Greasing Your STIHL HL 145° Adjustable Hedge Trimmer

Your STIHL HL 145° adjustable hedge trimmer is a powerful tool, essential for maintaining pristine hedges and shrubs. Like any hardworking piece of equipment, it needs regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and a long lifespan. One crucial, yet often overlooked, step in this maintenance routine is proper greasing.

Greasing the gearhead of your hedge trimmer ensures smooth operation, reduces friction, and protects internal components from wear and tear, especially important for a tool with a moving, adjustable head. Neglecting this simple task can lead to decreased efficiency, premature wear, and even costly repairs down the line.

Here’s how to properly grease your STIHL HL 145° adjustable hedge trimmer, keeping it in top condition for years of reliable service. This guide incorporates steps and tips from a helpful video demonstration.

Before You Start: Safety First!

• Turn off the engine/motor: Absolutely critical! Make sure your hedge trimmer is completely powered down before you begin any maintenance.
• Remove the spark plug boot (gas models) or disconnect the battery (cordless models): This prevents accidental starting.
• Wear gloves: Protect your hands from grease and any sharp edges.

What You’ll Need:

• STIHL Multipurpose Grease (or equivalent high-quality grease): It’s always best to use the manufacturer’s recommended grease for optimal compatibility and performance. STIHL often sells small tubes specifically for their gearheads.
• Wrench
• T-handle socket wrench
• Grease Gun (optional but recommended): While you can often squeeze grease directly from a tube, a small grease gun offers more control and less mess.
• Clean Rags or Paper Towels: For wiping away excess grease and keeping things tidy.

The Greasing Process:

1. Locate the Grease Nipple/Screw:On the STIHL HL 145° adjustable hedge trimmer, the grease nipple (or screw for greasing) is typically located on the gearhead, near the cutting blades. It’s usually a small, distinct fitting. Consult your owner’s manual if you have trouble locating it – the manual is your best friend for specific model information.
2. Clean the Area:Before applying new grease, give the area around the grease nipple a quick clean with a rag. This prevents dirt and debris from being pushed into the gearhead along with the grease.
3. Apply the Grease:
   • If using a grease gun: Attach the grease gun to the nipple. Slowly pump grease into the gearhead until you see a small amount of fresh grease begin to emerge from around the nipple or a designated overflow point. Do not overfill. Overfilling can create excessive pressure and potentially damage seals.
   • If using a tube directly: Carefully squeeze grease into the opening. Again, apply until you see a small amount of fresh grease appear.
   The goal is to replenish the grease that has been consumed or contaminated during operation.
4. Operate the Trimmer Briefly (Optional but Recommended):Once you’ve applied the grease, reassemble any parts you may have removed (like the spark plug boot or battery). Briefly run the hedge trimmer for about 10-15 seconds. This helps distribute the new grease evenly throughout the gearhead.
5. Wipe Away Excess:After running it, use a clean rag to wipe away any excess grease that has extruded from the gearhead. This prevents it from attracting dirt and debris during operation.

Step-by-Step Breakdown (Adapted from Video):

This section breaks down the greasing process, drawing from a helpful YouTube video that demonstrates the procedure:

• Prepare Your Tools: Gather your wrench, T-handle socket wrench, and STIHL Multilub grease.
• Remove the Plug: Use the T-handle socket wrench to carefully loosen and remove the plug on the gear box.
• Apply Grease: Prepare the STIHL Multilub grease tube by removing the cap. Insert the tip into the gear box opening and squeeze the tube, injecting grease until new grease starts to come out. This indicates the gear box is full.
• Replace the Plug: Reinsert the plug and tighten it securely with the T-handle socket wrench.
• Clean Up: Wipe away any excess grease around the plug with a clean rag.

How Often Should You Grease Your Trimmer?

The frequency of greasing depends on how often you use your hedge trimmer and the conditions you operate it in. As a general guideline:

• Light Home Use: Every 25 operating hours or at least once per season.
• Frequent or Professional Use: More frequently, perhaps every 10-15 operating hours.
• After prolonged storage: It’s a good idea to grease it before bringing it back into service for the season.

Always refer to your STIHL owner’s manual for the most accurate and specific maintenance schedule for your HL 145° model.

The Benefits of Regular Greasing:

• Extends Lifespan: Proper lubrication significantly reduces wear on gears and bearings.
• Maintains Performance: A well-greased gearhead ensures smooth, efficient cutting.
• Reduces Friction and Heat: Less friction means less heat buildup, protecting components.
• Prevents Corrosion: Grease provides a protective barrier against moisture and rust.
• Saves Money: Proactive maintenance prevents costly repairs and replacements.

By taking a few minutes to properly grease your STIHL HL 145° adjustable hedge trimmer, you’re investing in its longevity and ensuring it remains a reliable tool for keeping your hedges perfectly trimmed. Happy hedging!