A jammed hedge trimmer can turn a smooth gardening session into a frustrating chore. If your hedge trimmer blades are stuck or won't work, here's how to diagnose and rectify the problem with three simple checks.

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Check the Blades

The blades are usually the first place to inspect when you're having hedge trimmer issues. There are a couple of things to look out for when checking the blades:

Look for Obstructions

Firstly, inspect the blades for any visible blockages, like branches, wires, or fencing. These could get lodged in between the blades and the guard, causing them to jam. Clear out any debris you find.

Check the Angle

If there are no obstructions, the next step is to check the angle of each tooth on the blade and the guard. A bent tooth or guard can cause jamming. If they are bent, you can straighten them using a pair of pliers or a light hammer.

Check the Gearbox

If you've ensured the blades are clean and straight but the problem persists, the problem may lie inside the gearbox.

Access and Inspect the Gears

Access to the gearbox may vary depending on the model. For instance, the gearbox on the Stihl HSA 65 is located at the bottom. To access the gearbox, simply unscrew the hardware and remove the cover. Once inside, take a close look at the gears driving the blades and make sure they aren't dislodged or broken and can spin freely.

You can do this by unscrewing the hardware located a the base of the cutter bars allowing the blade assembly to come loose.  

Test the Motor

While the assembly is apart from the base, put in the battery and test the motor to ensure it's effectively spinning the drive gear. If all is well, move on to the final check.

Check the Bearings

The last diagnostic check is to assess the bearings. Make sure the bearings, whether at the top or on the cutter bar, are in good shape and can rotate freely.

Reassembly
 

After diagnosing and fixing any issues, it's crucial to lubricate the trimmer before reassembly. Apply a generous amount of high-temp grease on the cutter bar and within the gearbox. Make sure the grease reaches all corners for optimal performance.

Once everything is back in place and properly greased, it's time to put your trimmer back together. Make sure the gears are properly aligned and the assembly is seated firmly.

Testing & Explanations

Run a test to ensure everything is working as it should. If you've followed all the steps, your hedge trimmer should be back to normal operation.

It's important to understand the common issues you may encounter. For instance, with a battery or electric unit, the blades might seem like they want to move but can't. Often, this is due to internal gears hitting against each other instead of rotating. This can happen if the trimmer hits a wire, fence, or particularly hard wood.

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By following these steps, you can easily diagnose and fix a jammed STIHL hedge trimmer. Regular maintenance is essential for optimal performance, whether your machine is gas or battery-powered.

If you have questions about any of the information above or are just more of a visual learner, head over to our YouTube channel and watch our video (also attached below)! Leave a comment or question and receive a personal reply from Brent, our resident John Deere expert. Be sure to subscribe and thanks for reading!