Stihl FS 55R, FS 55 Instruction Manual
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STIHL FS 55
Instruction Manual
Notice d’emploi
G Instruction Manual
1 - 38
F Notice d’emploi
39 - 79
Original Instruction ManualPrinted on chlorine-free paper
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2011
0458-233-8221-C. M7.C11.CP.
0000002417_006_GB
FS 55, FS 55 C, FS 55 R, FS 55 RC
English
1
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Contents
Dear Customer,
Thank you for choosing a quality
engineered STIHL product.
This machine 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 machine.
Please contact your dealer or our
sales company if you have any
queries concerning your machine.
Your
Hans Peter Stihl
Guide to Using this Manual 2
Safety Precautions and Working
Techniques 2
Approved Combinations of Cutting
Attachment, Deflector, Handle and
Harness 11
Mounting the Bike Handle 12
Mounting the Loop Handle 13
Fitting the Carrying Ring 15
Mounting the Deflector 15
Mounting the Cutting Attachment 16
Fuel 18
Fueling 19
Fitting the Harness 20
Balancing the Trimmer/Brushcutter 20
Starting / Stopping the Engine 21
Operating Instructions 25
Cleaning the Air Filter 25
Engine Management 26
Adjusting the Carburetor 26
Spark Plug 28
Engine Running Behavior 29
Rewind Starter 29
Storing the Machine 29
Sharpening Metal Cutting Blades 30
Inspections and Maintenance by
Dealer 30
Maintenance and Care 31
Main Parts 33
Specifications 35
Special Accessories 36
Maintenance and Repairs 36
STIHL Limited Emission Control
Warranty Statement 37
FS 55, FS 55 C, FS 55 R, FS 55 RC
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
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 power tool 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.
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
Warning where there is a risk of
an accident or personal injury or
serious damage to property.
Caution where there is a risk of
damaging the machine or its
individual components.
Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
Some special safety precautions must be
observed to reduce the
risk of personal injury
when operating this
power tool because of the
very high speed of its cutting attachment.
It is important you read
and understand the
instruction manual before
using your power tool for
the first time and keep
the manual in a safe
place for future reference. Non-observance of
the safety precautions
may result in serious or
even fatal injury.
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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.
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. To
reduce health risks, STIHL recommends
that persons with pacemakers consult
their physician and the pacemaker
manufacturer before operating this tool.
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 since this may result in
accidents.
Only use cutting attachments and
accessories that are explicity 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
parts and accessories in order to avoid
the risk of accidents and damage to the
machine.
STIHL recommends the use of original
STIHL replacement parts. They are
specifically designed to match your
model and meet your performance
requirements.
Never attempt to modify your power tool
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.
A face shield alone does not provide
adequate eye protection.
Wear hearing protection, e.g. earplugs
or ear muffs.
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.
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. To
reduce the risk of injury
from thrown objects,
always wear a face shield
and safety glasses.
Wear heavy-duty gloves.
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Transporting the Power Tool
Always turn off the engine.
Carry the unit hanging from the shoulder
strap or properly balanced by the drive
tube. Fit transport guard on metal cutting
attachments to avoid the risk of injury
from blade contact
Transporting in a 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.
Your power tool comes standard with
either a screw-type or bayonet-type fuel
cap.
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.
– Use only an approved combination
of cutting attachment, deflector,
handle and harness. All parts must
be assembled properly and
securely.
– Slide control / stop switch must
move easily to STOP or 0
– Smooth action of throttle trigger
interlock (if fitted) and throttle trigger
– the throttle trigger must return
automatically to the idle position.
– Check that the spark plug boot is
secure – a loose boot may cause
arcing that could ignite combustible
fumes and cause a fire.
– Cutting tool or attachment: Check
for correct and secure assembly
and good condition.
– Check protective devices (e.g.
deflector for cutting tool, 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 the safety devices in any way.
– 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
Trimmer/Brushcutter".
To reduce the risk of personal injury,
do not operate your power tool if it is
damaged or not properly assembled.
Gasoline is an
extremely flammable
fuel. Keep clear of naked
flames. Do not spill any
fuel – do not smoke.
002BA079 KN
After fueling, tighten
down the screw-type fuel
cap as securely as
possible.
Insert the fuel cap with
hinged grip (bayonet-type
cap) correctly in the
opening, turn it clockwise
as far as stop and fold the
grip down.
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If you use a shoulder strap or full
harness: Practise removing and putting
down the machine as you would in an
emergency. To avoid damage, do not
throw the machine to the ground when
practising.
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 unit firmly with both
hands on the handles.
Make sure you always have good
balance and secure footing.
Models with bike handle
Right handle on control handle, left hand
on left handle.
Models with loop handle
On units with a loop handle and barrier
bar, left hand on loop handle, right hand
on control handle, even if you are lefthanded.
During Operation
Make sure you always have good
balance and secure footing.
In the event of impending danger or in
an emergency, switch off the engine
immediately by moving the slide control
/ stop switch to STOP or 0.
To reduce the risk of personal injury ,
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).
The correct engine idle speed is
important to ensure that the cutting
attachment stops rotating when you let
go of the throttle trigger.
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 – fly-
wheel effect.
002BA055 KN
002BA080 KN
15m (50ft)
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English
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Check and correct the idle speed setting
at regular intervals. If the cutting
attachment still rotates at idle speed,
have your dealer make proper
adjustments or repairs. STIHL
recommends a STIHL servicing dealer.
Take special care in slippery conditions
– damp, snow, ice, on slopes or uneven
ground.
Watch out for obstacles: Roots, tree
stumps or holes 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 for cutting.
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, have the
machine checked by your servicing
dealer.
Do not operate your power tool with the
starting throttle lock engaged – 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 tool at
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:
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 can
be thrown and cause personal injury or damage
the cutting attachment
and property (e.g. parked
vehicles, windows).
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– 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.
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 replacing the cutting
attachment.
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.
When using mowing heads
Equip the deflector with the additional
components specified in the instruction
manual.
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.
When using metal cutting tools
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.
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 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).
FS 55, FS 55 C, FS 55 R, FS 55 RC
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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,always shut
off the enginebefore carrying out any
maintenance or repairs or cleaning the
machine. – Exception: Carburetor and
idle speed adjustments.
Do not turn the engine over on the
starter with the spark plug boot or spark
plug removed unless the slide control /
stop switch is on STOP or 0 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.
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.
Shoulder strap
N Use a shoulder strap.
N With the engine running, attach the
machine to the shoulder strap.
Grass cutting blades must always be
used in combination with a shoulder
strap.
Use deflector in
combination with
mowing heads
only. Do not use
metal cutting
attachments.
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9
Mowing Head with Nylon Lines
Nylon line achieves a soft cut for edging
and trimming around trees, fence posts,
etc. – less risk of damaging tree bark.
STIHL FixCut
Check the wear limit marks!
N If the raised moldings (1) on the
base of the attachment are worn as
shown in the illustration (above
right), do not continue using the
mowing head. Install a new one.
There is otherwise a risk of injury
from thrown parts of the head.
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!
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.
Risk of Kickout (Blade Thrust) with
Metal Cutting Blades
When using grass cutting blades there is
a risk of kickout when the rotating blade
comes into contact with a solid object
like a tree trunk, branch, tree stump,
rock or similar. The machine is thrown to
the right or to the rear – opposite to the
blade's direction of rotation.
The risk of kickout is greatest when the
black area of the rotating blade comes
into contact with a solid object.
To reduce the risk of injury,
never use steel wire in place of
the nylon cutting line.
000BA015 KN
002BA177 KN
002BA135 KN
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10
Grass Cutting Blade
Use for grass and weeds only – sweep
the brushcutter in an arc like a scythe.
Resharpen the grass cutting blade
according to instructions when it has
dulled noticeably.
Improper use may damage the
grass cutting blade – risk of
injury from thrown parts.
000BA020 KN
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11
Approved Combinations
Select correct combination from the
table according to the cutting
attachment you intend to use.
Cutting Attachments
Mowing heads
1 STIHL SuperCut 20-2
2 STIHL AutoCut C 25--2
3 STIHL AutoCut 25-2
4 STIHL TrimCut 31-2
5 STIHL FixCut 25-2
Approved Combinations of Cutting Attachment, Deflector, Handle and Harness
Cutting Attachment Deflector Handle Harness / Shoulder
Strap
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
15
16
17
19
20
20
19
18
20
681BA120 KN
For safety reasons only the
cutting attachments, deflectors,
handles and harnesses/shoulder
straps shown in each row of the
table may be used together. No
other combinations are permitted
because of the risk of accidents.
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12
6 STIHL PolyCut 20-3
Metal mowing attachments
7 Grass cutting blade 230-2
8 Grass cutting blade 230-4
9 Grass cutting blade 230-8
Deflectors
10 Deflectoronly for mowing heads
11 Deflector with
12 Skirt and blade for all mowing heads
13 Deflector without skirt and blade for
all metal mowing attachments
Handles
14 Loop handle
15 Loop handlewith
16 Barrier bar
17 Bike handle
Harnesses
18 Shoulder strap may be used
19 Shoulder strap must be used
20 Full harness may be used
Mounting the handlebar
N Position the clamp (1) and
handlebar support (2) on the
shaft (3)
N Place the handlebar (4) in the
handlebar support – the rubber
handle (5) must be on the left
(viewing direction from engine to
handlebar)
N Place the clamp (6) on the
handlebar support
N Insert screws (7) through the holes
in the parts and screw them into the
clamp (6) as far as they will go
N Fasten handlebar (4) at a
distance (A) of approx. 15 cm (6 in)
ahead of the engine housing on the
shaft (3)
N Align the handlebar and tighten the
screws
Non-metal grass cutting blades
are not approved.
Mounting the Bike Handle
1
3
2
5
7
6
4
233BA025 KN
4
A
3
233BA018 KN
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Attaching the control handle
N Unscrew bolt (8) with a combination
wrench or Allen wrench – the nut (9)
remains in the control handle (10)
N Push the control handle with the
throttle trigger (11) facing toward
the gearbox onto the handlebar (4)
until the holes (12) align
N Screw in the bolt (8) and tighten up
Fasten the throttle cable
N Press throttle cable (13) into the
throttle cable support (14)
Loop handle with barrier bar
N Fit the square nuts (1) in the barrier
bar (2); the holes must line up.
Do not kink the throttle cable or
run it in tight radiuses – the
throttle trigger must move freely!
002BA357 KN
12
8
9
4
11
12
10
14
13
14
13
233BA027 KN
Mounting the Loop Handle
2
002BA098 KN
1
1
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14
N Fit the clamp (3) in the loop
handle (4) and place them both on
the drive tube (5).
N Place the clamp (6) in position.
N Place the barrier bar (2) in position
as shown.
N Line up the holes.
N Insert the screws (7) and tighten
them down moderately against the
barrier bar.
N Go to "Securing the loop handle".
Loop handle without barrier bar
N Fit the clamp (3) in the loop
handle (4) and place them both on
the drive tube (5).
N Place the clamp (6) in position.
N Line up the holes.
N Fit washers (7) on the screws (8)
and insert the screws in the holes.
Fit the square nuts (1) and screw
them down as far as stop.
N Go to "Securing the loop handle".
Securing the loop handle
N Secure the loop handle (4) about
20cm/8in (A) forward of the control
handle (9).
N Line up the loop handle.
N Tighten down the screws firmly –
lock the nuts if necessary.
The sleeve (10) (not fitted on all models)
must be between the loop handle and
the control handle.
5
4
002BA099 KN
2
3
6
7
4
5
002BA136 KN
1
6
1
3
8
7
8
7
10
9
4
002BA147 KN
A
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15
The carrying ring comes standard with
the machine or is available as a special
accessory.
For position of carrying ring see "Main
Parts".
N Place the clamp (1) against the
drive tube with the tapped hole on
the left (viewed from engine).
N Squeeze the two ends of the clamp
together and hold in that position.
N Insert the M6x14 screw (2).
N Line up the carrying ring.
N Tighten down the screw firmly.
Mounting the Deflector
1 Deflector for mowing attachments
2 Deflector for mowing heads
Deflectors (1) and (2) are both mounted
to the gearbox in the same way.
N Place the deflector on the gearbox
flange.
N Insert the screws (3) and tighten
them down firmly.
Fitting the Skirt and Blade
N Slide the lower guide slot of the skirt
(4) onto the deflector (1) – it must
snap into position.
N Push the blade (5) into the upper
guide slot on the skirt and line it up
with the first hole.
N Insert the screw and tighten it down
firmly.
Fitting the Carrying Ring
002BA142 KN
1
2
1
Mounting the Deflector
002BA380 KN
2
1
3
3
These parts must be fitted to the
deflector (1) when you use a
mowing head.
4
1
5
4
002BA103 KN
FS 55, FS 55 C, FS 55 R, FS 55 RC
English
16
Preparations
N Lay your brushcutter on its back so
that the cutting attachment
mounting face is facing up.
Mounting hardware for cutting
attachments
The mounting hardware supplied
depends on the cutting attachment that
comes as original equipment with the
new machine.
Mounting hardware is not packed
with machine
Only mowing heads can be mounted.
N Pull the hose (1) (protector for
shipping) off the shaft (2).
N Go to "Mounting the mowing head".
If you want to mount a metal cutting
attachment in place of a mowing head,
you will need the following additional
parts: Nut (3), rider plate (4) and thrust
washer (5) (special accessories).
Mounting hardware is packed with
machine
Mowing heads and metal cutting
attachments may be mounted.
If the parts are packed with the
machine
N Pull the hose (1) (protector for
shipping) off the shaft (2).
The nut (3), rider plate (4) and thrust
wsher (5) are in the parts kit supplied
with the machine.
N Go to "Mounting the mowing head"
or "Mounting the metal cutting
attachment".
If the parts are mounted to the
gearbox
N Go to "Removing the mounting
hardware".
Removing the mounting hardware
N Block the shaft – see next chapter
on "Blocking the output shaft".
N Use the combination wrench (6) –
comes standard with machine or is
available as special accessory – to
unscrew the nut (3) clockwise (lefthand thread) from the shaft (2).
N Pull the thrust washer (5) off the
shaft (2).
The rider plate (4) is in the parts kit
supplied with the machine.
Mounting the Cutting
Attachment
002BA104 KN
2
002BA164 KN
1
3
4
5
FS 55, FS 55 C, FS 55 R, FS 55 RC
English
17
N Go to "Mounting the mowing head"
or "Mounting the metal cutting
attachment".
Blocking the output shaft
N Insert the stop pin (7) or screwdriver
– come standard with machine or
are available as special accessories
– in the hole (8) in the gearbox as
far as stop, and apply slight
pressure.
N Rotate the nut or cutting attachment
on the shaft (2) until the stop pin
slips into position and blocks the
shaft.
Mounting the Mowing Head
Keep the instruction sheet for the
mowing head in a safe place.
STIHL SuperCut 20-2,
STIHL AutoCut 25-2,
STIHL AutoCut C 25-2,
STIHL TrimCut 31-2,
STIHL FixCut 25-2,
STIHL PolyCut 20-3
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.
Removing the Mowing Head
N Block the shaft.
STIHL SuperCut 20-2,
STIHL AutoCut 25-2,
STIHL AutoCut C 25-2,
STIHL TrimCut 31-2,
STIHL FixCut 25-2,
STIHL PolyCut 20-3
N Unscrew the mowing head
clockwise.
Adjusting Nylon Line
STIHL SuperCut
Fresh line is advanced automatically if
remaining line is still at least 6cm long.
The blade on the deflector trims surplus
line to the correct length.
STIHL AutoCut
N Hold the rotating mowing head
above the ground – tap it on the
ground once – about 3cm fresh line
is advanced.
The blade on the deflector trims surplus
line to the correct length – avoid tapping
the mowing head more than once at a
time.
Line feed operates only if both lines still
have a minimum length of 2.5 cm.
All other mowing heads
Refer to the instructions supplied with
the mowing head.
Replacing Nylon Line or Cutting
Blades
Refer to the instructions supplied with
the mowing head.
7
8
2
002BA166 KN
7
Remove the tool used to block the
shaft.
1
002BA081 KN
To reduce the risk of injury, always
shut off the engine before
adjusting the mowing line by
hand.
FS 55, FS 55 C, FS 55 R, FS 55 RC
English
18
Fitting metal cutting attachments
For the grass cutting blades 230-2 (1),
230-4 (2) and 230-8 (3) the attached
parts skirt and blade are not
necessary are not necessary on the
mowing tool deflector – see "Mounting
the deflector".
If the machine is supplied already
equipped with a metal cutting
attachment, then the correct thrust
plate (5, next fig.) is already mounted.
N Lay down the trimmer with the
mount for the cutting attachment
facing upward
With the grass cutting blades (1) and (2),
the cutting edges may face in either
direction.
With grass cutting blade (3), the cutting
edges must face clockwise.
N Position the blade (4) on the thrust
plate (5).
N Push the thrust plate (6) and rider
plate (7) onto the shaft (8)
N Block the shaft and screw the
nut (9) counterclockwise onto the
shaft and tighten it
Removing the metal cutting
attachment
N Block the shaft
N Unscrew the nut clockwise
N Remove parts from the shaft – do
not remove the thrust plate (5) in
doing so
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 RON.
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.
For metal cutting attachments,
use a special version of the thrust
plate (5, next fig.) – to this end, if
necessary, have the machine
checked by a servicing dealer.
Observe the arrow for the
direction of rotation on the inside
of the mowing tool deflector.
1
2
3
681BA121 KN
The collar (arrow) must engage
the hole in the blade.
A nut that moves too easily should
be replaced.
681BA051 KN
6
9
7
8
5
4
Fuel
FS 55, FS 55 C, FS 55 R, FS 55 RC
English
19
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 twostroke 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 3 months of storage.
Store in approved safety fuel-canisters
only. When mixing, pour oil into the
canister first, and then add gasoline.
Dispose of empty mixing-oil canisters
only at authorized disposal locations.
N Before fueling, clean the filler cap
and the area around it to ensure that
no dirt falls into the tank.
N Position the machine so that the
filler cap is facing up.
N Open the filler cap.
Take care not to spill fuel while fueling
and do not overfill the tank. STIHL
recommends you use the STIHL filler
nozzle (special accessory).
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
After fueling, tighten down the
filler cap as securely as possible
by hand.
232BA046 KN
FS 55, FS 55 C, FS 55 R, FS 55 RC
English
20
The type and style of the harness
depend on the market.
The use of the shoulder strap is
described in the chapter on "Approved
Combinations of Cutting Attachment,
Deflector, Handle and Harness".
Shoulder strap
N Put on the shoulder strap (1).
N Adjust the length of the strap so that
the spring hook (2) is about a hand’s
width below your right hip.
N Balance the trimmer/brushcutter.
Full harness
N Put on the full harness (1).
N Adjust the length of the strap so that
the spring hook (2) is about a hand’s
width below your right hip.
N Balance the trimmer/brushcutter.
The type and style of the harness and
carabiner (spring hook) depend on the
market.
The carrying ring is integrated in the
control handle on loop-handled units–
see "Main Parts". Loop-handled units do
not need to be balanced.
Attaching the unit to the harness
N Attach the carabiner (1) to the
carrying ring (2) on the drive tube.
Fitting the Harness Balancing the
Trimmer/Brushcutter
1
2
1
2
002BA311 KN
FS 55, FS 55 C, FS 55 R, FS 55 RC
English
21
N Loosen the screw (3).
Floating position
N Mowing heads and grass cutting
blades should just touch the ground.
Proceed as follows to adjust the floating
position:
N Move the carrying ring up or down
the drive tube – tighten the screw
moderately – let the unit go and wait
until is its balanced – then check the
floating position.
When the correct floating position has
been reached:
N Tighten down the screw on the
carrying ring firmly.
Detaching the unit from the harness
N Press down the bar on the
carabiner (1) and pull the carrying
ring (2) out of the carabiner.
Version with bike handle
Controls
1 Throttle trigger lockout
2 Throttle trigger
3 Slide control
Positions of slide control
4 START – the ignition is switched on
– the engine can start
5 F – normal run position – the engine
is running or can start
6STOP-0 – engine off – the ignition is
switched off
002BA313 KN
1
2
1
2
002BA312 KN
Starting / Stopping the
Engine
1
4
56
7
3
2
STOP
233BA037 KN
FS 55, FS 55 C, FS 55 R, FS 55 RC
English
22
Symbol on slide control
7 h – stop symbol and arrow. To stop
the engine, push the slide control in
the direction of the arrow on the stop
symbol (h) to STOP-0.
Starting
N Press down the trigger lockout lever
and squeeze the throttle trigger.
N and hold them in that position.
N Move the slide control to START
and hold it there.
N Now release the throttle trigger,
slide control and trigger lockout in
that order. This is the starting
throttle position.
N Go to "All versions".
Version with loop handle
Controls
1 Stop switch
2 Throttle trigger lockout
3 Throttle trigger
4 Tongue of throttle trigger
5 Catch
Positions of stop switch
6I – normal run position – the engine
can start or is running
70 – Stop – engine off – the ignition is
switched off
Starting
N Move the stop switch to I.
N Press down the throttle trigger
lockout and hold it there.
N Squeeze the throttle trigger until the
catch on the tongue (4) can be
engaged on the housing.
N Now release the throttle trigger,
tongue and trigger lockout in that
order. This is the starting throttle
position.
N Go to "All versions".
2
233BA048 KN
1
6
7
5
4
3
233BA049 KN
4
FS 55, FS 55 C, FS 55 R, FS 55 RC
English
23
All versions
N Set the choke lever (8) to
N Press the fuel pump bulb (9) at least
five times – even if the bulb is
already filled with fuel.
Starting
N Place the unit on the ground: It must
rest securely on the engine support
and the deflector. Check that the
cutting attachment is not touching
the ground or any other obstacles.
N Make sure you have a safe and
secure footing.
N Hold the unit with your left hand and
press it down firmly – your thumb
should be under the fan housing.
N Hold the starter grip with your right
hand.
Version without Easy2Start
N Pull the starter grip slowly until you
feel it engage and then give it a brisk
strong pull.
Version with Easy2Start
N Pull the starter grip slowly until you
feel it engage and then pull it out
slowly and steadily.
g if the engine is cold
e for warm start – also use this posi-
tion if the engine has been running
but is still cold.
9
8
232BA011 KN
Do not stand or kneel on the drive
tube.
233BA020 KN
233BA014 KN
Do not pull out the starter rope all
the way – it might otherwise
break.
Do not pull out the starter rope all
the way – it might otherwise
break.
232BA014 KN
FS 55, FS 55 C, FS 55 R, FS 55 RC
English
24
Both versions
N Do not let the starter grip snap back.
Guide it slowly back into the housing
so that the starter rope can rewind
properly.
N Continue cranking.
When the engine begins to fire:
N After no more than five pulls, move
the choke lever (8) to e.
N Continue cranking.
As soon as the engine runs
Version with bike handle
N Blip the throttle trigger – the engine
settles down to idle speed.
Version with loop handle
N Squeeze the throttle trigger to
disengage the tongue – the engine
will settle down to idle speed.
Your machine is now ready for
operation.
Stopping the engine
N Move the slide control in direction of
the arrow (h) to STOP-0 or the stop
switch to STOP / 0.
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 combustion chamber is flooded.
N Set the choke lever to
e .
N Set the slide control, trigger lockout
lever and throttle trigger to the
starting throttle position.
N Start the engine by pulling the
starter rope briskly – 10 to 20 pulls
may be necessary.
If the engine still does not start
N Move the slide control or stop switch
to STOP / 0.
N Remove the spark plug – see
"Spark Plug".
N Dry the spark plug.
N Crank the engine several times with
the starter to clear the combustion
chamber.
N Refit the spark plug – see "Spark
Plug".
N Move the slide control or stop switch
to F / I.
N Set the choke lever to e – even if
the engine is cold.
N Now start the engine.
Fuel tank run until completely dry
N After refueling, press the fuel pump
bulb at least five times – even if the
bulb is filled with fuel.
N Set the choke lever to suit the
engine temperature.
N Start the engine.
Make sure the carburetor is
correctly adjusted. The cutting
attachment must not rotate when
the engine is idling.
8
232TI015 KN
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