- Version with Bike Handle2Adjusting Carburetor37operating and safety precautions for the
- Version with Loop Handle4
- Version with Loop Handle andChecking Spark Plug
Standoff Lever4Cleaning Air Filter
Safety Precautions andLubricating Gearbox42
Working Techniques
Selecting the Cutting Tool18Sharpening Cutting Tools
Mounting the Bike Handle20- Grass Cutting Blade 230-4
loop
Mounting
Standoff Lever
Mounting the Loop Handle- Circular Saw Blade 200
Spark Arresting Screen
26Muffler
26Storing the Machine
27Specifications
28
28
29
29
30
31
32
in
STIHL®
34
FS
88 and FS 108 brushcutters.
Pay special attention to the safety
41
41
precautions outlined on pages 6 to 17.
Allow only persons who understand this
manual to operate your brushcutter.
To
43
44
47
48
51
51
52
53
55
receive maximum performance and
satisfaction from your STIHL brush-
itisimportant that you read and
cutter,
understand the maintenance and safety
precautions before using your brush-
cutter. Contact your STIHL dealer
STIHL distributor for your area if you do
not understand any of the instructions
this manual.
Warn
ng!
Because a brushcutterisa high-speed
cutting tool some special safety pre-
cautions must be observed to reduce
the risk of personal injury. Careless or
improper use may cause serious or
even fatal injury. Make shure your unit is
equipped with the proper deflector,
handle and harness for the type of
cutting attachment being used. Always
proJ<.er
wear
STIHL's philosophy
improve all of its products. As a result,
engineering changes and improve-
ments are made from time to time.
operating characteristics or the appear-
ance of your brushcutter differs from
those described
contact your STIHL dealer for informa-
tion and assistance.
eye protection.
is
to continually
in
this manual, please
or
the
If
the
in
1
Page 3
Parts and Controls
Version with Bike Handle
2
9
1
1 = Handle support
= Throttle trigger
2
= Slide control
3
= Throttle trigger interlock
4
5
= Bike handle
= Throttle cable retainer
6
7
= Carrying loop
= Throttle cable / stop switch wire
8
= Spark plug terminal
9
= Air filter cover
10
11
= Choke lever
= Machine support
12
13
= Fuel tank
= Fuel filler cap
14
= Starter grip
15
16
= Carburetor adjusting screws
= Muffler
17
= Deflector (for all cutting
18
tools, without skirt)
= Metal cutting
19
(cutting blade 230)
Itool
2
Page 4
Definitions
1.
Handle
Connects the drive shaft
to
2.
Throttle
Controls the speed of the engine.
3.Slide
Starting throttle lock and stop switch.
Keeps the throttle partially open
during starting and switches the
engine's ignition off and stops theEases engine starting
4.
Throttle
Must
throttle trigger can
support.
the handle bars.
trigger.
control.
engine.
trigger
be
depressed before the
interlock.
be
activated.
Throttle
8.
Connect operator's control grip to
the powerhead.
9.
Spark
Connects the spark plug
ignition wire.from operator.
10.
Air
Covers the air filter element.
11.
Choke
by
12. Machine
For resting machine
cable/stop
plug
filter cover.18. Deflector.
lever.
enriching mixture.
support.
switch
wire.
terminal.Attenuates exhaust noises
to
theand diverts exhaust gases away
on
the ground.
16.
Carburetor
For tuning carburetor.
17.
Muffler.
The deflector
the risk of injury from foreign objects
flung backwards toward the operator
by the cutting tool and from contact
with the cutting tool.
19.
Cutting
The cutting attachment,i.e.
made from metal for different purposes (special accessory).
adjusting
is
designed to reduce
tool.
screws.
blade,
13. Fuel
tank.
5.Bike handle.For fuel and oil mixture.
To
hold
the
brushcutter
with both hands.
14. Fuel filler cap.
For closing the fuel tank.
6.Throttle cable retainer.
Fixes the throtlle cable
on the drive shaft.
15. Starter grip.
The grip of the pull starter,
which
is
the device to start
7.Carrying lOop.the engine.
The device to connect the
brushcutler to the harness.
.......>
3
Page 5
8
17
Version
handle
10=
11
12 = Fuel tank
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
with
Loop
Handle
and
with
standoff
1 = Loop handle
= Standoff lever
2
3
= Carrying loop
(not all markets)
= Slide control
4
5
= Throttle trigger
= Throttle trigger interlock
6
= Throttle cable / stop switch wire
7
8
= Spark plug terminal
= Air filter cover
9
Choke lever
lever
= Machine support
= Fuel filler cap
= Starter grip
= Carburetor adjusting screws
= Muffler
= Deflector (for mowing heads)
= Line limiting blade
= Cutting tool
loop
19
4
18
Page 6
Definitions
1.
Loop
handle.ignition wire.and diverts exhaust gases away
For easy control of
machine during cutting work.
8.
Connects the spark plug
Air
9.
filter
Covers the air filter element.
terminal.
cover.
to
theAttenuates exhaust noises
16. Muffler.
from operator.
Spark
plug
17. Deflector.
Standoff
2.
Helps keep unit at a safe distance
from operator's feet and legs.Eases engine starting
3.
Carrying
The device to connect the
brushcutter to the harness.For resting machine on the ground.18.
4.
Slide
Starting throttle lock and stop switch.For fuel and oil mixture.
Keeps the throttle partially open
during starting and switches the
engine's ignition off and stops the13.
engine.For closing the fuel tank.head, for different purposes
5.
Throttle
Controls the speed of the engine.The grip of the pull starter,
Throttle
6.
Mustbedepressed before the
throttle trigger can be activated.
lever.The deflectorisdesigned to reduce
Choke
lever.the risk of injury from foreign objects
flung backwards toward the operator
by enriching mixture.by the cutting tool and from contact
with the cutting tool.
Machine
Fuel
Starter
which is the device
the engine.
Carburetor
For tuning carburetor
filler
grip.
support.
cap.
adjusting
to
start
screws.
Line
limiting
Metal blade at the deflector
to
keep the line of the mowing head
at the proper length.
19.
Cutting
The cutting attachment,
(special accessory).
blade.
tool.
....,.
loop.
control.
trigger.
trigger
10.
11.
12. Fuel tank.
14.
interlock.
15.
in
order
i.e.cutting
7.
Throttle
Connect operator's control grip to
the powerhead.
cable/stop
switch
wire.
5
Page 7
Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
anlgl
Because a brushcutter is
,a high-speed, fast-cutting
•power tool, special safety
&
precautions must be obseNed to reduce
the risk of personal injury.
It
is important that you
read, fully understand
and obseNe the following
safety precautions and
warnings. Read the owner's manual and
the safety instructions periodically. Careless or improper use of any brushcutter
may cause serious or fatal injury.
Have your STIHL dealer show you how
to
operate your brushcutter.
applicable local safety regulations,
standards and ordinances.
Warning!
The use of any brushcutter may be
hazardous.
comesincontact with your body, it will
cut you. When it comes
solid foreign objects such as rocks
bits of metal, it may fling them directly or
by ricochet
or
the operator.
Striking such objects could damage the
cutting attachment and may cause
blades to crack, chip or break.
STIHL does not recommend the use of
rigid blades when cutting
Thrown objects or damaged blades may
result
operator or bystanders.
If
the rotating cutting
in
the direction of bystanders
in
serious or fatal injury to the
ObseNe
in
contact with
in
stony areas.
all
1001
or
Warning!
Minors should never be allowedtouse
a brushcutter. Bystanders, especially
children, and animals should not be
allowed
isinuse.
Never let the brushcutter run unattended.
Warning!
Do not lendorrent your brushcutter
without the owner's manual. Be sure
that anyone using your brushcutter understands the information contained
this manual.
in
the area where a brushcutter
in
Most of these safety precautions and
warnings apply to the use of all STIHL
brushcutters. Different models may have
different parts and controls. See the
appropriate section of yourowner's
manual for a description of the controls
and function of the parts of your model
bruShcutter.
Safe use of a brushcutter involves
1.the operator
2.
the brushcutter
3.
the use of the brushcutter.
6
Page 8
THE OPERATOR!
Physical Condition
You
must beingood physical condition
and mental health and not under the
influence of any substance (drugs,
alcohol, etc.) which might impair vision,
dexterity or judgment. Do not operate a
brushcuJter when you are fatigued.
Be
alert -ifyou get tired while operating
your brushcutter, take a break.
Tiredness may result
Working with any brushcutter can be
strenuous.
might
check with your doctor before operating
a brushcutter.
Prolonged use of a brushcutter (or other
machines) exposing the operator
vibrations may produce whitefinger disease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or carpal tunnel syndrome. These conditions
reduce the hand's ability
late temperature, produce numbness
and burning sensations and may cause
nerve and circulation damage and tissue
necrosis.
Warnlngl
Antivibration systems do not guarantee
that you will not sustain whitefinger disease or carpal tunnel syndrome.
Therefore, continual and regular users
should monitor closely the condition of
their hands and fingers.
above symptoms appear, seek medical
advice immediately.
If
you have any condition that
be
aggravated by strenuous work,
in
loss of control.
to
feel and regu-
If
any of the
to
Proper Clothing
Warning!
0·0
(i
flector provided with your brushcutter
may not protect the operator from all
foreign objects (gravel, glass, wire, etc.)
thrown by the wheeling cutting attachment. Thrown objects may also ricochet
and strike the operator. Therefore,
duce the risk of injury
operate a brushcutter unless wearing
goggles or properly fitted safety glasses
with adequate top and side protection
complying with ANSI Z
licable national standard).
Brushcutter operation can
cause serious injurytoeyes,
ears and person. The de-
to
to
your eyes never
87.1
(or your app-
U)
o
o
.q:
en
o
o
o
re-
To
reduce the risk of injurytoyour face
STIHL recommends that you also wear
a face shield or face screen over your
goggles or safety glasses.
WarnIng!
Brushcutter noise may damage your
hearing. Wear sound barriers (ear plugs
or ear mufflers) to protect your hearing.
Continual and regular users should have
their hearing checked regularly.
Wear proper protective clothing.
Protect your hands with gloves when
handling the brushcutter and the cutting
tooi. Heavy-duty, nonslip gloves improve
your grip and protect your hands.
Clothing must be sturdy and snug·fitting,
but allow complete freedom of movement. Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarfs,
neckties, jewelry, flared or cuffed pants,
unconfined long hair or anything that
could become caught
brush
Of-
moving parts of the unit. Wear
long' pants made of heavy material
protect your legs. Do not wear shorts.
Good footing
brushcutter work. Wear sturdy boots
with nonslip soles. Steel-toed safety
boots are recommended. Wear
approved safety hard hattoreduce the
risk of injury to your head when there is
a danger of head injuries.
is
on
branches,
most important
to
in
an
7
Page 9
THE
BRUSHCUTIER
For illustrations and definitions of the
brushcutter parts see the chapter on
"Parts and Controls"!
A
~
Warning'
in
any
Never modify a brushcutter
way.
Only attachments supplied by STIHL or
expressly approved by STIHL for use
with the specific STIHL brushcutter
models are authorized. Although certain
unauthorized attachments are useable
for the STIHL brushcutter, their use
may,
in
fact, be extremely dangerous.
THE USE OF THE
BRUSHCUTIER
Transporting the brushcutter
Warning!
Always turn
off the engine and make
sure the cutting attachment has stopped before putting a brushcutter down.
When transporting your brushcutter in a
vehicle, properly secure
ittoprevent
turnover, fuel spillage and damage to
the brushcutter. Keep metal cutting
tools covered with the transport guard
(optional accessory).
Preparation for the
use
of the
brushcutter
Adjust carrying harness and hand grip
to suit your size before starting work.
The machine should be properly
balanced as specified
in
your owner's
manual for proper control and less
fatique in operation.
B
o
o~
o
~
Always check your bruhcutter for
proper condition and operation before
starting, particularly the throttle trigger,
throttle trigger interlock (if applicable
stop switch, cutting tool, deflector and
harness.
Arrows on the deflector (A) and stop (8)
show the correct direction of rotation of
the cutting tool.
The throttle trigger must move freely
and always spring back to the idle
position. The cutting tool must be
properly tightened and
condition. Inspect for loose parts (nuts,
screws, etc.) and for cracked, bent,
warped or damaged blades.
in
safe operating
~
0
«
al
0
0
0
,...
o
o
ca
o
g
Fueling
Your STIHL brushcutter uses an oilgasoline mixture for fuel (see the chapter on "Fuel" of your owner's manual).
Warning!
Gasoline is an extremely flammable fuel.
Ir
spilled or ignited by a spark or other
ignition source, it can cause fire and
serious burn injury or property damage.
Use extreme caution when handling
gasoline or fuel mix.
Do not smoke or bring any fire
or
flame
near the fuel.
8
Page 10
Fueling Instructions
in
Fuel your brushcutter
areas, outdoors.
l
rntng
Gasoline vapor pressure may build up
inside the gas tank of a two cycle engine
depending on the fuel used, the weather
condition, and the venting system of the
tank.
In
order to reducethrisk of
personal injury from escaping gas vapor
and fumes, remove the fuel filler cap on
your brushcutter carefully so as to allow
any pressure build-up
release slowly. Never remove fuel filler
cap while engine
ground for fueling and move at least 10
feet
(3
m) from the fueling spot before
starting the engine. Wipe off any spilled
fuel before starting your brushcutter and
check for leakage.
.
arnmg!
Check for fuel leakage while refueling
and during operation.
leakage
engine until leak is fixed and spilled fuel
has been wiped away.
change your clothing immediately.
is
found, do not start or
well-ventilated
in
the tank
is
running. Select bare
If
fuel or oil-
run
If
this happens,
to
the
Warning!
'\
~
J1~
loosen or come off and
spill quantities of fuel.
risk of fuel spillage and fire, tighten fuel
cap by hand with as much force as
Unit vibrations can
.(
cause an Improperly
tightened fuel cap to
In
ordertoreduce
possible. The screw driver end of the
STIHL combination wrench
similar tool can be used as an aid
tightening slotted fuel caps.
Starting
or
other
in
Warning!
Your brushcutterisa oneperson machine. Once started
jekts for a great distance.
To
reduce the risk of eye and other injury
insure that bystanders are at least 50
feet (15 m) away. Stop the engine and
cutting tool immediately
approached. Start and operate your
brushcutter without assistance. For
specific starting instructions, see the
appropriate section of your manual.
Place the brushcutter on firm ground or
other solid surface
Maintain a good balance and secure
footing.
it
may fling foreign ob-
if
you are
in
an open area.
To
reduce the risk of injury from loss of
control, be absolutely sure that the
ting tool is clear of you and all other
obstructions and objects, including the
ground, because when the engine starts
at starting-throttle, engine speed will
fast enough for the clutch to engage and
turn the cutting tool.
cut-
be
'-
When you pull the starter grip, don't
wrap the starter rope around your hand.
Do not allow the grip
guide the starter rope to rewind properly.
Failure to follow this procedure may
result
in
injury to handorfingers and
may damage the starter mechanism.
to
snap back, but
9
Page 11
\
f\
'"
;:;
...
CD
8
o
I
~
Before cutting, inspect
the area for stones, glass,
pieces of metal, trash or
other solid objects. The
cutting attachment could throw objects
of this kind.
To
reduce the
.risk of injury
from thrown
~.
never operate a brushcutter without a
properly mounted deflector. Keep the
skirt on the deflectors adjusted properly
at all times (see chapter
various cutting tools of your owner's
manual). Do not overreach. Keep proper
footing and balance at all times.
objects and
blade contact,
on
mounting the
Working Conditions
Operate and start your brushcutter only
outdoors
the brushcutter under good visibility
and daylight conditions only. Work
carefully.
Always hold the brushcutter firmly with
both hands. Wrap your fingers tightly
around the handles, keeping the hand-
les cradled between your thumb and
forefinger. Keep your hands
on, to have your brushcutter under con-
trol at all times. Make sure your brush-
cutter handles and grip are
dition and free of moisture, pitch, oil or
grease.
10
in
a ventilated area. Operate
in
this positi-
in
good con-
Warningl
Never attempttooperate any brush
cutter with one hand. Loss of control of
the brushcutter resulting
fatal injury may result.
To
reduce the risk of bodily injury
resulting from loss of control and contact
with the cutting tool, make sure your
is
equipped with the proper handle ana
harness for the type of cutting attachment being used (see chart
on "Selecting the Cutting Tool").
Special care must be taken
conditions (wet ground, snow) and
difficult, over-grown terrain. Watch for
hidden obstacles such as tree stumps,
roots and ditches to avoid stumbling.
in
serious or
in
in
unif':-
chapter
slippery
in
Waming'
This brushcutterisnormally to be used
at ground level with the cutting attachment parallel
brushcutter above ground level or with
the cutting attachment perpendicular
the ground may increase the risk of
injury, since the cutting attachment
more fully exposed and the brushcutter
may be more difficult
use your brushcutter as a hedge
trimmer.
to
the ground. Use of a
to
control. Never
is
to
Page 12
W mmg!
When using rigid blades, avoid cutting
close to fences, sides of buildings, tree
trunks, stones or other such objects
that could cause the brushcutter to kick
out or could cause damage to the
blade. STIHL recommends use of the
nylon line heads or Polycut head for
such jobs.
increased possibility of ricochets
such situations.
Do not operate using the starting
throttle lock as you do not have control
of the engine speed. See section of your
owner's manual on the proper use of the
slide control.
If
the cutting tool or deflector becomes
clogged or stuck, always turn off the
engine and make sure the cutting tool
has stopped, before cleaning. Grass,
weeds, etc. should be cleaned off the
cutting tool at regular intervals.
In
addition, be alert to an
in
Warning!
During CUlling, check the tightness and
the condition of the cutting tool at
regular intervals.
tool changes, stop the engine immediately, and check the nut securing
the tool for tightness and the cutting tool
for cracks and damage.
Replace cracked, bent, warped, dam
aged or dull cutting tools immediately.
Such tools may shatter at high speed
and cause serious or fatal injury.
If
the behavior of the
Warn'ng'
A loose blade may cause the blade
vibrate, crack, break or come off the
brushcutter, which may result
serious or fatal injury. Make sure that
the blade is properly tightened. Use the
wrench supplied or one of sufficient
length to obtain the proper torque.
blade loosens after being properly
tightened, stop work immediately. The
retaining nut may be worn or damaged
and should be replaced. Never use
unauthorized parts to secure the blade.
If
the blade continuestoloosen, see
your STIHL dealer. Never use a
brushculler with a loose blade.
to
in
If
the
Important adjustments
amlng'
To
reduce the risk of personal injury from
loss of control or contact with the running grass cutting blade, do not use a
grass cutting blade with incorrect idle
adjustment. At correct idle speed, the
grass cutting blade should not move.
For directions to adjust idle speed, see
the appropriate section of your owner's
manual.
If
you cannot set the correct idle speed,
have your STIHL dealer check your
brushcutter and make proper
adjustments or repairs.
Waming'
Never touch a rotating cutting tool with
your hand or any part of your body. It
continues to rotate for a short period
after the throttle trigger
(flywheel effect).
is
released
Page 13
Operating instructions
amln91
w
oImproper use of any
~
(jG
fatal personal injury. Read, understand
and follow all safety instructions
owner's manual before operating these
products.
injury
To
to
the operator from blade contactand thrown objects, make sure your
unit
is
equipped with the proper deflector, handle and harness for the type
of cutting attachment being used ( see
chart
in
chapter on "Selecting the Cutting Tool"). Always wear proper eye protection.
brush-cutter can
cause serious or
in
your
reduce the risk of personal
11111.111.111.11,'111.11111
,1111111'111111.'
,I'
'11'11',111
1<lllil1llll'II11,1111
11.1
Ilttl,lljjl
III
Ifdl'
I
,
111'"'111
'I,I'"
,,"I'll
~
//
,/
..
11.1
III
,11111,1111111111
i'1I"1,
'111,:11'11,11
1111I1hl.III,
11,11"r".
..
11,11111111111111,.
II'".,.""
_-----
- -
,11'11'111112;;1111111
,lh9';.I'IIIIII
t.,
1111·,irl..rl~lldlll
....
',I
1.111'11
rl
II
1,'1,,111,8<.701111111
1111
1II1I1,l,l:5?"IIII
I11IUhh.
,:1111111,'1,1'11:1
1111
III
lilf
·111!..llllllhl
1'11I
':11111,1111111
~'III,II'IIIII
IILlI,dll
111i111"IIIlII
il
1111
1111
lit
I'
1I11,III,llIllI
JI
II.
I.
Ii
II
I!LII
11111,111111",
111'111'1,1,1111
11,111',1.111\.1
1lllllilll'lto
11"1'1\'1
~
11'.
..
'II\I~
111111111.1,8
Do not cut any material other than
grass, brush and wood. The cutting
tools may be used only for the
operations described
in
your manual.
With the engine running, attach the
brushcutter to the spring hook of your
harness (see appropriate chapter of this
manual).
USING THE CUTTING TOOLS
For an illustration of the various cutting
tools and instructions on proper mounting see the chapter on "mounting the
cutting tools"
in
your owner's manual.
Using the mowing heads
The STIHL Supercut, Autocut, Polymatic
and Polycut mowing heads produce a
clean and tidy finish.
They are
to
be used only on brushcutters equipped with a chopper blade
the deflectorinorder to keep the line at
the proper length (see "Parts and
Controls" chapter of this manual).
If
the lawn edges are planted with trees
or bordered
by
a fence etc..itisbest
use a nylon line head.Itachieves a
"softer" cut with less risk of damaging
tree bark than with the polymer blades.
However, the polymer bladed STIHL
"Polycut" produces a better cut
are no plants along the edge of the lawn.
Sharpening
is
not necessary and worn
cutting blades are easily replaced.
Warnmg!
To
reduce the risk of serious injury.
never use wire or metal-reinforced line
"':--
or other materialinplace of the nylon
cutting lines. Pieces of wire could break
off and be thrown at high speed toward
the operator or bystanders.
STIHL "Supercut" mowing head
Fresh line
Frayed line
is
advanced automatically.
is
replaced by a simple
adjustment (see instruction sheet
supplied with mowing head).
if
in
to
there
12
Page 14
f
I,I'~
11111'11111111111111111,
1111111'111111:
1,1'
Ii,
'I'
1l1111111i.,:
11111'11\111,III.U,
1~11:
hld.llill
11111'
IU·
I.
111,111'11'
['~'II""'"
"II'
/--
,//
,I"l',ill Ii'!
IIIJ
,i1It1,,:1111111
'I'll
1111
1"1.'
".11'
"'ll
..•Iil
11/111111
".,." • ""'I.
_
-----
'1'I2j;lIlIll",/11'1
1
.
.IIi<i~,llllIlllllillr
,'11'11
I
1""II~ldWo'lilllll
1,"11
,/lIoIIIIII.lJlY,q
t
11
hlJ!dr
1'
....._
·1l11l'1!!~.
.11'1111,'''111111
1
'1
11III
..
ll1~lfdlh
dlll.l!
"".111111111
'I
It
'I'tll
.11111':1111111
,!I'
",11111
I
;,11111:'11111
.illllll.\llili
11,11111111111
ViI,II'i1II1,11
JIII,l,llllillil
1111,1111\
dol
11l1111l.l.i'lIl
II,
!Illillllll~1
1111111111\1'0
II'
11111l1~
\'111
,11\
~
'
/11.11111,118
STIHL
"Polymatic"
Frayed line
is
mowing
head
replaced by a simple
adjustment (see instruction sheet
supplied with mowing head).
STIHL
"Autocut"
mowing
head
Nylon cutting cord advances automatically when tapped against the ground.
STIHL
"Polycut"
mowing
head
Important!
Three rectangular wear limit marks are
of
applied to the base (periphery)
To
Polycut.
reduce the risk of serious
the
injury from breakage of the head or
blades, the Polycut must not be used
whenithas worn as far as one of these
marks.
Itisimportant to follow the
maintance instructions supplied with
the head!
Using
the
grass
cutting
All
kinds of grass and weeds can be
blade
easily cut with the cutting blade. The
is
brushcutter
swept in an
arcsimiliar to a scythe.
Warmngl
To
reduce the riskofserious or fatal
injury never attempt to cut woody
materials.
The
4-tooth
grass cutting blade
is
intentedtocut grass and weeds.
It
has 4 cutting knives with cutting edges
on
both sides, i.e. front and
The
8-tooth
grass cutting blade
rear.
is
recommended for cutting fern or reed.
Both bjades have to be resharpened
'-
when all cutting edges are dull.
13
Page 15
Using the brush knife
Warnlngl
Warning!
When fittedtothe brushcutter, the
brush knife
ranging from cutting matted grass to
clearing weeds, wild growth and scrub.
To
cut wild growth and scrub, lower the
rotating brush knife down onto the
growth to achieve a chopping effect.
Use the brushcutter like a scythe to cut
grass,
is
suitable for applications
i.e.
sweepitto and froinan
arc.
Warning!
When cutting woody materials, use the
left side of the blade to avoid "kickout"
(blade thrust) situations.
14
Improper use of a brush knife may
cause
it
to crack, chip or shatter. Thrown
parts may seriously injure the operator
or bystanders.
personal injury
following precautions:
Avoid contact with hard or solid foreign
objects such as stones, rocks or pieces
of metal.
Never cut wood or shrubs with a stem
diameter of more than 2cm (3/4") 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 (when
To
reduce the risk of
it
is essential to take the
it
has dulled noticeably).
When cutting young saplings or other
woody materials up
diameter, use left side of the blade
avoid "kickout" situations (see
appropriate section
not attempt to cut woody material with a
larger diameter, since the blade may
catch or jerk the brushcutter forward.
This may cause damage
brushcutter or loss of control of the
brushcutter, resulting
to
2cm (3/4")
in
this manual). Do
to
the blade or
in
personal injury
in
to
Page 16
<D
o
<{
en
o
o
o
Using the circular saw blade
Circular saw blades are suitable for
thinning brush and cutting small trees up
to a diameter of 7 cm
(23/4
in). Do not
attempt to cut trees with larger
diameters, since the blade may catch or
jerk the brushcutter forward. This may
cause damage to the blade or loss of
control of the brushcutter which may
result
in
serious injury.
When the brushcutter with circular saw
to
blade is used
cut down small trees,
STIHL recommends that the standard
deflector beremoved and replaced by
the special "stop" (see chapter "circular
saw blade" for mounting instructions).
This stop helps to keep the brushcutter
positioned against the tree during the
cutting process. Inexperienced users
should place the left side of the stop
against the tree trunk before beginning
to cut. This act will keep the brushcutter against the tree during the
cutting operation and will reduce the
risk of loss of control and possible
kickout (described in the following
section).
Warning'
In
ordertoreduce the risk of injury from
thrown objects
or
from operator
contact with the cutting tool, be sure
remount the standard deflector for all
other
u·ses.
Before starting the cut, accelerate the
engine up
to
full throttle. Perform cut
with uniform pressure. STIHL recom-
mends that the circular saw blade be
applied to the right of the tree, using
the non-shaded area of the blade.
amlngl
N
The risk of kickout is highest when
o
cutting in the darker shaded area.
<{
en
o
reduce the risk of kickout and resulting
o
o
injury, do not use this area of the
circular saw blade for cutting trees or
shrubs. Special techniques using the
lighter shaded areas of the blade to cut
shrubs and trees should only
by experienced operators with specialized training
in
use and control of the
brushcutter.
To
redUce the risk of serious injury
to
the operator or bystanders by a
kickout, never use a circular saw blade
on a brushcutter with a loop handle.
be
to
To
used
15
Page 17
MAINTENANCE, REPAIR AND
STORING
Use only identical STIHL replacement
parts for maintenance and repair.
Use of parts manufactured by others
may cause serious or fatal injury.
Follow the maintenance and repair
instructions
your owner's manual. Please refer
in
the appropriate section of
to
maintenance chart at the last pages of
this manual.
the
Risk of "kickout" (blade thrust)
with all rigid cutting blades
Warning
l
Kickout (blade thrust) is the sudden and
uncontrolled motion towards the operator's right or rear that can occur when
the shaded area of the rotating blade
comes
in
cont<;:lct
with a solid object like
a tree, rock, bush or wall. The rapid counterclockwise rotation of the blade may
be stopped or slowed, and the
cutting attachment may be thrown
area
to
the right or to the rear.
in
an
16
N
;;
~
§
This kickout (blade thrust) may cause
loss of control of the brushcutter and
may result
operator or bystanders.
risk, extreme caution should be used
when cutting with the shaded area of
nay rigid blade and never use a rigid
blade on a brushcutter with a loop
handle.
in
serious or fatal injury to the
To
reduce the
arnmgl
Always stop the engine and make sure
that the cutting tool
is
stopped before doing any maintenance or repair work or
cleaning the brushcutter. Do not attempt
any maintenance or repair work not
described
in
your owner's manual. Have
such work performed at yourSTIHL
service shop only.
Never repair damaged cutting attachments by welding, straightening or
modifying the shape. This may cause
parts of the cutting tool
result
in
seriousorfatal injuries.
to
come off and
Page 18
Check condition of culling tool at regular
short intervals.
changes, check it immediately for
tightness or any signs of cracks
ticular. Replace damaged or dull cUlling
tools immediately, even if they have only
superficial cracks.
after being properly tightened, the
retaining nut may be worn or damaged
and should be replaced.
continues
dealer. Do not attach any blade to a unit
without proper installation of all required
parts. Never use unauthorized parts to
secure the blade. Failure to use the
proper parts may cause the blade
If
behavior of tool
If
the blade loosens
If
the blade
to
loosen, see your STIHL
in
par-
to
fly
off and seriously injure the operator or
bystanders.
Check fuel filler cap for leaks at regular
intervals. Use the specified spark plug
and make sure
are always
it
and the ignition lead
in
good condition.
Warning!
Do
not operate your brushcutter if the
muffler
is
damaged, missing or modefied. An improperly maintained muffler
will increase the risk of fire and hearing
loss. Never touch a hot muffler or burn
will
result.Ifyour muffler was equipped
with a spark-arresting screen
the risk of fire (e.g.
and Australia), never operate your hedge
trimmer if the screen
ged. Remember that the risk of forest
res is greaterinhot or dry weather.
in
the USA, Canada
is
to
reduce
missing or dama-
fi-
Warning!
In
ordertoreduce the risk of fire, do not
modify or remove any part of the muffler
or spark arrestor.
Keep cutting tool sharp. Tighten all nuts,
bolts and screws except the carburetor
adjustment screws after each use.
Keep spark plug and wire connection
tight and clean. The spark plug electrode
gap should be checked with a feeler
gauge at least every 50 operating hours
and reset
plug
Store brushcutter
location place and out of reach of
children.
Before storing for longer than a few
days, always empty the fuel tank.
if
necessary. Fit a new spark
if
the electrodes are badly pilled.
in
a dry, high or locked
Warnlngl
Keep hands and feet away from cUlling
tool.
17
Page 19
Selecting
the
Cutting
Tool
Cutting
1 STIHL Supercut
(FS
2 STIHL Supercut 20-2 mowing head
STIHL Autocut 20-2 mowing head
3
(FS
4 STIHL Autocut 24-2 mowing head
5 STIHLAutocut 25-2 mowing head
6 STIHL Autocut 30-2 mowing head
7 STIHL Polymatic 30-2 mowing head
STIHL Polycut 20-3 mowing head
8
STIHL Fixed Line head
9
Grass Cutting blade 230-4
10
11
Grass Cutting blade 230-8
12 Brush knife 250
Circular saw blade 200
13
(scratcher tooth)
14 Circular saw blade 200
(chisel tooth)
Deflectors:
15 Deflector for mowing heads
Deflector for
16
with
17 Skirt and line limiting blade
18 Deflector for
without
Stop for circular saw blades
19
74
74
tools:
only)
only)
skirt
20-1
mowing head
all
cutting tools
all
cutting tools
and
line limiting blade
Carrying straps:
24
Shoulder strap recommended
25 Shoulder strap
26 Full harness recommended
27 Full harness
A fully equipped brushcutter comprises,
among other items:
- Cutting tool
- Deflector
- Handle
- Carrying strap
Select the
the table
you
For safety reasons, you may only combi-
ne
the cutting tool, deflector, handle and
carrying strap versions shown when you
read the table
right
Other
table diagonally, are
since
serious
correct
accordingtothe
intendtouse:
combinations,
there is
injury.
combination
cutting
horizontally
otherwisearisk
from left
e.g. reading the
not
permitted
from
tool
to
of
Warning'
STIHL brushcutters with a loop handle
without
only with
heads with nylon line or plastic blades.
Other plastic or metal cutting tools may
only
handle, "J"-handle or loop handle
standoff
risk of personal injury through contact
with the cutting tool.
':-
standoff
the
be
usedonbrushcutters with a bike
leverinordertominimize the
lever maybeused
above-mentioned mowing
with
Handles:
20 Loop handle
21
Loop handle
22 Standoff lever
23 Bike handle
18
with
Page 20
Cutting tools
Deflectors
Handles
Carrying straps
~---'
3
5
7
t-J
9
10
)
-:1
.~
12
A
2
4~
6
8
(e'
~
11
--..../J
15
20~
0
~
-
16
~l
'C(
.....
-
21
23
~
22
24
V
25
21
\
--
18
23
~
V
22
...."
25
~
I
26
13
19
14
0
(:)
~
=
23
V
27
~
19
Page 21
Mounting the Bike Handle
3
3
,
4
I II I
~
i
5
§
7
~
8
6
12
11
12
The handle support (2) is mounted on
the drive tube (1).
•Take out the 4 screws
remove the clamp (4).
•Place the bike handle
position the clamp
support.
•Line up holes
handle support.
•Insert the screws as far as stop.
•Line up the bike handle.
•
Tighten the screws firmly.
20
in
(3) -
(5)
in
the and
(4) on the handle
clamp and
J
Fitting the control handle
•Remove the screw
from the nut (7).
•Take both parts out of the
control handle (8).
•Push the control handle
onto the bike handle
throttle trigger (9) must
point
in
direction of gear head.
•Line up the holes
•Fit nut and screwinthe
control handle.
Tighten the screw firmly.
•
(6)
(5) -
(10).
.10
Fitting the throttle cable
Do not kink the throttle cable
- make sure the throttle trigger
moves freely.
•Push the throttle cable
iAto the retainers (12).
(11)
Page 22
Mounting Loop Handle with
Standoff Lever
~
-A-
~.
~
2
0
~
•
Mount
the
loop
standoff lever 20 cm/8"
of the control handle (2).
r
~
0
c.2..
handle
,......,
1
~
(1) with
(A)
forward
33
[][]
oJ
1
--
1
I I4I I
lQJ
I
~
3
•Insert square nuts (3)inthe
standoff lever (4) -
line up the holes.
-l
I
I
I
1
lQj
<:¢fIlII!
3
41
(4
On
FS 108
•Place the clamp (5)
handle (1) and position them both
against the drive tube (6).
•Fit the clamp
lever (4)
line up the holes.
•
Ir)self screws (8)inholes and
screw them into standoff lever
fingertight.
•Align the loop handle.
•Tighten the screws firmly.
in
position -
in
the loop
(7) and place standoff
21
Page 23
Mounting the Loop Handle
Version A
4
On FS 88
•Place the clamp (5)inthe loop
handle (1).
PlaE:e
•
•Fit the clamp
•Insert screws
•Align the loop handle.
•Tighten the screws firmly.
packing sleeve (7)
on the drive tube (6).
(4)
lever
line up the holes.
screw them into standoff lever
fingertight.
(8) and place standoff
in
position -
(9)
in
holes and
At;)
A
o
o
•Mount the loop handle (1)
20 cm/8"
control handle (2).
(A)
forward of the
1
On FS 108
•Place the clamp (3)inthe loop
handle
(1) and position them both
against the drive tube
•Fit the clamp (5) -
line up the holes.
•Insert screws
~.
screw on the nuts (7) fingertight.
•Align the loop handle.
•Lock the nuts and tighten
the screws firmly.
(6)
(4)
in
holes and
22
Page 24
Mounting
Version B
the
Loop
Handle
~0
45
3
~6
8
([JJ
On
FS 88
•Place the clamp (3)inthe loop
handle (1).
•Place packing sleeve
on the drive tube (4).
•Fit the clamp
line up the holes.
•Insert screws
screw on the nuts
•Align the loop handle.
•Lock the nuts and tighten
the screws firmly.
(6) -
(7)
([JJ
8
(5)
in
holes and
(8) fingertight.
•Mount the loop handle (1)
20 cm/8"
control handle (2).
(A)
forward of the
•Place the clamp
handle (1).
On FS 88
•Place packing sleeve (5)
on the drive tube (4).
"'-
On FS 108
•Place both parts on the
drive tube (4).
•Fit the clamp
that the holes line up.
•Insert the screws
•Line up the loop handle and
tighten the screws firmly.
(3)
in
the loop
(6) and make sure
(7) as far as stop.
23
Page 25
Mounting
3~
the
Deflector
1
4
Mounting the deflector
•Place either deflector (1) for all
cutting tools
or
deflector (2) for mowing heads
on the gearhead flange.
•Fit the plate
•Insert M 5 x 18 screws and tighten
down securely.
(3) and line it up.
24
Fitting skirt and blade
•Slide the lower guide slot of the
•Push blade
•Fit the screw and tighten
(4) over the deflector (1) -
skirt
it must snap into position.
(5) into the upper gUide
on
the skirt and line it up with the
first hole.
firmly.
it
down
Fitting stop for circular saw blades
•Remove standard deflector.
Place the stop
head flange - fit the three
M 5 x 18 screws
and tighten down securely.
(1) on the gear
(2) provided
Page 26
Mounting the Cutting Tools
[
1 t
•Lay yourbrushcutter on its back
with the gear head facing up.
Blocking the output shaft
•Insert stop pin (1) in the bore (2) at
the side of the gear head as far as
stop - apply slight pressure.
•Rotate output shaft until the stop
pin slips into position and blocks the
shaft.
\
\
Removing cutting tool mounting
hardware
•Position combination wrench (3)
on the mounting nut (4).
•Release and unscrew the nut
clockwise (left-hand thread).
f
•Remove shipping keeper
if fitted.
•Pull the rider plate
thrust washer
the shaft (8).
•Now fit the cutting tool.
6\
(6) and
(7) off
8
(5) -
25
Page 27
STIHL Supercut 2-2
STIHL Supercut 20-2
•Lay your brushcutter on its back
with the gear head facing up.
•Screw mowing head counterclockwise onto the output shaft
(1) -
as far as it will go.
•Block the output shaft.
•Tighten down the mowing head
securely.
Important!
Remove the stop pin.
Keep instruction sheet for mowing
head in a safe place.
26
Removing mowing head
•Block the output shaft.
•Unscrew mowing head clockwise.
Adjusting nylon line
•Fresh lineisadvanced automatically, providing at least
6cm/2.4" of line
is
still projecting
from the head.
Blade on deflector trims surplus line
to correct length.
•Fit new nylon line as described
in
instructions supplied with mowing
head.
STIHL Autocut 25-2
STIHL Autocut30-2
•Lay your brushcutteronits back
with the gear head facing
up.
•Screw mowing head counterclockwise onto the output shaft
(1) -
as far asitwill go.
•Block the output shaft.
--.
Tighten down the mowing head
securely.
Important!
Remove the stop pin.
Removing mowing head
•Block the output shaft.
•Unscrew mowing head clockwise.
Keep instruction sheet for mowing
head in a safe place.
Page 28
c;-
1
"c
I~
2
3
4
Adjusting nylon line
•Hold the rotating mowing head
horizontal above the ground -
it
on the ground -
tap
about
3cm/1 1/4" fresh line
advanced - blade on deflector trims
surplus line
avoid tapping head more than
once.
•Line feed operates only if both lines
still have a
2.Scm/1".
•Fit new nylon line as described
instructions supplied with mowing
head.
to
the correct length -
minimum length
is
of
in
STIHL Autocut 24-2
STIHL
Polymatic 30-2
•Lay your brushcutter on its back
with the gear head facing up.
•Slip the plain washer
thrust washer
shaft
(3) and against the
thrust plate (4).
•Screw mowing head counterclockwise onto the output shaft -
it
as far as
•Block the output shaft.
•Tighten down the mowing head
securely.
Important!
Remove the stop pin.
will go.
(1) and
(2) over the
Keep instruction sheet for mowing
head in a safe place.
Removing mowing head
•Block the output shaft.
•
Uns.f.rew mowing head clockwise.
Adjusting nylon line
•Refer to instruction sheet supplied
with mowing head.
27
Page 29
~4
-=
1
2
STIHL Polycut 40-3
Lay your brushcutter on its back
•
with the gear head facing up.
Remove ring (1) from the mowing
•
head.
Position the head on the thrust
•
plate (2).
Slip the thrust washer (3) over the
•
output shaft (4).
Block the output shaft.
•
Screw mounting nut (5) counter-
•
clockwise on to the output shaft and
tighten
it
down firmly.
Important!
Remove the stop pin.
Keep instruction sheet
head in a safe place.
28
for
mowing
Releasing mounting nut
•Block the output shaft and
unscrew the mounting nut
clockwise.
If
the mounting nut becomes slack due
to frequent loosening and retightening,
fit a new one.
Replacing cutting blades
•Refer to instruction sheet supplied
with fixed line head.
STIHL Fixed Line Head
Lay your brushcutter on its back
•
with the gear head facing
Place mowing head on the thrust
•
plate (1).
Slip the thrust washer (2)
•
....,. .
over the output shaft (3).
Block the output shaft.
Screw mounting nut (4) counter-
•
clockwise on
tighten down securely.
Important!
Remove the stop pin.
Keep instruction sheet
head in a safe place.
to
output shaft and
for
mowing
up.
Page 30
Releasing mounting nut
•Block the output shaft.
•Unscrew the mounting nut
clock wise.
If
the mounting nut becomes slack due
to
frequent loosening and retightening,
fit
a new one.
t
l
Fitting nylon line
•Refer to instruction sheet supplied
with fixed line head.
Grass cutting blade 230
Brush knife 250
Remove skirt and blade from
Note:
deflector before mounting these
cutting tools.
•Lay your brushcutter on its back
with the gear head facing up.
•Place cutting tool
plate (2).
•Cutting edges of blade 230-8
must point clockwise.
•Cutting blade 230-4
knife
(5) may be fitted either way
round.
(1) on the thrust
(4) and brush
(3)
•Slip the thrust washer
and rider plate (7) over
the output shaft (8).
•Block the output shaft.
•Screw mounting nut
clockwise on to output shaft and
tighten down securely.
Important!
Remove the stop pin.
Releasing mounting nut
•Block the output shaft.
•Unscrew the mounting nut
clockwise.
If
the mounting nut becomes slack due
to
frequent loosening and retightening,
fit a new one.
(6)
(9) counter-
29
Page 31
@8
Circular saw blade 200
(chisel and scratcher tooth)
Fit the appropriate stop
before mounting circular saw blade.
Fitting the stop see chapter "Mounting
the Deflector".
[
3
Mounting circular saw blade
•Lay your brushcutter on its back
with the gear head facing up.
•Position saw blade
the thrust plate
teeth must pointinclockwise
direction.
•Slip the thrust washer
and rider plate (6) over
the drive shaft
•Block the drive shaft.
•Screw mounting nut
counterclockwise on to
drive shaft and tighten down
securely.
(3) on
(4) -
(5)
(7).
(8)
\6
::==::...,
5
7
4
Releasing mounting nut
•Block the drive shaft and
unscrew the mounting nut
clockwise.
If
the mounting nut becomes slack due
to frequent loosening and retightening, fit
a new one.
30
Page 32
Fuel
Your
two-stroke engine requires a
mixture of brand-name gasoline and
quality two-stroke engine oil with the
classification Te.
Use regular branded unleaded gasoline
with a minimum octane number of
90 ROZ (U.S.A./Canada: pump octane
If
min. 89!).
regular grade gasoline
lower
Fuel with a lower octane number may
result
which
engine temperature. This,inturn,
increases the risk of the piston seizure
and damage to the engine.
the octane number of the
in
your area is
us5=l
premium unleaded fuel.
in
preignition (causing pinging")
is
accompanied by an increase
in
The chemical composition of the fuel
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
itisessential that you use only
reason
name branded fuels!
Use only STIHL two-stroke engine oil or
equivalent branded two-stroke air-cooled
engine oils with the classification TC for
mixing.
50:1
We recommend STIHL
engine oil since it is specially formulated
in
STIHl
for use
with
STIHl
to 1 part oil), or
1 part oil) with other branded two-stroke-
air-cooled engine oils.
engines. The mix ratio
oilis50:1
25:1
(25 parts gasoline to
two-stroke
(50 parts gasoline
is
TCW
Do not use BIA or
water cooled) mix oils!
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
fuel mix is stored should be cleaned
from time to time.
Before fueling, clean the filler cap and
the area around it
falls into the tank.
Always thoroughly shake the mixture in
the canister before fueling your machine.
Warning!
bums or otherpersonal injury from escaping gas vapor and fumes, remove the
fuel filler cap carefully so as to allow any
pressure build-up
slowly.
Warning' After fueling, tighten fuel cap
as securely as possible by hand.
32
In
to
ensure that no dirt
order to reduce the risk of
in
the tanktorelease
Change the fuel pick up body every year.
Before storing your machine for a long
period, drain and clean the fuel tank and
run engine until carburetor is
dry.
Models with a loop handle come without
a harness (available as special accessory for these models).
Shoulder strap
Put on the shoulder strap (1).
•
...., .
Adjust length until the spring
hook (3) rests against your right hip.
Use of the carrying strap is described
in chapters "Safety Precautions" and
"Selecting the Cutting Tool".
Page 34
Full
harness
•Put on the full harness (2).
•Adjust length until the spring
hook (3) rests against your right hip.
Use of the carrying strap is described
in
chapters "Safety Precautions" and
"Selecting the Cutting Tool".
Balancing the brushcutter
•Attach the spring hook
the clamp (4) on the drive shaft slacken the screw (5).
•Slide the clamp up or down
the drive shaft.
Tighten the screw moderately.
•
(3)
•Let go of the brushcutter and check
to
see howitis balanced:
to
mowing heads, Fixed Line Head
and
brush knife must rest lightly
ground.
Circular saw blades must stay
abottt 30cm/1
ground.
•
Tighten the screw firmly.
ft
(A)
clear of the
on
the
33
Page 35
Starting
1
•Observe safety precautions - see
section "Safety Precautions"
manual.
•Hold down the throttle trigger
interlock (1) and squeeze
the throttle trigger (2).
•Move the slide control (3)
to
START position.
•Now release the throttle trigger, slide
control and trigger interlock
in
that order = Thisisthe
in
this
starting-throttle position.
34
If engine
Set the choke lever (4) to
If
engineiswarm:
Set the choke lever (4) to ...
Also use this setting il engine has been
running but
is
cold:
is
still cold.
.L
•Put the unit on the ground:
It
must rest securely on the engine
support and deflector. Check that
the cutting tool
ground or any other obstacles.
•Make sure you have a firm
looting: Hold the unit with you left
hand and press it down
your thumb shouldbeunder the
housing.
•Do not stand or kneel
shaft!
is
not touching the
firmly -
on
the drive
Page 36
~oo~
((
2
\\3))
•Pull the starter grip slowly with your
right hand until you feel
and then give
Do not pull out starter rope more
than 70cm (27") -
Do not let the starter grip snap
back - guide
housing so that the starter rope
can rewind properly.
it
a brisk strong pull.
it
slowly into the
it
engage -
it
might break.
When engine begins to fire:
If
engine is cold:
Set choke lever (4)
and continue cranking until engine runs.
If
engineiswarm:
Continue cranking until engine
to
-
runs_
As soon as warm engine runs:
•Blip the throttle trigger (2) the slide control (3) moves to the
run
positionI,and the engine
returns
to
idling speed.
•
Make~ure
adj,usted - cutting tool must not
rotate when engine
Your brushcutter
operation.
carburetor is correctly
is
idling.
is
ready for
35
Page 37
To
shut down engine:
•Move slide control (3)
At very low outside temperatures:
Allow engine to warm up
As soon as engine runs:
•Blip the throttle triggerthe slide control
run position
returns to idling speed.
•Open throttle slightly warm up engine for short period.
I, and the engine
to
STOP.
(3) moves to the
36
If the engine doesn't start:
If
you did not move the choke
lever
to.L
quickly enough after the engine
began to fire, the combustion chamber
is flooded.
Remove spark plug terminal
•Unscrew and dry off the
spark plug.
•Set slide control
•Open the throttle fully.
•Pull the starter rope several times to
clear the combustion chamber.
to
(5) -
STOP.
•Refit the spark plug and connect
the spark plug terminal.
•Set slide control to START.
•Set choke lever
even if engine
Now
•
Fuel tank run until dry and then
refueled
•Continue cranking -
start the engine.
Engine will not start immediately
because fuel pump has to be primed with fuel.
is
to
cold.
...
Page 38
Adjusting Carburetor
FS88
{I I
tL
I
~~
/-1=1
R
I
L-!@
L....
~
FS
108
I
The carburetor has been adjusted for
optimum performance under the
barometric pressure and climatic
conditions at the factory.
Basic setting
This settingisthe starting point for fine
tuning and can be used as the
standard setting.
•Check air filter and clean it if
necessary.
•Carefully screw the high speed
adjusting screw (H) and low speed
adjusting screw (L) down onto their
seats (clockwise) and make the
following adjustments:
{I I
IfF
FS
88
/
I I
rL
I
~~
~l~
~LA
FS 108
I, I
H L
~~
HOpen 1 full turn
LOpen 1 full tum
•Start the engine and adjust idling
speed with the idle speed adjusting
LA
screw
cutting tool must not rotate.
This standard setting
of
setting
for normal operation at an altitude of
about 300 m/1000
It
ensures your machine will deliver
maximum power, be fuel efficient and
operate reliably.
or LD:
the high speed adjusting screw
rB
~
1~!
JJ
~I-R~-
LD
is
the optimum
It above sea level.
It
may be necessary fine-tune the
carburetor
if
operating
e.g. higher orlower altitudes, extreme
changes
if
you
The fine tuning procedures described
below ensure maximum performance
under
conditions
in
humidity and temperature or
fit
a different cutting tool:
t~e
new
operating conditions.
change,
37
Page 39
FS
88
I
~H
,~
, ,
Iii
R
FS88
I
H
I~@
,
! ,
Ir I
n
~I
I--
I
-------
FS
108
Fine tuning
•Mount the cutting tool.
Machines with cutting head:
•Trim line to correct length:
Lines must extend as far as line
limiting blade on the deflector
•Carry out the basic setting.
•Warm up engine by running
about 1 minute at full throttle and
then return
•Back off high speed adjusting screw
(H) one half turn (counterclockwise).
•Run engine at full throttle and rotate
high speed adjusting screw
carefully clockwise until you hear
(I ,
to
ILL
II
idle speed.
it
(H)
for
no further increaseinRPM back off screw one eighth turn.
Machines with metal cutting tool:
A tachometer is necessary for the
following adjustment.
If
no tachometerisavailable,
do not turn screws beyond the basic
setting.
•Carry out the basic setting.
•Warm up engine by running
about 1 minute at full throttle and
then return to idle speed.
1'-1
@
l-
I
1Pr=
---
FS 108
•Back off high speed adjusting screw
(H) one half turn (counterclockwise).
•Run engine at full throttle and
rotate high speed adjusting screw
(H) carefully clockwise until
maximum permissible speed of
12,000 RPM
.....,.
Turning the screw
in the clockwise direction will
make the fuel-air mixture too
lean -
it
for
this could damage the engine!
(I ,
is
reached.
(H) any further
38
Page 40
FS 88
,,
I@f;j
I
Lj~
L-
~
LA
L
rH
R
I I
Iii
,
FS88
I
I@f;j
I
I
L
I !
rH
R
FS88
l-/~
L-
LA
~
117=1
(
)@f;j
I
l-/@
L-
I
------
I I
L
rH
R
117=
FS 108
Adjusting idle speed
It
is usually necessary to change
the setting of the idle speed
adjusting screw
correction
adjusting screw
Engine stops while idling
Turn the idle speed
adjusting screw
clockwise until engine runs
smoothly - cutting
tool must not rotate.
(I I
(LA or LD) after every
to
the low speed
(L).
(LA or LD)
FS 108
Cutting tool rotates when
engine is idling
Turn the idle speed adjusting
screw
(LA or LD) counterclockwise
until cutting tool stops rotating then back off screw about
another one half tum from that
position.
Erratic idling behavior,
poor acceleration
Idle setting is too lean.
Turn the low speed adjusting
screw
(L) counterclockwise until
engine runs and accelerates
smoothly.
(I I
FS 108
Exhaust smokes at idle speed
Idle setting is too rich.
Turn the low speed adjusting
screw
(L) clockwise until
engine speed drops. Then turn
screw back one quarter turn
and
ch~k
acce'lerates smoothly when
you open the throttle.
(I I
that engine still
39
Page 41
Operating
Instructions
During break-in period
A factory new machine should not be
at
high revs (full throttle off load) for the
first three tank fillings. This avoids unnecessary high loads during the break-in
period.
As all moving parts have
during the break-in period, the
frictional resistances
are greater during this period.
The engine develops its maximum
power afterabout 5 to 15 tank fillings.
to
in
the engine
bed
run
in
40
During operation
After long period of full-throttle
operation, allow engine
at
idling speed so that the heatinthe
engine can be dissipated by flow of
cooling
mounted components (ignition,
carburetor) from thermal overload.
air.
This protects engine-
to
run
for a while
After finishing work
Storing for short period:
To
avoid condensation, fill the fuel
in
tank and keep the unit
until you need
Storing for a long period:
Drain and clean the fuel tank run engine until carburetor is
Check tightness of nuts and screws
(not adjusting screws) at regular
inteNals and retighten as necessary.
•Use only suppressed spark plugs
of the approved type.
A
(A)
':5
8
..:
1Il
g
o
Rectify faults which have caused
fouling of spark plug:
Incorrect carburetor setting, too much oil
in
fuel mix, dirty air filter, unfavorable
running conditions, e.g. operating at
part load.
•Fit a new spark plug after
approx. 100 operating hours -
-
or earlier if the electrodes are
badly eroded.
•
(~2
If thereisa noticeable loss
of engine power:
•Set choke lever to
•Grip tab (2) and pull the
filter cover
•Clean away loose dirt from
around the filter.
---\(~
.L -
(1) off the carburetor.
41
Page 43
3 4
Lubricating
5
Gearbox
Lubricating
Drive
Shaft
t
01
10
2
Remove the foam element (3)
•
and the felt element (4).
Wash the filter elementsinfresh,
•
non-flammable cleaning solution
(e.g. warm soapy water) and then
dry.
Replace damaged parts of filter.
Place the felt element
•
in
the filter base (5) first and thenDo not completely fill the
the foam element.
Fit the filter cover (1) -itmust snap
•
into position.
42
Check grease level after about
•
every 50 hours of operation.
Unscrew the filler plug (1).
•
If
no grease can be seen on the insi-
•
de
of the filler plug, screw the tube
(2) of STIHL gear lubricant
0781 120 1117 into the filler hole.
Squeeze grease into the geardrive tube.
•
housing
gear housing with grease.
Refit the filler plug and tighten
•
down firmly.
- about 5 - 10 g (1/4 oz),
it
Check film of lubricant once
•
a year.
Mark the end of the gear head on
•
the drive tube.
Release the clamp screws (1).
•
Pull the gear head (2) off the
•
Page 44
Sharpening
Cutting
Tools
t
~3
•Pull the shaft
tube.
•Use STIHL multipurpose grease
0781
120 1109 to coat dry areas
of the shaft:
Do not apply too much grease
never pump grease into the
drive tube.
•
If
shaft has turned blue, fit a
new one.
(3) out of the drive
3
D
':)
(")
0
"'
«
([J
r--
(")
"'
1
2
o
3
o
':)
'"
0
"'
«
([J
r--
(")
"'
•Push shaft (3) into the drive tube tum ittoand fro until distance A
less than 30mm (1.2").
•Slide the drive tube into
the gear head
-
turn drive shaft (4) back and
forth until mark is reached.
•Line up the gear head.
•
Tighten down the clamp screws.
-
is
Grass cutting blade 230-4
Never straighten or weld a bent or
cracked cutting blade shatter and cause serious or fatal injury.
•Resharpen only when all cutting
edges (1)
blade are dull: This ensures
balanced wear.
To
•Resharpen the cutters
uniformly - do not alter the contour
of the parent blade (3)
•After resharpening about 5 times,
have blade checked on STIHL
balancer 5910 850 2600 and
rebalanced as necessary.
on
avoid out-at-balance:
it
might
both sides of the
(2)
in
any
way.
43
Page 45
~A
o
=:JJ
Sharpen correctly
•
•File back the cutting edge
•Resharpen frequently, take
.......
__
4
__
If
slightly dull:
Use flat file (4) 0814 212
In
case of more serious wear or
nicks: Resharpen with a grinder maintain a sharpening angle of
30° (A) on the cutting edge (1).
parallel to the lines (B) (see
illustration).
away as little material as
possible - two or three strokes
of
the file are usually enough.
3310-
2
3
Grass cutting blade 230-8
Never straightenorweld a bent or
cracked cutting blade shatter and cause serious
•Resharpen when the tips of the
cutting edges (1) have worn
down to about 1mm/3/64" (A).
To
avoid out-of-balance:
•Resharpen the cutters (2)
uniformly - do not alter the contour
of the parent blade (3) in any
•After resharpening about 5 times,
have blade checked on STIHL
balancer 5910 850 2600 and
rebalanced as necessary.
it
might
or
fatal injury.
way.
B
,---~-----a'i
~c
Measurements and angles for
resharpening
Leave clearance of 2mm/5/64" (B)
between cutting edge and parent
blade -
R1
should be 2mm/5/64".
Radius R2
obtained automatically if you use the
specified file and maintain a filing angle
of 30° (C).
Cutting edge
with center of blade's mounting hole.
is
2.5mmf7164" and
(0) must be exactly
is
in
line
m
~
:;:;
..,
44
Page 46
)J
4_-
Sharpen correctly
•
If
slightly dull:
Use flat file
In
case of more serious wear or
nicks: Resharpen with a grinder.
•File back the cutting edge
parallel to the lines
(see illustration).
•Resharpen frequently, take
away as little material as
possible - two or three strokes
of the file are usually enough.
(4) 0814
2123310-
(E)
2
Brush knite
Never straighten or weld a bent or
cracked brush knife and cause serious or fatal injury.
•Only sharpen the
cutting edges
tips - do not sharpen curved
cutting edges
nicked
250
(1) at the pointed
(2) even if theyare
in
places.
2
it
might shatter
To
avoid out-at-balance:
•Resharpen cutting edges
uniformly -
use the sharpening template
0457 342 2629 provided.
•After resharpening about
5 times, have blade checked on
ST-U::iL
balancer
and rebalanced as necessary.
59108502600
45
Page 47
)n
3-
ay
I !
~)
I
'--.-:
-,
\
\
-,I
Sharpen correctly
•
If
slightly dull: Use
flat file (3) 0814 212
In
case of more serious wear
nicks: Resharpen with a grinder -
maintain a sharpening angle of
0
30
(A) on the cutting edge (1).
•File back the cutting edge
parallel to the lines on the sharpen-
ing template.
•Resharpen frequently, take
away as little material as
possible - two or three strokes
of the file are usually enough.
46
3310-
or
Circular saw blade 200 (chisel tooth)
Never straightenorweld a bent
cracked circular saw blade - it might
shatter and cause serious
Sharpening circular
blade on the unit
•Cut a vertical slitinthe
top of a tree stump
against the stump so that the saw
blade rests in the slil.
•Turn the blade with one hand
while resharpening
Wear gloves!
saw
or
or
fatal injury.
- lean the unit
-
Sharpen correctly
•File only the side plate (1).
•
If
slightly dull: Use
file holder(2) 5605 750 4343
and matching 5.5mm dia.
round file (3)
l0
case of majororvery irregular wear:
Use an electric grinder.
•File right and left-hand teeth
in
the direction of sel.
0811
411
8108.
Page 48
B~
54
•File at the angle marked on the file
holder:
Filing angle
file should slope upward
at an angle of 5° (B).
•Resharpen frequently, take
away as little material as
possible - two or three strokes
of the file are usually enough.
is
15°
(A)
-
Resetting the teeth
If
the saw blade does not cut freely
or binds
Check set of teeth -
•Hold the saw set
•
in
the cut:
(4) 4020 893 5000
against the saw blade
is a gap
saw set: see "Resetting the teeth".
If
Clearance
set
(C)
between the tooth and
the tooth just touches the saw set:
0
is
is
correct.
(5) - if there
1mm (3/64") and the
Resetting correctly the teeth
•Fit notch of saw set
•Push the saw set downward until
•Check set of teeth again.
Circular
(scratcher tooth)
Never straighten or weld a bent or
cracked circular saw blade shatter and cause serious or fatal injury.
(6) - blade thickness 1.5mm
tooth
(about 1/16"). Maintain the angle
of 90°
(E) and keep
direction of set.
the sloRing side
"',
butts,against the saw blade.
saw
blade 200
(4) over the
to
existing
(F) of the notch
it
might
47
Page 49
Replacing
and Rewind Spring
Starter
Rope
]ID
__
Sharpen correctly
•File only the back of the tooth (1).
•If slightly dull: Use
flat file (2) 0814 212 3310.
In
case of more serious wear or
nicks: Resharpen with a grinder -
until
the tips (3) of the teeth are
restored to full sharpness.
•Resharpen frequently, take away
as little material as possible - two or
three strokes of the file are usually
enough.
•Do not alter tooth profile.
2_-
2
0
Removing rewind starter
•Lay your brushculler on its back
with the gear head facing
•Remove the four screws (1) from
the machine support (2) and lift
away.
•Take out the screws (3).
•Remove the starter cover
together with rewind starter
mechanism.
up.
(4)
~
0
5
'-6
0
Replacing a broken starter rope
•Take out the screw (5).
•Remove the washer (6).
•Remove the rope rotor very
it
carefully - the rewind spring
seatedinthe starter cover and
may pop out and cause injury if
care is not taken.
is
48
Page 50
a=2mm
(O,08in)
•Remove remaining rope from rotor thread the new rope -
3.5mm x 800mm (0.14" x 31.5") into the rotor and secure
it
with a simple overhand knot.
•Thread other end - from
inside - through the rope guide bush
in
the starter cover and the underside of the starter grip and secure
with special knot (7).
•Coat rope rotor bearing bore
with non-resinous oil.
•Slide rotor onto starter post turn
it
back and forth until
anchor loop
(8) of rewind spring
engages.
•Fit screw and washer and tighten
down firmly.
Go to "Tensioning rewind spring".
Replacing a broken rewind spring
•Lubricate the new spring with a few
drops of non-resinous oil do not open the wire retainer!
•Remove the rope rotor - as
described
in
"Replacing a broken
starter rope".
•
Rei'tlove parts of old spring.
•Fit the new spring in
position outer spring loop
the
recess - the wire retainer slips off
this process.
in
49
Page 51
o
o
If the spring has popped out and
uncoiled:
•Wind up the spring clockwise, from
the inside outwards, until its overall
50mm
diameter is
•Use pointed nose pliers to grip
spring about 10mm
outer loop and refit
•Install the rope rotor.
(2").
(318")
it.
from the
50
Tensioning the rewind spring
•Make a loopinthe starter rope and
use it to turn the rope rotor seven
full revolutions counterclockwise.
•Hold the rotor steady - straighten
the twisted rope - release the rotor.
•Let go of rope slowly so that
winds onto the rotor.
it
The
starter grip must be firmly seated
the rope guide bush.
If grip droops to one side:
•Add one more turn on rope rotor
to increase spring tension.
When
starter rope is fully extended it
must be possible to rotate the rotor
'-
another half turn.
•If this is not the case, the spring
is overtensioned and could break.
•Take one turn of rope off the rotor.
•Refit and secure the starter cover
and machine support.
in
Page 52
Spark
Arresting
ScreeninMuffler
Storing
the
Machine
If
the engineislow on power, check the
spark arresting screen inside the muffler.
•Pull off the spark plug
terminal (1).
•Take out shroud mounting
screws (2).
•Remove the shroud (3).
1/
4
1(. I
4
•
\
0
l.1
4
II
~
•Take out the screws (4).
•Remove the cover (5).
•Remove the spark arresting
screen (6).
•Clean spark arresting screen
necessary.
•
If
screenisdamaged or coked up,
fit a new one.
•Refit the spark arresting screen.
•Fit the cover.
•Fit the shroud.
\
•
4
(0
I
I5
lo
I
]
0
0
For periods of about 3 months or longer:
•Drain and clean the fuel tank.
•Run engine until carburetor
if
this helps prevent the carburetor
diaphragms sticking together.
•Remove, clean and inspect the
ClLtting
tool.
• . Thoroughly clean the machine pay special attention
fins and air filter.
•Store the machine
locked location - out of the reach
of children and other unauthorized
persons.
inadry,
to
the cylinder
high or
is
dry -
51
Page 53
Maintenance Chart
Please note that the following maintenance intervals apply for normal operating
conditions only.
are difficult (very dusty work area, etc.), shorten the specified intervals accordingly.
Complete machine
Control handleCheck operation
Air filter
r--
Filter in fuel tank
Fuel tankClean
Carburetor
Spark plugReadjust electrode gap
Cylinder finsClean
Spark arresting screeninmuffler
All accessible screws and nuts
(not adjusting screws)
Cutting tools
Gearbox lubrication
Drive shaft lubrication
If
your daily working timeislonger than nonmal or conditions
Visual inspection (condition, leaks)
Clean
Clean
Replace
Check
Replace
Check idle adjustment cutting tool must not turn
Readjust idle
Inspect
Clean or replace
Retighten
Visual inspection
Replace
Sharpen metal cutting lools
Check tightness of cutting tool
Check
Top up
Check
Replenish
a.
g.?-
E"(ij
","0
;§o
~.><
<1>~
",0
Ol
0
L:<n
u'"
Olc
<1>=
~<1>
<1>::1
",-
;:
Ol~
-c
0
;:
~.~
Ot:
Qi!9
.0'"
xx
x
x
x
Ix
xx
x
x
x
x
~
"0
"0
£
::I
1"
.- .-
<1>
Ol
'"
E
Ol
"0
>-
>-
:c
:i:
C
<1>
0
<1>
;:
E
x
x
x
Q;
~
'S
Ol
'"
(J
a.
~
<1>
<1>
<J)
ro
'"
34-36
~~
41-42
x
41-42
32
32
x
31
37-39
37-39
x
x
41
x
I
xx
51
51
40
x
26-30
x
26-30
43-48
x
26-30
42
42
x
42-43
42-43
x
52
Page 54
Specifications
The user of the brushcutter may carry
out only the maintenance operations
in
described
work may
thorized STIHL Service Shop.
warranty claims following repairs can
be accepted only if the repair has
been performed by an authorized
STIHL Service Shop using original
STIHL spare parts.