Stihl BG55 Carb Adjustment (5 Pro Tips for Optimal Blower Performance)

Stihl BG55 Carb Adjustment: 5 Pro Tips for Optimal Blower Performance

The Stihl BG55 is a popular blower, known for its reliability and power. However, like any small engine, the carburetor can become finicky over time. Adjusting it correctly is crucial for optimal performance, fuel efficiency, and engine longevity.

1. Understanding the BG55 Carburetor: A Foundation for Adjustment

Before you start twisting screws, it’s essential to understand the basics of your BG55’s carburetor. The carburetor’s primary function is to mix air and fuel in the correct ratio for combustion. A lean mixture (too much air, not enough fuel) can lead to overheating and engine damage. A rich mixture (too much fuel, not enough air) can cause stalling, poor performance, and increased fuel consumption.

The BG55 carburetor typically has two adjustment screws:

• High-Speed Screw (H): Controls the fuel mixture at high engine speeds.
• Low-Speed Screw (L): Controls the fuel mixture at idle and low engine speeds.

Some models may also have an idle speed adjustment screw (LA), which controls the engine’s idle speed.

Safety First: Always disconnect the spark plug wire before working on the carburetor to prevent accidental starting. Wear safety glasses and gloves. Work in a well-ventilated area.

2. The Initial Setup: Getting a Baseline

Before making any adjustments, ensure the air filter is clean and the spark plug is in good condition. A dirty air filter or a fouled spark plug can mimic carburetor problems.

Procedure:

1. Locate the Adjustment Screws: Identify the H and L screws on your carburetor. Consult your owner’s manual if you’re unsure of their location.
2. Gentle Touch: Using a small, flat-head screwdriver, gently turn both the H and L screws clockwise until they are lightly seated. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the screws and the carburetor.
3. Factory Setting: From the lightly seated position, back out both the H and L screws according to your owner’s manual. A common starting point is one full turn (360 degrees) counterclockwise. This sets the carburetor to the factory-recommended setting.

Why this matters: Starting with the factory setting provides a known baseline. From there, you can fine-tune the carburetor based on your specific needs and operating conditions.

3. Fine-Tuning the Low-Speed Screw (L): Idle Perfection

The low-speed screw primarily affects the engine’s performance at idle and during acceleration.

Procedure:

1. Start the Engine: Connect the spark plug wire and start the engine. Let it warm up for a few minutes.
2. Idle Speed Observation: Observe the engine’s idle speed. If the engine stalls or runs roughly at idle, adjust the L screw.
3. L-Screw Adjustment:
   • Lean Condition (Stalling): If the engine stalls at idle, slowly turn the L screw counterclockwise (richening the mixture) in small increments (1/8 turn). Wait a few seconds between adjustments to allow the engine to respond.
   • Rich Condition (Rough Idle): If the engine runs roughly at idle, slowly turn the L screw clockwise (leaning the mixture) in small increments.
4. Optimal Idle: The goal is to achieve a smooth, steady idle without stalling. The engine should also respond quickly and smoothly when you throttle up.
5. Idle Speed Screw (LA): If your BG55 has an idle speed screw (LA), use it to fine-tune the idle speed after adjusting the L screw. Turn it clockwise to increase the idle speed and counterclockwise to decrease it.

Pro Tip: Listen carefully to the engine’s sound. A properly adjusted low-speed circuit will produce a smooth, consistent idle.

4. Mastering the High-Speed Screw (H): Power and Performance

The high-speed screw controls the fuel mixture at full throttle. Proper adjustment is critical for maximizing power and preventing engine damage.

Procedure:

1. Full Throttle Test: With the engine warmed up, run it at full throttle for a few seconds.
2. H-Screw Adjustment:
   • Lean Condition (Surging): If the engine surges or hesitates at full throttle, slowly turn the H screw counterclockwise (richening the mixture) in small increments.
   • Rich Condition (Smoky Exhaust): If the engine produces excessive black smoke at full throttle, slowly turn the H screw clockwise (leaning the mixture) in small increments.
3. Optimal Power: The goal is to achieve maximum power and smooth operation at full throttle without any surging or excessive smoke.

Important: Running the engine too lean at high speed can cause it to overheat and seize. Be cautious when adjusting the H screw.

Pro Tip: A tachometer can be helpful for accurately setting the high-speed mixture. Consult your owner’s manual for the recommended RPM range for your BG55.

5. The “Ear Test” and Final Tweaks: Perfecting the Tune

Even with the best tools and knowledge, carburetor adjustment often comes down to “feel” and listening to the engine.

Procedure:

1. Accelerate Test: Rapidly accelerate the engine from idle to full throttle. The engine should respond smoothly and without hesitation. If it stumbles or bogs down, slightly richen the L screw.
2. “Four-Stroking” Test: At full throttle, listen for a slight “four-stroking” sound (a slight burbling or popping). This indicates a slightly rich mixture, which is generally safer than a lean mixture. If you don’t hear any four-stroking, slightly richen the H screw.
3. Plug Check: After running the engine for a while, remove the spark plug and examine its color. A light tan color indicates a properly adjusted mixture. A white or gray plug indicates a lean mixture, while a black or oily plug indicates a rich mixture.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment slightly. Small adjustments can make a big difference. Just remember to make changes in small increments and observe the engine’s response.

Wood Processing and Firewood Preparation: Cost Considerations

Now, let’s shift gears and talk about the costs associated with wood processing and firewood preparation. I’ve spent a fair amount of time felling trees and splitting wood, and I’ve learned that even seemingly small tasks can quickly add up. The BG55 blower, while primarily for cleanup, plays a role in this process, too, especially when you’re clearing debris and keeping your workspace safe.

Material Costs: The Foundation of Your Project

The cost of your raw materials – the wood itself – is a major factor in your overall budget. This can vary wildly depending on several factors:

• Wood Species: Hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory are typically more expensive than softwoods like pine and fir. This is due to their higher density, longer burning time, and BTU output. I remember one winter where I decided to go all-in on oak. The heat was incredible, but my wallet felt significantly lighter!
• Wood Quality: The presence of knots, rot, or insect damage can reduce the value of the wood.
• Source of Wood: Are you purchasing logs from a timber company, harvesting your own trees, or scavenging fallen wood? Each option has different cost implications.
• Location: Timber prices vary significantly by region. Areas with abundant forests tend to have lower prices than areas with limited timber resources.
• Seasonality: In some regions, timber prices may fluctuate seasonally, with higher prices during peak demand periods.

Data Points:

• According to the USDA Forest Service, the average stumpage price (the price paid for standing timber) for hardwood sawtimber in the Eastern United States can range from $50 to $200 per thousand board feet (MBF). Softwood sawtimber prices are typically lower, ranging from $20 to $80 per MBF. These are just averages, and actual prices can vary significantly based on the factors mentioned above.
• The average price per cord of seasoned firewood in the United States ranges from $200 to $400, depending on the wood species, location, and demand. Again, this is a broad average. I’ve seen prices both higher and lower, especially in rural areas where firewood is readily available.

Cost Breakdown Example (Firewood):

Let’s say I’m planning to prepare 5 cords of seasoned oak firewood.

• Cost of Logs: Assuming I purchase the logs for $100 per cord equivalent (a reasonable price in some areas), my material cost is $500.
• Permits (if required): This can vary greatly. Always check local regulations. Let’s assume $50 for a permit.
• Total Material Cost: $550

Labor Costs: Your Time is Money (or Someone Else’s)

If you’re doing all the work yourself, you might not think about labor costs. However, it’s important to consider the value of your time. How much is your time worth per hour? If you were to hire someone to do the work, what would they charge?

If you’re hiring a logging crew or firewood handlers, labor costs can be a significant expense.

• Logging Crew: The cost of hiring a logging crew can vary depending on the size of the crew, the complexity of the job, and the location. A typical logging crew might charge $500 to $1500 per day.
• Firewood Handlers: The cost of hiring firewood handlers can range from $15 to $30 per hour, depending on their experience and skill level.

Cost Breakdown Example (Firewood):

Continuing with my 5-cord firewood project:

• Labor (Self): Let’s say it takes me 20 hours to process and season the firewood. If I value my time at $20 per hour, my labor cost is $400.
• Labor (Hired): If I hired someone at $25/hour, the cost would be $500.

Tool Costs: Investing in Efficiency

The tools you use for wood processing and firewood preparation can significantly impact your efficiency and overall costs.

• Chainsaws: A good chainsaw is essential for felling trees and bucking logs. The cost of a chainsaw can range from $200 to $1000 or more, depending on the size, power, and features.
• Log Splitters: A log splitter can save you a lot of time and effort when splitting firewood. The cost of a log splitter can range from $500 to $5000 or more, depending on the type (manual, electric, gas-powered) and splitting force.
• Other Tools: You’ll also need other tools like axes, wedges, mauls, safety gear (helmet, chaps, gloves, eye protection), and potentially a wood chipper or grinder.

Cost Breakdown Example (Firewood):

• Chainsaw Maintenance: Assume $50 per year for bar oil, chain sharpening, and minor repairs.
• Log Splitter Rental: If I rent a log splitter for 2 days at $75 per day, the cost is $150.
• Safety Gear: Assume $100 for a good-quality helmet, chaps, and gloves (one-time cost, but amortized over several years).

Tool Cost Considerations:

• Purchase vs. Rental: Consider whether it’s more cost-effective to purchase tools outright or rent them as needed. If you only use certain tools occasionally, renting may be a better option.
• Used Tools: Buying used tools can save you money, but be sure to inspect them carefully before purchasing to ensure they are in good working condition.
• Maintenance: Proper tool maintenance is essential for extending the life of your tools and preventing costly repairs.

Operating Costs: Fueling the Fire

Operating costs include the expenses associated with running your equipment, such as fuel, oil, and maintenance.

• Fuel: The cost of fuel can vary depending on the type of equipment you’re using and the amount of work you’re doing.
• Oil: You’ll need to purchase oil for your chainsaw, log splitter, and other equipment.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as changing the oil, cleaning the air filter, and sharpening the chain, is essential for keeping your equipment running smoothly.

Cost Breakdown Example (Firewood):

• Fuel for Chainsaw and Log Splitter: Assume $50 for fuel.
• Oil for Chainsaw and Log Splitter: Assume $20 for oil.

Transportation Costs: Getting the Wood Where It Needs to Go

Transportation costs can include the expenses associated with hauling logs, firewood, or other materials.

• Truck Rental: If you don’t have your own truck, you may need to rent one to haul logs or firewood.
• Fuel: The cost of fuel for your truck can vary depending on the distance you’re traveling and the fuel efficiency of your truck.
• Trailer Rental: If you’re hauling a large amount of wood, you may need to rent a trailer.

Cost Breakdown Example (Firewood):

• Truck Rental (if needed): Assume $100 for a day’s rental.
• Fuel for Truck: Assume $30 for fuel.

Miscellaneous Costs: The Unexpected Expenses

There are always miscellaneous costs to consider, such as:

• Permits: You may need to obtain permits for harvesting timber or selling firewood.
• Insurance: You may need to purchase insurance to protect yourself from liability in case of an accident.
• Advertising: If you’re selling firewood, you may need to spend money on advertising.

Cost Breakdown Example (Firewood):

• Advertising (online listing): Assume $20.
• Contingency Fund: It’s always wise to set aside a contingency fund for unexpected expenses. Assume 10% of total project cost.

Budgeting and Cost Management: Practical Tips

Here are some practical tips for budgeting and managing costs in wood processing and firewood preparation projects:

Material Costs:

• Cost of Logs: $500
• Permits: $50
• Total Material Cost: $550

Labor Costs:

• Labor (Self – Valued at $20/hour): $400
• Total Labor Cost: $400

Tool Costs:

• Chainsaw Maintenance: $50
• Log Splitter Rental: $150
• Safety Gear (Amortized): $20 (assuming $100 cost spread over 5 years)
• Total Tool Cost: $220

Operating Costs:

• Fuel: $50
• Oil: $20
• Total Operating Cost: $70

Transportation Costs:

• Truck Rental: $100
• Fuel for Truck: $30
• Total Transportation Cost: $130

Miscellaneous Costs:

• Advertising: $20
• Contingency (10%): $137
• Total Miscellaneous Cost: $157

Total Project Cost:

• $550 (Material) + $400 (Labor) + $220 (Tool) + $70 (Operating) + $130 (Transportation) + $157 (Miscellaneous) = $1527

Cost Per Cord:

• $1527 / 5 cords = $305.40 per cord

Analysis:

This analysis shows that the cost of preparing firewood can be significant, even when doing much of the work myself. Labor is a major cost driver, followed by the cost of the logs. Tool costs and transportation costs also contribute significantly. By carefully managing these costs, I can reduce the overall cost of my firewood project. If I were to hire someone to do the labor, the cost per cord would increase significantly, potentially making it more cost-effective to purchase firewood directly.

Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps

So, what are the key takeaways from all this?

• Carb Adjustment is Key: A properly adjusted carburetor ensures optimal performance and fuel efficiency for your Stihl BG55 blower.
• Budgeting is Crucial: Careful budgeting and cost management are essential for successful wood processing and firewood preparation projects.
• Know Your Costs: Understand the various cost components involved in your projects, including material costs, labor costs, tool costs, operating costs, and transportation costs.
• Optimize Your Processes: Look for ways to optimize your processes and reduce costs, such as using efficient tools, minimizing waste, and doing some of the work yourself.

Next Steps:

1. Adjust Your Carburetor: Using the pro tips outlined in this article, adjust the carburetor on your Stihl BG55 blower to ensure optimal performance.
2. Create a Budget: Develop a detailed budget for your next wood processing or firewood preparation project.
3. Track Your Expenses: Keep track of your actual expenses and compare them to your budget.
4. Continuously Improve: Continuously look for ways to improve your processes and reduce costs.

Remember, wood processing and firewood preparation can be rewarding activities, but they require careful planning and execution. By following these tips and taking a proactive approach to cost management, you can ensure that your projects are successful and cost-effective. Now, get out there, tune that BG55, and make some sawdust!

Learn more