STIHL FC 55 Owner's Manual
STIHL FC 55
STIH)
Instruction Manual
Manual de instrucciones
Warning!
For safe operation follow all safety
precautions in Instruction Manual - improper
use can cause serious injury.
Advertencia!
Para su seguridad durante el manejo de este
producto, siga siempre las precauciones de
seguridad dadas en el manual de
instrucciones - el uso indebido puede causar
lesiones graves.
Contents
English / USA
Guide to Using this Manual .............. 2
Safety Precautions ........................... 3
Using the Edger .............................. 13
Mounting the Loop Handle ............. 16
Fitting the Edger Blade ................... 17
Fuel ................................................ 18
Fueling ............................................ 19
BA_SE_006_004_01_06.fmPrinted on chlorine-free paper.
Starting / Stopping
the Engine ...................................... 19
Operating Instructions .................... 22
Cleaning the Air Filter ..................... 22
Motor Management ........................ 23
Adjusting the Carburetor ................ 23
Catalytic Converter* ........................ 25
Checking the Spark Plug ................ 25
Lubricating the Gearbox ................. 26
Rewind Starter ................................ 26
Storing the Machine ........................ 27
Inspections and
Maintenance by Dealer .................. 27
Replacing the Depth Wheel ............ 27
Replacing the Skirt ......................... 28
Replacing the Edger Blade ............. 28
Maintenance Chart ......................... 29
Parts and Controls .......................... 30
Specifications ................................. 32
Printing inks contain vegetable oils; paper can be recycled.
Special Accessories ....................... 32
Maintenance and Repairs ............... 33
STIHL Incorporated Federal
and California Emission
Control Warranty Statement ........... 34
Allow only persons who understand this
manual to operate your edger.
To receive maximum performance and
satisfaction from your STIHL edger, it is
important that you read and understand
the maintenance and safety precautions
starting on page 3, before using your
edger.
Contact your STIHL dealer or the STIHL
distributor for your area if you do not
understand any of the instructions in this
manual.
!Warning!
Because an edger is a high-speed
cutting tool some special safety
precautions must be observed to reduce
the risk of personal injury.
Careless or improper use may cause
serious or even fatal injury. Make sure
your unit is equipped with the proper
deflector and handle for the type of
cutting attachment being used. Always
wear proper eye protection.
STIHL's philosophy is to continually
improve all of its products. As a result,
engineering changes and improvements are made from time to time. If the
operating characteristics or the appearance of your edger differs from those
described in this manual, please contact
your STIHL dealer for information and
assistance.
,
* see “Guide to Using this Manual”
STIHl
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2005
0458 241 3021. M1,5. H5. PM. Printed in USA
1FC 55
English / USA
Guide to Using this Manual
Pictograms
All the pictograms attached to the
machine are shown and explained in
this manual.
The operating and handling instructions
are supported by illustrations.
Symbols in text
The individual steps or procedures
described in the manual may be marked
in different ways:
: A bullet marks a step or procedure
without direct reference to an
illustration.
A description of a step or procedure that
refers directly to an illustration may
contain item numbers that appear in the
illustration.
Example:
Loosen the screw (1)
Lever (2) ...
In addition to the operating instructions,
this manual may contain paragraphs
that require your special attention. Such
paragraphs are marked with the
symbols described below:
Warning where there is a risk of an
accident or personal injury or
serious damage to property.
Caution where there is a risk of
damaging the machine or its
individual components.
Note or hint which is not essential
for using the machine, but may
improve the operator’s understanding of the situation and result
in better use of the machine.
Note or hint on correct procedure in
order to avoid damage to the
environment.
Equipment and features
This instruction manual may refer to
several models with different
features. Components that are not
installed on all models and related
applications are marked with an
asterisk (*). Such components may
be available as special accessories
from your STIHL dealer.
Engineering improvements
STIHL’s philosophy is to continually
improve all of its products. As a result,
engineering changes and improvements
are made from time to time. If the
operating characteristics or the
appearance of your machine differ from
those described in this manual, please
contact your STIHL dealer for
assistance.
Therefore some changes, modifications
and improvements may not be covered
in this manual.
2
FC 55
Safety Precautions
English / USA
Warning!
Because an edger is a
high-speed, fast-cutting
power tool, special safety
precautions must be
observed to reduce the risk of personal
injury.
It is important that you
read, fully understand and
observe the following
safety precautions and
warnings. Save this
owner's manual and read
the safety instructions periodically. Be
thoroughly familiar with the controls and
the proper use of the equipment. Know
how to stop the unit and disengage the
controls quickly.
Careless or improper use of any edger
may cause serious or fatal injury.
Have your STIHL dealer show you how
to operate your edger. Observe all
applicable local safety regulations,
standards and ordinances.
!Warning!
The use of any edger may be
hazardous. If the rotating cutting tool
comes in contact with your body, it will
cut you. When it comes in contact with
solid foreign objects such as rocks or
bits of metal, it may fling them directly or
by ricochet in the direction of bystanders
or the operator.
Striking such objects could damage the
cutting attachment and may cause
blades to crack, chip or break. Thrown
objects or damaged blades may result in
serious or fatal injury to the operator or
bystanders.
!Warning!
Minors should never be allowed to use
an edger. Bystanders, especially children and animals should not be allowed in
the area where an edger is in use.
Never let the edger run unattended.
!Warning!
Do not lend or rent your edger without
the owner's manual. Be sure that anyone using your edger understands the
information contained in this manual.
Most of these safety precautions and
warnings apply to the use of all STIHL
edgers. Different models may have
different parts and controls. See the
appropriate section of your owner's
manual for a description of the controls
and function of the parts of your model
edger.
Safe use of an edger involves
1. the operator
2. the edger
3. the use of the edger.
Save these instruction !
THE OPERATOR!
Physical Condition
You must be in good physical condition
and mental health and not under the
influence of any substance (drugs,
alcohol, etc.) which might impair vision,
dexterity or judgment. Do not operate an
edger when you are fatigued.
Be alert - if you get tired while operating
your edger, take a break.
Tiredness may result in loss of control.
Working with any edger can be
strenuous. If you have any condition that
might be aggravated by strenuous work,
check with your doctor before operating
an edger.
3FC 55
English / USA
!Warning!
Prolonged use of an edger (or other
machines) exposing the operator to
vibrations may produce whitefinger
disease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or
carpal tunnel syndrome. These conditions reduce the hand's ability to feel
and regulate temperature, produce
numbness and burning sensations and
may cause nerve and circulation
damage and tissue necrosis.
All factors which contribute to whitefinger disease are not known, but cold
weather, smoking and diseases or
physical conditions that affect blood
vessels and blood transport, as well as
high vibration levels and long periods of
exposure to vibration are mentioned as
factors in the development of whitefinger
disease. In order to reduce the risk of
whitefinger disease and carpal tunnel
syndrome, please note the following:
: Most STIHL power tools are
available with an anti-vibration
("AV") system designed to reduce
the transmission of vibrations
created by the engine to the
operator's hands. An AV system is
recommended for those persons
using power tools on a regular or
sustained basis.
: Wear gloves and keep your hands
warm.
: Keep the AV system well
maintained. An edger with loose
components or with damaged or
worn AV buffers will tend to have
higher vibration levels.
: Maintain a firm grip at all times, but
do not squeeze the handles with
constant, excessive pressures, take
frequent breaks.
All the above mentioned precautions do
not guarantee that you will not sustain
whitefinger disease or carpal tunnel
syndrome. Therefore continual and
regular users should monitor closely the
condition of their hands and fingers. If
any of the above symptoms appear,
seek medical advice immediately.
!Warning!
The ignition system of your unit
produces an electromagnetic field of a
very low intensity. This field may
interfere with some pacemakers. To
reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury,
persons with a pacemaker should
consult their physician and the
pacemaker manufacturer before
operating this tool.
Proper Clothing
!Warning!
Edger operation can
cause serious injury to
eyes, ears and person.
The deflector and skirt
provided with your edger
may not protect the
operator from all foreign objects (gravel,
glass, wire, etc.) thrown by the rotating
cutting attachment. Thrown objects may
also ricochet and strike the operator. To
reduce the risk of injury to your eyes
never operate an edger unless wearing
goggles or properly fitted safety glasses
with adequate top and side protection
complying with ANSI Z 87.1(or your
applicable national standard).
To reduce the risk of injury to your face
STIHL recommends that you also wear
a face shield or face screen over your
goggles or safety glasses.
4
FC 55
English / USA
!Warning!
Edger noise may damage
your hearing. Wear sound
barriers (ear plugs or ear
mufflers) to protect your
hearing. Continual and
regular users should have
their hearing checked regularly.
Wear proper protective clothing.
Protect your hands with
gloves when handling the
edger and the cutting tool.
Heavy-duty, nonslip
gloves improve your grip
and protect your hands.
Clothing must be sturdy
and snug-fitting, but allow
complete freedom of
movement. Avoid loosefitting jackets, scarfs,
neckties, jewelry, flared or
cuffed pants, unconfined long hair or
anything that could become caught on
branches, brush or moving parts of the
unit. Wear long pants made of heavy
material to protect your legs. Do not
wear shorts.
Good footing is most
important in edger work.
Wear sturdy boots with
nonslip soles. Do not
operate edger when
barefoot or wearing open
sandals. Steel-toed safety boots are
recommended.
Wear an approved safety
hard hat to reduce the risk
of injury to your head
when there is a danger of
head injuries.
THE EDGER
For illustrations and definitions of the
edger parts see the chapter on
“Parts and Controls“!
!Warning!
Never modify an edger in any way.
Only attachments supplied by STIHL or
expressly approved by STIHL for use
with the specific STIHL edger models
are authorized. Although certain unauthorized attachments are useable for
the STIHL edger, their use may, in fact,
be extremely dangerous.
THE USE OF THE EDGER
Transporting the edger
!Warning!
Always turn off the engine and make
sure the cutting attachment has stopped
before putting an edger down. When
transporting your edger in a vehicle,
properly secure it to prevent turnover,
fuel spillage and damage to the edger.
5FC 55
English / USA
Preparation for the use of the edger
Adjust carrying harness and hand grip to
suit your size before starting work.
The machine should be properly
balanced as specified in your owner's
manual for proper control and less
fatigue in operation.
Always check your edger for proper
condition and operation before starting,
particularly the throttle trigger, throttle
trigger interlock (and if applicable, stop
switch, cutting tool, deflector and
harness). An arrow on the deflector
shows the correct direction of rotation of
the cutting blade.
The arrow on the deflector must always
face away from you, so that cuttings and
other debris will be diverted away from
the machine and your position (see
chapter "Working Techniques").
The throttle trigger must move freely and
always spring back to the idle position.
The cutting tool must be properly
tightened and in safe operating
condition. Inspect for loose parts (nuts,
screws, etc.) and for cracked, bent,
warped or damaged blades.
Fueling
Your STIHL edger uses an oil-gasoline
mixture for fuel (see the chapter on
“Fuel“ of your owner's manual).
!Warning!
002BA118 KN
damage. Use extreme caution when
handling gasoline or fuel mix.
Do not smoke or bring any fire or flame
near the fuel.
Gasoline is an extremely
flammable fuel. If spilled
or ignited by a spark or
other ignition source, it
can cause fire and serious
burn injury or property
Fueling Instructions
Fuel your edger in well-ventilated areas,
outdoors. Use a fuel container
acceptable for the purpose.
!Warning!
Never attempt to fuel a running or hot
engine. Gasoline vapor pressure may
build up inside the gas tank depending
on the fuel used, the weather conditions,
and the venting system of the tank. In
order to reduce the risk of burns or other
personal injury from escaping gas vapor
and fumes, remove the fuel filler cap on
your edger carefully so as to allow any
pressure build-up in the tank to release
slowly. Never remove fuel filler cap while
engine is running.
Select bare ground for fueling and move
at least 10 feet (3 m) from the fueling
spot before starting the engine.
Replace fuel filler cap securely and
check for tightness.
Wipe off any spilled fuel before starting
your edger and check for leakage.
6
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English / USA
!Warning!
Check for fuel leakage while refueling
and during operation. If fuel or oil
leakage is found, do not start or run the
engine until leak is fixed and spilled fuel
has been wiped away.
Move at least 10 feet (3 m) from spot of
leakage before starting. Take care not to
get fuel on your clothing. If this happens,
change your clothing immediately.
Different models may have different fuel
caps.
Cap with Grip
!Warning!
In order to reduce the risk of fuel spillage
and fire from an improperly tightened
fuel cap, correctly position and tighten
the fuel cap in the fuel tank opening.
To do this with this STIHL
cap, raise the grip on the
top of the cap until it is
upright at a 90° angle.
Insert the cap in the fuel
tank opening with the
triangular marks on the grip of the cap
and on the fuel tank opening lining up.
Using the grip, turn the cap firmly
clockwise as far as it will go (approx. a
quarter turn).
Fold the grip flush with the
top of the cap. If the grip
does not lie completely
flush with the cap and the
detent on the grip does
not fit in the
corresponding recess in the filler neck,
the cap is not properly seated and
tightened and you must repeat the
above steps.
Screw Cap
!Warning!
Unit vibrations can cause
an improperly tightened
fuel filler cap to loosen or
come off and spill
quantities of fuel. In order
to reduce the risk of fuel
spillage and fire, tighten the fuel filler cap
by hand with as much force as possible.
7FC 55
English / USA
Starting
!Warning!
Your edger is a one-person machine.
Once started, it may fling foreign objects
for a great distance.
15m (50ft)
To reduce the risk of eye and other injury
insure that bystanders are at least 50
feet (15 m) away. Stop the engine and
cutting tool immediately if you are
approached.
Start and operate your edger without
assistance. For specific starting
instructions, see the appropriate section
of your manual.
Place the edger on firm ground or other
solid surface in an open area. Maintain a
good balance and secure footing.
To reduce the risk of injury from loss of
control, be absolutely sure that the
cutting tool is clear of you and all other
obstructions and objects, including the
ground, because when the engine starts
at starting-throttle, engine speed will be
fast enough for the clutch to engage and
turn the cutting tool.
When you pull the starter grip, don't
wrap the starter rope around your hand.
Do not allow the grip to snap back, but
guide the starter rope to rewind properly.
Failure to follow this procedure may
result in injury to hand or fingers and
may damage the starter mechanism.
Catalytic converter
!Warning!
Some STIHL edger
models are equipped with
a catalytic converter,
which is designed to
reduce the exhaust
emissions of the engine
by a chemical process in the muffler.
Due to this process, the muffler does not
cool down as rapidly as conventional
mufflers when the engine returns to idle
or is shut off. To reduce the risk of fire
and burn injuries, the following specific
safety precautions must be observed.
!Warning!
Since a muffler with a catalytic converter
cools down less rapidly than conventional mufflers, always set your edger
down in the upright position and never
locate it where the muffler is near dry
brush, grass, wood chips or other
combustible materials while it is still hot.
Let the engine cool down sitting on
concrete, metal, bare ground or solid
wood (e.g. the trunk of a felled tree)
away from any combustible substances.
!Warning!
To reduce the risk of fire or burn injury,
let the unit cool down before refueling
your edger after use.
!Warning!
Never disassemble or modify your
muffler. The muffler could be damaged
and cause an increase in heat radiation
or sparks, thereby increasing the risk of
fire or burn injury. You may also
permanently damage the engine. Have
your muffler serviced and repaired by
your STIHL Servicing Dealer only.
8
FC 55
English / USA
!Warning!
To reduce the risk of fire or burn injury,
keep the area around the muffler clean.
Remove all debris such as pine needles,
branches or leaves.
!Warning!
An improperly mounted or damaged
cylinder housing or a damaged/
deformed muffler shell may interfere
with the cooling effect of the catalytic
converter. To reduce the risk of fire or
burn injury, do not continue work with a
damaged or improperly mounted
cylinder housing or a damaged/
deformed muffler shell. Your catalytic
converter is furnished with screens
designed to reduce the risk of fire from
the emission of hot particles. Due to the
heat from the catalytic reaction, these
screens will normally stay clean and
need no service or maintenance. If you
experience loss of performance and you
suspect a clogged screen, have your
muffler maintained by a STIHL Servicing
Dealer.
Working Conditions
Operate and start your edger only
outdoors in a well ventilated area.
!Warning!
Your edger produces toxic
exhaust fumes as soon as
the engine is running.
These gases (e.g.
carbonmonoxide) may be
colorless and odorless. To
reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury
from inhaling toxic fumes, never run the
edger indoors or in poorly ventilated
locations.
!Warning!
Use of this product can generate dust
and fumes containing chemicals known
to cause respiratory disease, cancer,
birth defects, or other reproductive
harm. If you are unfamiliar with the risks
associated with the particular dust or
fume at issue, consult your employer,
governmental agencies such as OSHA
and NIOSH and other sources on
hazardous materials. California and
some other authorities, for instance,
have published lists of substances
known to cause cancer, reproductive
toxicity, etc.
Control dust and fumes at the source
where possible. In this regard use good
work practices and follow the
recommendations of OSHA/NIOSH and
occupational and trade associations.
When the inhalation of toxic dust and
fumes cannot be eliminated, the
operator and any bystanders should
always wear a respirator approved by
NIOSH/MSHA for the type of dust and /
or fumes encountered.
002BA117 KN
Operate the edger under good visibility
and daylight conditions only. Work
carefully.
Always hold the edger firmly with both
hands. Wrap your fingers tightly around
the handles, keeping the handles
cradled between your thumb and
forefinger. Keep your hands in this
position to have your edger under
control at all times.
9FC 55
English / USA
Make sure your edger handles and grip
are in good condition and free of
moisture, pitch, oil or grease.
!Warning!
Never attempt to operate any edger with
one hand. Loss of control of the edger
resulting in serious or fatal injury may
result.
Special care must be taken in slippery
conditions (wet ground, snow) and in
difficult, over-grown terrain. Watch for
hidden obstacles such as tree stumps,
roots and ditches to avoid stumbling.
Stay alert for uneven side walks, holes in
terrain or other similiar conditions when
using your edger. Always push slowly
over rough ground. Do not abuse your
edger.
!Warning!
Before cutting, inspect
and clear the area of
stones, glass, pieces of
metal, trash or other solid
objects. The cutting
attachment could throw
objects of this kind and cause personal
injury.
Do not use edger on gravel surfaces.
!Warning!
Never divert discharge of material
toward bystanders nor allow anyone
near the area of operation. Use care in
directing discharge to avoid glass
enclosures, automobiles, and the like.
!Warning!
To reduce the risk
of injury from
thrown objects and
blade contact,
never operate an
edger without properly mounted
deflector and skirt. Do not overreach.
Keep proper footing and balance at all
times.
!Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury
from blade contact, keep
hands and feet away from
cutting area.
!Warning!
This edger is normally to be used at
ground level with the cutting attachment
perpendicular to the ground. Use of an
edger above ground level or with the
cutting attachment parallel to the ground
may increase the risk of injury, since the
cutting attachment is more fully exposed
and the edger may be more difficult to
control. Never use your edger as a
hedge trimmer.
!Warning!
When using your edger, avoid cutting
close to fences, sides of buildings, tree
trunks, stones or other such objects that
could cause the edger to kick out or
could cause damage to the blade. In
addition, be alert to an increased risk of
ricochets in such situations.
If the edger strikes a foreign object,
follow these steps: stop the engine,
disconnect spark plug lead, inspect for
damage and repair any damage before
restarting and operating the product.
10
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English / USA
Do not operate using the starting throttle
lock as you do not have control of the
engine speed. See section of your
owner's manual on the proper use of the
slide control.
If the cutting tool or deflector becomes
clogged or stuck, always turn off the
engine, disconnect spark plug lead and
make sure the cutting tool has stopped,
before cleaning. Keep lead away from
spark plug to reduce the risk of unintentional starting. Grass, weeds, etc.
should be cleaned off the cutting tool at
regular intervals.
!Warning!
During cutting, check the tightness and
the condition of the cutting tool at regular
intervals. If the behavior of the tool
changes, stop the engine immediately,
and check the nut securing the tool for
tightness and the cutting tool for cracks
and damage.
If the edger vibrates abnormally, immediateley stop the engine and check for
the cause. Vibration is generally a
warning of trouble. Replace cracked,
bent, warped, damaged, excessively
worn or dull cutting tools immediately.
Such tools may shatter at high speed
and cause a serious or fatal injury.
!Warning!
A loose nut may cause the blade to
vibrate, crack, break or come off the
edger, which may result in serious or
fatal injury. Make sure that the blade is
properly tightened. Use the wrench
supplied or one of sufficient length to
obtain the proper torque. If the blade
loosens after being properly tightened,
stop work immediately. The retaining nut
may be worn or damaged and should be
replaced.
Never use unauthorized parts to secure
the blade. Failure to use the proper parts
may cause the blade to fly off and
seriously injure the operator or
bystanders. If the blade continues to
loosen, see your STIHL dealer. Do not
attach any blade to a unit without proper
installation of all required parts. Never
use an edger with a loose blade.
!Warning!
Never touch a rotating cutting tool with
your hand or any part of your body. The
tool continues to rotate for a short period
after the throttle trigger is released
(flywheel effect).
Important adjustments
!Warning!
At correct idle speed, the cutting tool
should not turn. For directions on how to
adjust idle speed, see the appropriate
section of your owner's manual.
11FC 55
English / USA
Do not use an edger with incorrect idle
speed adjustment. You may adjust the
idle speed yourself according to the
instructions in your manual. If you
cannot set the correct idle speed, have
your STIHL dealer check your edger and
make proper adjustments or repairs.
Operating instructions
Use only for edging in grass, weeds and
soft green plants.
!Warning!
During operation, follow all safety
precautions mentioned in the important
safety precaution section of this manual.
Improper use of any edger can cause
serious or fatal personal injury.
In order to reduce risk of eye injury
always wear proper eye protection and
operate product from position where
guards or deflector blocks the line of
sight to the cutting tool.
Stop the engine whenever you leave the
operating position.
Maintenance, Repair and Storing
Maintenance, replacement, or repair
of the emission control devices and
systems may be performed by any
nonroad engine repair establishment
or individual. However if you claim
warranty for a component which has
not been serviced or maintained
properly or if nonapproved
replacement parts were used, STIHL
may deny warranty.
Use only identical STIHL replacement
parts for maintenance and repair. Use of
parts manufactured by others may
cause serious or fatal injury.
Follow the maintenance and repair
instructions in the appropriate section of
your owner's manual. Please refer to the
maintenance chart at the last pages of
this manual.
!Warning!
Always stop the engine, disconnect the
spark plug lead and make sure that the
cutting tool is stopped before doing any
maintenance or repair work or cleaning
the edger.
Keep lead away from spark plug to
reduce the risk of unintentional starting.
Never attempt to make any adjustments
while the engine is running (except
where specifically recommended in this
manual).
Do not attempt any maintenance or
repair work not described in your
owner's manual. Have such work
performed at your STIHL service shop
only. Do not modify the engine governor
or overspeed the engine.
Never repair damaged cutting
attachments by welding, straightening or
modifying the shape. This may cause
parts of the cutting tool to come off and
result in serious or fatal injuries.
Check condition of cutting tool at regular
short intervals. If behavior of tool
changes, check it immediately for
tightness or any signs of cracks in
particular. Replace damaged or dull
cutting tools immediately, even if they
have only superficial cracks.
Check fuel filler cap for leaks at regular
intervals. Use the specified spark plug
and make sure it and the ignition lead
are always in good condition.
12
FC 55
Using the Edger
English / USA
!Warning!
A worn or damaged muffler is a fire
hazard and may cause loss of hearing.
Check to see that the muffler is in good
condition. The edger must not be
operated if the muffler is not functioning
properly or has been removed.
Remember that the risk of forest fires is
greater in hot weather.
Use the spark arresting muffler supplied
with the unit. Never touch a hot muffler
or burn will result.
!Warning!
In order to reduce the risk of fire, do not
modify or remove any part of the muffler
or spark arrestor.
Tighten all nuts, bolts and screws except
the carburetor adjustment screws after
each use.
Keep spark plug and wire connection
tight and clean. The spark plug electrode
gap should be checked with a feeler
gauge at least every 50 operating hours
and reset if necessary. Fit a new spark
plug if the electrodes are badly pitted.
Additionally, the daily maintenance
schedule for your edger set forth in your
STIHL Owner's Manual should be
strictly followed.
For any maintenance please refer to the
maintenance chart and to the warranty
statement near the end of this manual.
Store edger indoors in a dry, high or
locked location out of reach of children.
Before storing for longer than a few
days, always empty the fuel tank.
Never store the machine with fuel in the
fuel tank inside a building where fumes
may reach an open flame or sparks, or in
a confined area such as a car trunk.
241BA000 KN
Your power edger is designed to
produce sharp contoured borders
around lawns and flower-beds. It will cut
almost all types of grass, weeds and soft
green plants.
Preparations
If the soil is very dry, spray it with water
before you start work: this softens the
soil a little and also reduces the amount
of dust created. Slightly damp green
plants are easier to cut.
: Inspect and clear the work area to
reduce the risk of injury from thrown
objects.
: Plan the best route for edging.
Always hold and operate your edger
on the right-hand side of your body.
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2
1
A
Adjusting Depth of Cut
: Shut off the engine and wait for the
blade to come to a complete
standstill.
: Loosen the wingnut (1)
counterclockwise.
: Adjust the wheel (2):
Upwards to increase
depth of cut (A).
Downwards to reduce
depth of cut (A).
241BA001 KN
3
B
Adjust correctly
The depth of cut varies, depending
on uneveness of the ground, your
height and the way you hold the
edger.
Use the following procedure:
: Adjust the depth wheel (2) so that
the blade (3) just touches the
ground or breaks the surface of the
soil by no more than 1/4“ (5 mm) (B)
in the working position.
2
241BA002 KN
Do not adjust the deflector
The deflector has been set at the factory
so that the arrow on the deflector and
the open side point away from the
operator. This ensures that cuttings and
other debris are directed away from the
machine and operator.
350BA022 KN
14
FC 55
English / USA
1
: Tighten the wingnut clockwise.
: Standing in the normal working
position, check the depth of cut
again and correct it if necessary.
241BA003 KN
90°
Edging
: Start the engine.
: Start the cut at no less than half
throttle and continue cutting at full
throttle.
: Hold and guide your edger so that
the blade is vertical.
: Cut steadily so that the engine is not
lugged down – do not apply force.
: Cut at a normal walking pace.
: Do not push the blade into the
ground.
241BA004 KN
: Always walk forwards when cutting,
do not pull the unit towards you.
: Edge at a steady pace to avoid
having to make several passes.
1 = Gunning sight for edger blade
241BA005 KN
15FC 55
English / USA
Mounting the Loop Handle
223BA017 KN
6
Adjusting loop handle to most
comfortable position
A
1
: Loosen the wingnut (6).
: Slide or rotate the loop handle (1) on
the drive tube as required.
: Tighten the wingnut (6).
2
5
3
4
223BA018 KN
: Place friction liner in the loop handle : Fit the loop handle (1) on the drive
tube, approx. 20 cm (8 in) (A)
forward of the control handle (2).
: Push the spacer (3) (not all markets)
into the loop handle until it fits
snugly.
: Insert the screw (4) through the loop
handle and the spacer so that the
screw head locates in the hexagon
recess.
: Fit the washer (5) and wingnut (6)
and tighten down firmly.
232BA069 KN
16
FC 55
Fitting the Edger Blade
English / USA
1
: Place the power edger on a
suitable support so that the blade
mounting (1) faces upwards.
5
241BA006 KN
6
2
4
3
: Insert stop pin* or offset
screwdriver* (2) as far as possible in
the bore (3) – push lightly and rotate
it back and forth together with the
thrust washer (4) until the drive shaft
is blocked.
: Fit combination wrench (5) on the
nut (6).
: Loosen and remove the nut
clockwise (left-hand thread).
: Remove the thrust washer.
7
10
6
4
9
8
241BA011 KN
: Position blade (7) on the thrust
plate (8).
Collar (see arrow) must engage
hole in blade.
: Fit thrust washer (4) on the shaft (9).
: Block the shaft.
: Screw the nut (6) on to the shaft
counterclockwise and tighten down
firmly.
If the cup spring (10) on the nut (6)
becomes fatigued, install a new nut.
7
241BA012 KN
* see "Guide to Using this Manual"
17FC 55
English / USA
Fuel
This engine is certified to operate on
unleaded gasoline and the STIHL twostroke engine oil at a mix ratio of 50:1.
Your two-stroke engine requires a
mixture of high-quality gasoline and
quality two-stroke air cooled engine oil.
Use mid-grade unleaded gasoline with a
minimum octane rating of 89 (R+M/2). If
the octane rating of the mid-grade
gasoline in your area is lower, use
premium unleaded fuel.
Fuel with a lower octane rating may
increase engine temperatures. This, in
turn, increases the risk of piston seizure
and damage to the engine.
The chemical composition of the fuel is
also important. Some fuel additives not
only detrimentally affect elastomers
(carburetor diaphragms, oil seals, fuel
lines, etc.), but magnesium castings and
catalytic converters as well. This could
cause running problems or even
damage the engine. For this reason
STIHL recommends that you use only
nationally recognized high-quality
unleaded gasoline!
Use only STIHL two-stroke engine oil or
equivalent high-quality two-stroke
engine oils that are designed for use
only in air cooled two-cycle engines.
We recommend STIHL 50:1 two-stroke
engine oil since it is specially formulated
for use in STlHL engines.
Do not use BIA or TCW rated (twostroke water cooled) mix oils or other
mix oils that state they are for use in both
water cooled and air cooled engines
(e.g., outboard motors, snowmobiles,
chainsaws, mopeds, etc.).
Take care when handling gasoline.
Avoid direct contact with the skin and
avoid inhaling fuel vapor. When filling at
the pump, first remove the canister from
your vehicle and place the canister on
the ground before filling. Do not fill fuel
canisters that are sitting in or on a
vehicle.
The canister should be kept tightly
closed in order to avoid any moisture
getting into the mixture.
The machine‘s fuel tank and the canister
in which fuel mix is stored should be
cleaned as necessary.
Fuel mix ages
Only mix sufficient fuel for a few days
work, not to exceed 3 months of storage.
Store in approved fuel-canisters only.
When mixing, pour oil into the canister
first, and then add gasoline. Close the
canister and shake it vigorously by hand
to ensure proper mixing of the oil with
the fuel.
Gasoline
US gal. US fl.oz
12.6
2 1/2 6.4
512.8
Dispose of empty mixing-oil canisters
only at authorized disposal locations.
Oil (STIHL 50:1 or
equivalent high-quality oils)
18
FC 55
English / USA
Fueling
Before fueling, clean the filler cap and
the area around it to ensure that no dirt
falls into the tank.
Always thoroughly shake the mixture in
the canister before fueling your
machine.
In order to reduce the risk of burns
or other personal injury from
escaping gas vapor and fumes,
remove the fuel filler cap carefully
so as to allow any pressure build-up
in the tank to release slowly.
After fueling, tighten fuel cap as
securely as possible by hand.
Starting / Stopping the Engine
2
1
3
232BA046 KN
5
6
7
Controls
Stop switch (1) with positions:
I – normal run position (2) and
O – stop (3).
Throttle trigger interlock (4), throttle
trigger (5) with spring-loaded tongue (6)
and notch (7) in tongue.
4
6
232BA064 KN
Starting
: Set stop switch to position I
: Press down the throttle trigger
interlock and hold it there.
: Squeeze the throttle trigger and
engage the tongue (6) in the
housing (arrow).
: Now release the the throttle trigger,
tongue and throttle interlock in that
order. This is the starting throttle
position.
232BA065 KN
19FC 55
English / USA
9
232BA012 KN
8
: Set the choke lever (8):
for cold start to
g
for warm start to e
: Press fuel pump bulb (9) at least
5 times – even if bulb is filled with
fuel.
20
232BA011 KN
: Place the unit on the ground: It must
rest securely on the engine support
and the depth wheel.
Check that the blade is not touching
the ground or any other obstacles.
: Make sure you have a firm footing.
: Hold the unit with your left hand and
press it down firmly – your thumb
should be under the housing.
Do not stand or kneel on the drive
tube!
232TI013 KN
: Pull the starter grip slowly with your
right hand until you feel it engage
and then give it a brisk strong pull.
Do not pull out the starter rope all
the way – it might otherwise break.
: Do not let the starter grip snap back.
Guide it slowly back into the housing
so that the starter rope can rewind
properly.
232BA014 KN
FC 55
English / USA
8
If the engine is cold:
(choke position
: Pull the starter rope five times.
: Set choke lever (8) to e.
: Continue cranking until engine runs.
Note: If the engine does not start
after 10 pulls with the choke lever
set to e :
Set choke to g, pull the starter rope
five times, then set choke
to e and continue cranking.
If engine is warm:
: Continue cranking until engine runs
(choke lever to e).
g)
As soon as the engine runs
: Squeeze throttle until the tongue
disengages –
the engine will settle down to idle
speed.
If the engine stops while warming up
232TI015 KN
or under acceleration:
: Repeat starting procedure as
described under “If engine is cold“.
! Make sure carburetor is correctly
adjusted – the blade must not rotate
when engine is idling.
Your machine is now ready for
operation.
To shut down the engine:
: Move the stop switch to O.
Additional hints on starting
- If the engine does not start
: Make sure all settings are correct
(choke shutter, throttle trigger in
starting throttle position, stop switch
on I)
: Repeat the starting procedure.
10
232BA048 KN
- If the engine still does not start:
: Move stop swith to O
: Pull off the spark plug boot (10).
: Unscrew and dry off the spark plug.
: Open the throttle wide.
: Crank the engine several times with
the starter to clear the combustion
chamber.
21FC 55
English / USA
Operating Instructions Cleaning the Air Filter
: Refit the spark plug and connect the
spark plug boot – push it down
firmly.
: Set the stop switch to I
: Set choke lever to e – even if
engine is cold.
: Now start the engine.
Fuel tank run until dry
: After refueling, press the fuel pump
bulb at least five times – even if bulb
is filled with fuel.
: Now start the engine.
During break-in period
A factory new machine should not be run
at high revs (full throttle off load) for the
first three tank fillings. This avoids
unnecessary high loads during the
break-in period. As all moving parts
have to bed in during the break-in
period, the frictional resistances in the
engine are greater during this period.
The engine develops its maximum
power after about 5 to 15 tank fillings.
During operation
After a long period of full-throttle
operation, allow engine to run for a while
at idle speed so that the heat in the
engine can be dissipated by flow of
cooling air. This protects enginemounted components (ignition,
carburetor) from thermal overload.
After finishing work
Wait for engine to cool down. Drain the
fuel tank. Store the machine in a dry
place. Check tightness of nuts and
screws (not adjusting screws) at regular
intervals and retighten as necessary.
2
1
232BA017 KN
Dirty air filters reduce engine power
increase fuel consumption and make
starting more difficult.
If there is a noticeable loss of engine
power
: Set choke lever to g
: Press in the tab (1) and swing the
filter cover (2) open.
: Clean away loose dirt from around
the filter.
22
FC 55
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