Stihl Re 118 Instruction Manual

							{
Cleaning Systems 
Safety Manual
Instruction Manual 
						

							Original Instruction Manual Printed on chlorine-free paper
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled. © ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2011
0457-190-0121. M0-05.C11.DDS. 
0000000560_001_GB
Cleaning Systems Safety ManualEnglish
1
{
Contents
This brochure contains the safety 
precautions and working techniques 
described in the Instruction Manuals for 
STIHL cleaning systems. This enables 
even longtime cleaning system owners 
to familiarize themselves, in their own 
interest, with the latest knowledge 
regarding how to use the cleaning 
system safely.
Note that the illustrations in the chapter 
Main Parts of the Machine show the 
RE 108, RE 118, RE 128 PLUS, 
RE 521, RE 551 PLUS, and 
RE 581 PLUS high-pressure cleaners 
and the SE 122 vacuum cleaner as 
examples.
Other types of cleaning systems may 
have different operating elements. 
Moreover, this brochure contains 
references to chapters in the Instruction 
Manuals for the specific machines.
Of course, this means that the reader 
must always also consult the Instruction 
Manual for the respective cleaning 
system.
If you still have questions after reading 
this brochure, please contact your 
STIHL dealer. Safety Precautions and Working 
Techniques 2
Safety Precautions and Working 
Techniques 6
Safety Precautions and Working 
Techniques 9
Maintenance and Care 12
Maintenance and Care 13
Maintenance and Care 14
Main Parts 15
Main Parts 17
Main Parts 19 
						

							Cleaning Systems Safety Manual English
2 –Minors should never be allowed to 
use the high-pressure cleaner – 
except for young trainees over the 
age of 16 when working under 
supervision.
–The machine should only be 
provided or loaned to people 
familiar with this model and its 
operation. The instruction manual 
should always be handed over with 
the machine.
–Do not use the machine if anyone 
not wearing protective clothing is in 
the working area.
–Before starting any work on the 
machine, e. g., cleaning, servicing, 
replacement of parts – unplug the 
power plug!Observe the national safety regulations 
issued, for example, by the employers 
liability insurance association, social 
security institutions, occupational safety 
and health authorities or other 
organizations.
When not using the machine, it must be 
put down in such a way that it does not 
endanger anyone. Ensure that the 
machine cannot be used without 
authorization, unplug the power cord.
The user is responsible for accidents or 
risks involving third parties or their 
property.
If using the machine for the first time: 
Have your STIHL dealer or another 
expert show you how to use it safely.
In some countries, operation of 
machines that emit noise may be 
restricted by municipal regulations. 
Observe national regulations.
Unsuitable extension cords may be 
dangerous. When working outdoors, 
use only extension cords that are 
approved for this use and 
correspondingly marked and have a 
sufficient cross-section.
Never touch the power plug, power cord 
and extension cord and electrical plug 
connections with wet hands.
Always check that the machine is in 
good working order before starting work. 
Pay particular attention to the power 
cord, mains plug, high-pressure hose, 
spray attachment and safety 
mechanisms.
Never operate the machine with a 
defective high-pressure hose – ensure 
that it is replaced immediately.The machine may only be used when all 
parts are in perfect working order.
The high-pressure hose must not be 
driven over, pulled, buckled or twisted.
Never pull the high-pressure hose or the 
power cord in order to move the 
machine.
The high-pressure hose must be 
approved for the permissible excess 
pressure of the machine.
The permissible excess pressure, the 
maximum permitted temperature and 
the date of manufacture are stated on 
the cladding of the high-pressure hose. 
The permissible pressure and date of 
manufacture are specified on the fittings.
Accessories and spare parts
–High-pressure hoses, fittings and 
couplings are important for machine 
safety. Only high-pressure hoses, 
fittings, couplings and other 
accessories which have been 
approved by STIHL for this machine 
or technically equivalent parts may 
be mounted on the machine. 
Contact a servicing dealer if in 
doubt. Use only high-quality 
accessories, in order to avoid the 
risk of accidents or damage to the 
machine.
–STIHL recommends the use of 
genuine STIHL parts and 
accessories. These have been 
optimized for the product and the 
users requirements.
Safety Precautions and 
Working Techniques
The high water pressure 
generated and the power 
connection are particular 
sources of danger.
It is important that you 
carefully read the entire 
Instruction Manual before 
using the machine for the 
first time and keep it in a 
safe place for future ref-
erence. Non-compliance 
with the Instruction Man-
ual may cause serious or 
even fatal injury.
Warning!
Warning! 
						

							Cleaning Systems Safety ManualEnglish
3 Never modify the machine in any way, 
as this could be extremely dangerous. 
STIHL excludes all liability for personal 
injury and damage to property caused 
while using unauthorized attachments.
Physical suitability
The machine may only be operated by 
people who are fit, in good physical 
health and in good mental condition. If 
you have any condition that might be 
aggravated by strenuous work, check 
with your doctor before operating a 
machine.
Anyone who has consumed alcohol, 
medicines affecting their ability to react 
or drugs must not operate the machine.
Applications
The high-pressure cleaner can be used 
to clean motor vehicles, machines, 
tanks, facades or stables and to remove 
rust without dust or sparks.
Other uses are not permitted and may 
lead to accidents or damage to the 
machine. 
Clothing and equipment
Wear shoes with non-slip soles.
Transporting the machine
When transporting the machine in or on 
a vehicle, it must be secured, e.g. with 
straps, so that it cannot slip or tip over.
Antifreeze is recommended if the 
machine and accessories are to be 
transported at temperatures near or 
below 0° C (32 °F) – see “Storing the 
Machine.Detergents
–Unsuitable detergents can cause 
damage to health, as well as to the 
machine and the object to be 
cleaned. Contact a servicing dealer 
if in doubt.
–STIHL recommends the use of 
genuine STIHL detergents. Follow 
the instructions for use.
–Chemical detergents may contain 
physiologically harmful (toxic, 
caustic, irritant), flammable or 
explosive substances. In the event 
of skin or eye contact with 
detergent, flush the affected body 
parts with plenty of clean water 
immediately. If detergent is 
swallowed, seek medical attention 
immediately. Note the 
manufacturers safety data 
sheets!
Detergents should always be used in the 
proportions specified by the 
manufacturer.
Before starting work
Only connect the high-pressure cleaner 
to the drinking water main in conjunction 
with a backflow preventer – see Special 
accessories. Wear goggles and pro-
tective clothing. STIHL 
recommends that a 
boilersuit be worn in 
order to reduce the risk of 
injury due to accidental 
exposure to the high-
pressure jet.
Warning!
Do not connect the high-
pressure cleaner directly 
to the drinking water 
main. 
						

							Cleaning Systems Safety Manual English
4 –If drinking water has passed 
through the backflow preventer, it 
can no longer be regarded as 
drinking water.
Do not use the machine with dirty water.
If there is a risk that dirty water will occur 
(e. g., flowing sand), an appropriate 
water filter must be used.
Inspecting the high-pressure cleaner
–The high-pressure cleaner should 
only be used if it is in full working 
order – risk of accident!
–It must be possible to move the 
switch to the 0 position easily
–The switch must be in the 0 position
–Inspect the high-pressure hose, 
spray attachment and safety 
mechanisms for damage
–High-pressure hose and spray 
attachment in good condition 
(clean, moving easily) and correctly 
assembled
–For good control of the machine, the 
handles should be clean and dry 
with no oil or dirt on them
–Never attempt to modify the controls 
or safety devices
Electrical connection
Minimize the risk of electrical shock:–Voltage and frequency of the 
machine (see rating plate) must 
match the voltage and frequency of 
the mains supply
–Examine the power cord, power 
plug and extension cord for 
damage. Damaged cords, 
couplings and plugs or power cords 
that do not comply with the 
regulations must not be used
–Only connect the machine to a 
correctly installed power socket
–The insulation on the power cord 
and any extension cord, the plug 
and the coupling must be fully intact
Route the power cord and extension 
cord properly:
–Observe the minimum cross-section 
of the individual cords – see 
Connecting the machine to the 
power supply
–Route and mark the power cord so 
that it cannot become damaged and 
no one is endangered – danger of 
stumbling!
–The connector and coupling of the 
extension cord must be waterproof 
or routed in such a way that they 
cannot come into contact with water 
– the connector and coupling of the 
extension cord must not lie in water
–dont let the cord rub against edges 
or pointed or sharp objects
–dont squeeze the cord under doors 
or windows–if cords become snarled – unplug 
the power plug and unsnarl the cord
–always unroll the power cord from 
the cable drum completely to avoid 
risk of fire due to overheating
During work
–Never draw in fluids containing 
solvents or undiluted acids and 
solvents (e. g., gasoline, heating oil, 
paint thinner or acetone). These 
substances damage the materials 
used in the machine. The spray is 
highly combustible, explosive and 
poisonous.
Ensure you always have a firm and safe 
footing. Warning!
Warning!
Warning!
Warning!
Warning!
Never direct the high-
pressure jet or water 
hose against the machine 
itself or against other 
electrical appliances and 
equipment – danger of 
short-circuiting!
Never direct the high-
pressure jet or water 
hose against electrical 
equipment, connections 
and power cords – dan-
ger of short-circuiting!
Never direct the high-
pressure jet against your-
self or other people, not 
even to clean clothing or 
shoes – risk of injury! 
						

							Cleaning Systems Safety ManualEnglish
5 Beware of slipping on ice, water, snow 
or uneven ground!
Keep the high-pressure cleaner as far 
away as possible from the object being 
cleaned.
The machine may only be operated in an 
upright position. Do not cover the 
machine and ensure adequate motor 
ventilation.
Do not direct the high-pressure jet 
against animals.
Do not direct the high-pressure jet onto 
places you cannot see.
Children, animals and bystanders must 
remain at a distance.
Hazardous substances (e. g., asbestos 
or oil) must not be allowed to escape into 
the environment unchecked when 
working with the machine. The 
applicable environmental regulations 
must be observed without fail.
Surfaces of asbestos cement must 
never be cleaned with a high-pressure 
jet. Hazardous, breathable asbestos 
fibers may be released in addition to the 
dirt. The danger is greatest when the 
washed surface has dried.
Delicate parts made of rubber, fabric 
or similar materials must not be cleaned 
with a pencil jet, e. g., from the rotary 
nozzle. Maintain a sufficient distance 
between the high-pressure hose and the 
surface when cleaning to avoid any 
damage to the surface being cleaned.The trigger on the spray gun must move 
easily and automatically return to its 
starting position when released.
Hold the spray attachment firmly with 
both hands in order safely to withstand 
the kickback force and additional torque 
produced when using spray 
attachments with angled spray lance.
Ensure that the power cord and the high-
pressure hose are not damaged by 
being driven over, squashed or pulled; 
protect them against heat and oil.
Do not touch the power cord with the 
high-pressure jet.
If the machine is subjected to unusually 
high loads for which it was not designed 
(e.g., heavy impact or a fall), always 
check that it is in good condition before 
continuing work - refer also to the 
chapter Before starting work. Also 
make certain that the safety 
mechanisms are working properly. 
Never continue using a machine that is 
not in perfect working order. Consult a 
servicing dealer if in doubt.
Before leaving the machine: Switch off 
the machine – unplug the power cord.
Safety equipment
When the safety equipment is activated, 
excessive pressure is returned to the 
intake side of the pump via a safety 
valve. This safety feature has been set 
by the manufacturer and must not be 
adjusted.
After finishing work
–Unplug the power plug from the 
socket
–Disconnect water intake hose 
between machine and water supply
Never unplug the power plug by pulling 
on the cord: always grip the plug itself. The plug must be discon-
nected immediately if the 
cord is damaged – dan-
ger of electrocution!
Switch off the 
machine before leav-
ing it! 
						

							Cleaning Systems Safety Manual English
6 Observe the national safety regulations 
issued, for example, by the employers 
liability insurance association, social 
security institutions, occupational safety 
and health authorities or other 
organizations.
When not using the machine, it must be 
put down in such a way that it does not 
endanger anyone. Ensure that the unit 
cannot be used without authorization, 
unplug the power cord.
The user is responsible for accidents or 
risks involving third parties or their 
property.
Anyone using a high-pressure cleaner 
for the first time: Have your STIHL 
dealer or another expert show you how 
to use it safely.
Minors should never be allowed to use 
the machine – except for young trainees 
over the age of 16 when working under 
supervision.Do not use the machine if anyone not 
wearing protective clothing is in the 
working area.
The machine should only be provided or 
loaned to people familiar with this model 
and its operation. The instruction 
manual should always be handed over 
with the machine.
In some countries, operation of 
machines that emit noise may be 
restricted by municipal regulations. 
Observe national regulations.
Unsuitable extension cords may be 
dangerous. When working outdoors, 
use only extension cords that are 
approved for this use and 
correspondingly marked and have a 
sufficient cross-section.
Never touch the power plug, power cord 
and extension cord and electrical plug 
connections with wet hands.
Always check that the machine is in 
good working order before starting work. 
Pay particular attention to the power 
cable, mains plug, high-pressure hose, 
spray attachment and safety 
mechanisms.
Never operate the machine with a 
defective high-pressure hose – ensure 
that it is replaced immediately.
The high-pressure hose must not be 
driven over, pulled, buckled or twisted.
Never pull the high-pressure hose or the 
extension cord in order to move the 
machine.
The high-pressure hose must be 
approved for the permissible excess 
pressure of the machine.The permissible excess pressure, the 
maximum permitted temperature and 
the date of manufacture are stated on 
the cladding of the high-pressure hose. 
The permissible pressure and date of 
manufacture are specified on the fittings.
Accessories and spare parts
High-pressure hoses, fittings and 
couplings are important for machine 
safety. Only high-pressure hoses, 
fittings, couplings and other accessories 
which have been approved by STIHL for 
this machine or technically equivalent 
parts may be mounted on the machine. 
Contact a dealer if in doubt. Use only 
high-quality accessories, in order to 
avoid the risk of accidents or damage to 
the machine.
STIHL recommends the use of genuine 
STIHL parts and accessories. These 
have been optimized for the product and 
the users requirements.
Never modify the machine in any way, 
as this could be extremely dangerous. 
STIHL excludes all liability for personal 
injury and damage to property caused 
while using unauthorized attachments.
Physical suitability
The machine may only be operated by 
people who are fit, in good physical 
health and in good mental condition. If 
you have any condition that might be 
aggravated by strenuous work, check 
with your doctor before operating a 
machine.
Safety Precautions and 
Working Techniques
The high water pressure 
generated and the power 
connection are particular 
sources of danger.
It is important that you 
carefully read the entire 
Instruction Manual before 
using the machine for the 
first time and keep it in a 
safe place for future ref-
erence. Non-compliance 
with the Instruction Man-
ual may cause serious or 
even fatal injury. 
						

							Cleaning Systems Safety ManualEnglish
7 Anyone who has consumed alcohol, 
medicines affecting their ability to react 
or drugs must not operate the machine.
Applications
The high-pressure cleaner can be used 
to clean motor vehicles, machines, 
tanks, facades or stables and to remove 
rust without dust or sparks.
Other uses are not permitted and may 
lead to accidents or damage to the 
machine. 
Clothing and equipment
Wear shoes with non-slip soles.
Transporting the machine
When transporting the machine in or on 
a vehicle, it must be secured, e.g. with 
straps, so that it cannot slip or tip over 
and the brake must be engaged.Antifreeze is recommended if the 
machine and accessories are to be 
transported at temperatures near or 
below 0° C (32 °F) – see “Storage”.
Detergent
Unsuitable detergents can cause 
damage to health, as well as to the 
machine and the object to be cleaned. 
Contact a dealer if in doubt.
STIHL recommends the use of genuine 
STIHL detergents. Follow the 
instructions for use.
Chemical detergents may contain 
physiologically harmful (toxic, caustic, 
irritant), flammable or explosive 
substances. Note the manufacturers 
safety data sheets!
Detergents should always be used in the 
proportions specified by the 
manufacturer.
Before starting work
Do not use the machine with dirty water.
If there is a risk that dirty water will occur 
(e. g., flowing sand), an appropriate 
water filter must be used.
Switch off the machine before filling with 
fuel.
The fuel tank may only be filled when the 
machine is switched off and the heat 
exchanger is cold. Do not smoke and 
keep the machine away from naked 
lights.Inspecting the high-pressure cleaner
The high-pressure cleaner should only 
be used if it is in full working order – risk 
of accident!
–It must be possible to move the 
switch to the 0 position easily
–The switch must be in the 0 position
–Inspect the high-pressure hose, 
spray attachment and safety 
mechanisms for damage
–High-pressure hose and spray 
attachment in good condition 
(clean, moving easily) and correctly 
assembled
–For good control of the machine, the 
handles should be clean and dry 
with no oil or dirt on them
–Check the oil level
–Never attempt to modify the controls 
or safety devices
Electrical connection
Minimize the risk of electrical shock:
–Voltage and frequency of the 
machine (see rating plate) must 
match the voltage and frequency of 
the mains supply
–Examine the power cord, power 
plug and extension cord for 
damage. Damaged cords, 
couplings and plugs or power cords 
that do not comply with the 
regulations must not be used
–Only connect the machine to a 
correctly installed power socket
–The insulation on the power cord 
and any extension cord, the plug 
and the coupling must be fully intact For reasons of hygiene, 
the machine is not suita-
ble for cleaning surfaces 
that come into contact 
with foodstuffs.
Wear goggles and pro-
tective clothing. STIHL 
recommends that a 
boilersuit be worn in 
order to reduce the risk of 
injury due to accidental 
exposure to the high-
pressure jet. 
						

							Cleaning Systems Safety Manual English
8 Route the power cord and extension 
cord properly:
–Observe the minimum cross-section 
of the individual cords – see 
Connecting the machine to the 
power supply
–Route and mark the power cord so 
that it cannot become damaged and 
no one is endangered – danger of 
stumbling!
–The connector and coupling of the 
extension cord must be waterproof 
or routed in such a way that they 
cannot come into contact with water 
– the connector and coupling of the 
extension cord must not lie in water
–dont let the cord rub against edges 
or pointed or sharp objects
–dont squeeze the cord under doors 
or windows
–if cords become snarled – unplug 
the power plug and unsnarl the cord
–always unroll the power cable from 
the cable drum completely to avoid 
risk of fire due to overheating
During work
Ensure you always have a firm and safe 
footing.
Beware of slipping on ice, water, snow 
or uneven ground!
Keep the high-pressure cleaner as far 
away as possible from the object being 
cleaned.
Do not cover the machine and ensure 
adequate motor ventilation.No smoking when working with or near 
the machine - risk of fire! The fuel tank 
may give off inflammable vapors.
In hot-water operation, do not touch 
metal parts of the spray attachment and 
the heat exchanger – Danger of burns!
Do not lean over the exhaust gas outlet 
and keep all parts of the body well clear 
of the exhaust gas outlet. Do not cover 
the exhaust gas outlet – Risk of burns 
and explosions!Do not direct the high-pressure jet 
against animals.
Do not direct the high-pressure jet onto 
places you cannot see.
Children, animals and bystanders must 
remain at a distance.
Hazardous substances (e. g., asbestos 
or oil) must not be allowed to escape into 
the environment unchecked when 
working with the machine. The 
applicable environmental regulations 
must be observed without fail.
Surfaces of asbestos cement must 
never be cleaned with a high-pressure 
jet. Hazardous, breathable asbestos 
fibers may be released in addition to the 
dirt. The danger is greatest when the 
washed surface has dried.
Never draw in fluids containing solvents 
or undiluted acids and solvents 
(e. g., gasoline, heating oil, paint thinner 
or acetone). These substances damage 
the materials used in the machine. The 
spray is highly combustible, explosive 
and poisonous.
Delicate parts made of rubber, fabric 
or similar materials must not be cleaned 
with a pencil jet, e. g., from the rotary 
nozzle. Maintain a sufficient distance 
between the high-pressure hose and the 
surface when cleaning to avoid any 
damage to the surface being cleaned.
The trigger on the spray gun must move 
easily and automatically return to its 
starting position when released. Toxic exhaust gases are 
produced in hot-water 
operation; these gases 
may be odorless and 
invisible. Never operate 
the machine in enclosed 
or poorly ventilated 
rooms.
The plug must be discon-
nected immediately if the 
cord is damaged – dan-
ger of electrocution!
Never direct the high-
pressure jet or water 
hose against the machine 
itself or against other 
electrical appliances and 
equipment – danger of 
short-circuiting!
Never direct the high-
pressure jet or water 
hose against electrical 
equipment, connections 
and power cables – dan-
ger of short-circuiting!
Never direct the high-
pressure jet against your-
self or other people, not 
even to clean clothing or 
shoes – risk of injury!