STIHL Hedge Trimmer & Battery HLA 135 K Introduction

The STIHL Hedge Trimmer is a powerful, lightweight tool designed for efficient trimming and shaping of hedges and shrubs. Featuring a robust battery system, this cordless trimmer allows for extended use without the hassle of cords or gas. Its ergonomic design ensures comfort during operation, while the precision-engineered blades provide clean cuts for a polished finish. Priced at approximately $500, it is an excellent choice for both professional landscapers and gardening enthusiasts.

The information contained in this manual will help you receive maximum performance and satisfaction from your hedge trimmer and, if followed, reduce the risk of injury from its use.

SAVE THIS MANUAL

• Because a hedge trimmer is a high-speed cutting tool, special safety precautions must be observed to reduce the risk of personal injury.
• Read this instruction manual thoroughly before use and periodically thereafter. Follow all safety precautions. Careless or improper use can cause serious or fatal injury.

Have your authorized STIHL servicing dealer show you how to operate your power tool. Do not lend or rent the hedge trimmer without this instruction manual. Allow only persons who fully understand the information in this manual to operate the hedge trimmer. For further information, or if you do not understand any of the instructions in this manual, please go to  https://www.stihlusa.com   or contact your authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Guide to Using this Manual

Signal Words
This manual contains safety information that requires your special attention. Such information is introduced with the following symbols and signal words:

DANGER

Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING

Indicates a hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.
NOTICE

Indicates a risk of property damage, including damage to the machine or its individual components.

Symbols in Text

The following symbol is included to assist you with the use of the manual:

Refers to a designated chapter or sub-chapter in this instruction manual.

STIHL HLA 135 K Specifications

• Approved battery types:
  • STIHL AP series
  • STIHL AR series
• Weight without battery, non-adjustable cutting attachment: 10.4 lbs. (4.7 kg)
• Weight without battery, adjustable cutting attachment: 11.5 lbs. (5.6 kg)

For technical information regarding the STIHL AP and AR / AR L series batteries, see the product information accompanying your battery. For technical information regarding the STIHL AL 101, 300 and 500 series chargers, see the product information accompanying your charger. Batteries, chargers and other accessories sold separately. Contact your authorized STIHL servicing dealer for pricing and availability.

Main Parts

HLA 135 K Hedge Trimmer and Battery 

1. Drive Tube
   Hedge trimmer shaft.
2. Front Handle
   Handle for the operator's front hand.
3. Locking Lever
   Secures the battery in the battery compartment.
4. Battery Compartment
   Holds the battery.
5. Mounting Recess
   Mounting area for a Smart Connector 2 A.
6. Trigger Switch Lockout
   Must be depressed to allow activation of the trigger switch.
7. Retaining Latch
   For switching the hedge trimmer on and selecting the power level.
8. LEDs
   Indicate the unit's power level.
9. Carrying Ring
   For connecting a harness to the hedge trimmer.
10. Trigger Switch
    Activates the cutting attachment when depressed.
11. Control Handle
    Handle for the operator's rear hand.
12. Air Filter
    Filters the air drawn into the motor.
13. Battery
    Supplies electrical power to the motor.
14. Push Button
    Activates the battery's LEDs.
15. Battery LEDs
    Indicate the battery's state of charge and display error messages regarding potential malfunctions in the battery or power tool.

#   Rating Plate
Contains electrical information and the product's serial number.

Adjustable Cutting Attachment

1. Screw Plug
   Seals the grease filler opening at the gearbox.
2. Cutting blades
   Steel blades for cutting hedges, shrubs and bushes.
3. Blade Scabbard
   Covers the cutting blades to reduce the risk of injury from inadvertent contact during transportation and storage.
4. Blade Adjustment Release
   Unlock the cutting attachment to allow angle adjustment.
5. Blade Adjustment Grip
   Used to set the cutting blades to the desired angle.

Non-adjustable Cutting Attachment

1. Screw Plug
   Seals the grease filler opening at the gearbox.
2. Cutting blades
   Steel blades for cutting hedges, shrubs and bushes.
3. Blade Scabbard
   Covers the cutting blades to reduce the risk of injury from inadvertent contact during transportation and storage.

Description

The STIHL HLA 135 K hedge trimmer is engineered to handle demanding tasks with ease. Its 135 cm cutting bar is ideal for managing larger hedges and shrubs, while the high-torque EC motor provides consistent power throughout the cutting process. The tool's lightweight and balanced design makes it comfortable to use for extended periods, reducing fatigue and improving overall efficiency.

The trimmer features a durable construction with high-quality blades that maintain their sharpness over time, ensuring clean cuts and minimizing wear on the machine. Additionally, the tool is equipped with safety features such as a blade tip protector and a safety switch to prevent accidental start-ups.

Setup Guide

To set up and operate the STIHL HLA 135 K hedge trimmer:

1. Ensure the battery is fully charged before first use.
2. Attach the battery to the tool by aligning it with the charging port and clicking it into place.
3. Check that all safety features are intact, including the blade tip protector and safety switch.
4. Hold the trimmer with both hands, ensuring a firm grip on the handlebars.
5. Activate the tool by pressing the trigger switch while holding down the safety switch.
6. Begin trimming by moving the tool in smooth, even strokes along the hedge or shrub.

General Power Tool Safety Warnings

Introduction
This chapter contains the prescribed general safety warnings and instructions for handheld, motor-operated electric power tools. Additional important warnings and instructions are provided in subsequent chapters of this manual.

WARNING

• Read all safety warnings, instructions, illustrations and specifications provided with this power tool. Failure to follow all instructions listed below may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury.
• Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.

The term "power tool" in the warnings refers to your mains-operated (corded) power tool or battery-operated (cordless) power tool.
Work Area Safety

• Keep work area clean and well lit. Cluttered or dark areas invite accidents.
• Do not operate power tools in explosive atmospheres, such as in the presence of flammable liquids, gases or dust. Power tools create sparks which may ignite the dust or fumes.
• Keep children and bystanders away while operating a power tool. Distractions can cause you to lose control.

Electrical Safety

• Power tool plugs must match the outlet. Never modify the plug in any way. Do not use any adapter plugs with earthed (grounded) power tools. Unmodified plugs and matching outlets will reduce the risk of electric shock.
• Avoid body contact with earthed or grounded surfaces, such as pipes, radiators, ranges and refrigerators. There is an increased risk of electric shock if your body is earthed or grounded.
• Do not expose power tools to rain or wet conditions. Water entering a power tool will increase the risk of electric shock.
• Do not abuse the cord. Never use the cord for carrying, pulling or unplugging the power tool. Keep cord away from heat, oil, sharp edges or moving parts. Damaged or entangled cords increase the risk of electric shock.
• When operating a power tool outdoors, use an extension cord suitable for outdoor use. Use of a cord suitable for outdoor use reduces the risk of electric shock.
• If operating a power tool in a damp location is unavoidable, use a residual current device (RCD) or ground fault circuit interruptor (GFCI) protected supply. Use of an RCD or GFCI reduces the risk of electric shock.

Personal Safety

• Stay alert, watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating a power tool. Do not use a power tool while you are tired or under the influence of drugs, alcohol or medication. A moment of inattention while operating power tools may result in serious personal injury.
• Use personal protective equipment. Always wear eye protection. Protective equipment such as dust mask, non-skid safety shoes, hard hat, or hearing protection used for appropriate conditions will reduce personal injuries.
• Prevent unintentional starting. Ensure the switch is in the off-position before connecting to power source and/or battery pack, picking up or carrying the tool. Carrying power tools with your finger on the switch or energizing power tools that have the switch on invites accidents.
• Remove any adjusting key or wrench before turning the power tool on. A wrench or a key left attached to a rotating part of the power tool may result in personal injury.
• Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. This enables better control of the power tool in unexpected situations.
• Dress properly. Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery. Keep your hair and clothing away from moving parts. Loose clothes, jewellery or long hair can be caught in moving parts.
• If devices are provided for the connection of dust extraction and collection facilities, ensure these are connected and properly used. Use of dust collection can reduce dust-related hazards.
• Do not let familiarity gained from frequent use of tools allow you to become complacent and ignore tool safety principles. A careless action can cause severe injury within a fraction of a second.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

Intended Use

WARNING

• This hedge trimmer is designed for trimming hedges, shrubs and bushes in yards and gardens. Use of the hedge trimmer for operations different than intended could result in serious injury or death.
• Improper use could result in personal injury or property damage, including damage to the hedge trimmer.
  • Use the hedge trimmer and battery only as described in this manual.
  • Never attempt to modify or override the hedge trimmer's controls or safety devices in any way.
  • Never use a hedge trimmer that has been modified or altered from its original design.
  • Be sure to read and follow the warnings and instructions for your battery and charger before charging or starting work.
• This power tool may be powered by a STIHL AP series battery. Alternatively, it may be powered by a STIHL AR series backpack battery in combination with an AP Adapter.

Batteries, chargers and other accessories are sold separately.

Operator

WARNING

• Working with the hedge trimmer can be strenuous. The operator must be in good physical condition and mental health. To reduce the risk of personal injury from fatigue and loss of control:
  • Check with your doctor before using the hedge trimmer if you have any health condition that may be aggravated by strenuous work.
  • Do not operate the hedge trimmer while under the influence of any substance (drug, alcohol or medication, etc.) that might impair vision, balance, dexterity or judgment.
  • Be alert. Do not operate the hedge trimmer when you are tired. Take a break if you become tired.
  • Do not permit minors to use the hedge trimmer.
• According to STIHL's current knowledge, the electric motor of this hedge trimmer should not interfere with a pacemaker.
  • However, persons with a pacemaker or other implanted medical device should consult their physician and device manufacturer  before operating this hedge trimmer.

Holding and Controlling the Hedge Trimmer

DANGER

• To reduce the risk of serious or fatal cut injuries to the operator or bystanders from blade contact:
  • Keep hands, feet and other body parts away from the cutting blades.

WARNING

• To maintain a firm grip and properly control your hedge trimmer:
  • Keep the handles clean and dry at all times. Keep them free of moisture, pitch, oil, grease and resin.
• To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injuries to the operator or bystanders from loss of control:
  • Always hold the hedge trimmer firmly with both hands on the defined gripping surfaces during work.
  • Wrap your fingers tightly around the handles, keeping the handles cradled between your thumb and forefinger (see illustrations).
  • Position the hedge trimmer in such a way that all parts of your body are clear of the cutting attachment whenever the battery is inserted.
  • Never use the blade adjustment grip while cutting.
• Operating the hedge trimmer with one hand may lead to loss of control and is therefore extremely dangerous. To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury to the operator or bystanders from loss of control:
  • Never attempt to operate the hedge trimmer with one hand.
  • Never hold the material to be cut. Never remove cut material without first releasing the trigger switch and removing the battery.
  • Release the trigger switch and remove the battery before clearing jammed material.
• To reduce the risk of serious or fatal cut injuries to the operator or bystanders from loss of control, keep proper footing and balance at all times:
  • Never work on a ladder, roof, in a tree or while standing on any other insecure support.
  • Take special care in overgrown or wet terrain and always watch for hidden obstacles such as tree stumps, roots, rocks, holes and ditches to avoid stumbling or falling.
  • Be extremely cautious when working on slopes or uneven ground.
  • For better footing, always clear away fallen branches, scrub, cuttings and other material, objects or vegetation that can increase the danger of slipping, tripping or falling.
  • Do not overreach. Keep proper footing and balance at all times.
• Working above shoulder height can be tiring. To reduce the risk of injury from fatigue:
  • Never hold the machine with your rear hand on the control handle above shoulder height.
  • Set the adjustable cutter blades to the most suitable angle so that the unit can be held at a lower, less tiring position while providing adequate reach.
  • Take frequent breaks.

Maintenance, Repair and Storage

Warnings and Instructions

• There are no user-authorized repairs for the hedge trimmer, battery or charger. To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock or other personal injury and property damage:
  • Users may carry out only the cleaning and maintenance operations described in this manual.
  • Strictly follow the cleaning and maintenance instructions in the appropriate sections of this instruction manual.
  • STIHL recommends that all repair work be performed by authorized STIHL servicing dealers.
• Unintentional starting may result in personal injury or property damage. To reduce the risk of personal injury and property damage from unintentional starting:
  • Remove the battery before inspecting the hedge trimmer or carrying out any cleaning, maintenance or repair work, before storing, and any other time the hedge trimmer is not in use.
• The cutting blades are the only user-serviceable parts of the hedge trimmer. Proper maintenance will help maintain cutting performance and reduce the risk of personal injury.
  • Wear heavy-duty non-slip work gloves when handling the cutting blades.
  • Keep the cutting blades clean and sharp.
  • Tighten all nuts, bolts and screws after each use.
  • Never repair damaged cutting blades by welding, straightening or modifying the shape. This may cause parts of the cutting blades to experience uneven or excessive wear or other damage that can lead to a malfunction or breakage during operation, resulting in serious or fatal injuries.
• Use of parts that are not authorized or approved by STIHL may cause serious or fatal injury or property damage.
  • STIHL recommends that only identical STIHL replacement parts be used for repair or maintenance.
• To reduce the risk of short circuit and fire:
  • Keep the battery guides free of foreign matter. Clean as necessary with a dry cloth or soft, dry brush.
• The gearbox becomes hot during operation. To reduce the risk of burn injury:
  • Allow the gearbox to cool before inspecting or lubricating and before changing a cutting attachment. Avoid contacting the gearbox while it is still hot following operation.
• Improper storage can result in unauthorized use, damage to the hedge trimmer and battery and charger, and an increased risk of fire, electric shock and other personal injury or property damage.
  • Remove the battery from the hedge trimmer before storing.
  • Never store the hedge trimmer or charger with the battery inserted.
  • Store the hedge trimmer and battery and charger indoors in a dry, secure place that cannot be accessed by children or other unauthorized users.
  • Never store the battery in the hedge trimmer, in the charger, in a metal container or in a container with metal objects (e.g., paper clips, nails, coins, keys).
• To reduce the risk of electric shock and other personal injury or property damage when mounting the charger and wall bracket:
  • Ensure that no electrical cables, pipes or other service lines run behind the wall where the charger and wall bracket is to be mounted.
  • Mount the charger and wall bracket only as described in this manual.

Charging the Battery

Setting up the Charger

WARNING: Read and follow the safety precautions on the battery and charger and all warnings and instructions that accompany those products. To reduce the risk of short circuit, which could lead to electric shock, fire and explosion, make sure the charger and its components are dry and not damaged; operate the charger indoors at an appropriate ambient temperature.

WARNING

A typical household electric circuit is between 15 and 20 amps. A single STIHL AL 500 charger draws approximately 4.8 amps. A single AL 300 charger draws approximately 4.4 amps. To reduce the risk of fire from overloading an electrical circuit:

• Ensure the electrical system is rated to withstand the expected electrical draw before charging your battery.
• Charge multiple batteries one at a time or on separate circuits, unless you know your circuit can handle the total expected draw from multiple chargers.

WARNING: Since the charger heats up during the charging process, do not operate the charger on a combustible surface or in a location where combustible gases, liquids, vapors, dusts or other materials and substances are present.
To set up the charger:

• Insert the plug (3) into a properly installed electrical outlet (4) matching the voltage and electrical frequency stated on the rating plate on the charger.

The charger runs a self-test immediately after it is plugged in. The charger LED (1) will glow green for about 1 second, then it will glow red briefly before going out. Once the LED goes out, the self-test is complete and the charger is ready to charge the battery.

• Position the power supply cord (2) so that it will not be stepped on, tripped over, come in contact with sharp objects or moving parts or otherwise be subjected to damage or stress.

Charging

WARNING

• STIHL batteries contain safety features and devices which, if damaged, may allow the battery to generate heat, rupture, leak, ignite or explode. Never charge a malfunctioning, damaged, cracked, leaking or deformed battery, or use a charger that has been damaged. Never insert a wet battery or battery adapter. Never use a wet charger. Follow all product-specific warnings and instructions accompanying your battery and charger.
• A battery is not fully charged when it ships from the factory. STIHL recommends that you fully charge the battery before using it the first time.
• Operate the charger only indoors, in dry rooms and within an ambient temperature range of 41 °F to 104 °F (5 °C to  40 °C).
• The battery heats up during operation of the power tool. If a hot battery is connected to the charger, it may be necessary for it to cool down before charging starts. The charging process begins only after the battery has cooled down sufficiently.
• Charging time depends on a number of factors, including battery condition and the ambient temperature. For a complete list of approximate charging times, see https://www.stihl.com/charging-times 

To charge an AR battery:

• Push the plug of the connecting cord (1) into the socket (2) of the AP Adapter (3) until it stops.
• Push the AP Adapter into the charger (5) until it stops. The LED on the charger (4) glows green when the battery is charging.
• The LEDs on the AR battery glow green and show the state of charge.
• When the LEDs on the battery turn off, the charging process is complete and the charger will shut itself off. The AP Adapter can be removed from the charger.
• Disconnect the power supply cord from the electrical outlet when the charger is not in use for extended periods of time.
• Charge STIHL AR backpack batteries only with genuine STIHL AL 300 or AL 500 series chargers.

To charge an AP battery:

• Push the battery (2) into the charger (3) until it stops. The LED on the charger glows green when the battery is charging.
  • The LEDs (1) on the AP battery glow green and show the state of charge.
  • When the LEDs on the battery go out, the charging process is complete and the charger will shut itself off. The AP battery can be removed from the charger.
• Disconnect the power supply cord from the electrical outlet when the charger is not in use.
• Charge STIHL AP series batteries only with genuine STIHL AL 101, AL 300 or AL 500 series chargers.

STIHL AR Backpack Battery

Positioning the Connecting Cord

WARNING

To reduce the risk of injury from tripping on the connecting cord or losing control of the power tool, always secure the connecting cord with the hook and eye fasteners as described below. Always position and secure the connecting cord so that it will not interfere with the proper working technique as described in the instruction manual for the power tool you are using, or your ability to maintain control of the power tool.

WARNING

Manage the cord to prevent it from contacting the cutting/working attachment or catching on objects, which could cause you to lose balance or control of the power tool, resulting in serious personal injury and property damage.
The connecting cord can be secured in different positions and adjusted to suit the height and reach of the operator.

The connecting cord can run through the guide (1) on the shoulder strap (Illustration A), or along the back  plate (Illustration B). Secure the connecting cord to the harness with the hook and eye fasteners (2). Always secure the connecting cord using the guide or hook and eye fasteners on the side of the body on which the power tool is held and controlled. Do not allow the connecting cord to swing across your body or hang at your side.

The length of the connecting cord can be adjusted by making a loop around the top (Illustration C) or on the side (Illustration D) of the backpack battery with the hook and eye fasteners.

Putting on the Harness

WARNING: The operator must be able to remove the backpack battery quickly in the event of an emergency. In an emergency, open and remove the waist belt and chest strap quickly before dropping the battery to the ground.
To ensure a proper fit:

The operator must be able to remove the backpack battery quickly in the event of an emergency. In an emergency, open and remove the waist belt and chest strap quickly before dropping the battery to the ground.

• Put the backpack battery on your back.

• Fasten and adjust the waist belt (2) so that it rests comfortably but securely on your hips.

  

• Fasten the chest strap (1) and adjust it so that it fits comfortably but securely across your chest.
• Adjust the harness straps so that the back padding fits snugly and securely against your back.
• Always wear the battery harness over both shoulders.
• Thread the end of the waist belt through the loops (3) and (4)
• To remove the harness, open the quick-release fasteners on the waist belt and chest strap and loosen the harness straps by lifting the sliding adjusters.

To help reduce the risk of injury in the event of an emergency, practice quickly opening the fasteners on the waist belt and chest strap, loosening the shoulder straps and removing the battery.

NOTICE: To avoid damage, ease the battery to the ground when practicing. Do not allow the battery to drop to the ground and do not throw it.

Assembling the Hedge Trimmer

Mounting the Gearbox

• Remove the cap (1) from the round end of the drive tube (4).
• Loosen the screws (2)

• Push the gearbox (3) securely onto the drive tube (4).

  

• Align the motor housing (5) and gearbox (3) as shown. Make sure the battery opening and screw plug on the top of the cutting attachment are facing up.
• Before tightening any screws, confirm the following dimensions:
  • HLA 135 with an adjustable cutting attachment:
    a = about 21 in. (53 cm)
  • HLA 135 K with an adjustable cutting attachment:
    a = about 15 in. (38 cm)
  • HLA 135 K with a non-adjustable cutting attachment: a = about 13.4 in. (34 cm)
• Tighten the screws (2).

Mounting the Loop Handle (HLA 135 only)

WARNING: To reduce the risk of injury from loss of control, ensure that the loop handle is properly mounted and adjusted before starting work.
To mount the loop handle:

• Position one clamp (4) in the loop handle (3).
• Position the other clamp (6) against the underside of the drive tube (5) and line up the holes in the loop handle and clamps.
• Put washers (2) on the screws (1) and insert the screws through the holes in the loop handle and clamps.
• Slide the loop handle along the drive tube until a = 8 in. (20 cm).
• Attach the square nuts (7) and tighten securely. Ensure that the handle is tight and will not move during operation.

During Operation

Adjusting the Angle of the Cutting Blades

WARNING

To reduce the risk of serious personal injury from unintended activation, remove the battery before attempting to adjust the angle of the cutting blades. Keep hands, feet and other parts of the body away from the cutting blades while making adjustments. Hold the unit by the blade adjustment grip. Keep bystanders out of the area.
The angle of the cutting blades can be adjusted to four different positions upwards and seven different positions downwards to suit the application and the height and reach of the user.
To adjust the angle of the cutting blades:

• Hold the blade adjustment grip (2) firmly.
• Pull back the blade adjustment release (1) and hold it in this unlocked position.
• Move the cutting blades to the desired angle.
• Release the blade adjustment release.
  The blade adjustment release will spring back into place.
• Move the blade adjustment grip up and down until the cutting blades engage.
  That completes the adjustment.
• Confirm that the blade adjustment grip is fixed in place.

Putting on and Adjusting the Shoulder Strap

To fit and adjust the harness:

• Put the shoulder strap over your shoulder.

  

• Adjust the length of the shoulder strap (1) so that the carabiner (2) is about a hand’s width below the top of your hip.

• Attach the carabiner (1) to the carrying ring (2) on the hedge trimmer.

  

Selecting the Power Level

The unit can be operated at three different power settings, indicated by LEDs on the control handle. The higher the power level, the faster the cutting blades will rotate.
To set the power level:

• Depress and hold the trigger switch lockout (1).
• While holding the trigger switch lockout, push the retaining latch (2) forward with your thumb and release it. The LEDs indicate the current power level.
• Push the retaining latch forward to activate the next power level. Performing this operation at the highest power level will cause the unit to return to the first power level.

Generally, battery life will be shorter when operating continuously at the higher power levels.

Using the Hedge Trimmer

WARNING

Always wear proper clothing and protective apparel, including proper eye protection, 6.3. Work carefully and maintain proper control of the hedge trimmer, 6.5.2.

WARNING

To avoid serious or fatal injury, avoid contact with the moving cutting blades. Never hold the material to be cut and never remove cut material without first releasing the trigger switch and removing the battery. Release the trigger switch and remove the battery before clearing jammed material, 6.2.
The hedge trimmer is designed for two-handed operation.

• Before starting work with the hedge trimmer, remove thick branches with a hand pruning saw, loppers, chain saw or other appropriate tool.
• Do not cut stems, branches or other vegetation greater than 1.3 in. (33 mm) in diameter.

Observe all applicable laws, regulations, standards and ordinances.

Cutting at ground level (HLA 135 only)

• Set the cutting attachment to a suitable angle.
• Move the hedge trimmer back and forth, keeping the cutting blades parallel to the ground.
• Walk slowly and steadily forward.
• If cutting performance deteriorates: Sharpen the cutting blades.

Cutting side of the hedge

• If you have to cut at a certain distance from the hedge (flowerbed): Set the cutting attachment to a suitable angle (with adjustable cutting attachment only).
• Swing the cutting attachment from the bottom of the hedge upwards in a controlled arc (see illustration above).
• Lower the nose of the cutting attachment, move along the hedge and swing the cutting attachment up again in a controlled arc.
• Cut the other side of the hedge in the same way.
• If cutting performance deteriorates: Sharpen the cutting blades.

Cutting the top of the hedge

• Hold the cutting attachment at an angle of 0° to 10° as you move the cutting attachment horizontally, using both sides of the cutting attachment (see illustration above).
• If cutting performance deteriorates: Sharpen the cutting blades.

Cutting overhead (with adjustable cutting attachment only)

WARNING

Working above shoulder height can be tiring. To reduce the risk of injury from fatigue, never hold the machine with your rear hand on the control handle above shoulder height. Set the adjustable cutter blades to the most suitable angle so that the unit can be held at a lower, less tiring position while providing adequate reach. Take frequent breaks.

• Set the cutting attachment to a suitable angle.
• Hold the cutting attachment at an angle of 0° to 10° as you move the cutting attachment horizontally, using both sides of the cutting attachment (see illustration above).
• If cutting performance deteriorates: Sharpen the cutting blades.

Transporting the Hedge Trimmer and Battery

Hedge Trimmer

WARNING: Cover the entire length of the cutting blades with a blade scabbard before transporting or storing the hedge trimmer to reduce the risk of cut injuries from inadvertent contact.

When transporting the hedge trimmer:

• Slide a blade scabbard over the cutting blades so that it covers the entire cutting attachment.
• If you have an adjustable cutting attachment:
  • Pull back the blade adjustment release (4) and hold it in this position.
  • Hold the hedge trimmer at the blade adjustment grip (3) and fold the cutting blades (1) down completely until the cutting blades are parallel to the drive tube (2).
  • Let go of the blade adjustment release.
    When the blade adjustment release reaches the transporting position, you will hear an audible click. The cutting attachment should be fixed in place and flush against the housing.
• When transporting the hedge trimmer by hand, hold it by the drive tube with the cutting blades behind you.
• When transporting the hedge trimmer in a vehicle, cover the entire length of the cutting blades with a blade scabbard. Secure and position the hedge trimmer to prevent turnover, impact, and damage.

Your hedge trimmer comes standard with a blade scabbard.

STIHL HLA 135 K Battery

WARNING

To reduce the risk of a short circuit, which could lead to electric shock, fire, and explosion, never transport the battery in a metal container or near metal objects (e.g., paper clips, nails, coins, keys), 7.

When transporting the battery:

• Place the battery in a non-metal container or carton and secure it against impact or damage. Never transport the battery in a metal or other container that is capable of conducting electricity, or near metal objects (e.g., paper clips, nails, coins, keys).
• If you are transporting the battery in a vehicle, secure it and its container to prevent turnover, impact, and damage.

STIHL batteries comply with the requirements set forth in UN-Manual ST/SG/AC.10/11/Rev.5/Part III, Subsection 38.3.
Commercial air, vessel, and ground transportation of lithium-ion cells and batteries is regulated. The battery is classified as a UN 3480, Class 9, packaging group II product. Shipping it, either as a complete tool or the battery, requires compliance with all applicable shipping regulations. Check with the ground, vessel, air cargo, or passenger airline to determine if transport is prohibited or subject to restrictions or exemptions before shipping or travel.
Normally, no further conditions have to be met by the user in order to transport STIHL batteries by road to the power tool's operating site. Check and comply with any special regulations that may apply to your situation.

Inspection and Maintenance

Inspecting and Maintaining the Hedge Trimmer

WARNING
To reduce the risk of personal injury from unintended activation, remove the battery before inspecting the hedge trimmer or carrying out any maintenance, 8.1. Carry out only the maintenance operations described in this manual. There are no user-authorized repairs. STIHL recommends that repair work be performed by authorized STIHL servicing dealers.

To properly maintain the hedge trimmer:

• Clean the air filter every 50 hours of operation.
• Sharpen the cutting blades.
• Lubricate the gearbox every 25 hours of operation.
• Have worn or damaged cutting blades replaced by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
• Have worn, missing or damaged safety labels replaced by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer. If you make a warranty claim for a component that has not been serviced or maintained properly, coverage may be denied.

Inspecting and Maintaining the Cutting Blades

WARNING
To reduce the risk of personal injury from unintended activation, remove the battery before inspecting the cutting blades or carrying out any maintenance, 7.1. To help prevent injuries, always wear heavy-duty work gloves when handling the hedge trimmer or its cutting blades, 6.3. STIHL recommends having the cutting blades sharpened by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.
Although it is best to have the cutting blades sharpened by a dealer on a workshop sharpener, it is possible to use a flat crosscut sharpening file.

Sharpen the cutting blades when cutting performance begins to deteriorate, i.e., blades frequently snag on branches or fail to cut material cleanly.
To sharpen the cutting blades with a file:

• Sharpen each cutting edge of the upper cutting blade with a sharpening file. Always file toward the cutting edge with a forward motion matching the sharpening angle, @ 24.3. Sharpen on the forward stroke. Lift off the blade on the backstroke.
• Only sharpen the cutting edges. Do not file blunt projecting parts of the cutting attachment, or the cutting blade guard. Make sure your sharpening stroke matches the sharpening angle, @ 24.3.
• Turn the hedge trimmer over.
• Use a whetstone to remove any burrs from the cutting edges. Remove as little material as possible.
• After sharpening, wipe away filing or grinding dust with a dry or slightly dampened cloth and then spray the cutting blades with a resin solvent, such as STIHL Resin Remover and Lubricant.

If you make a warranty claim for a component that has not been serviced or maintained properly, coverage may be denied.
NOTICE

Operating the machine with dull or damaged cutting blades may overload the motor. Keeping the cutting blades sharp helps maintain cutting performance and the expected life of the product.

Lubricating the Gearbox

The gearbox becomes hot during operation. To reduce the risk of burn injury, avoid contacting the gearbox while it is still hot following the operation. Wait for the gearbox to cool down before performing this operation.
To lubricate the gearbox:

• Remove the screw plug (1).
• If you have an adjustable cutting attachment: Remove the screw plug (3).
• If no grease can be seen on the inside of the screw plug, screw the tube (2) of STIHL gear lubricant into the filler hole.
• Squeeze no more than 0.2 oz. (5 g) of STIHL gear lubricant into the gearbox.
• Remove the tube of STIHL gear lubricant.
• Insert the screw plugs and tighten it.

NOTICE: Do not completely fill the gearbox with grease.

Troubleshooting

STIHL Hedge Trimmer & Battery HLA 135 K  Warranty

You are responsible for presenting your small off-road zero emission equipment motor to an authorized STIHL dealer as soon as a problem exists. The warranty repairs should be completed in a reasonable amount of time, not to exceed 30 days.

MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY RESPONSIBILITIES
The emissions control system on your small off-road equipment motor is warranted for two years. If any emissionrelated part on your small off-road zero emission equipment motor is defective, the part will be repaired or replaced by STIHL Incorporated free of charge.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Powerful and Efficient: High-torque EC motor delivers consistent performance.
• Long Runtime: AP 300 battery provides extended use without recharging.
• Ergonomic Design: Lightweight and balanced for reduced fatigue.
• Durable Construction: High-quality materials ensure longevity.

Cons

• Higher Cost: This may be more expensive compared to gas-powered or lower-end models.
• Battery Dependency: Requires frequent charging for continuous use.
• Weight with Battery: May feel heavy for some users when fully assembled with a battery.

Customer Reviews

Customers have praised the c for its powerful performance and ergonomic design. Many have noted that the tool's lightweight construction makes it easier to handle larger hedges without fatigue. However, some users have mentioned that the initial cost is higher than expected and that frequent battery charging can be inconvenient.