The choke symbols on STIHL equipment usually show whether the choke is closed for a cold start or open for normal running. A closed choke restricts air to enrich the fuel mix for starting; an open choke lets normal airflow in once the engine fires.

What the symbols mean

  • A closed choke symbol usually means “cold start” or “full choke.” It limits air so the engine gets a richer fuel mix.
  • An open choke symbol usually means “run,” “warm start,” or normal operation.
  • Some STIHL models use a vertical line for closed and a diagonal or horizontal line for open.
  • If the engine starts briefly and then stalls, that often means you should move from choke to open/run position.

Why it matters

Using the wrong choke setting can make the engine hard to start or flood it with fuel. For a cold engine, start with choke closed; for a warm engine, use the open or warm-start position.

Simple rule

  1. Cold engine: choke closed.
  2. Engine fires: move choke open.
  3. Warm restart: usually open or partial choke, depending on the model.

If you want, I can also explain the symbols on a specific STIHL model, like a chainsaw, blower, or trimmer.