Stihl FS 360 C, FS 360, FS 260 Instruction Manual
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STIHL FS 260 C, 360 C
Instruction Manual
Notice d’emploi
G Instruction Manual
1 - 51
F Notice d’emploi
52 - 106
Original Instruction ManualPrinted on chlorine-free paper
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2016
0458-743-8221-B. VA1.C16.
0000003954_017_GB
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
1
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This instruction manual is protected by copyright. All rights reserved, especially the rights to reproduce, translate and process
with electronic systems.
Contents
Dear Customer,
Thank you for choosing a quality
engineered STIHL product.
It has been built using modern
production techniques and
comprehensive quality assurance.
Every effort has been made to ensure
your satisfaction and troublefree use of
the product.
Please contact your dealer or our sales
company if you have any queries
concerning this product.
Your
Dr. Nikolas Stihl
Guide to Using this Manual 2
Safety Precautions and Working
Techniques 2
Approved Combinations of Cutting
Attachment, Deflector, Limit Stop
and Harness 13
Mounting the Bike Handle 15
Adjusting the Throttle Cable 18
Mounting the Deflector 18
Mounting the Cutting Attachment 19
Fuel 24
Fueling 25
Fitting the Full Harness 26
Balancing the Machine 27
Starting / Stopping the Engine 28
Transporting the Unit 31
Operating Instructions 33
Air filter 33
Engine Management 34
Adjusting the Carburetor 34
Winter Operation 35
Spark Plug 36
Engine Running Behavior 37
Storing the Machine 38
Sharpening Metal Cutting Blades 38
Maintaining the Mowing Head 39
Inspection and Maintenance by
User 40
Inspections and Maintenance by
Dealer 41
Maintenance and Care 43
Main Parts 45
Specifications 47
Maintenance and Repairs 48
Disposal 49
STIHL Limited Emission Control
Warranty Statement 49
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
2
Pictograms
The meanings of the pictograms
attached to the machine are explained in
this manual.
Depending on the model concerned, the
following pictograms may be attached to
your machine.
Symbols in text
WARNING
Warning where there is a risk of an
accident or personal injury or serious
damage to property.
NOTICE
Caution where there is a risk of
damaging the machine or its individual
components.
Engineering improvements
STIHL's philosophy is to continually
improve all of its products. For this
reason we may modify the design,
engineering and appearance of our
products periodically.
Therefore, some changes, modifications
and improvements may not be covered
in this manual.
Observe all applicable local safety
regulations, standards and ordinances.
If you have not used this type of power
tool before: Have your dealer or other
experienced user show you how to
operate your machine or attend a
special course in its operation.
Minors should never be allowed to use a
power tool.
Keep bystanders, especially children,
and animals away from the work area.
When the power tool is not in use, shut it
off so that it does not endanger others.
Secure it against unauthorized use.
The user is responsible for avoiding
injury to third parties or damage to their
property.
Do not lend or rent your power tool
without the instruction manual. Be sure
that anyone using it understands the
information contained in this manual.
Guide to Using this Manual
Fuel tank; fuel mixture of
gasoline and engine oil
Operate decompression
valve
Manual fuel pump
Operate manual fuel
pump
Tube of grease
Intake air: Summer
operation
Intake air: Winter
operation
Handle heating
Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
Special safety precautions must be observed
when working with a
power tool.
It is important that you
read the instruction manual before first use and
keep it in a safe place for
future reference. Nonobservance of the
instruction manual may
result in serious or even
fatal injury.
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
3
The use of noise emitting power tools
may be restricted to certain times by
national or local regulations.
To operate the power tool you must be
rested, in good physical condition and
mental health.
If you have any condition that might be
aggravated by strenuous work, check
with your doctor before operating a
power tool.
Persons with pacemakers only: The
ignition system of your power tool
produces an electromagnetic field of a
very low intensity. This field may
interfere with some pacemakers. STIHL
recommends that persons with
pacemakers consult their physician and
the pacemaker manufacturer to reduce
any health risk.
Do not operate the power tool if you are
under the influence of any substance
(drugs, alcohol) which might impair
vision, dexterity or judgment.
Depending on the cutting attachment
fitted, use your power tool only for
cutting grass, wild growth, shrubs,
scrub, bushes, small diameter trees and
similar materials.
Do not use your power tool for any other
purpose because of the increased risk of
accidents.
Only use cutting attachments and
accessories that are explicitly approved
for this power tool model by STIHL or
are technically identical. If you have any
questions in this respect, consult a
servicing dealer. Use only high quality
tools and accessories in order to avoid
the risk of accidents and damage to the
machine.
STIHL recommends the use of genuine
STIHL tools and accessories. They are
specifically designed to match the
product and meet your performance
requirements.
Never attempt to modify your machine in
any way since this may increase the risk
of personal injury. STIHL excludes all
liability for personal injury and damage
to property caused while using
unauthorized attachments.
Do not use a pressure washer to clean
the unit. The solid jet of water may
damage parts of the unit.
The deflector on this power tool cannot
protect the operator from all objects
thrown by the cutting attachment
(stones, glass, wire, etc.). Such objects
may ricochet and then hit the operator.
Clothing and Equipment
Wear proper protective clothing and
equipment.
Avoid clothing that could get caught on
branches or brush or moving parts of the
machine. Do not wear a scarf, necktie or
jewelry. Tie up and confine long hair
(e.g. with a hair net, cap, hard hat, etc.).
Sturdy shoes with non-slip soles may be
worn as an alternative only when using
mowing heads.
WARNING
Wear a face shield and make sure it is a
good fit. A face shield alone does not
provide adequate eye protection.
Wear hearing protection, e.g. earplugs
or ear muffs.
Wear a safety hard hat for thinning
operations, when working in high scrub
and where there is a danger of head
injuries from falling objects.
STIHL offers a comprehensive range of
personal protective clothing and
equipment.
Clothing must be sturdy
but allow complete freedom of movement. Wear
snug-fitting clothing, an
overall and jacket combination, do not wear a
work coat.
Wear steel-toed safety
boots with non-slip soles.
To reduce the risk of eye
injuries, wear close-fitting safety glasses in
accordance with European Standard EN 166.
Make sure the safety
glasses are a snug fit.
Wear heavy-duty work
gloves made of durable
material (e.g. leather).
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
4
Transporting the Power Tool
Always stop the engine.
Carry the unit hanging from the shoulder
strap or properly balanced by the drive
tube.
To reduce the risk of cut injuries, fit
transport guard on a metal cutting
attachment, even when carrying the tool
for short distances.
Transporting by vehicle: Properly secure
your power tool to prevent turnover, fuel
spillage and damage.
Fueling
Always shut off the engine before
refueling.
Do not fuel a hot engine – fuel may spill
and cause a fire.
Open the fuel cap carefully to allow any
pressure build-up in the tank to release
slowly and avoid fuel spillage.
Fuel your power tool only in wellventilated areas. If you spill fuel, wipe
the machine immediately – if fuel gets on
your clothing, change immediately.
This reduces the risk of unit vibrations
causing the fuel cap to loosen or come
off and spill quantities of fuel.
To reduce the risk of serious or fatal
burn injuries, check for fuel leakage. If
fuel leakage is found, do not start or run
the engine until leak is fixed.
Before Starting
Check that your power tool is properly
assembled and in good condition – refer
to appropriate chapters in the instruction
manual.
– Check the fuel system for leaks,
paying special attention to visible
parts such as the tank cap, hose
connections and the manual fuel
pump (on machines so equipped). If
there are any leaks or damage, do
not start the engine – risk of fire.
Have your machine repaired by a
servicing dealer before using it
again.
– Use only an approved combination
of cutting attachment, deflector,
handle and harness. All parts must
be assembled properly and
securely.
– The stop switch must move freely.
– Check smooth action of choke
knob, throttle trigger lockout and
throttle trigger – the throttle trigger
must return automatically to the idle
position. The choke lever must
spring back from the g and <
positions to the run position F when
the throttle trigger lockout and
throttle trigger are squeezed.
– Check that the spark plug boot is
secure – a loose boot may cause
arcing that could ignite combustible
fumes and cause a fire.
– Check cutting tool or attachment for
correct and secure assembly and
good condition.
– Check protective devices (e.g.
deflector for cutting attachment,
rider plate) for damage or wear.
Always replace damaged parts. Do
not operate your machine with a
damaged deflector or worn rider
plate (lettering and arrows no longer
legible).
– Never attempt to modify the controls
or safety devices in any way.
To reduce the risk of serious burn injuries, avoid
touching hot parts of the
machine, including the
gearbox housing.
Gasoline is an extremely
flammable fuel. Keep
clear of naked flames. Do
not spill any fuel – do not
smoke.
002BA479 KN
After fueling, tighten
down the fuel tank cap as
securely as possible.
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
5
– Keep the handles dry and clean –
free from oil and dirt – for safe
control of the power tool.
– Adjust the harness and handle(s) to
suit your height and reach. See
chapters on "Fitting the Harness"
and "Balancing the Machine".
To reduce the risk of accidents, do not
operate your power tool if it is damaged
or not properly assembled.
If you use a shoulder strap or full
harness: Practice removing and putting
down the machine as you would in an
emergency. To avoid damage, do not
throw the power tool to the ground when
practicing.
Starting the Engine
Start the engine at least 3 meters from
the fueling spot, outdoors only.
Place the unit on firm ground in an open
area. Make sure you have good balance
and secure footing. Hold the unit
securely. The cutting attachment must
be clear of the ground and all other
obstructions because it may begin to run
when the engine starts.
Your power tool is a one-person unit. To
reduce the risk of injury from thrown
objects, do not allow other persons
within a radius of 15 meters of your own
position – even when starting.
Check idle speed setting: The cutting
attachment must not rotate when the
engine is idling with the throttle trigger
released.
To reduce the risk of fire, keep hot
exhaust gases and hot muffler away
from easily combustible materials (e.g.
wood chips, bark, dry grass, fuel).
Holding and Controlling the Power Tool
Always hold the power tool firmly with
both hands on the handles.
Make sure you always have good
balance and secure footing.
Right handle on control handle, left hand
on left handle.
During Operation
Make sure you always have good
balance and secure footing.
In the event of imminent danger or in an
emergency, press the stop switch to
shut off the engine.
The cutting attachment may catch and
fling objects a great distance and cause
injury - therefore, do not allow any other
persons within a radius of 15 meters of
your own position. To reduce the risk of
damage to property, also maintain this
distance from other objects (vehicles,
windows). Even maintaining a distance
of 15 meters or more cannot exclude the
potential danger.
The correct engine idle speed is
important to ensure that the cutting
attachment stops rotating when you let
go of the throttle trigger.
Check and correct the idle speed setting
regularly. If the cutting attachment
continues to rotate when the engine is
idling, have the machine checked by
your servicing dealer. STIHL
recommends an authorized STIHL
servicing dealer.
Take special care in slippery conditions
(ice, wet ground, snow) – on slopes or
uneven ground.
To reduce the risk of
injury, avoid contact with
the cutting attachment.
Do not drop start the
power tool – start the
engine as described in
the instruction manual.
Note that the cutting
attachment continues to
run for a short period
after you let go of the
throttle trigger – flywheel
effect.
002BA480 KN
15m (50ft)
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
6
Watch out for obstacles: Roots and tree
stumps which could cause you to trip or
stumble.
Always stand on the ground while
working, never on a ladder, work
platform or any other insecure support.
Be particularly alert and cautious when
wearing hearing protection because
your ability to hear warnings (shouts,
alarms, etc.) is restricted.
To reduce the risk of accidents, take a
break in good time to avoid tiredness or
exhaustion.
Work calmly and carefully – in daylight
conditions and only when visibility is
good. Stay alert so as not to endanger
others.
To reduce the risk of serious or fatal
injury from breathing toxic fumes,
ensure proper ventilation when working
in trenches, hollows or other confined
locations.
To reduce the risk of accidents, stop
work immediately in the event of
nausea, headache, visual disturbances
(e.g. reduced field of vision), problems
with hearing, dizziness, deterioration in
ability to concentrate. Apart from other
possibilities, these symptoms may be
caused by an excessively high
concentration of exhaust gases in the
work area.
Operate your power tool so that it
produces a minimum of noise and
emissions – do not run the engine
unnecessarily, accelerate the engine
only when working.
To reduce the risk of fire, do not smoke
while operating or standing near your
power tool. Note that combustible fuel
vapor may escape from the fuel system.
The dusts, vapor and smoke produced
during operation may be dangerous to
health. If the work area is very dusty or
smoky, wear a respirator.
If your power tool is subjected to
unusually high loads for which it was not
designed (e.g. heavy impact or a fall),
always check that it is in good condition
before continuing work – see also
"Before Starting".
Check the fuel system in particular for
leaks and make sure the safety devices
are working properly. Do not continue
operating your power tool if it is
damaged. In case of doubt, consult your
servicing dealer.
Do not operate your power tool with the
choke lever in the warm start position <
– the engine speed cannot be controlled
in this position.
Special care must be taken when
working in difficult, over-grown terrain.
When cutting high scrub, under bushes
and hedges: Keep cutting attachment at
a minimum height of 15 cm to avoid
harming small animals.
Always shut off the engine before
leaving the unit unattended.
Check the cutting attachment at regular
short intervals during operation or
immediately if there is a noticeable
change in cutting behavior:
– Turn off the engine. Hold the unit
firmly and wait for the cutting
attachment to come to a standstill.
– Check condition and tightness, look
for cracks.
– Check sharpness.
– Replace damaged or dull cutting
attachments immediately, even if
they have only superficial cracks.
Your power tool produces
toxic exhaust fumes as
soon as the engine is
running. These fumes
may be colorless and
odorless and contain
unburned hydrocarbons
and benzol. Never run
the engine indoors or in
poorly ventilated locations, even if your model
is equipped with a catalytic converter.
To reduce the risk
of injury from
thrown objects,
never operate the
unit without the
proper deflector for
the type of cutting
attachment being
used.
Inspect the work area:
Stones, pieces of metal
or other solid objects may
be thrown more than 15
meters and cause personal injury or damage
the cutting attachment
and property (e.g. parked
vehicles, windows).
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
7
Clean grass and plant residue off the
cutting attachment mounting at regular
intervals – remove any build up of
material from the cutting attachment and
deflector.
To reduce the risk of injury, shut off the
engine before changing the cutting
attachment.
When using mowing heads
Use only the deflector with properly
mounted line limiting blade to ensure the
mowing lines are automatically trimmed
to the approved length.
To reduce the risk of injury, always turn
off the engine before adjusting the nylon
line of manually adjustable mowing
heads
Using the unit with over-long nylon
cutting lines reduces the motor's
operating speed. The clutch then slips
continuously and this causes
overheating and damage to important
components (e.g. clutch, polymer
housing components) – and this can
increase the risk of injury from the
cutting attachment rotating while the
engine is idling.
Using metal cutting attachments
STIHL recommends the use of original
STIHL metal cutting attachments. They
are specifically designed to match your
model and meet your performance
requirements.
Metal cutting attachments rotate at very
high speed. The forces that occur act on
the machine, the attachment and the
material being cut.
Sharpen metal cutting attachments
regularly as specified.
Unevenly sharpened metal cutting
attachments cause out-of-balance
which can impose extremely high loads
on the machine and increase the risk of
breakage.
Dull or improperly sharpened cutting
edges can put a higher load on the
cutting attachment and increase the risk
of injury from cracked or broken parts.
Inspect metal cutting attachments for
cracks or warping after every contact
with hard objects (e.g. stones, rocks,
pieces of metal). To reduce the risk of
injury, remove burrs and other visible
build-ups of material (use a file) because
they may become detached and be
thrown at high speed during operation.
If a rotating metal cutting attachment
makes contact with a rock or other solid
object there is a risk of sparking which
may cause easily combustible material
to catch fire under certain
circumstances. Dry plants and scrub are
also easily combustible, especially in hot
and dry weather conditions. If there is a
risk of fire, do not use metal cutting
attachments near combustible
materials, dry plants or scrub. Always
contact your local forest authority for
information on a possible fire risk.
Do not continue using or attempt to
repair damaged or cracked cutting
attachments by welding, straightening or
modifying the shape (out of balance).
This may cause parts of the cutting
attachment to come off and hit the
operator or bystanders at high speed
and result in serious or fatal injuries.
To reduce the above-mentioned risks
when using a metal cutting attachment,
never use a metal cutting attachment
with a diameter larger than specified. It
must not be too heavy. It must be
manufactured from materials of
adequate quality and its geometry must
be correct (shape, thickness).
To reduce the risk of injury, a metal
cutting attachment not manufactured by
STIHL must not be heavier, thicker,
have a different shape or a diameter
larger than the largest metal cutting
attachment approved by STIHL for this
power tool model.
Vibrations
Prolonged use of the power tool may
result in vibration-induced circulation
problems in the hands (whitefinger
disease).
No general recommendation can be
given for the length of usage because it
depends on several factors.
The period of usage is prolonged by:
– Hand protection (wearing warm
gloves)
– Work breaks
The gearbox becomes
hot during operation. To
reduce the risk of burn
injury, do not touch the
gearbox housing.
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
8
The period of usage is shortened by:
– Any personal tendency to suffer
from poor circulation (symptoms:
frequently cold fingers, tingling
sensations).
– Low outside temperatures.
– The force with which the handles
are held (a tight grip restricts
circulation).
Continual and regular users should
monitor closely the condition of their
hands and fingers. If any of the above
symptoms appear (e.g. tingling
sensation in fingers), seek medical
advice.
Maintenance and Repairs
Service the machine regularly. Do not
attempt any maintenance or repair work
not described in the instruction manual.
Have all other work performed by a
servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends that you have
servicing and repair work carried out
exclusively by an authorized STIHL
servicing dealer. STIHL dealers are
regularly given the opportunity to attend
training courses and are supplied with
the necessary technical information.
Only use high-quality replacement parts
in order to avoid the risk of accidents
and damage to the machine. If you have
any questions in this respect, consult a
servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends the use of original
STIHL replacement parts. They are
specifically designed to match your
model and meet your performance
requirements.
To reduce the risk of injury from
unintentional engine startup, always
shut off the engine and disconnect the
spark plug boot before performing any
repairs, maintenance or cleaning work. –
Exception: Carburetor and idle speed
adjustments.
Do not turn the engine over on the
starter with the spark plug boot or spark
plug removed since there is otherwise a
risk of fire from uncontained sparking.
To reduce the risk of fire, do not service
or store your machine near open flames.
Check the fuel filler cap for leaks at
regular intervals.
Use only a spark plug of the type
approved by STIHL and make sure it is
in good condition – see "Specifications".
Inspect the ignition lead (insulation in
good condition, secure connection).
Check the condition of the muffler.
To reduce the risk of fire and damage to
hearing, do not operate your machine if
the muffler is damaged or missing. –
Do not touch a hot muffler since burn
injury will result.
Vibration behavior is influenced by the
condition of the AV elements – check the
AV elements at regular intervals.
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 make a
warranty claim for a component which
has not been serviced or maintained
properly or if nonapproved replacement
parts were used, STIHL may deny
coverage.
For any maintenance please refer to the
maintenance chart and to the warranty
statement near the end of the instruction
manual.
Symbols on Deflectors
An arrow on the deflector shows the
correct direction of rotation of the cutting
attachments.
Some of the following symbols are
applied to the outside of the deflector to
indicate the approved combination of
cutting attachment and deflector.
Deflector may be used
with mowing heads.
Deflector may be used
with grass cutting blades.
Deflector may be used
with brush knives.
Deflector may be used
with shredder blades.
Deflector must not be
used with mowing heads.
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
9
Harness
The harness is included with the
machine or available as a special
accessory.
N Use the harness.
N With the engine running, attach the
machine to the harness.
All cutting attachments must be used in
combination with a full harness with a
quick-release system.
Mowing Head with Nylon Line
Nylon line achieves a soft cut for edging
and trimming around trees, fence posts,
etc. – less risk of damaging tree bark.
The mowing head comes with an
instruction leaflet. Refill the mowing
head with nylon line as described in the
instruction leaflet.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of serious injury,
never use wire or metal-reinforced line in
place of the nylon line.
STIHL DuroCut
Check the wear limit marks!
If one of the wear limit marks imbedded
in the baseplate of the DuroCut
(exclamation marks) becomes visible,
do not continue using the mowing head
since it may otherwise be damaged.
Replace the worn baseplate.
The mowing head comes with
instruction leaflets. Equip the mowing
head only with nylon line as described in
the instruction leaflets.
WARNING
Never use wire in place of the nylon
mowing line – risk of injury.
STIHL Polycut Mowing Head with
Polymer Blades
For mowing unobstructed edges of
meadows (without posts, fences, trees
or similar obstacles).
Check the wear limit marks!
Deflector must not be
used with grass cutting
blades.
Deflector must not be
used with brush knives.
Deflector must not be
used with shredder
blades.
Deflector must not be
used with circular saw
blades.
002BA397 KN
000BA015 KN
681BA209 KN
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
10
If one of the wear limit marks on the
PolyCut mowing head is worn through
(arrow): Do not continue using the
mowing head. Install a new one. There
is otherwise a risk of injury from thrown
parts of the head.
It is important to follow the maintenance
instructions for the PolyCut mowing
head.
The PolyCut can also be equipped with
mowing line in place of the polymer
blades.
The mowing head comes with
instruction leaflets. Equip the mowing
head with polymers blades or nylon line
as described in the instruction leaflets.
WARNING
Never use wire in place of the nylon
mowing line – risk of injury.
Risk of Kickout (Blade Thrust) with Metal
Cutting Attachments
WARNING
The risk of kickout is greatest when the
black area of the rotating cutting
attachment comes into contact with a
solid object.
Grass Cutting Blade
Use for grass and weeds only – sweep
the brushcutter in an arc like a scythe.
WARNING
Improper use may damage the grass
cutting blade – risk of injury from thrown
parts.
Resharpen the grass cutting blade
according to instructions when it has
dulled noticeably.
Brush Knife
For cutting matted grass, wild growth
and scrub and thinning young stands
with a stem diameter of no more than
2 cm – do not cut thicker stems – risk of
accidents.
002BA396 KN
When using metal cutting attachments there is
a risk of kickout when the
rotating blade comes into
contact with a solid object
such as a tree trunk,
branch, tree stump, rock
or similar. The machine is
thrown to the right or to
the rear – opposite to the
attachment's direction of
rotation.
002BA135 KN
000BA020 KN
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
11
Use the brushcutter like a scythe (sweep
it to the right and left) at ground level
when cutting grass and thinning young
stands.
To cut wild growth and scrub, lower the
brush knife down onto the growth to
achieve a shredding effect – always
keep the cutting attachment below hip
level during this process.
Exercise extreme caution when using
this method of cutting. The higher the
cutting attachment is off the ground, the
greater the risk of injury from cuttings
being thrown sideways.
Warning! Improper use of a brush knife
may cause it to crack, chip or shatter –
risk of injury from thrown parts.
To reduce the risk of injury it is essential
to take the following precautions:
– Avoid contact with stones, rocks,
pieces of metal and other solid
foreign objects.
– Never cut wood or shrubs with a
stem diameter of more than 2 cm –
use a circular saw blade for such
work.
– Inspect the brush knife at regular
short intervals for signs of damage.
Do not continue working with a
damaged brush knife.
– Resharpen the brush knife regularly
and whenever it has dulled
noticeably, and have it balanced if
necessary (STIHL recommends a
STIHL servicing dealer).
Shredder Blade
Suitable for thinning and shredding
tough, matted grass and scrub.
To cut wild growth and scrub, lower the
shredder blade down onto the growth to
achieve a shredding effect – always
keep the cutting attachment below hip
level during this process.
Exercise extreme caution when using
this method of cutting. The higher the
cutting attachment is off the ground, the
greater the risk of injury from cuttings
being thrown sideways.
Warning! Improper use may damage the
shredder blade – risk of injury from
thrown parts.
To reduce the risk of injury it is essential
to take the following precautions:
– Avoid contact with stones, rocks,
pieces of metal and other solid
foreign objects.
– Never cut wood or shrubs with a
stem diameter of more than 2 cm –
use a circular saw blade for such
work.
– Inspect the shredder blade at
regular short intervals for signs of
damage. Do not continue working
with a damaged shredder blade.
– Resharpen the shredder blade
regularly and whenever it has dulled
noticeably, and have it balanced if
necessary (STIHL recommends a
STIHL servicing dealer).
Circular Saw Blade
Suitable for cutting shrubs and trees with
a maximum stem diameter of 7 cm.
Before starting the cut, accelerate the
engine up to full throttle. Perform cut
with uniform pressure.
Use circular saw blades only with a
matching limit stop of the correct
diameter.
002BA355 KN
002BA509 KN
002BA210 KN
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
12
WARNING
To reduce the risk of blade damage,
avoid contact with stones and the
ground. Resharpen the blade properly in
good time – dull teeth may result in the
blade cracking and shattering and
causing serious injury.
When felling, maintain a distance of at
least two tree lengths from the next
felling site.
Risk of kickout
The risk of kickout is highest in the black
area of the blade: Do not use this area of
the circular saw blade for cutting.
There is also a risk of kickout when
using the lighter shaded areas of the
blade: These areas of the blade should
only be used by experienced operators
with specialized training.
STIHL recommends that you use the
non-shaded area of the circular saw
blade. Always start the cut with this area
of the blade.
002BA449 KN
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
13
Approved Combinations of Cutting Attachment, Deflector, Limit Stop and Harness
Cutting Attachment Deflector, Limit Stop Harness
0000-GXX-0373-A0
1
6
13
14
15
19
20
21
22
24
4
2
16
17
18
23
9
10
7
8
11 12
3
5
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
14
Approved Combinations
Select correct combination from the
table according to the cutting
attachment you intend to use.
WARNING
For safety reasons only the cutting
attachments and deflectors or limit stops
shown in each row of the table may be
used together. No other combinations
are permitted because of the risk of
accidents.
Cutting attachments
Mowing heads
1 STIHL SuperCut 40-2
2 STIHL AutoCut 40-2
3 STIHL AutoCut 46-2
4 STIHL TrimCut 41-2
5 STIHL DuroCut 40-4
6 STIHL PolyCut 41-3
Metal cutting attachments
7 Grass cutting blade 230-4
(230 mm dia.)
8 Grass cutting blade 255-8
(255 mm dia.)
9 Grass cutting blade 250-40 Spezial
(250 mm dia.)
10 Grass cutting blade 250-44
1)
(250 mm dia.)
11 Brush knife 305-2 Spezial
(305 mm dia.)
12 Brush knife 300-3
(300 mm dia.)
13 Shredder blade 270-2
(270 mm dia.)
14 Scratcher tooth circular saw blade
200
(200 mm dia.)
15 Chisel tooth circular saw blade 200
(200 mm dia.)
16 Scratcher tooth circular saw blade
225
(225 mm dia.)
17 Chisel tooth circular saw blade 225
(225 mm dia.)
18 Carbide tipped circular saw blade
225
(225 mm dia.)
WARNING
Non-metal grass cutting blades, brush
knives, shredder blades and circular
saw blades are not approved.
Deflectors, Limit Stops
19 Deflector for mowing heads
20 Deflector for metal cutting
attachments, items 7 to 12
21 Deflector for shredder blade
22 Limit stop for circular saw blades,
items 14 and 15
23 Limit stop for circular saw blades,
items 16 and 18
Harness
24 Full harness must be used
1)
approved for FS 260 and FS 360
only
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
15
Mounting Bike Handle with Swivelling
Handle Support
The machine is supplied with the clamp
moldings (1) mounted to the
handlebar (2).
Mounting the Control Handle
N Take out the screw (3) and remove
the nut (4) from the control
handle (5).
N Line up control handle (5) in relation
to handlebar (2): Throttle trigger (6)
must point toward the gearbox and
the clamp screw (7) toward the
engine.
N Holding the control handle (5) in
that position, push it on to the end of
the handlebar (2) and line up the
holes (8).
N Fit the nut (4) in the control
handle (5), insert the screw (3) and
tighten it down firmly.
Assembling the Handle Support
To assemble the swivelling handle
support it is necessary to fit a spring in
the clamps and secure them to the
handle support on the machine.
Mounting the Bike Handle
2
1
6BA018 KN
3
4
5
002BA352 KN
7
5
6BA002 KN
6
2
8
6BA019 KN
2
8
3
5
4
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
16
N Use the spring (9) from the parts kit
supplied with the machine.
N Place the spring (9) in the lower
clamp molding (10).
N Position the clamp moldings (1) with
handlebar (2) on the handle
support (11).
N Raise the grip of the wing screw (7)
to the upright position.
N Turn the wing screw
counterclockwise as far as stop.
N Push the wing screw into the handle
support as far as stop and then
screw it down – but do not finally
tighten yet.
N Adjust the handlebar (2) so that
distance A is no more than 15 cm.
N Line up the handlebar at a right
angle to the drive tube.
N Turn the wing screw clockwise as
far as stop.
N Fold the grip of the wing screw down
so that it is flush.
FS 260: Fitting the Throttle Cable
NOTICE
Do not kink the throttle cable or lay it in
tight radii – make sure the throttle trigger
moves freely.
N Attach the throttle cable (12) to the
retainer (13).
6BA001 KN
9
10
11
1
6BA020 KN
2
A
6BA003 KN
2
7
6BA005 KN
6BA006 KN
12
13
002BA439 KN
13
12
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
17
Adjusting the Handlebar
Opening the wing screw
N Raise the grip of the wing screw to
the upright position.
N Turn the wing screw
counterclockwise until the handle
support can be moved.
N Move the handlebar to the required
position.
Closing the wing screw
N Turn the wing screw clockwise as
far as stop.
N Fold the grip of the wing screw down
so that it is flush.
Swiveling the Handlebar
Transport position
N Loosen the wing screw (7) and
unscrew it until the handlebar (2)
can be turned clockwise.
N Turn the handlebar 90° and then
swing the handles down.
N Tighten down the wing screw (7)
firmly.
Working position
N Reverse the sequence described
above to swing the handles up and
turn the handlebar
counterclockwise.
6BA023 KN
6BA004 KN
6BA007 KN
6BA005 KN
6BA006 KN
7
6BA008 KN
2
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
18
It may be necessary to correct the
adjustment of the throttle cable after
assembling the machine or after a
prolonged period of operation.
Adjust the throttle cable only when the
machine is completely and properly
assembled.
N Move the throttle trigger to the full
throttle position.
N Carefully rotate the screw in the
throttle trigger in the direction of the
arrow until you feel initial resistance.
Then rotate it another half turn in the
same direction.
Use the Right Deflector
WARNING
Deflector (1) is approved for mowing
heads only and must therefore be
mounted before fitting a mowing head.
WARNING
Deflector (2) is approved for grass
cutting blades and brush knives only and
must therefore be mounted before fitting
a grass cutting blade or brush knife.
WARNING
Deflector (3) is approved for shredder
blades only and must therefore be
mounted before fitting a shredder blade.
WARNING
The limit stop (4) is approved as a
deflector for circular saw blades only
and must therefore be mounted before
fitting a circular saw blade. It is also
necessary to change the guard ring (5),
see "Mounting the Cutting Attachment" /
"Mounting Circular Saw Blades".
Mounting the Deflector
Deflectors (1 to 4) are mounted to the
gearbox in the same way.
Adjusting the Throttle Cable
002BA655 KN
Mounting the Deflector
1
002BA401 KN
2
002BA402 KN
3
002BA403 KN
4
002BA404 KN
5
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
19
N Remove dirt from joints on gearbox
and defelector – make sure that no
dirt gets into the screw holes in the
gearbox.
N Place the deflector on the
gearbox (6).
N Insert the screws (7) and tighten
them down firmly.
Placing power tool on the ground
N Shut off the engine.
N Lay your power tool on its back so
that the cutting attachment
mounting face is pointing up.
Use the Right Guard Ring
Your power tool comes standard with a
guard ring.
The guard ring is also available as a
special accessory.
The guard ring must be mounted with
particular care. Have this work
performed by your servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends a STIHL servicing
dealer.
Guard ring for mowing applications
Always fit guard ring (1) when using
– mowing heads
– grass cutting blades
– brush knives
– shredder blades
to ensure optimum protection against
grass cuttings.
Guard ring for sawing applications
Fit guard ring (2) only when you use
circular saw blades.
7
6
002BA405 KN
Mounting the Cutting
Attachment
002BA406 KN
002BA490 KN
2
1
3
5
002BA491 KN
4
2
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
20
Mounting the Thrust Plate and Guard
Washer
N Fit the thrust plate (1) and guard
washer (2) on the shaft (3).
NOTICE
The thrust plate (1) on the gearbox is
necessary for mounting all cutting
attachments.
NOTICE
The guard washer (2) is required for
mounting
– mowing heads
– grass cutting blades
– brush knives
– shredder blades
to the gearbox. The guard washer is not
required for mounting circular saw
blades.
Checking the Thrust Plate
The thrust plate consists of the thrust
plate body (1) to which a captive guard
washer (2) is fitted.
WARNING
Never use a thrust plate without the
guard washer. Always replace a thrust
plate if the guard washer is missing.
Cleaning Gearbox Mounting Hardware
for Cutting Attachment
NOTICE
Check inside of guard ring (4) and area
around it for dirt at regular intervals, or
when you change the cutting
attachment, and clean if necessary as
follows:
N Pull the guard washer (1) and thrust
plate (2) off the shaft.
N Thoroughly clean the guard ring,
shaft, thrust plate and guard washer
– do not remove the guard ring.
Blocking the Shaft
The output shaft (1) must be blocked
with the stop pin (2) to mount or remove
cutting attachments. The stop pin is
included with the machine and is
available as a special accessory.
N Insert the stop pin (2) in the bore (3)
in the gearbox as far as stop, apply
slight pressure.
N Rotate shaft or cutting attachment
until the stop pin slips into position
and blocks the shaft.
Mounting the cutting attachment.
WARNING
Use a deflector that matches the cutting
attachment – see "Mounting the
Deflector".
002BA407 KN
1
2
3
4
1
2
1
681BA196 KN
2
002BA407 KN
1
2
3
4
2
3
1
0812BA021 KN
2
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
21
Fitting Mowing Head with Screw
Mounting
Keep the instruction leaflet for the
mowing head in a safe place.
N Screw the mowing head
counterclockwise on to the shaft (1)
as far as stop.
N Block the shaft.
N Tighten down the mowing head
firmly.
NOTICE
Remove the tool used to block the shaft.
Removing the Mowing Head
N Block the shaft.
N Unscrew the mowing head
clockwise.
Removing and Installing Metal Cutting
Attachments
Keep the leaflet and packaging of the
metal cutting attachment in a safe place.
WARNING
Wear protective gloves to reduce the
risk of direct contact with the sharp
cutting edges.
Mount only one metal cutting
attachment.
Mounting Grass Cutting Blades, Brush
Knife
Notice on new machines that come
standard with a mowing head only: A
"metal mowing attachment mounting kit"
is required to mount a grass cutting
blade or brush knife. Kits are available
from your servicing dealer.
Check direction of rotation of cutting
attachment
Cutting attachments 1, 4 and 5 may be
mounted either way round – they must
be turned over regularly to help avoid
one-sided wear.
The cutting edges of cutting
attachments 2 and 3 must point
clockwise.
N Use guard ring for mowing
attachments.
1
002BA385 KN
4
681BA133 KN
1
2
5
3
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
22
N Place the cutting attachment (1) in
position.
WARNING
Collar (a) must locate in the cutting
attachment's mounting hole (b).
Securing the cutting attachment
N Fit the thrust washer (2) – convex
side must face up.
N Fit the rider plate (3).
N Block the shaft.
N Fit the nut (4) counterclockwise and
tighten it down firmly.
WARNING
If the mounting nut has become too
loose, fit a new one.
NOTICE
Remove the tool used to block the shaft.
Removing the cutting attachment
N Block the shaft.
N Unscrew the mounting nut
clockwise.
N Pull the cutting attachment with its
mounting hardware off the gearbox.
Mounting Shredder Blade 270-2
Notice on new machines that come
standard with a mowing head only: In
addition to the "shredder blade mounting
kit", a "shredder blade retrofit kit" is
required to mount a shredder blade. Kits
are available from your servicing dealer.
N Use guard ring for mowing
attachments.
N Place the shredder blade (1) in
position – the cutting edges must
point upwards.
WARNING
Collar (a) must locate in the cutting
attachment's mounting hole (b).
Securing the cutting attachment
N Fit the thrust washer (2) – convex
side must face up.
N Fit the shredder blade guard ring (3)
– opening must face up.
N Block the shaft.
N Fit the nut (4) counterclockwise and
tighten it down firmly.
WARNING
If the mounting nut has become too
loose, fit a new one.
2
3
1
4
002BA409 KN
b
a
b
002BA410 KN
3
4
2
a
1
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
23
NOTICE
Remove the tool used to block the shaft.
Removing the cutting attachment
N Block the shaft.
N Unscrew the mounting nut
clockwise.
N Pull the cutting attachment with its
mounting hardware off the gearbox.
Mounting Circular Saw Blades
A limit stop kit, which includes a limit
stop and a guard ring for circular saw
blades, is available as a special
accessory for mounting circular saw
blades.
Notice on new machines that come
standard with a mowing head only:
Further mounting hardware is necessary
for a circular saw blade. It is available
from your servicing dealer.
Change the guard ring.
Recommendation: The guard ring must
be mounted with particular care. Have
this work performed by your servicing
dealer. STIHL recommends a STIHL
servicing dealer.
N Remove the guard washer (1) and
thrust plate (2).
N Remove the guard ring (3) for
mowing attachments.
N Keep the guard washer and guard
ring in a safe place for future use.
N Fit the guard ring (4) for saw blades.
N Slip the thrust plate (2) over the
shaft.
N Fit the limit stop (5) for circular saw
blades.
NOTICE
Do not use the guard washer (1) with
circular saw blades.
Check direction of rotation of cutting
attachment
Cutting edges of circular saw blades
must point clockwise.
N Place the cutting attachment (1) in
position.
WARNING
Collar (a) must locate in the cutting
attachment's mounting hole (b).
002BA490 KN
2
1
3
5
002BA491 KN
4
2
681BA165 KN
2
3
1
4
002BA423 KN
b
a
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
24
Securing the cutting attachment
N Fit the thrust washer (2) – convex
side must face up.
N Fit the rider plate (3).
A rider plate (3) for sawing applications
is available as a special accessory. It
allows the full depth of cut of the saw
blade to be used.
N Block the shaft.
N Fit the nut (4) counterclockwise and
tighten it down firmly.
WARNING
If the mounting nut has become too
loose, fit a new one.
NOTICE
Remove the tool used to block the shaft.
Removing the cutting attachment
N Block the shaft.
N Unscrew the mounting nut
clockwise.
N Pull the cutting attachment with its
mounting hardware off the gearbox.
This engine is certified to operate on
unleaded gasoline and with the mix ratio
50:1.
Your engine requires a mixture of highquality premium gasoline and highquality two-stroke air-cooled engine oil.
Use premium branded unleaded
gasoline with a minimum octane rating
of 89 (R+M)/2.
Note: Models equipped with a catalytic
converter require unleaded gasoline. A
few tankfuls of leaded gasoline can
reduce the efficiency of the catalytic
converter by more than 50%.
Fuel with a lower octane rating may
result in preignition (causing "pinging")
which is accompanied by an increase in
engine temperature. This, in turn,
increases the risk of the 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 as
well. This could cause running problems
or even damage the engine. For this
reason it is essential that you use only
high-quality fuels!
Fuels with different percentages of
ethanol are being offered. Ethanol can
affect the running behaviour of the
engine and increase the risk of lean
seizure.
Gasoline with an ethanol content of
more than 10% can cause running
problems and major damage in engines
with a manually adjustable carburetor
and should not be used in such engines.
Engines equipped with M-Tronic can be
run on gasoline with an ethanol content
of up to 25% (E25).
Use only STIHL two-stroke engine oil or
equivalent high-quality two-stroke aircooled engine oils for mixing.
We recommend STIHL 50:1 two-stroke
engine oil since it is specially formulated
for use in STIHL engines.
Do not use BIA or TCW (two-stroke
water cooled) mix oils!
Use only STIHL 50:1 heavy-duty engine
oil or an equivalent quality two-stroke
engine oil for the fuel mix in models
equipped with a catalytic converter.
Take care when handling gasoline.
Avoid direct contact with the skin and
avoid inhaling fuel vapour.
The canister should be kept tightly
closed in order to avoid any moisture
getting into the mixture.
The fuel tank and the canister in which
fuel mix is stored should be cleaned
from time to time.
Fuel mix ratio
Only mix sufficient fuel for a few days
work, not to exceed 30 days of storage.
Store in approved safety fuel-canisters
only. When mixing, pour oil into the
canister first, and then add gasoline.
Fuel
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
25
Dispose of empty mixing-oil canisters
only at authorized disposal locations.
Fuel Filler Cap
WARNING
When fueling on a slope, always position
the machine with the filler cap facing
uphill.
N Place the machine on level ground
so that the filler cap is facing up.
N Before fueling, clean the filler cap
and the area around it to ensure that
no dirt falls into the tank.
Opening the filler cap
N Turn the cap counterclockwise until
it can be removed from the tank
opening.
N Remove the cap.
Filling Up with Fuel
Take care not to spill fuel while fueling
and do not overfill the tank.
STIHL recommends you use the STIHL
filler nozzle for fuel (special accessory).
N Fill up with fuel.
Closing the filler cap
N Place the cap in the opening.
N Turn the cap clockwise as far as
stop and tighten it down as firmly as
possible by hand.
Examples
Gasoline Oil (STIHL 50:1 or equiva-
lent high-quality oils)
liters liters (ml)
10.02(20)
5 0.10 (100)
10 0.20 (200)
15 0.30 (300)
20 0.40 (400)
25 0.50 (500)
Fueling
2709BA025 KN
2709BA003 KN
2709BA004 KN
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
26
Fitting the full harness is described in
detail in the instruction sheet supplied.
The type and style of the harness
depend on the market.
FS 260
Putting on the harness
N Put on the full harness (1).
N Adjust the length of the strap so that
the carabiner (2) is about a hand’s
width below your right hip.
Attaching machine to harness
N Attach the carabiner (1) to the
carrying ring (2) on the shaft.
N Balance the machine – see
"Balancing the Machine".
Disconnecting machine from harness
N Press down the bar on the
carabiner (1) and pull the carrying
ring (2) out of the carabiner.
FS 360
Putting on the harness
N Put on the full harness (1).
N Adjust the length of the strap so that
the carabiner (2) is about a hand’s
width below your right hip.
N Attach the spring hook to the
machine's perforated rail (3).
N Find the right attachment point for
the cutting attachment you are
using – see "Balancing the
Machine".
Fitting the Full Harness
2
002BA607 KN
1
1
2
1
2
002BA604 KN
2
1
1
2
002BA606 KN
3
002BA411 KN
1
2
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
27
Attaching machine to harness
N Attach the carabiner (1) to the
perforated rail (2) on the drive tube.
Disconnecting machine from harness
N Press down the bar on the
carabiner (1) and pull the perforated
rail (2) out of the carabiner.
Throwing Off the Machine
WARNING
The machine must be quickly thrown off
in the event of imminent danger. To
throw off the machine, use the
procedure described under "Detaching
Machine from Harness". Practice
removing and putting down the machine
as you would in an emergency. To avoid
damage, do not throw the power tool to
the ground when practicing.
Practice slipping the harness off your
shoulders.
FS 260
Balanced positions
Mowing heads, grass cutting blades and
brush knives and shredder blades
should just touch the ground.
Circular saw blades should "hover"
about 20 cm above the ground.
The correct balanced position is
obtained as follows:
2
1
002BA631 KN
1
2
2
1
002BA632 KN
1
2
Balancing the Machine
002BA388 KN
002BA389 KN
FS 260 C, FS 360 C
English
28
Balancing the Machine
N Loosen the screw (3).
N Move the carrying ring (2) up or
down the shaft – tighten the screw
moderately – let the machine go and
wait until it comes to a rest – then
check the balanced position.
When the correct balanced position has
been reached:
N Tighten down the screw on the
carrying ring firmly.
FS 360
The unit is balanced differently
depending on the cutting attachment
used.
N With the unit suspended from the
harness, see how it is balanced and
change the attachment point as
necessary:
Balanced positions
Mowing heads, grass cutting blades and
brush knives and shredder blades
should just touch the ground.
Circular saw blades should "hover"
about 20 cm above the ground.
Controls
1 Throttle trigger lockout
2 Throttle trigger
3 Stop switch with Run and Stop
positions. Depress the stop switch
(…) to switch off the ignition.
Function of stop switch and ignition
system
The stop switch is normally in the Run
position, i.e. when it is not depressed:
The ignition is switched on – the engine
is ready to start. Operate the stop switch
to switch off the ignition. The ignition is
switched on again automatically after
the engine stops.
3
2
002BA605 KN
6BA009 KN
6BA010 KN
Starting / Stopping the
Engine
1
002BA483 KN
2
3
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