STIHL KW PowerSweep Attachment

Important Information & Safety

This STIHL attachment may be mounted to different STIHL basic power tools (powerhead with shaft and handle system). Approved basic power tool models are listed in chapter "Approved Basic Power Tools".

⚠️ Warning! Other combinations of the attachment and non-approved power tools are not permitted since they may result in accidents or serious personal injury.

This instruction manual contains only descriptions of procedures and conditions in which the attachment and power tool combination differs from the basic power tool. For correct operation, also read and observe the appropriate chapters in the instruction manual of the basic power tool you are using.

Pictograms

All pictograms attached to the machine are shown and explained in this manual. Operating and handling instructions are supported by illustrations.

Symbols in text

Steps or procedures are marked in different ways:

• A bullet marks a step or procedure without direct reference to an illustration.
• A description referring directly to an illustration may contain item numbers. Example: Loosen the screw (1)

Paragraphs requiring special attention are marked with symbols:

⚠️ Warning! Risk of accident, personal injury, or serious damage to property.

⚠️ Caution! Risk of damaging the machine or its components.

? Note: Information not essential for use, but may improve understanding or machine use.

? Note: Correct procedure to avoid environmental damage.

Safety Precautions and Working Techniques

Equipment and Features

This manual may refer to several models with different features. Components not installed on all models are marked with an asterisk (*). Such components may be available as special accessories.

Engineering Improvements

STIHL continually improves its products. Engineering changes and improvements are made from time to time. If your machine differs from descriptions, contact your STIHL dealer.

General Warnings

⚠️ Warning! A PowerSweep attachment is a high-speed power tool; special safety precautions are necessary to reduce the risk of personal injury. Read and understand all safety precautions and warnings. Periodically read owner's manuals and safety instructions. Careless or improper use can cause serious or fatal injury. Have your STIHL dealer show you how to operate your power tool. Observe all local safety regulations.

⚠️ Warning! Minors should never use a power tool. Bystanders, especially children, and animals should not be allowed in the area where a power tool is in use. Never let the PowerSweep run unattended.

⚠️ Warning! Do not lend or rent your power tool without its manuals. Ensure users understand the information.

Safe Use of a Power Tool

Involves:

1. The operator
2. The power tool
3. The use of the power tool

The Operator! Physical Condition

Be in good physical and mental health. Do not operate under the influence of substances (drugs, alcohol) that impair vision, dexterity, or judgment. Do not operate when fatigued.

Be alert. If tired, take a break. Tiredness can lead to loss of control. Working can be strenuous. Consult a doctor if you have a condition aggravated by strenuous work.

⚠️ Warning! Prolonged exposure to vibrations may produce whitefinger disease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or carpal tunnel syndrome, reducing hand sensitivity, temperature regulation, causing numbness, burning, nerve/circulation damage, and tissue necrosis. Factors include cold weather, smoking, vascular conditions, and high vibration levels.

Reducing Vibration Risk

• Most STIHL power tools have an anti-vibration ("AV") system. AV systems are recommended for regular/sustained use.
• Wear gloves and keep hands warm.
• Keep the AV system well maintained. Damaged AV buffers increase vibration levels.
• Maintain a firm grip, but do not squeeze excessively. Take frequent breaks.

These precautions do not guarantee protection. Regular users should monitor hand/finger condition and seek medical advice if symptoms appear.

Proper Clothing

⚠️ Warning! Wear proper protective apparel to reduce injury risk.

⚠️ Warning! Never operate a PowerSweep without goggles or safety glasses with adequate top and side protection, complying with national standards.

⚠️ Warning! Power tool noise can damage hearing. Wear sound barriers (ear plugs or mufflers). Regular users should have hearing checked.

? Protect hands with gloves. Heavy-duty, nonslip gloves improve grip and protect hands.

Clothing must be sturdy and snug-fitting, allowing freedom of movement. Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarves, neckties, jewelry, flared/cuffed pants, long hair, or anything that can catch on moving parts.

Wear long pants made of heavy material. Do not wear shorts, sandals, or go barefoot. Secure hair above shoulder level.

Good footing is important. Wear sturdy boots with nonslip soles.

⛑️ Wear an approved safety hard hat to reduce head injury risk.

The PowerSweep Attachment

For illustrations and definitions of parts, see the "Parts and Controls" chapter.

⚠️ Warning! Never modify a PowerSweep attachment. Only use STIHL-supplied or expressly approved attachments for specific STIHL power tool models. Unauthorized attachments may be dangerous.

Use of the PowerSweep

Transporting the PowerSweep

⚠️ Warning! Always turn off the engine and ensure the attachment has stopped before putting it down. When transporting in a vehicle, secure it properly to prevent turnover, fuel spillage, and damage.

Preparation for Use

Adjust carrying harness and hand grip to suit your size. Balance the machine as specified in your owner's manual for proper control and less fatigue.

Always check your PowerSweep for proper condition and operation before starting, particularly the throttle trigger, throttle trigger interlock, stop switch, sweeper drums, rubber sleeve, and harness.

The sweeper must be properly tightened and in safe operating condition. Both sweeper belts must be mounted. The rubber sleeve on the drive tube end must be in good condition. Do not operate with damaged sweeper drums or rubber sleeve. Inspect for loose or worn/damaged parts. Replace worn or damaged parts.

Fueling

The STIHL PowerSweep uses an oil-gasoline mixture. For instructions, see safety precautions and the "Fuel" chapter of the power tool's owner's manual.

⚠️ Warning! Gasoline is extremely flammable. If spilled and ignited, it can cause fire and serious burn injury or property damage. Use extreme caution when handling gasoline or fuel mix. Do not smoke or bring fire/flame near fuel or PowerSweep.

Operating Instructions

The PowerSweep is designed for sweeping sand, stones, gravel, leaves, and snow on grass, concrete, or asphalt, and removing standing water from flat surfaces. Do not use for any other purpose.

• To reduce risk of accidents or injury, remove all obstacles and objects from the work area.
• If the work area is very dry, spray with water to reduce dust.
• Push the PowerSweep steadily at walking pace.

Starting

⚠️ Warning! Your PowerSweep is a one-person machine.

If you start the engine in the "start position", the sweeper belts will rotate when the engine starts, potentially moving the PowerSweep back towards the operator. Do not run the unit longer than necessary in the starting throttle position.

Diagram Description: Image shows a person operating the PowerSweep. A circle with "5m (16ft)" indicates a safety zone around the operator.

To reduce risk of injury from thrown objects or contact with sweeper belts, do not allow anyone within 5 m (16 ft) of your position. Stop the engine immediately if someone approaches. Start and operate without assistance. For specific starting instructions, see the power tool's owner's manual. Place the power tool on firm ground in an open area. Maintain good balance and secure footing.

Working Conditions

Operate and start your power tool outdoors in a well-ventilated area. Operate the PowerSweep under good visibility and daylight conditions only. Work carefully.

⚠️ Warning! Reversing the PowerSweep will throw debris back towards the operator. When reversing, use lower throttle settings and be aware that thrown debris may affect your footing.

Operating Techniques

Sweeping wide areas

Diagram Description: Shows the PowerSweep being operated in a wide area. An arrow indicates the direction of travel.

• Guide the sweeper drum at an angle to the direction of travel (1). Sweepings are thrown forwards to one side.
• The PowerSweep pushes back toward the operator.

Sweeping narrow areas

Diagram Description: Shows the PowerSweep being operated in a narrow area.

• Guide the sweeper drum at right angles to the direction of travel (1). Sweepings are thrown forwards, ahead of the operator.
• The PowerSweep pushes back toward the operator.

Always keep the drive tube at a shallow angle. The steeper the angle between the drive tube and the ground, the more difficult it is to control the PowerSweep.

Sweeping Corners

Diagram Description: Shows the PowerSweep being turned over to sweep corners.

• Turn the PowerSweep over.

Sweepings are thrown back toward the operator. For this reason:

• Run the PowerSweep at a low throttle setting only.

The PowerSweep pulls the operator forward. Debris thrown back may affect footing.

Approved Basic Power Tools

Operation of STIHL KW PowerSweep attachment is permitted only with the following basic power tools:

• STIHL FC 95, STIHL FC 110, STIHL FH 75, STIHL FS 65¹⁾, STIHL FS 83¹⁾, STIHL FS 85¹⁾, STIHL FS 90¹⁾, STIHL FS 100¹⁾, STIHL FS 110¹⁾, STIHL HL 73¹⁾, STIHL HL 75¹⁾, STIHL HL 100¹⁾ and STIHL KW 85

¹⁾ Not approved for units with a bike handle or models FS 85 X, FS 110 X, HL 73 K, HL 73-0°, HL 75 K, HL 75-0°, HL 100 K and HL 100-0°. See "Guide to Using this Manual".

⚠️ Warning! No other combination of attachment and non-approved basic power tools is permitted due to the risk of accidents or serious personal injury.

Retrofitting the Loop Handle*

This attachment may be operated only with a basic power tool equipped with a loop handle. The loop handle does not need a barrier bar*.

The following machines must be retrofitted with a loop handle: 0° versions of the HL 73, HL 75 and HL 100. To retrofit, see "Mounting the Loop Handle".

Installing the Gearbox

Preparations

• Loosen clamp screws on the gearhead of the power tool and pull the gearhead off the drive tube.
• The drive shaft may slip out of the tube when pulling off the gearhead. If this happens, push the drive shaft back into the tube.
• The drive shaft must not project from the tube more than L (7/8" or 22 mm). If necessary, apply slight pressure to the drive shaft and rotate it slowly until it can be pushed in to the required length.

Mounting the Gearbox

• Release the clamp screw (1).
• Slide the gearbox (2) onto the drive tube (3), turning the gearbox back and forth at the same time.
• Fit clamp screw and tighten as far as stop.
• Line up the gearbox (2) on the drive tube so that the machine support (5) on the powerhead points downward and the output shafts (6) are horizontal.
• Tighten the clamp screws firmly.
• Go to "Mounting Sweeper Drums".

Mounting Sweeper Drums

• Fit grass shield (1) on end of axle (2) and press home as far as stop.
• Push axle (2) onto the output shaft (3).
• Insert pin (4) through axle and output shaft. Secure pin with cotter pin (5).

⚠️ Note: Always mount both sweeper drum assemblies!

Mounting the Loop Handle

• Push sweeper drum assembly (6) onto the axle (2) – note the installed position.
• Fit new cotter pin (7) in end of axle (2) and bend over the ends (8) of the cotter pin as shown.
• Repeat the procedure on the other side.

Position of Loop Handle

• Fit the loop handle (1) on the drive tube approx. 8" / (20 cm) (A) forward of the control handle (2).
• Make sure that any parts already fitted, e.g., the spacer sleeve* (3) and carrying eye* (4), are between the loop handle and control handle.

Fitting Carrying Eye* (Clamp)

Mounting the Loop Handle

• Place the clamp (5) in the loop handle (1) and fit handle in position on the drive tube (6).
• Fit the clamp (7).
• Line up the holes.
• Fit washers (8) on the screws (9) and insert screws through the holes.
• Screw on the square nuts (10) as far as stop.

Aligning the Loop Handle

• Adjust the loop handle (1) to the most comfortable position for the user and application.
• Distance A must not be more than 22" (55 cm). About 14" (35 cm) is recommended.
• Tighten down screws on loop handle firmly.

Position of Carrying Eye (Clamp)

• For position of carrying eye (clamp)* see "Mounting the Loop Handle".
• Position the clamp (1) so that the tapped hole is on the left-hand side of the drive tube (viewed from powerhead).
• Squeeze the ends of the clamp together and hold it that position.
• Insert M 6 x 14 screw (2).
• Line up the carrying eye.
• Tighten down the screw.

Fitting the Harness*

Shoulder Strap

• Put on the shoulder strap (1).
• Adjust length of strap until the spring hook (2) is about a hand's width below your right hip.
• Balance the PowerSweep – see "Balancing the Machine".

Attaching Machine to Harness*

• Attach the spring hook (1) to the clamp* (2).

Balancing the Machine

• Loosen the screw (3).
• Slide the clamp up or down the drive tube so that the sweeper belts touch the ground.
• Tighten the screw firmly.

Starting / Stopping the Engine

Disconnecting Machine from Harness

• Press down bar (1) on spring hook (2).
• Pull the clamp (3) out of the spring hook.

Starting

Always follow the starting instructions given in the owner's manual of the powerhead you are using.

• Make sure you have a secure footing – the sweeper drums may touch the ground, but not any other obstacles.
• Hold the unit securely with your left hand on the control handle and press it down firmly.

⚠️ Warning! If you crank the engine in the START position, the sweeper drums may rotate when the engine starts and this may set the PowerSweep in motion. For this reason, do not run the unit for any longer than necessary in the starting throttle position.

To shut down the engine

• Move the slide control in the direction of the arrow ( → ) to STOP - 0 or move the stop switch to 0.

Operating Instructions

During Operation

Do not run the engine at full throttle off load. When run off load, the engine reaches very high revs, which can cause the temperature of the gearbox to rise unnecessarily.

After Finishing Work

Short-term storage: Wait for the engine to cool down. Store the machine with an empty tank in a dry place, well away from sources of ignition, until you need it again. Check the tightness of all accessible screws and nuts at regular intervals and retighten as necessary.

Longer-term storage: See chapter "Storing the Machine".

Storing the Machine (3 months or longer)

• Remove and clean the sweeping attachments, inspect for damage or wear.
• Store the machine in a dry, high or locked location – out of the reach of children and other unauthorized persons.

Replacing Sweeper Drum

Diagram Description: Shows the sweeper drum and how to remove it.

• Straighten the ends of the cotter pin, remove the cotter pin.
• Pull the sweeper drum off the axle.
• Repeat the procedure on the other side.
• Examine gear housing for signs of oil. If leaks are found, have your STIHL dealer check the gearbox.
• Install new sweeper drums – see "Mounting Sweeper Drums".

Replacing the Rubber Sleeve

The rubber sleeve protects the drive tube from wear caused by contact with the sweeper belts. A worn sleeve must be replaced as follows:

• Remove the sweeper drums – see "Replacing Sweeper Drum".
• Remove the gearbox – see "Removing the Gearbox".

Diagram Description: Shows removing the rubber sleeve from the gearbox.

• Pull the worn sleeve off the gearbox.
• Push a new sleeve onto the gearbox.
• Mount the gearbox – see “Installing the Gearbox".
• Fit the sweeper drums – see "Mounting Sweeper Drums".

Removing the Gearbox

Diagram Description: Shows the process of removing the gearbox.

• Straighten the ends of the cotter pin, remove the cotter pin.
• Pull the sweeper drum off the shaft.
• Examine gear housing for signs of oil. If leaks are found, have your STIHL dealer check the gearbox.
• Repeat the above procedure on the other side.
• Release the clamp screw (1).
• Pull the gearbox (2) off the drive tube (3).

Main Parts

Diagram Description: A diagram showing the main parts of the PowerSweep attachment, labeled 1 through 5.

Definitions:

• 1. Shaft: Device to connect the engine with the gearbox.
• 2. Sleeve (shaft protector): Designed to protect the shaft against abrasion from the sweeper flaps.
• 3. Sweeper drum assembly: Tool for sweeping and cleaning.
• 4. Axle: Connects sweeper drum assembly with the drive shaft.
• 5. Gearbox: To transform the engine speed down to lower RPM of the sweeper drums.

Specifications

Engine

See instruction manual of the basic power tool you are using.

Weight

• PowerSweep attachment: 10.5 lbs (4.8 kg)
• Interchangeable attachment: 11.9 lbs (5.4 kg)

Sweeper Drum

• Quantity: 2
• Width: 22 in (57 cm)
• No. of rubber paddles: 12

Special Accessories

Deflector 4602 007 1001

• Sweeper belts
• Safety glasses
• Harness
• Combination wrench

Contact your STIHL dealer for the latest information on these and other special accessories.

Maintenance and Repairs

Users should carry out only the maintenance operations described in this manual. Other repair work may be performed only by authorized STIHL service shops.

Warranty claims following repairs can be accepted only if the repair has been performed by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer using original STIHL replacement parts.

Original STIHL parts can be identified by the STIHL part number, the STIHL logo and, in some cases, by the STIHL parts symbol ⚙️. This symbol may appear alone on small parts.

General Safety Warnings

⚠️ Warning! To reduce the risk of fire and burn injuries, check fuel filler cap for leaks at regular intervals. Use the specified spark plug and ensure it and the ignition lead are in good condition.

⚠️ Warning! Never test the ignition system with the ignition wire boot removed from the spark plug or with an unseated spark plug, as uncontained sparking may cause a fire.

⚠️ Warning! To reduce the risk of fire and burn injury, use only STIHL-authorized spark plugs. Always press the spark plug boot snugly onto the spark plug of the proper size. (Note: If the boot has a detachable SAE adapter nut, it must be attached.) A loose connection between the spark plug boot and ignition wire connector may create arcing that could ignite combustible fumes and cause a fire. Keep the spark plug clean and ensure the ignition lead is in good condition.

⚠️ Warning! Do not operate your PowerSweep if the muffler is damaged, missing, or modified. An improperly maintained muffler increases the risk of fire and hearing loss. Never touch a hot muffler, as it can cause burns. If your muffler is equipped with a spark-arresting screen, never operate the PowerSweep if the screen is missing or damaged. Do not modify or remove any part of the muffler or spark-arresting screen. Remember that the risk of forest fires is greater in hot or dry weather.

Tighten all nuts, bolts, and screws, except carburetor adjustment screws, after each use.

Additionally, strictly follow the daily maintenance schedule in your STIHL Owner's Manual.

Store PowerSweep in a dry, high, or locked location out of reach of children. Before storing for longer than a few days, always empty the fuel tank.

⚠️ Warning! Never attempt to operate any PowerSweep with one hand. Loss of control may result in personal injury.

Take special care in slippery conditions (wet ground, snow).

Inspect the work area and check for solid objects (stones, metal pieces, etc.) that could be thrown and cause injury or damage. Also check for potential damage to vehicles or windows.

⚠️ Warning! The PowerSweep is normally used at ground level with the sweeper belts parallel to the ground. Using it above ground level increases the risk of injury, as the broom attachment is more exposed and harder to control.

Do not operate the PowerSweep using the starting throttle lock, as you will not have control of engine speed. Refer to your owner's manual for proper use of the slide control.

If sweeper belts become clogged or stuck, always turn off the engine and ensure the belts have stopped before cleaning.

Important Adjustments

⚠️ Warning! To reduce the risk of personal injury from loss of control or contact with moving sweeper drums, do not use the PowerSweep with incorrect idle adjustment. At correct idle speed, the sweeper drums should not move. For idle speed adjustment instructions, see the power tool's owner's manual.

If you cannot set the correct idle speed, have your STIHL dealer check and adjust your PowerSweep.

Maintenance, Repair and Storing

Use only identical STIHL replacement parts for maintenance and repair. Use of non-STIHL parts may cause serious or fatal injury.

Follow the maintenance and repair instructions in the appropriate section of your owner's manual. Refer to the maintenance chart at the last pages of this manual.

⚠️ Warning! Always stop the engine and ensure the sweeper belts have stopped before doing any maintenance, repair, or cleaning. Do not attempt any maintenance or repair work not described in your owner's manual. Such work should only be performed at a STIHL dealer shop.

⚠️ Warning! Check the condition of sweeper belts at regular intervals. Loose particles or pieces of belts could be thrown and injure the operator or bystanders. To reduce risk of injury from broken parts, replace damaged sweeper belts immediately and always in pairs. Do not reuse or attempt to repair damaged or worn sweeper belts.

General Warnings (Continued)

⚠️ Warning! To reduce the risk of fire and burns, check fuel filler cap for leaks regularly. Use the specified spark plug and ensure it and the ignition lead are in good condition.

⚠️ Warning! Never test the ignition system with the ignition wire boot removed from the spark plug or with an unseated spark plug, as uncontained sparking may cause a fire.

⚠️ Warning! To reduce the risk of fire and burn injury, use only STIHL-authorized spark plugs. Always press the spark plug boot snugly onto the spark plug of the proper size. (Note: If the boot has a detachable SAE adapter nut, it must be attached.) A loose connection between the spark plug boot and ignition wire connector may create arcing that could ignite combustible fumes and cause a fire. Keep the spark plug clean and ensure the ignition lead is in good condition.

⚠️ Warning! Do not operate your PowerSweep if the muffler is damaged, missing, or modified. An improperly maintained muffler increases the risk of fire and hearing loss. Never touch a hot muffler, as it can cause burns. If your muffler is equipped with a spark-arresting screen, never operate the PowerSweep if the screen is missing or damaged. Do not modify or remove any part of the muffler or spark-arresting screen. Remember that the risk of forest fires is greater in hot or dry weather.

Tighten all nuts, bolts, and screws, except carburetor adjustment screws, after each use.

Additionally, strictly follow the daily maintenance schedule in your STIHL Owner's Manual.

Store PowerSweep in a dry, high, or locked location out of reach of children. Before storing for longer than a few days, always empty the fuel tank.