{

STIHL HS 87 Instruction Manual

 English

Contents

Guide to Using this Manual 2 Dear Customer,

Safety Precautions and Working Thank you for choosing a quality
Techniques 2 engineered STIHL product.
Using the Unit 7
Original Instruction Manual

It has been built using modern

Fuel 9 production techniques and
Fueling 10 comprehensive quality assurance.
Every effort has been made to ensure
Starting / Stopping the Engine 12
your satisfaction and troublefree use of
Cleaning the Air Filter 13 the product.
Adjusting the Carburetor 14
Please contact your dealer or our sales
Spark Plug 15 company if you have any queries
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.

Lubricating the Gearbox 16 concerning this product.

Storing the Machine 17 Your
Sharpening Instructions 17
Maintenance and Care 18
Minimize Wear and Avoid Damage 20
Main Parts 21
Printed on chlorine-free paper

Specifications 22
Dr. Nikolas Stihl
Maintenance and Repairs 23
Disposal 24
EC Declaration of Conformity 24
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2017
0458-449-0121-A. VA3.C17.
0000006721_007_GB

{ This instruction manual is protected by copyright. All rights reserved, especially the rights to reproduce, translate and process
with electronic systems.

HS 87 R, HS 87 T 1
English

Engineering improvements
Guide to Using this Manual Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
STIHL's philosophy is to continually
improve all of its products. For this Special safety precau-
Pictograms
reason we may modify the design, tions must be observed
engineering and appearance of our when working with this
The meanings of the pictograms products periodically. power tool because it has
attached to the machine are explained in very sharp, high-speed
Therefore, some changes, modifications
this manual. cutting blades.
and improvements may not be covered
Depending on the model concerned, the in this manual. It is important that you
following pictograms may be attached to read the instruction man-
your machine. ual before first use and
keep it in a safe place for
Fuel tank; fuel mixture of
future reference. Non-
gasoline and engine oil
observance of the
instruction manual may
Operate manual fuel result in serious or even
pump fatal injury.
Observe all applicable local safety
regulations, standards and ordinances.
Filler hole for gear If you have not used this type of power
lubricant tool before: Have your dealer or other
experienced user show you how to
Symbols in text operate your unit or attend a special
course in its operation.
Minors should never be allowed to use a
WARNING power tool.
Warning where there is a risk of an Keep bystanders, especially children,
accident or personal injury or serious and animals away from the work area.
damage to property. When the power tool is not in use, shut it
off so that it does not endanger others.
NOTICE Secure it against unauthorized use.

Caution where there is a risk of The user is responsible for avoiding

damaging the machine or its individual injury to third parties or damage to their
components. property.
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.

2 HS 87 R, HS 87 T
 English

The use of noise emitting power tools STIHL recommends the use of genuine
may be restricted to certain times by STIHL tools and accessories. They are WARNING
national or local regulations. specifically designed to match the
To reduce the risk of eye
product and meet your performance
To operate the power tool you must be injuries, wear snug-fitting
requirements.
rested, in good physical condition and safety glasses in accord-
mental health. Never attempt to modify your unit in any ance with European
way since this may increase the risk of Standard EN 166. Make
If you have any condition that might be
personal injury. STIHL excludes all sure the safety glasses
aggravated by strenuous work, check
liability for personal injury and damage are a good fit.
with your doctor before operating a
to property caused while using
power tool. Wear hearing protection, e.g. earplugs
unauthorized attachments.
or ear muffs.
Persons with pacemakers only: The
Do not use a pressure washer to clean
ignition system of your power tool Wear heavy-duty work
the unit. The solid jet of water may
produces an electromagnetic field of a gloves made of durable
damage parts of the unit.
very low intensity. This field may material (e.g. leather).
interfere with some pacemakers. STIHL
recommends that persons with Clothing and Equipment
pacemakers consult their physician and
the pacemaker manufacturer to reduce STIHL offers a comprehensive range of
Wear proper protective clothing and personal protective clothing and
any health risk. equipment. equipment.
Do not operate the power tool if you are Clothing must be sturdy
under the influence of any substance but allow complete free- Transporting the Power Tool
(drugs, alcohol) which might impair dom of movement. Wear
vision, dexterity or judgment. snug-fitting clothing, an
Always turn off the engine.
Use your hedge trimmer only for cutting overall and jacket combi-
hedges, shrubs, scrub and similar nation, do not wear a Always fit the blade guard (scabbard)
materials. work coat. before carrying your hedge trimmer
short distances.
It must not be used for any other Avoid clothing that could get caught on
purpose because of the increased risk of branches or brush or moving parts of the Carry the power tool by the handle –
accidents and damage to the machine. machine. Do not wear a scarf, necktie or cutting blades behind you. Avoid
Never attempt to modify your power tool jewelry. Tie up and confine long hair touching hot parts of the machine,
in any way since this may result in (e.g. with a hair net, cap, hard hat, etc.). especially the muffler and gear housing
accidents or damage to the machine. – you could suffer serious burns.
Wear sturdy shoes with non-slip soles.
Only use cutting blades and accessories In vehicles: Properly secure your power
that are explicitly approved for this tool to prevent turnover, fuel spillage and
power tool by STIHL or are technically damage.
identical. If you have any questions in
this respect, consult a servicing dealer.
Use only high quality tools and
accessories in order to avoid the risk of
accidents and damage to the machine.

HS 87 R, HS 87 T 3
English

Fueling Before Starting Starting the Engine

Gasoline is an extremely Check that your power tool is properly Start the engine at least 3 meters from
flammable fuel. Keep assembled and in good condition – refer the fueling spot, outdoors only.
clear of naked flames. Do to appropriate chapters in the instruction
Place the power tool on firm ground in
not spill any fuel – do not manual.
an open area. Make sure you have good
smoke. – Check the fuel system for leaks, balance and secure footing. Hold the
Always shut off the engine before paying special attention to visible power tool securely. The cutting blades
refueling. parts such as the tank cap, hose must be clear of the ground and all other
connections and the manual fuel obstructions because they may begin to
Do not fuel a hot engine – fuel may spill pump (on machines so equipped). If run when the engine starts.
and cause a fire. there are any leaks or damage, do
Your power tool is designed to be
Open the fuel cap carefully to allow any not start the engine – risk of fire.
operated by one person only. Do not
pressure build-up in the tank to release Have your machine repaired by a
allow other persons in the work area –
slowly and avoid fuel spillage. servicing dealer before using it
even when starting.
again.
Fuel your power tool only in well- To reduce the risk of injury, avoid
ventilated areas. If you spill fuel, wipe – The slide control must move freely
contact with the cutting blades.
the machine immediately – if fuel gets on in direction of † and spring back to
your clothing, change immediately. the normal run position F. Do not drop start the power tool – start
the engine as described in the
Insert the fuel cap with – Smooth action of throttle trigger
instruction manual.
hinged grip (bayonet-type lockout and throttle trigger – the
cap) correctly in the throttle trigger must return Note that the cutting blades continue to
opening, turn it clockwise automatically to the idle position. run for a short period after you let go of
as far as stop and fold the the throttle trigger (flywheel effect).
– Check that the spark plug boot is
grip down. secure – a loose boot may cause Check idle speed setting: The cutting
This reduces the risk of unit vibrations arcing that could ignite combustible blades must not move when the engine
causing the fuel cap to loosen or come fumes and cause a fire. is idling with the throttle trigger released.
off and spill quantities of fuel. – Cutting blades securely mounted
and in good condition (clean, move Holding and Controlling the Unit
To reduce the risk of serious or fatal
burn injuries, check for fuel leakage. If freely, not warped), properly
fuel leakage is found, do not start or run sharpened and thoroughly sprayed Always hold the power tool firmly with
the engine until leak is fixed. with STIHL resin solvent (lubricant). both hands on the handles.
– Never attempt to modify the controls
or safety devices in any way.
– Keep the handles dry and clean –
free from oil and dirt – for safe
control of the power tool.
To reduce the risk of accidents, do not
operate your power tool if it is damaged
or not properly assembled.

4 HS 87 R, HS 87 T
 English

Note that the cutting blades continue to Your power tool produces
run for a short period after you let go of toxic exhaust fumes as
the throttle trigger – flywheel effect. soon as the engine is
The gearbox becomes hot during running. These fumes
operation. To reduce the risk of burn may be colorless and
injury, do not touch the gearbox housing. odorless and contain
unburned hydrocarbons
Take special care in slippery conditions and benzol. Never run
(ice, wet ground, snow), on slopes or the engine indoors or in
uneven ground. poorly ventilated loca-
Left hand on the control handle, right
Clear away fallen branches, scrub and tions, even if your model
handle on the front handle. Wrap fingers
cuttings. is equipped with a cata-
and thumbs firmly around the handles.
lytic converter.
Make sure you have firm and secure Watch out for obstacles: Roots, tree
footing and hold the power tool so that stumps or holes which could cause you To reduce the risk of serious or fatal
the cutting blades are always away from to trip or stumble. injury from breathing toxic fumes,
your body. ensure proper ventilation when working
Make sure you always have good in trenches, hollows or other confined
balance and secure footing. locations.
During Operation
When working at heights: To reduce the risk of accidents, stop
work immediately in the event of
In the event of impending danger or in – Always use a lift bucket nausea, headache, visual disturbances
an emergency, switch off the engine (e.g. reduced field of vision), problems
– Never work on a ladder or in a tree
immediately – move the slide control in with hearing, dizziness, deterioration in
the direction of †. – Never work on an insecure support ability to concentrate. Apart from other
Check that there are no bystanders in – Never operate your power tool with possibilities, these symptoms may be
the general work area. one hand caused by an excessively high
concentration of exhaust gases in the
Watch the cutting blades at all times – do Be particularly alert and cautious when
work area.
not cut areas of the hedge that you wearing hearing protection because
cannot see. your ability to hear warnings (shouts, Operate your power tool so that it
alarms, etc.) is restricted. produces a minimum of noise and
Be extremely careful when cutting tall emissions – do not run the engine
hedges, check the other side of the To reduce the risk of accidents, take a
unnecessarily, accelerate the engine
hedge before starting work. break in good time to avoid tiredness or
only when working.
exhaustion.
Make sure the idle speed setting is To reduce the risk of fire, do not smoke
correct. The cutting blades must not run Work calmly and carefully – in daylight
while operating or standing near your
when the engine is idling with the throttle conditions and only when visibility is
power tool. Note that combustible fuel
trigger released. If the cutting blades still good. Stay alert so as not to endanger
vapor may escape from the fuel system.
run, have your dealer check your others.
machine and make proper adjustments If your power tool is subjected to
or repairs. Check and correct the idle unusually high loads for which it was not
speed setting regularly. designed (e.g. heavy impact or a fall),
always check that it is in good condition
before continuing work – see also

HS 87 R, HS 87 T 5
English

"Before Starting". Check the fuel system increase the risk of injury from the Vibrations
in particular for leaks and make sure the cutting blades moving while the engine
safety devices are working properly. Do is idling.
not continue operating your power tool if Prolonged use of the power tool may
If the hedge is very dusty or dirty, spray result in vibration-induced circulation
it is damaged. In case of doubt, consult
the blades with STIHL resin solvent from problems in the hands (whitefinger
your servicing dealer.
time to time during cutting. This helps disease).
Do not operate your power tool in the reduce blade friction as well as the
starting throttle position – engine speed aggressive effects of sap and the build- No general recommendation can be
cannot be controlled in this position. up of dirt particles. given for the length of usage because it
depends on several factors.
Inspect the hedge and work area to The dust that occurs during operation
avoid damaging the cutting blades: may be harmful to health. Wear a The period of usage is prolonged by:
suitable respirator in very dusty – Hand protection (wearing warm
– Remove stones, rocks, pieces of
conditions. gloves)
metal and other solid objects.
Before leaving the power tool – Work breaks
– When working close to the ground,
unattended: Shut off the engine.
make sure that no sand, grit or The period of usage is shortened by:
stones get between the blades. Check the cutting blades at regular short
– Any personal tendency to suffer
intervals during operation or
– Take particular care when cutting from poor circulation (symptoms:
immediately if there is a noticeable
hedges next to or against wire frequently cold fingers, tingling
change in cutting behavior:
fences. sensations).
– Shut off the engine.
To avoid the risk of electrocution, do not – Low outside temperatures.
touch electric power lines – never cut – Wait until the cutting blades have
– The force with which the handles
through electric power lines. come to a complete standstill.
are held (a tight grip restricts
Do not touch the cutting – Check condition and tightness, look circulation).
blades while the motor is for cracks.
Continual and regular users should
running. If the cutting Check sharpness.
– monitor closely the condition of their
blades become jammed
To reduce the risk of fire, always clean hands and fingers. If any of the above
by thick branches or
plant residue, chips, leaves and excess symptoms appear (e.g. tingling
other obstructions, switch
lubricant off the engine and muffler. sensation in fingers), seek medical
off the engine immedi- advice.
ately before attempting to
free the blades – there is After Finishing Work
Maintenance and Repairs
otherwise a risk of injury.
Opening the throttle while the blades are Always clean dust and dirt off the
blocked increases the load and reduces machine – do not use any grease Service the machine regularly. Do not
engine speed. The clutch then slips solvents for this purpose. attempt any maintenance or repair work
continuously and this causes not described in the instruction manual.
Spray the blades with STIHL resin Have all other work performed by a
overheating and damage to important
solvent. Run the engine briefly so that servicing dealer.
components (e.g. clutch, polymer
the solvent is evenly distributed.
housing components) – and this can

6 HS 87 R, HS 87 T
 English

STIHL recommends that you have Do not touch a hot muffler since burn
servicing and repair work carried out injury will result. Using the Unit
exclusively by an authorized STIHL
Vibration behavior is influenced by the
servicing dealer. STIHL dealers are
condition of the AV elements – check the
regularly given the opportunity to attend HS 87 R
AV elements at regular intervals.
training courses and are supplied with
the necessary technical information.
Only use high-quality replacement parts
in order to avoid the risk of accidents
and damage to the power tool. If you
have any questions in this respect,
consult a servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends the use of original
STIHL replacement parts. They are
specifically designed to match your
model and meet your performance The HS 87 R is designed for cutting
requirements. hedges and shrubs with thicker stems
To reduce the risk of injury, always shut and branches.
off the engine before carrying out any
maintenance or repairs or cleaning the HS 87 T
machine. – Exception: Carburetor and
idle speed adjustments.
Do not turn the engine over on the
starter with the spark plug boot or spark
plug removed since there is otherwise a
risk of fire from uncontained sparking.
To reduce the risk of fire, do not service
or store your machine near open flames.
Check the fuel filler cap for leaks at
regular intervals.
The HS 87 T is designed for shaping
Use only a spark plug of the type and trimming hedges and shrubs with
approved by STIHL and make sure it is thinner branches.
in good condition – see "Specifications".
Use the HS 87 R hedge trimmer for
Inspect the ignition lead (insulation in cutting hedges with thicker branches.
good condition, secure connection).
Check the condition of the muffler. Cutting Season

To reduce the risk of fire and damage to

hearing, do not operate your machine if Observe country-specific or municipal
the muffler is damaged or missing. rules and regulations for cutting hedges.

HS 87 R, HS 87 T 7
English

Do not use your power tool during other Working Technique Horizontal Cut
people's normal rest periods.

Cutting Sequence Vertical Cut

Use lopping shears or a chain saw to cut

out thick branches first.
Cut both sides of the hedge first, then
the top.

Disposal

Do not throw cuttings in the garbage can

– they can be composted!

Hold the cutter bar at an angle of 0° to

10° as you swing the hedge trimmer
horizontally.
Swing the cutting blade from the bottom
Swing the cutting blade in an arc
upwards in an arc – lower the nose of the
towards the outside of the hedge so that
blade, move along the hedge and then
the cuttings are swept to the ground.
swing the blade up again in an arc.
Cuttings can be easily swept off the
Any working position above head height
hedge with the aid of the optional
is tiring. To minimize the risk of
catcher plate on the cutting blade.
accidents, work in such positions for
short periods only.

8 HS 87 R, HS 87 T
 English

If your machine is equipped with a Examples

Fuel catalytic converter, you must use
unleaded gasoline. Gasoline STIHL engine oil 50:1
Your engine requires a mixture of Liters Liters (ml)
gasoline and engine oil. NOTICE 1 0.02 (20)
5 0.10 (100)
A few tankfuls of leaded gasoline will
WARNING greatly reduce the efficiency of the 10 0.20 (200)
For health reasons, avoid direct skin catalytic converter. 15 0.30 (300)
contact with gasoline and avoid inhaling Gasoline with an ethanol content of 20 0.40 (400)
gasoline vapor. more than 10% can cause running 25 0.50 (500)
problems in engines with a manually N Use a canister approved for storing
STIHL MotoMix adjustable carburetor and should not be fuel. Pour oil into canister first, then
used in such engines. add gasoline and mix thoroughly.
STIHL recommends the use of STIHL Engines equipped with M-Tronic deliver
MotoMix. This ready-to-use fuel mix full power when run on gasoline with an Storing Fuel
contains no benzol or lead, has a high ethanol content of up to 25% (E25).
octane rating and ensures that you
Engine oil Store fuel only in approved safety-type
always use the right mix ratio.
fuel canisters in a dry, cool and safe
STIHL MotoMix uses STIHL HP Ultra Use only high-quality two-stroke engine location protected from light and the sun.
two-stroke engine oil for an extra long oil – preferably STIHL HP, HP Super or
HP Ultra, which are specially formulated Fuel mix ages – only mix sufficient fuel
engine life.
for use in STIHL engines. HP Ultra for a few weeks work. Do not store fuel
MotoMix is not available in all markets. mix for longer than 30 days. Exposure to
guarantees high performance and a
long engine life. light, the sun, low or high temperatures
Mixing Fuel can quickly make the fuel mix unusable.
These engine oils are not available in all
markets. STIHL MotoMix may be stored for up to
2 years without any problems.
NOTICE Use only STIHL 50:1 two-stroke engine
oil for the fuel mix in models with a N Thoroughly shake the mixture in the
Unsuitable fuels or lubricants or mix catalytic converter. canister before fueling your
ratios other than those specified may machine.
result in serious damage to the engine. Mix Ratio
Poor quality gasoline or engine oil may WARNING
STIHL 50:1 two-stroke engine oil: 50
damage the engine, sealing rings, hoses
parts gasoline to 1 part oil Pressure may build up in the canister –
and the fuel tank.
open it carefully.
Gasoline N Clean the fuel tank and canister
Use only high-quality brand-name from time to time.
gasoline with a minimum octane rating
of 90 – leaded or unleaded.

HS 87 R, HS 87 T 9
English

Dispose of remaining fuel and cleaning

fluid properly in accordance with local Fueling
regulations and environmental
requirements.

001BA232 KN
Preparations

N Turn the cap counterclockwise

(about a quarter turn).

0023BA015 KN

001BA234 KN
N Before fueling, clean the filler cap
and the area around it to ensure that
no dirt falls into the tank. Marks on tank cap and fuel tank must
line up.
N Position the machine so that the
tank cap faces up.

Opening

001BA237 KN
N Remove the cap.
001BA236 KN

Filling up with fuel

Take care not to spill fuel while fueling

N Raise the grip until it is upright.
and do not overfill the tank.
STIHL recommends you use the STIHL
filler nozzle for fuel (special accessory).
N Fill up with fuel.

10 HS 87 R, HS 87 T
 English

Closing

001BA238 KN
001BA235 KN
001BA234 KN
N Fold the grip down so that it is flush Left: Bottom of cap is twisted –
with the top of the cap. inner mark (1) in line with
outer mark.
Grip must be vertical:
Right: Bottom of cap in correct posi-
N Fit the cap – marks on tank cap and tion – inner mark is under the
fuel tank must line up. grip. It is not in line with the
N Press the cap down as far as stop. outer mark.

001BA241 KN
Tank cap is locked.

001BA239 KN
001BA233 KN

If the tank cap cannot be locked in the

fuel tank opening

N While holding the cap depressed, N Place the cap on the opening and
Bottom of cap is twisted in relation to
turn it clockwise until it engages in rotate it counterclockwise until it
top.
position. engages the filler neck.
N Remove the cap from the fuel tank
N Continue rotating the cap
and check it from above.
counterclockwise (about a quarter
turn) – this causes the bottom of the
cap to be turned to the correct
position.
N Turn the cap clockwise and lock it in
001BA231 KN

position – see section on "Closing".

The marks on the tank cap and fuel tank

are then in alignment.

HS 87 R, HS 87 T 11
English

Starting / Stopping the NOTICE

Engine
Do not pull out the starter rope all the
N Observe safety precautions – see way – it might otherwise break.
chapter on "Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques". N Do not let the starter grip snap back.

443BA039 KN
Guide it slowly back into the housing
so that the starter rope can rewind
1 properly.

3 N Press the manual fuel pump bulb at

least five times – even if the bulb is When engine begins to fire
STOP

filled with fuel.

0023BA026 KN
N Move the choke lever to e and
2 Cranking continue cranking.

As soon as the engine runs

The slide control (3) is in the normal run
position F.
N Depress the lockout lever (1) and N Open the throttle wide – the slide
pull the throttle trigger (2) – hold control springs back to the normal
them in that position. run position F and the engine
returns to idling speed.
N Move the slide control (3) to START
and hold it there. Stopping the Engine
N Let go of the lockout lever, throttle
trigger and slide control. This is the N Place the unit on the ground.
starting throttle position.
N Remove the blade scabbard. Check
that the cutting blades are not
touching the ground or any other
4 obstacles.

0023BA027 KN
Make sure you have a safe and

P
STO
N
secure footing.
0023BA018 KN

N Hold the unit firmly with your left

hand on the fan housing and press
N Move the stop switch in the direction
down.
of † – when released, the slide
N Set the choke lever (4) to N Pull the starter grip slowly with your control springs back to the normal
right hand until you feel it engage run position F.
g if the engine is cold and then give it a brisk strong pull.
e for warm start – also use this posi-
tion if the engine has been running
but is still cold.

12 HS 87 R, HS 87 T
 English

Other Hints on Starting Paper filter

Cleaning the Air Filter

At very low outside temperatures –

The machine is equipped with either a
warm up the engine felt or paper filter element. 2
As soon as the engine runs:
If there is a noticeable loss of engine 1

0023BA020 KN
N Allow engine to run in starting
throttle position for about 10 power
seconds.
N Open the throttle wide – the slide Felt filter
control springs back to the normal N Turn the choke lever to g
run position F and the engine N Take out the screw (1).
returns to idling speed.
N Remove the filter cover (2).
If engine does not start 2 N Clean away loose dirt from around
If you did not turn the choke lever to e the filter and inside the filter cover.
1

0023BA010 KN
quickly enough after the engine began to
fire, the combustion chamber is flooded.
N Set the choke lever to e – even if
the engine is cold. N Turn the choke lever to g
N Now start the engine with a few N Take out the screw (1).

0023BA021 KN
brisk pulls of the starter rope.
N Remove the filter cover (2).
If fuel tank has been run completely dry 3
N Clean away loose dirt from around
and then refueled the filter.
N Remove and check the filter
N Press the manual fuel pump bulb at N Remove the filter element (3). element (3) – replace if dirty or
least five times – even if the bulb is damaged.
filled with fuel. N Fit a new filter element. As a
temporary measure you can knock it N Fit the filter in the filter housing.
N Now start the engine. out on the palm of your hand or blow
it out with compressed air. Do not
wash.
N Install the filter element.
N Fit the filter cover.
N Insert screw and tighten it down
firmly.

HS 87 R, HS 87 T 13
English

Adjusting Idle Speed

Adjusting the Carburetor
N Carry out the standard setting.
General Information N Start and warm up the engine.

0023BA022 KN
The carburetor comes from the factory
with a standard setting.
This setting provides an optimum fuel-air
N Position filter cover against the left
mixture under most operating
side of the filter housing and swing it
conditions.

443BA045 KN
to the right – the two lugs (arrows)
must engage the filter cover
openings. Preparations

N Insert screw and tighten it down

N Shut off the engine. Engine stops while idling
firmly.
N Check the air filter and clean or N Turn the idle speed screw (LA)
replace if necessary. clockwise until the cutting blades
begin to run – then back it off
N Inspect cutting blades and clean if 1 1/2 turns.
necessary (clean, move freely, not
warped). Cutting blades run when engine is idling
N Turn the idle speed screw (LA)
Standard Setting
counterclockwise until the cutting
blades stop moving – then turn it
another 1 1/2 turns in the same
direction.

WARNING
If the cutting blades continue moving
443BA044 KN

when the engine is idling, have your

power tool checked and repaired by your
servicing dealer.

N Turn high speed screw (H) Erratic idling behavior, poor acceleration
counterclockwise as far as stop (no (despite correction to setting of LA
more than 3/4 turn). screw).
N Turn the low speed screw (L) Idle setting is too lean
clockwise as far as stop, then turn it
back 3/4 turn.

14 HS 87 R, HS 87 T
 English

N Rotate the low speed screw (L) Checking the Spark Plug
about 1/4 turn counterclockwise Spark Plug
until the engine runs and
accelerates smoothly. N If the engine is down on power,
difficult to start or runs poorly at idle
Engine stops when unit is swung at idle
speed, first check the spark plug.
speed
N Fit a new spark plug after about 100
Idle setting is too rich

000BA039 KN
operating hours – or sooner if the
N Rotate the low speed screw (L) electrodes are badly eroded. Install
about 1/4 turn clockwise until the only suppressed spark plugs of the A
engine idles smoothly. type approved by STIHL – see
"Specifications". N Clean dirty spark plug.
It is usually necessary to change the
setting of the idle speed screw (LA) after N Check electrode gap (A) and
every correction to the low speed Removing the Spark Plug
readjust if necessary – see
screw (L). "Specifications".
N Rectify the problems which have
Fine Tuning for Operation at High
caused fouling of the spark plug.
Altitude
Possible causes are:
A slight correction of the setting may be – Too much oil in fuel mix.
necessary if engine does not run

0023BA025 KN
– Dirty air filter.
satisfactorily:
– Unfavorable running conditions.
N Carry out the standard setting.
N Warm up the engine. N Pull off the spark plug boot.
N Turn high speed screw (H) slightly N Unscrew the spark plug.
clockwise (leaner) – no further than
1
stop.

000BA045 KN
NOTICE
After returning from high altitude, reset
the carburetor to the standard setting.
If the setting is too lean there is a risk of WARNING
engine damage due to insufficient Arcing may occur if the adapter nut (1) is
lubrication and overheating. loose or missing. Working in an easily
combustible or explosive atmosphere
may cause a fire or an explosion. This
can result result in serious injuries or
damage to property.

HS 87 R, HS 87 T 15
English

N Use resistor type spark plugs with a

properly tightened adapter nut. Lubricating the Gearbox NOTICE
Do not completely fill the gearbox with
Installing the spark plug grease.
N Remove the tube of grease (2).
N Fit the spark plug by hand and
screw it in N Refit the filler plug and tighten it
Use STIHL gear lubricant for hedge down firmly.
N Tighten spark plug with combination trimmers (special accessory) for
wrench lubricating the blade drive gear.
N Press the spark plug boot firmly
onto the spark plug

After about 25 hours of operation:

N Remove the screw plug (1) from the
gear housing on the underside of
the unit.
N Screw the tube of grease (2) into the
filler hole.
N Squeeze up to 5 g grease into the
gearbox.

16 HS 87 R, HS 87 T
 English

Storing the Machine Sharpening Instructions

For periods of 3 months or longer When cutting performance and behavior

begin to deteriorate, i.e. blades
N Drain and clean the fuel tank in a
frequently snag on branches:
well ventilated area.
Resharpen the cutting blades.
N Dispose of fuel properly in
It is best to have the cutting blades
accordance with local
resharpened by a dealer on a workshop
environmental requirements.
sharpener. STIHL recommends a STIHL
N Run the engine until the carburetor servicing dealer.
is dry – this helps prevent the
It is also possible to use a flat crosscut
carburetor diaphragms sticking
sharpening file. Hold the sharpening file
together.
at the prescribed angle (see
N Clean the cutting blades, check "Specifications").
condition and spray with STIHL
N Only sharpen the cutting edge – do
resin solvent.
not file blunt projecting parts of the
N Fit the blade scabbard. cutting blade or the cutting blade
N Thoroughly clean the machine – pay guard (see "Main Parts and
special attention to the cylinder fins Controls")
and air filter. N Always file towards the cutting
N Store the machine in a dry, high or edge.
locked location. Out of the reach of N The file only sharpens on the
children and other unauthorized forward stroke – lift it off the blade
persons. on the backstroke.
N Use a whetstone to remove burr
from cutting edge.
N Remove as little material as
possible.
N After sharpening, clean away filing
or grinding dust and then spray the
cutting blades with STIHL resin
solvent.

NOTICE
Do not operate your machine with dull or
damaged cutting blades. This may
cause overload and will give
unsatisfactory cutting results.

HS 87 R, HS 87 T 17
English

Maintenance and Care

The following intervals apply to normal operating conditions only. If your daily work-

after finishing work or daily

ing time is longer or operating conditions are difficult (very dusty work area, etc.),

after each refueling stop

shorten the specified intervals accordingly.

before starting work

every 12 months

as required
if damaged
if problem
monthly
weekly
Visual inspection (condition, leaks) X X
Complete machine
Clean X

Control handle Check operation X X

Clean X X
Air filter (felt)
Replace X

Clean X X
Air filter (paper)
Replace X X

Check X
Manual fuel pump
Have repaired by servicing dealer1) X

Have checked by servicing dealer1) X

Pickup body in fuel tank
Have replaced by servicing dealer1) X X X

Fuel tank Clean X X

Check idle adjustment X X

Carburetor
Readjust idle X

Readjust electrode gap X

Spark plug
Replace after every 100 operating hours
Visual inspection X
Cooling inlets
Clean X

All accessible screws and nuts (not adjust-

Retighten X
ing screws)

Visual inspection X
Anti-vibration elements
1)
Have replaced by servicing dealer X X

18 HS 87 R, HS 87 T
 English

The following intervals apply to normal operating conditions only. If your daily work-

after finishing work or daily

ing time is longer or operating conditions are difficult (very dusty work area, etc.),

after each refueling stop

shorten the specified intervals accordingly.

before starting work

every 12 months

as required
if damaged
if problem
monthly
weekly
Clean X

Sharpen X

Cutting blades Visual inspection X

Have replaced by servicing dealer1) X

Adjust blade clearance2) X

Check and replenish after every 25

Gearbox lubrication
hours of operation

Safety labels Replace X

1)
STIHL recommends an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
2)
not in all versions, market-specific or available as option

HS 87 R, HS 87 T 19
English

servicing dealer. STIHL dealers are

Minimize Wear and Avoid regularly given the opportunity to attend
Damage training courses and are supplied with
the necessary technical information.
Observing the instructions in this manual
helps reduce the risk of unnecessary If these maintenance operations are not
wear and damage to the power tool. carried out as specified, the user
assumes responsibility for any damage
The power tool must be operated,
that may occur. Among other parts, this
maintained and stored with the due care
includes:
and attention described in this owner's
manual. – Damage to the engine due to
neglect or deficient maintenance
The user is responsible for all damage
(e.g. air and fuel filters), incorrect
caused by non-observance of the safety
carburetor adjustment or
precautions, operating and maintenance
inadequate cleaning of cooling air
instructions in this manual. This includes
inlets (intake ports, cylinder fins).
in particular:
– Corrosion and other consequential
– Alterations or modifications to the
damage resulting from improper
product not approved by STIHL.
storage.
– Using tools or accessories which
– Damage to the machine resulting
are neither approved or suitable for
from the use of poor quality
the product or are of a poor quality.
replacement parts.
– Using the product for purposes for
which it was not designed. Parts Subject to Wear and Tear
– Using the product for sports or
competitive events. Some parts of the power tool are subject
– Consequential damage caused by to normal wear and tear even during
continuing to use the product with regular operation in accordance with
defective components. instructions and, depending on the type
and duration of use, have to be replaced
Maintenance Work in good time. Among other parts, this
includes:

All the operations described in the – Cutting blades

"Maintenance Chart" must be performed – Clutch
on a regular basis. If these maintenance
– Filters (air, fuel)
operations cannot be performed by the
owner, they should be performed by a – Rewind starter
servicing dealer.
– Spark plug
STIHL recommends that you have
– Components of antivibration system
servicing and repair work carried out
exclusively by an authorized STIHL

20 HS 87 R, HS 87 T
 English

Main Parts

2 3 4

#
5
8

7 9 12
10 16
6 13 17
11

14 15

0023BA023 KN
HS 87 R, HS 87 T 21
English

1 Starter grip HS 87 R
2 Filter cover
Specifications
750 mm blade: 5.5 kg
3 Manual fuel pump
750 mm blade; with catcher
4 Spark plug boot Engine plate, tip guard and adjustable
5 Carburetor adjusting screws blade clearance: 5.9 kg
6 Control handle
STIHL single cylinder two-stroke engine
7 Throttle trigger lockout Cutting blades
8 Slide control Displacement: 22.7 cc
9 Throttle trigger Bore: 34 mm
Sharpening angle to horizontal: 45°
10 Fuel filler cap Stroke: 25 mm
11 Fuel tank Engine power to 0.7 kW (1 bhp) at Noise and Vibration Data
12 Muffler ISO 7293: 8,500 rpm
13 Fan housing Idle speed: 2,800 rpm Noise and vibration data are measured
14 Choke lever Cut-off speed: 9,300 rpm at idling and maximum rated speed in a
15 Handle, right ratio of 1:4.
16 Cutting blades Ignition System
For further details on compliance with
17 Blade guard (scabbard) Vibration Directive 2002/44/EC see
# Serial number Electronic magneto ignition www.stihl.com/vib.

Spark plug (resis- NGK CMR6H, Sound pressure level Lp to ISO 22868
tor type): BOSCH USR 4 AC
Electrode gap: 0.5 mm HS 87 T
600 mm blade: 96 dB(A)
Fuel System 750 mm blade: 96 dB(A)
1000 mm blade: 96 dB(A)
All position diaphragm carburetor with HS 87 R
integral fuel pump
750 mm blade: 96 dB(A)
Fuel tank capacity: 460 cc (0.46 l)
Sound power level Lw to ISO 22868
Weight HS 87 T
600 mm blade: 107 dB(A)
complete with cutting attachment, dry, 750 mm blade: 107 dB(A)
without blade scabbard
1000 mm blade: 107 dB(A)
HS 87 T HS 87 R
600 mm blade: 5.1 kg 750 mm blade: 106 dB(A)
750 mm blade: 5.2 kg
1000 mm blade: 5.5 kg

22 HS 87 R, HS 87 T
 English

Vibration measurement ahv,eq to REACH

ISO 22867 (without tip guard) Maintenance and Repairs
HS 87 T REACH is an EC regulation and stands
for the Registration, Evaluation, Users of this machine may only carry out
Handle, Handle, the maintenance and service work
Authorisation and Restriction of
left right described in this user manual. All other
Chemical substances.
600 mm blade: 2.6 m/s2 2.7 m/s2 repairs must be carried out by a
For information on compliance with the
750 mm blade: 2.6 m/s2 2.6 m/s2 servicing dealer.
REACH regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006
1000 mm blade: 3.4 m/s2 4.1 m/s2 see www.stihl.com/reach. STIHL recommends that you have
servicing and repair work carried out
HS 87 R
exclusively by an authorized STIHL
Handle, Handle, servicing dealer. STIHL dealers are
left right regularly given the opportunity to attend
750 mm blade: 2.3 m/s2 2.4 m/s2 training courses and are supplied with
the necessary technical information.
Vibration measurement ahv,eq to
ISO 22867 (with tip guard) When repairing the machine, only use
replacement parts which have been
HS 87 T approved by STIHL for this power tool or
Handle, Handle, are technically identical. Only use high-
left right quality replacement parts in order to
avoid the risk of accidents and damage
600 mm blade: 2.4 m/s2 2.8 m/s2 to the machine.
750 mm blade: 3.0 m/s2 2.7 m/s2
STIHL recommends the use of original
1000 mm blade: 3.5 m/s2 3.7 m/s2 STIHL replacement parts.
HS 87 R Original STIHL parts can be identified by
Handle, Handle, the STIHL part number, the {
left right logo and the STIHL parts symbol K
750 mm blade: 2.5 m/s2 2.4 m/s2 (the symbol may appear alone on small
parts).
The K-factor in accordance with
Directive 2006/42/EC is 2.5 dB(A) for
the sound pressure level and sound
power level; the K-factor in accordance
with Directive 2006/42/EC is 2.0 m/s2
for the vibration measurement.

HS 87 R, HS 87 T 23
English

The year of manufacture and serial

Disposal EC Declaration of Conformity number are applied to the product.
Done at Waiblingen, 28.10.2016
Observe all country-specific waste ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG
ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG
disposal rules and regulations. Badstr. 115
D-71336 Waiblingen
Germany
declare in exclusive responsibility that
the product

Category: Hedge trimmer

000BA073 KN
Make: STIHL Thomas Elsner
Model: HS 87 T Director Product Management and
HS 87 R Services
STIHL products must not be thrown in
the garbage can. Take the product, Serial identification: 4237
accessories and packaging to an Displacement: 22.7 cc
approved disposal site for environment- conforms to the relevant provisions of
friendly recycling. Directives 2006/42/EC, 2014/30/EU and
Contact your STIHL servicing dealer for 2000/14/EC and has been developed
the latest information on waste disposal. and manufactured in compliance with
the following standards in the versions
valid on the date of production:
EN ISO 10517, EN 55012,
EN 61000-6-1
The measured and guaranteed sound
power levels were determined according
to Directive 2000/14/EC, Annex V, using
the ISO 11094 standard.
Measured sound power level

HS 87 T: 102 dB(A)
HS 87 R: 101 dB(A)
Guaranteed sound power level

HS 87 T: 104 dB(A)
HS 87 R: 103 dB(A)
Technical documents deposited at:
ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG
Produktzulassung (Product Licensing)

24 HS 87 R, HS 87 T
0458-449-0121-A
englisch
G

www.stihl.com

*04584490121A*
0458-449-0121-A