure it against unauthorized use.

- Move the switch (1) to 0
English
Storing the Machine
●Thoroughly clean the machine.
●Store the machine in a dry, high or locked location, out of the reach of children and other unauthorized persons.
Maintenance and Care
| The following intervals apply to normal operating conditions only. If your daily working time is longer or operating conditions are difficult (very dusty work area, etc.), shorten the specified intervals accordingly. | before starting work | after finishing work or daily | weekly | monthly | yearly | if problem | if damaged | if required | |
| Complete machine | Visual inspection (condition) x | ||||||||
| Clean x | |||||||||
| Control handle Check operation x | |||||||||
| Cooling inlets Clean x | |||||||||
| Safety labels Replace x | |||||||||
Main Parts

1 Nozzle
2 Blower Tube
3 Union Nut (for Fan Housing Stub)
4 Switch
5 Handle
6 Strain Relief
7 Power Supply Cord
8 Intake Screen (for Intake Opening)
9 Union Nut with Handle 1)
10 Suction Tube 1)
11 Elbow 1)
12 Catcher Bag 1)
Serial Number
English
Definitions
1 Nozzle
Mounted on blower tube, directs airstream.
2 Blower Tube
Directs airstream.
3 Union Nut
Secures blower tube to fan housing stub.
4 S w i t c h
To switch the machine in position "ON" and "OFF".
5 Handle
For holding and controlling the unit with the hand during operation.
6 Strain Relief
Supports extension cord and reduces the likelihood of unintentional disconnection of extension cord and power supply plug.
7 Power Supply Cord
Supplies electric current to motor.
8 Intake Screen
Fits over the intake opening and reduces the risk of direct contact with the fan wheel, which is located under the screen.
9 Union Nut with Handle 1)
Attaches suction tube to the intake opening.
10 Suction Tube 1)
Mounts to blower for use as vacuum.
11 Elbow 1)
To direct vacuumed debris into catcher bag.
12 Catcher Bag 1)
Mounts to elbow to collect the vacuumed debris.
# Serial number
Specifications
Motor (BGE 61 / SHE 71)
Power supply 120 V, 60 Hz, 9.2 A
Fuse 15 A
Rating 1100 W
Insulation II
Maximum air flow rate
Blower mode
BGE 61 394 cf/min (670 m ^3 /h)
BGE 71 394 cf/min (670 m ^3 /h)
Vacuum mode
BGE 61 ---
BGE 71 341 cf/min (580 m ^3 /h)
Air velocity with nozzle
Blower mode
BGE 61 148 mph (66 m/s)
BGE 71 148 mph (66 m/s)
Dimensions
Width 8.3 in (210 mm)
Height 13.1 in (334 mm)
Depth 13 in (330 mm)
Weight
BGE 61 6.6 lbs (3.0 kg)
BGE 71 6.6 lbs (3.0 kg)
Maintenance and Repairs Disposal
Users of this unit should carry out only the maintenance operations described in this manual. STIHL recommends that other repair work be performed only by authorized STIHL servicing dealers using genuine STIHL replacement parts.
Genuine STIHL parts can be identified by the STIHL part number, the
STIHL ^* logo and, in some cases, by the STIHL parts symbol G_ . The symbol may appear alone on small parts.
For repairs of any component of this unit's air emissions control system, please refer to the air emissions systems warranty in this manual.
Observe all country-specific waste disposal rules and regulations.

STIHL products must not be thrown in the garbage can. Take the product, accessories and packaging to an approved disposal site for environment-friendly recycling.
Contact your STIHL servicing dealer for the latest information on waste disposal.
English
Limited Warranty Trademarks
STIHL Incorporated Limited Warranty Policy
This product is sold subject to the STIHL Incorporated Limited Warranty Policy, available at
http://www.stihlusa.com/warranty.html.
It can also be obtained from your authorized STIHL dealer or by calling 1-800-GO-STIHL (1-800-467-8445).
STIHL Registered Trademarks
STIHL®
STIHL®
G
The color combination orange-grey (U.S. Registrations #2,821,860; #3,010,057, #3,010,058, #3,400,477; and #3,400,476)




MASTERWRENCH STIHL
SERVICE
AutoCut®
FARM BOSS®
iCademy®
MAGNUM®
MasterWrench Service®
MotoMix®
OILOMATIC®
Rock Boss®
STIHL Cutquik®
STIHL DUROMATIC®
STIHL Quickstop®
STIHL ROLLOMATIC®
STIHL WOOD BOSS®
TIMBERSPORTS®
WOOD BOSS®
YARD BOSS®
Some of STIHL's Common Law Trademarks


4-MIX ^TM
BioPlus ^TM
Easy2Start ™
EasySpool ^TM
ElastoStart ^TM
Ematic ^TM
FixCut ^TM
IntelliCarb ™
Master Control Lever ^TM
Micro ^TM
Pro Mark ^TM
Quiet Line ^TM
STIHL M-Tronic ^TM
STIHL OUTFITTERS ^TM
STIHL PICCO ^TM
STIHL PolyCut ^TM
STIHL PowerSweep ™
STIHL Precision Series ^TM
STIHL RAPID ^TM
STIHL SuperCut ^TM
TapAction ^TM
TrimCut ^TM
This listing of trademarks is subject to change.
Any unauthorized use of these trademarks without the express written consent of
ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, Waiblingen is strictly prohibited.
Addresses
STIHL Inc.
536 Viking Drive
P.O. Box 2015
Virginia Beach, VA
23452-2015
Contenido
natural_image
Line drawing of a person using a long-handled tool to clean vegetation, no text or symbols presentnatural_image
Line drawing of a person using a long-handled tool to clean grass, no text or symbols presentBGE 61 3,0 kg (6,6 lbs)
BGE 71 3,0 kg (6,6 lbs)
MasterWrench Service®
MotoMix®
OILOMATIC®
Rock Boss®
STIHL Cutquik®
STIHL DUROMATIC®
STIHL Quickstop®
STIHL ROLLOMATIC®
STIHL WOOD BOSS®
TIMBERSPORTS®
WOOD BOSS®
YARD BOSS®
This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.
0458-290-8621-B
0458-290-8621-B