Stihl HS45 choke not closing properly

[mictrik]

I am wondering if other people have experienced this problem. The Choke on my Stihl HS45 hedge trimmer will not close properly and this is making it rather hard to start. The choke consists of a plastic lever that is attached to the air breather box. The pivot point for this lever is a bit loose so when you try to close the choke it becomes misaligned and leaves a gap, thus the carb is not choked. The way the system is constructed it seems I may have to buy the whole air breather box? Is this familiar to anyone? Does anyone have an IPL for the HS45 or know the part numbers? Any guidance is appreciated.

[JHugh]

You could try to replace the choke lever parts, but it usually ends up not fixing the problem. The easiest way to fix your problem is to replace the filter housing. The part numbers you will need are:

4228 140 2805- Filter Housing Kit (includes air filters)

4114 149 1205- Gasket

The parts should cost around $25.00

[4.3mudder]

Breather box is the way to go. I know the echos have/had the same design, but you could replace the lever, but I think on the Stihls they are made to be one piece from the factory.

[mictrik]

Thank you for the replies!! I agree with both of you, after looking more closely at the construction I think that replacing the filter housing is the proper way to go. Personally, I do think the design is a bit silly and lacking in terms of durability but then again it is considered "occasional use" for home owners. I wonder if this is a common problem that is likely to reoccur? In every other way the HS45 has performed admirably...

[4.3mudder]

I have an HS45, and never had this kind of problem with it. It is almost 2 years old