STIHL FC 85 Owner's Manual
STIHL FC 85
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
Working Techniques ....................... 12
Mounting the Loop Handle ............. 15
Adjusting the Throttle Cable* .......... 15
Fitting the Cutting Blade ................. 16
Fuel ................................................ 17
Fueling ............................................ 18
Starting / Stopping
Printing inks contain vegetable oils;
paper can be recycled.
the Engine ...................................... 19
Operating Instructions .................... 21
Cleaning the Air Filter ..................... 22
Motor Management ........................ 22
Adjusting the Carburetor ................ 23
Spark Arresting Screen*
in Muffler ......................................... 24
Checking the Spark Plug ................ 24
Lubricating the Gearbox ................. 25
Replacing the Starter Rope
and Rewind Spring ......................... 26
Storing the Machine ........................ 28
Replacing the Depth Wheel /
Gearbox Wheel .............................. 29
Replacing the Skirt ......................... 29
Printed on chlorine-free paper.© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2003
Replacing the Cutting Blade ........... 31
Checking and Replacing
the Wear Guard .............................. 31
Maintenance Chart ......................... 33
Parts and Controls .......................... 34
Specifications ................................. 36
Special Accessories ....................... 37
Maintenance and Repairs ............... 37
STIHL Incorporated
Federal Emission
Control Warranty Statement ........... 38
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
0458 245 3021. M1. E3. PM. Printed in USA
1FC 85
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:
: Step or procedure without direct
reference to an illustration.
Description of step or procedure that
refers directly to the illustration and
contains 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.
Warning where there is a risk of
damaging the machine or 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 refers to
several models with different
features. Components that are not
installed in all models and related
applications are marked thus
Such components are 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, we cannot be responsible for
changes, modifications or
improvements not covered in this
manual.
2
FC 85
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 85
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 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 85
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 85
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 dedris 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.
245BA002 KN
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
per-sonal 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.
The fuel filler cap may differ on different
models.
Cap with handle
!Warning!
To minimize the risk of fuel leakages and
fires due to a loose filler cap, it must be
inserted in the filler port correctly and
tightened down.
Lift the handle on top of
the STIHL filler cap so
that it is upright. Insert the
cap so that the triangular
mark on the handle is
aligned with that on the
filler port. Then turn the handle on the
filler cap as far as possible in clockwise
direction (approx. one-quarter turn).
Fold the handle down so
that it lies flat in the filler
cap. The cap has not
been fitted correctly if the
handle does not lie flush
with the filler cap and the
lock on the handle does not fit into the
corresponding recess in the filler port.
The cap must be refitted in this case.
Screw-on filler cap
! Important!
If the filler cap is not
screwed down tightly,
it may work loose as a
result of vibrations in the
machine, thus causing
considerable fuel
leakages. To avoid fires, the filler cap
must be screwed down as tightly as
possible after refueling. If the filler cap
has a slot, the screwdriver end of the
STIHL combination wrench or a similar
tool can be used to tighten down the
cap.
Starting
!Warning!
Your edger is a one-person machine.
7FC 85
English / USA
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.
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
colourless and odourless.
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.
8
FC 85
English / USA
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.
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
002BA117 KN
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.
9FC 85
English / USA
!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 stops: stop the engine,
disconnect spark plug lead, inspect for
damage and repair any damage before
restarting and operating the product.
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 serious or fatal injury.
!Warning!
A loose blade 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 injury 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.
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.
10
FC 85
English / USA
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.
11FC 85
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Working Techniques
!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.
245BA003 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 the work area and clear
away any obstacles (stones, gravel,
glass, etc.) to reduce the risk of
injury from thrown objects.
: Plan the best route for edging, i.e.
starting point, changes in direction,
etc. Always hold and operate your
edger on the right-hand side of the
body.
12
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2
1
A
Adjusting the depth of cut
: Shut off the engine and wait for the
cutting blade to come to a complete
standstill.
: Loosen wingnut (1)
counterclockwise
: Adjust wheel (2):
Upwards
to increase depth of cut (A).
Downwards
to reduce depth of cut (A).
245BA004 KN
3
B
Adjust correctly
The depth of cut varies, depending
on unevenness, your height and the
way you hold the edger.
: Use the following procedure:
Adjust the wheel (2) so that the
cutting blade (3) just touches the
ground or breaks the surface of the
soil by no more than 0.2" / 5 mm (B)
in the normal working position.
English / USA
2
245BA005 KN
Do not adjust the deflector!
The deflector has been set by the
manufacturer so that the arrow on the
deflector and the open side point away
from the operator. This ensures that
cuttings and other debris will be directed
away from the machine and operator.
245BA006 KN
13FC 85
English / USA
: Tighten wingnut clockwise.
: Standing in the normal working
position, check the depth of cut
again and correct it if necessary.
245BA007 KN
90°
Edging
: Start the engine.
: Start the cut at half throttle and
continue cutting at full throttle.
: Hold and guide the unit so that the
blade is vertical.
: Cut steadily so that the engine
speed does not decline to any major
extent – do not apply force!
: Cut at a normal walking pace.
: Do not push the blade into the
ground!
1
245BA008 KN
: Always walk forwards when cutting,
do not pull the unit towards you.
: Cut at a steady pace to avoid having
to make several passes.
1 = Gunning sight for cutting blade.
245BA009 KN
14
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Mounting the Loop Handle
1
2
3
A
: Fit the loop handle (1) on the drive
tube 8" / 20 cm (A) forward of the
control handle (2).
: Position the clamp (3) against the
drive tube and slide it into the loop
handle.
4
5
50 mm
355BA030 KN
: Fit square nut (4) in the loop handle,
insert the clamp screw (5) from the
other side and tighten down
securely.
Adjusting loop handle to most
comfortable position:
: Release clamp screw (5).
: Move the loop handle along the
drive tube as required - retighten the
clamp screw.
( 2" )
Adjusting the Throttle Cable*
A properly adjusted throttle cable is
the precondition for correct
operation in the full throttle, starting
throttle and idle positions.
Adjust the throttle cable only after
the unit is fully assembled – the
handle must be in the normal
operating position.
343BA023 KN
: Use a suitable tool to push the slide
to the bottom of the slot (see
illustration).
002BA163 KN
* see "Guide to Using this Manual"
15FC 85
English / USA
Fitting the Cutting Blade
1
1
5
2
: Press down the trigger interlock (1)
and squeeze the throttle trigger (2)
all the way (full throttle position) –
this sets the throttle cable correctly.
002BA161 KN
: Place the power edger on a
suitable support so that the blade
mounting (1) faces upwards.
245BA010 KN
6
4
3
: Insert stop pin* or Allen wrench* (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.
: Apply combination wrench (5) to
screw (6).
: Loosen screw clockwise (left-hand
thread) and take it out.
: Remove retaining ring, plain washer
and thrust washer.
2
406BA005 KN
16
* see "Guide to Using this Manual"
FC 85
Fuel
English / USA
7
12
11
7
10
4
9
8
: Position blade (7) on the thrust
plate (8).
Collar (see arrow) must engage
hole in blade!
: Fit thrust washer (4) on the drive
shaft (9).
: Block the drive shaft.
: Insert screw (12) with plain washer
(10) and retaining ring (11) in shaft
counterclockwise and tighten down
firmly.
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 brand-name 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
406BA006 KN
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 name brand
unleaded gasoline!
Use only STIHL two-stroke engine oil or
equivalent branded 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,
chain saws, 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.
17FC 85
English / USA
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.
Fueling
Gasoline
Oil (STIHL 50:1 or
equivalent branded oils)
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.
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.
389BA031 KN
Change the fuel pick up body every
year.
Before storing your machine for a long
period, drain and clean the fuel tank and
run engine until carburetor is dry.
389BA032 KN
18
FC 85
Starting / Stopping the Engine
English / USA
3
4
6
5
7
Controls
Throttle trigger interlock (1), throttle
trigger (2) and slide control (3) with
positions:
START (4),
# – normal run position (5) and
$ – stop (6).
To stop the engine: Push the slide
control in direction of c (7).
STOP
3
1
8
8
393BA017 KN
2
9
Starting
: Hold down the throttle trigger
interlock and squeeze the throttle
trigger.
: While holding both levers in this
position, move the slide control to
START and hold it there.
: Now release the throttle trigger,
slide control and trigger interlock in
that order. This is the starting
throttle position.
002BA179 KN
: Set the choke lever (8):
For cold start to
For warm start to e
Also use this setting if engine has
been running but is still cold.
: Press the fuel pump bulb (9) at least
five times – even if bulb is filled with
fuel.
g
393BA018 KN
19FC 85
English / USA
: Place the unit on the ground: It must
rest securely on the engine support
and the cutting tool deflector. Check
that the cutting tool 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 fan housing.
Do not stand or kneel on the drive
tube! This could permanently
damage the drive tube..
002BA038 KN002BA040 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.
: Continue cranking until the engine
runs.
When engine begins to fire:
: Move the choke lever to e and
continue cranking.
As soon as engine runs:
: Blip the throttle trigger – the slide
control moves to the run position # –
and the engine settles down to idle
speed.
Make sure the carburetor is correctly
adjusted – cutting tool must not rotate
when the engine is idling.
Your machine is now ready for
operation.
245BA013 KN
To shut down the engine:
: Move the slide control in direction of
c to $.
At very low outside temperatures:
As soon as engine runs:
: Blip the throttle trigger to disengage
the starting throttle position –
the slide control moves to the run
position # –
and the engine settles down to idle
speed.
: Open the throttle slightly and allow
engine to warm up for a brief period.
20
FC 85
English / USA
Operating Instructions
If the engine does not start:
Choke lever
If you did not move the choke lever to
e quickly enough after the engine
began to fire, the combuston chamber
is flooded.
: Move choke lever to e.
: Set the slide control, interlock lever
and throttle trigger to the starting
throttle position.
: Crank the engine by pulling the
starter rope briskly – 10 to 20 pulls
may be necessary.
10
If the engine still does not start:
: Move the slide control in direction of
c to $
: 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.
: Refit the spark plug.
: Connect the spark plug boot (press
it down firmly).
: Move slide control to START.
: Set choke lever to e – even if
engine is cold.
: Now start the engine.
Throttle cable adjustment
: Check adjustment of throttle cable –
see "Adjusting the Throttle Cable".
Fuel tank run until dry
: After refueling, press the fuel pump
bulb at least five times – even if bulb
is filled with fuel.
: Set choke lever to suit engine
393BA042 KN
temperature.
: 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.
21FC 85
English / USA
Cleaning the Air Filter
2
1
Dirty air filters reduce engine power
increase fuel consumption and make
starting more difficult.
If there is a noticeable loss of engine
power
: Move choke lever to g.
: Press in the tab (1).
: Ease the filter cover (2) over the tab
and take it away.
: Clean away loose dirt from around
the filter.
: Remove the foam and felt filter
elements.
2
3
4
355BA014 KN
: Wash the foam element in a clean,
non-flammable cleaning solution
(e.g. warm soapy water) and then
dry.
: Fit new felt element.
As a temporary measure you can
knock it out on the palm of your
hand or blow it out with compressed
air. Do not wash.
Replace damaged parts!
: Install the foam element (3) in the
filter cover (2).
: Place felt element (4) (lettering
facing inward) in filter housing (5).
: Fit filter cover so that it snaps into
position.
Motor Management
Exhaust emissions are controlled by the
design of the fundamental engine
parameters and components (e.g.
carburation, ignition, timing and valve or
port timing) without the addition of any
major hardware.
355BA031 KN
5
355BA032 KN
22
FC 85
Adjusting the Carburetor
English / USA
HL
3 / 4
1
LA
The carburetor comes from the factory
with a standard setting.
This setting provides an optimum fuel-air
mixture under most operating
conditions.
With this carburetor it is only possible to
adjust the high speed screw within fine
limits.
Standard Setting
: Shut off the engine.
: Mount the cutting blade and clean it
if necessary (make sure it is not
damaged or warped).
: Check adjustment of the throttle
cable* and readjust if necessary –
see "Adjusting the Throttle Cable".
: Check spark arresting screen* and
clean or replace if necessary
: Check the air filter and replace if
necessary.
: Turn high speed screw (H)
counterclockwise (max. 3/4 turn)
as far as stop.
: Carefully screw the low speed
265BA024 KN
screw (L) down onto its seat. Then
open it one turn counterclockwise.
: Start and warm up the engine.
: Adjust idle speed with the idle speed
screw (LA) so that the cutting blade
does not rotate.
Fine Tuning for Operation
at High Altitudes
A slight correction of the setting of the
high speed screw (H) may be necessary
if engine power is not satisfactory.
Rule of thumb
: Turn high speed screw (H) about
a quarter turn for every 3300 ft
(1000m) change in altitude.
: Carry out standard setting.
: Warm up the engine for about 5
minutes.
: Open the throttle wide.
: Turn high speed screw (H) clock-
wise (leaner) no further than stop
until there is no noticeable increase
in engine speed.
It is possible that maximum engine
speed may be reached with the
standard setting.
* see “Guide to Using this Manual”
23FC 85
English / USA
Adjusting Idle Speed
It is usually necessary to change the
setting of the idle speed screw (LA)
after every correction to the low speed
screw (L).
: Warm up the engine for about 5
minutes.
Engine stops while idling
: Turn idle speed screw (LA) slowly
clockwise until the engine runs
smoothly – cutting blade must not
rotate.
Cutting blade rotates when engine is
idling
: Turn idle speed screw (LA) slowly
counterclockwise until cutting blade
stops rotating and then turn the
screw about another 1/2 to 1 turn in
the same direction.
Erratic idling behavior
: Turn low speed screw (L) clockwise
(about 1/4 turn) until the engine runs
and accelerates smoothly.
Spark Arresting Screen* in Muffler
If the engine is low on power, check the
spark arresting screen in the muffler.
: Lift spark arresting screen and pull it
out sideways.
: Clean spark arresting screen if
necessary.
: If screen is damaged or coked up, fit
a new one.
: Refit the spark arresting screen.
Checking the Spark Plug
392BA035 KN
Wrong fuel mix (too much engine oil in
the gasoline), a dirty air filter and
unfavorable running conditions (mostly
at part throttle etc.) affect the condition of
the spark plug. These factors cause
deposits to form on the insulator nose
which may result in trouble in operation.
000BA002 KN
24
* see “Guide to Using this Manual”
FC 85
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