STIHL FC 55 Owner's Manual

STIH)

STIHL FC 55

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

	06.fm		Guide to Using this Manual ..............	2
			Safety Precautions ...........................	3
	004 01_		Using the Edger ..............................	13
			Mounting the Loop Handle .............	16
	006_		Fitting the Edger Blade ...................	17
			Fuel	18
	_
	_SE		Fueling	19
	BA
			Starting / Stopping
			the Engine ......................................	19
			Operating Instructions ....................	22
			Cleaning the Air Filter .....................	22
		recycled.	Motor Management ........................	23
			Adjusting the Carburetor	23
			Catalytic Converter* ........................	25
		can be	Checking the Spark Plug ................	25
			Lubricating the Gearbox .................	26
		paper	Rewind Starter ................................	26
			Storing the Machine	27
		oils;
			Inspections and
	paper.free-chlorineon vegetablecontaininks		Maintenance by Dealer	27
			Replacing the Depth Wheel ............	27
			Replacing the Skirt .........................	28
			Replacing the Edger Blade .............	28
			Maintenance Chart .........................	29
	Printed	Printing	Parts and Controls ..........................	30
			Specifications	32
			Special Accessories .......................	32
			Maintenance and Repairs ...............	33
			STIHL Incorporated Federal
		USA	and California Emission
			Control Warranty Statement	34
	KG, 2005	Printed in
	Co. PM.
	ANDREAS© STIHL AG &	24104583021. M1,5. H5.	STIHl
			* see “Guide to Using this Manual”

English / USA

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.

FC 55

1

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

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.

English / USA

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.

FC 55

3

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

!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 loose-

fitting 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.

English / USA

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.

FC 55

5

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.

002BA118 KN

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!

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

damage. Use extreme caution when handling gasoline or fuel mix.

Do not smoke or bring any fire or flame near the fuel.

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

FC 55

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.

FC 55

7

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.

FC 55

9

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

FC 55

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.

FC 55

11

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

English / USA

Using the Edger

!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.

FC 55

13

English / USA

		2
	1	KN
A		241BA001

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).

B

2 3

KN241BA002

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.

350BA022 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.

14

FC 55

English / USA

241BA003 KN	90°
: Tighten the wingnut clockwise.
: Standing in the normal working
position, check the depth of cut
again and correct it if necessary.
	241BA004 KN
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.

1

241BA005 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

FC 55

15

English / USA

Mounting the Loop Handle

223BA017 KN

223BA018 KN

	A
	1
		2
6
5	3
	4	KN
		232BA069

Adjusting loop handle to most comfortable position

:Loosen the wingnut (6).

:Slide or rotate the loop handle (1) on the drive tube as required.

:Tighten the wingnut (6).

: 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.

16

FC 55

English / USA

Fitting the Edger Blade

1

241BA006 KN

:Place the power edger on a suitable support so that the blade mounting (1) faces upwards.

		5
		6
	2	4
		3
		241BA011 KN

: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	7
9
8
	241BA012 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.

*see "Guide to Using this Manual"

FC 55

17

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.

Gaso-	Oil (STIHL 50:1 or
line	equivalent high-quality oils)
US gal.	US fl.oz
1	2.6
2 1/2	6.4
5	12.8

Dispose of empty mixing-oil canisters only at authorized disposal locations.

18

FC 55

Fueling

232BA046 KN

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

3 1 2

4

	5
7 6	KN
	232BA064

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.

English / USA

6

232BA065 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.

FC 55

19

English / USA

9

8

232BA011 KN

: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.

232TI013 KN 232BA012 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!

232BA014 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.

20

FC 55

8

232TI015 KN

If the engine is cold:

(choke position g)

: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 eand continue cranking.

If engine is warm:

:Continue cranking until engine runs (choke lever to e).

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 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.

English / USA

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.

FC 55

21

English / USA

: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.

Operating Instructions

Cleaning the Air Filter

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