Stihl STIHL FS 230 STIHL FS 230 (en)

STIHL FS 230

Instruction Manual2 - 21

English

Contents

1 Introduction................................................. 2

2 Guide to Using this Manual.........................2

3 Videos......................................................... 2

4 Overview..................................................... 3

5 Safety Precautions......................................4

6 Preparing Trimmer for Operation.............. 10

7 Assembling the Trimmer........................... 10

8 Adjusting Trimmer for User....................... 12

9 Mixing Fuel and Refueling the Brushcutter

.................................................................. 13

10 Starting and Stopping the Engine............. 14

11 Testing the Trimmer..................................16

12 Operating the Trimmer..............................16

13 After Finishing Work..................................17

14 Transporting..............................................17

15 Storing.......................................................17

16 Cleaning....................................................17

17 Maintenance............................................. 18

18 Repairing...................................................18

19 Troubleshooting........................................ 19

20 Specifications............................................20

21 Combinations of Cutting Attachments,

Deflectors and Carrying Systems............. 21

22 Spare Parts and Accessories....................21

23 Disposal.................................................... 21

1 Introduction

Dear Customer,

Thank you for choosing STIHL. We develop and manufacture our quality products to meet our customers’ requirements. The products are designed for reliability even under extreme con‐ ditions.

STIHL also stands for premium service quality. Our dealers guarantee competent advice and instruction as well as comprehensive service support.

STIHL expressly commit themselves to a sus‐ tainable and responsible handling of natural resources. This user manual is intended to help you use your STIHL product safely and in an environmentally friendly manner over a long service life.

We thank you for your confidence in us and hope you will enjoy working with your STIHL product.

IMPORTANT! READ BEFORE USING AND KEEP IN A SAFE PLACE FOR REFERENCE.

2 Guide to Using this Manual

2.1 Applicable Documentation

Local safety regulations apply. ► Read, understand and save the following

documents in addition to this instruction man‐ ual:

Instruction manual and packaging of the

–

cutting attachment you are using

2.2 Symbols used with warnings in the text

WARNING

■ This symbol indicates dangers that can cause

serious injuries or death. ► The measures indicated can avoid serious

injuries or death.

NOTICE

■ This symbol indicates dangers that can cause

damage to property. ► The measures indicated can avoid damage

to property.

2.3 Symbols in Text

This symbol refers to a chapter in this instruction manual.

3 Videos

For videos on the following chapters visit www.stihl.com/instruction-video:

Mounting the Bike Handle

–

Mounting the Deflector

–

Mounting Metal Cutting Attachment

–

Mixing Fuel

–

Fueling the Trimmer

–

Preparing Engine for Start and

–

Starting the Engine Cleaning the Air Filter

–

Lubricating the Gearbox

–

Adjusting the Throttle Cable

–

Translation of Original Instruction Manual

0000007929_011_GB

Printed on chlorine-free paper

Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.

0458-733-0121-B. VA0.F21.

Dr. Nikolas Stihl

2 0458-733-0121-B

8 9

0000-GXX-4716-A0

0000-GXX-4717-A0

4 Overview English

4 Overview

4.1 Trimmer

1 Filter Cover

Covers the air filter.

2 Air Filter

Filters air entering engine.

3 Choke Lever

Helps start the engine.

4 Manual Fuel Pump

Eases engine starts.

5 Spark Plug Boot

Connects ignition lead to spark plug

6 Spark Plug

Ignites fuel-air mixture in the engine.

7 Muffler

8 Starter Grip

9 Carburetor Adjusting Screws

10 Fuel Tank Cap

11 Grip

12 Throttle Cable

13 Control Handle

0458-733-0121-B 3

Reduces trimmer noise emissions.

Serves to crank the engine.

For tuning the carburetor.

Closes the fuel tank.

For holding and controlling the trimmer.

Connects the throttle trigger to the engine.

For operating, holding and controlling the trimmer.

14 Slide Control

For starting, running and stopping the engine.

15 Throttle Trigger Lockout

Unlocks the throttle trigger.

16 Throttle Trigger

Controls engine speed.

17 Drive Tube

Connects all components.

18 Carrying Ring

For attaching carrying system to the trimmer.

19 Handlebar Clamp

Connects handlebar to the drive tube.

20 Handlebar

Connects control handle and left grip to drive tube.

21 Bracket

For mounting the deflector.

22 Gear Housing

Encloses the gearbox.

23 Screw Plug

Closes filler opening for STIHL gear grease.

24 Opening for Stop Pin

Accommodates the stop pin.

25 Stop Pin

Blocks shaft while cutting attachment is being mounted.

# Rating label with serial number

4.2 Deflectors and Cutting Attach‐ ments

The illustrations show examples of deflectors and cutting attachments. Approved combinations are listed in this instruction manual, 21.

1 Universal Deflector

Protects user from flying debris and contact with the cutting attachment.

2 Grass Cutting Blade

Cuts grass and weeds.

15m (50ft)

English 5 Safety Precautions

3 Transport Guard

Helps protect user from contact with metal cutting attachments.

4 Mowing Head

The mowing head contains the mowing line.

5 Skirt

Extends universal deflector for use with a mowing head.

6 Line Limiting Blade

Trims surplus mowing line to correct length.

4.3 Symbols

Meanings of symbols that may be on the trimmer and the deflector:

This symbol denotes the fuel tank.

This symbol denotes the manual fuel pump.

Wear safety boots.

Wear work gloves.

Observe safety notices on kickback and take the necessary precautions.

Observe safety notices on flying debris and take the necessary precautions.

Maintain safe distance.

Do not touch hot surface.

This symbol denotes the starter grip and the engine is started with the slide control in this position.

Engine is operated with the slide control in this position.

Engine is stopped when the slide con‐ trol is in this position.

Slide control is moved in this direction to stop the engine.

Engine is started with the choke lever in this position.

Engine is made ready for start with the choke lever in this position.

This symbol shows the direction of rotation of the cutting attachment.

This symbol shows the rated speed of the cutting attachment.

5 Safety Precautions

5.1 Warning Symbols

Meanings of warning signs on the trimmer:

Observe safety notices and take the necessary precautions.

Read, understand and save the instruction manual.

Wear safety glasses, hearing protec‐ tion and a hard hat.

5.2 Intended Use

The STIHL FS 230 trimmer is designed for the following applications:

with a mowing head: Mowing grass

–

with a grass cutting blade: Mowing grass and

–

weeds

WARNING

■

Using the trimmer for purposes for which it is not designed may result in serious or fatal inju‐ ries and damage to property. ►

Use the trimmer as described in this instruction manual.

5.3 The Operator

WARNING

■

Users who have had no instruction cannot rec‐ ognize or assess the risks involved in using the trimmer. The user or other persons may sustain serious or fatal injuries.

► Read, understand and save the

instruction manual.

► If you pass the trimmer is on to another

user: Always give them the instruction man‐ ual.

►

Make sure the user meets the following requirements:

The user must be rested.

–

The user must be in good physical con‐

–

dition and mental health to operate and work with the trimmer. If the user’s

4 0458-733-0121-B

15m (50ft)

5 Safety Precautions English

physical, sensory or mental ability is restricted, he or she may work only under the supervision of or as instructed by a responsible person. The user is able to recognize and

–

assess the risks involved in using the trimmer. The user must be of legal age or is

–

being trained in a trade under supervi‐ sion in accordance with national rules and regulations. The user has received instruction from a

–

STIHL servicing dealer or other experi‐ enced user before working with the trim‐ mer for the first time. The user must not be under the influ‐

–

ence of alcohol, medication or drugs.

► If you have any queries: Contact a STIHL

servicing dealer for assistance.

■ The trimmer’s ignition system produces an electromagnetic field. This field may interfere with some pacemakers. This can result in seri‐ ous or fatal injuries. ►

If the user has a pacemaker: Make sure the pacemaker is not affected.

5.4 Clothing and equipment

■ Dust can be whipped up during operation. Whipped up dust can damage the respiratory passages and cause allergic reactions. ►

If dust is generated: Wear a dust respirator mask.

■ Inappropriate clothing can snag on wood, brush or the brushcutter. Users not wearing suitable clothing are at risk of serious injury. ►

Wear close-fitting clothing.

► Remove scarves and jewelry.

■ The user may come into contact with the rotat‐ ing cutting attachment during operation. This may result in serious injury to the user. ►

Wear robust footwear.

► If you are using a metal cutting

attachment: Wear steel-toed safety boots.

► Wear long trousers made from resistant

material.

■ When mounting and dismounting the cutting attachment and during cleaning or mainte‐ nance, the user may come into contact with the sharp edges of the cutting attachment or the crosscut blade. This may result in injury to the user.

► Wear work gloves made from resist‐

ant material.

WARNING

■

Long hair can be drawn into the brushcutter during operation. This may result in serious injury to the user. ►

Tie up and confine long hair above your shoulders.

■ Objects can be thrown at high speed during operation. This may result in injury to the user.

► Wear close-fitting safety glasses.

Suitable safety glasses are tested in accordance with EN 166 or national regulations and available commer‐ cially with the corresponding mark‐ ing.

►

Wear face protection.

► Wear long trousers made from resistant

material.

■ Noise is generated during operation. Noise can damage your hearing.

► Wear ear protection.

■ Falling objects can cause head injuries.

► If objects are likely to fall while work‐

ing: wear a hard hat.

■ Wearing unsuitable footwear may cause the user to slip. This may result in injury to the user. ►

Wear sturdy, closed-toed footwear with high-grip soles.

5.5 Working Area and Surround‐

ings

WARNING

■

Bystanders, children and animals are not aware of the dangers of the brushcutter or fly‐ ing debris. This may result in serious injury to bystanders, children and animals and damage to property.

► Do not allow bystanders,

children or animals within 15 meters of the work area.

► Maintain a clearance of 15 meters from

objects. ► Do not leave the brushcutter unattended. ► Make sure that children cannot play with

the brushcutter.

■ Hot exhaust gas is emitted through the muffler while the engine is running. Hot exhaust gas

0458-733-0121-B 5

English 5 Safety Precautions

can ignite easily flammable materials and cause a fire. ► Keep exhaust gas well away from easily

flammable materials.

5.6 Safe Condition

5.6.1 Brushcutter The brushcutter is in a safe condition if the fol‐ lowing points are observed:

The brushcutter is not damaged.

–

There is no fuel leaking from the trimmer.

–

The fuel tank cap is closed.

–

The brushcutter is clean.

–

The controls function properly and have not

–

been modified. A combination of cutting attachment and

–

deflector recommended in this user manual is mounted. The cutting attachment and deflector are prop‐

–

erly mounted. Genuine STIHL accessories for this brushcut‐

–

ter are fitted. The accessories are correctly attached.

–

All accessible screws and fastening parts are

–

firmly tightened.

WARNING

■ If not in safe condition, components may no longer operate correctly, safety devices may be disabled and fuel leakage may occur. This may result in serous or fatal injury to people. ►

Work only with an undamaged brushcutter.

► If fuel is leaking from the trimmer: Do not

use the trimmer and contact a STIHL dealer for assistance.

►

Close the fuel tank cap.

► If the brushcutter is dirty: Clean the brush‐

cutter.

► Never attempt to modify your brushcutter.

Exception: Mounting one of the combina‐ tions of cutting attachment and deflector recommended in this user manual.

►

If the controls do not function properly: Do not use your brushcutter.

► Fit genuine STIHL accessories for this

brushcutter.

► Mount the cutting attachment and deflector

as described in this user manual.

► Attach accessories as described in this

User Manual or in the User Manual for the accessories.

►

Tighten loose screws and fastening parts.

► Never insert objects in the openings of the

brushcutter.

► Replace worn or damaged labels.

► If you have any doubts, be sure to consult a

STIHL dealer.

5.6.2 Deflector The deflector is in a safe condition if the following points are observed:

The deflector is not damaged.

–

If you are using the line limiting blade and

–

skirt: Line limiting blade and skirt are correctly fitted.

WARNING

■ If components do not comply with safety requirements, they will no longer function properly and safety devices may be rendered inoperative. This can result in serious injuries. ►

Work only with an undamaged deflector.

► If you are using the line limiting blade and

skirt: Work with a correctly fitted line limiting blade and skirt.

►

If you have any queries: Contact your STIHL servicing dealer.

5.6.3 Mowing Head

The mowing head is in a safe condition if the fol‐ lowing points are observed:

The mowing head is not damaged.

–

The mowing head is not jammed.

–

The mowing lines are properly installed.

–

The wear limits are not exceeded.

–

WARNING

■

If they are in an unsafe condition, parts of the mowing head or mowing lines may come off and be ejected at high speed. They may cause serious injury to persons. ►

Work only with an undamaged mowing head.

► Never use metal objects in place of the

nylon mowing lines. ► Observe and remain inside the wear limits. ► If you have any doubts, be sure to consult a

STIHL dealer.

5.6.4 Metal cutting attachment The metal cutting attachment is in a safe condi‐ tion if the following points are observed:

Metal cutting attachment and mounting hard‐

–

ware are undamaged. Metal cutting attachment is not warped.

–

Metal cutting attachment is properly mounted.

–

Metal cutting attachment is correctly sharp‐

–

ened. Cutting edges of the metal cutting attachment

–

have no burrs. The wear limits are not exceeded.

–

6 0458-733-0121-B

5 Safety Precautions English

If a metal cutting attachment not manufactured

–

by STIHL is used, it must not be heavier, thicker, of a different shape, of a lower quality, or larger in diameter than the largest metal cutting attachment approved by STIHL.

WARNING

■

If it is not in an safe condition, parts of the metal cutting attachment may come off and be thrown at high speed. They may cause serious injury to persons. ►

Never work with a damaged metal cutting attachment or damaged mounting hard‐ ware.

►

Sharpen the metal cutting attachment cor‐

rectly. ► Deburr the cutting edges with a file. ► Have the metal cutting attachment bal‐

anced by a STIHL servicing dealer. ► Observe and remain inside the wear limits. ► Use a metal cutting attachment specified in

these instructions for use. ► If you have any doubts, be sure to consult a

STIHL dealer.

5.7 Fuel Mixture and Refueling

WARNING

■

This trimmer requires a fuel mixture of gaso‐ line and two-stroke engine oil. Fuel mixture and gasoline are extremely flammable. If fuel mixture or gasoline make contact with open fire or hot objects, they can cause a fire or explosion. This can result in serious or fatal injuries and damage to property. ►

Protect fuel mixture and gasoline from heat

and fire. ► Do not spill fuel mixture and gasoline. ► If fuel has been spilled: Wipe up the fuel

with a cloth and do not attempt to start the

engine until all parts of the trimmer and the

area around it are dry. ►

Do not smoke. ► Never refuel near a fire. ► Shut off the engine and allow it to cool

down before refueling. ► Start the engine at least 3 meters from the

fueling spot, outdoors only.

■ Inhaling fuel fumes and gasoline fumes can have toxic effects. ► Avoid inhaling fuel fumes or gasoline

fumes.

► Refuel in a well-ventilated location.

■ The trimmer becomes hot during operation. The fuel expands and excess pressure can build up in the tank. Fuel can escape as a

0458-733-0121-B 7

spray when the fuel tank cap is opened. The escaping fuel can ignite. This can result in serious injuries. ►

Allow the trimmer to cool down first and then open the tank cap carefully.

■ Clothing that has been in contact with fuel or gasoline is more easily flammable. This can result in serious or fatal injuries and damage to property. ►

If your clothing comes into contact with fuel or gasoline: Change your clothing.

■ Fuel mix, gasoline and two-stroke engine oil can harm the environment. ► Do not spill fuel, gasoline or two-stroke

engine oil.

► Dispose of fuel mix, gasoline and two-

stroke engine oil in accordance with local regulations and environmental require‐ ments.

■

Fuel, gasoline or two-stroke engine oil can cause irritation if they come into direct contact with the skin or eyes. ►

Avoid contact with fuel, gasoline and twostroke engine oil.

► In case of contact with the skin: Wash

affected areas with plenty of water and soap.

►

In case of contact with the eyes: Rinse eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical advice.

■

The trimmer’s ignition system produces sparks. Unconfined sparks may cause a fire or an explosion in an easily combustible or explo‐ sive environment. This can result in serious or fatal injuries and damage to property. ►

Use the spark plugs described in this

instruction manual. ► Insert and tighten down the spark plug. ► Connect the spark plug boot and press it

down firmly.

■ The trimmer can be damaged if it is run on a fuel mixture consisting of unsuitable gasoline or an unsuitable two-stroke engine oil or if an incorrect mix ratio of gasoline and two-stroke engine oil is used. ►

Mix the fuel as described in this instruction manual.

■ The mixture of gasoline and two-stroke engine oil can separate if it is stored for a long period. The trimmer can be damaged if it is used with a fuel mix that has become separated. ►

Before refueling the trimmer: Thoroughly mix the fuel.

► Use a mixture of gasoline and two-stroke

engine oil that is not older than 30 days (STIHL MotoMix: 2 years).

English 5 Safety Precautions

5.8 Working

WARNING

■

If the engine is not started properly, the user may lose control of the trimmer. This may result in serious injury to the user. ►

Start the engine as described in this instruc‐ tion manual.

► If the cutting attachment is touching the

ground or objects: Do not start the engine.

■

The slide control is in position for engine starts. Engine RPM in posi‐

tion is higher than idle speed and the cutting attachment may rotate as soon as the engine runs. This may result in serious injury to the user. ►

Do not touch the cutting attachment.

► Start the engine as described in this instruc‐

tion manual.

■ In certain situations, the user may no longer be able to concentrate on their work. The user can lose control of the trimmer, stumble or fall and be seriously injured. ►

Keep calm and plan your work.

► If light and visibility are poor: Do not use

your trimmer. ► Operate the trimmer alone. ► Keep the cutting attachment close to the

ground. ► Watch out for obstacles. ► Work standing on the ground and keep your

balance. ► If you start feeling fatigue: Take a break.If

you start feeling fatigue: Take a break.

■ Exhaust gas is produced when the engine is running. Breathing in exhaust gas can have toxic effects.Breathing in exhaust gas can have toxic effects. ►

Avoid inhaling exhaust gas.

► Operate the trimmer is a well ventilated

location.

► In the event of nausea, headache, visual

disturbances, problems with hearing or diz‐ ziness: Stop work and seek medical advice.

■

The user’s ability to hear and assess noises is restricted when wearing hearing protection with the engine running. ►

Keep calm and plan your work.

■ The user will not be able to control the trimmer properly if it is operated with the slide control

in position injury to the user. ►

Check that the slide control is in position during operation.

. This may result in serious

► Start the engine as described in this instruc‐

tion manual.

■ The rotating cutting attachment can cut the user. This may result in serious injury to the user. ►

Do not touch the rotating cutting attach‐ ment.

► If the cutting attachment is blocked by an

object: Shut off the engine. Before clearing the jam.

■

If you work with mowing lines that are too long, the brush cutter may be damaged. ► Use a suitable deflector with attached line

limiting blade.

■ The machine can be damaged if you open the throttle while the cutting attachment is blocked by an object. ►

Shut off the engine. before clearing the jam.

■ If the behavior of the trimmer changes during operation or feels unusual, it may no longer be in a safe condition. This may result in serious injury to people and damage to property. ►

Stop work and consult a STIHL servicing dealer.

■ Trimmer vibrations may occur during opera‐ tion.

► Wear gloves.

► Take breaks. ► If signs of a circulatory disturbance occur:

Consult a doctor.

■ If the cutting attachment makes contact with a foreign object during operation, the object or parts of it may be thrown at high speed. Per‐ sons may be injured or property damaged. ►

Remove foreign objects from the working area.

■ If the rotating metal cutting attachment makes contact with a hard object, sparks may occur and the cutting attachment may be damaged. Sparks can cause fires in a flammable envi‐ ronment. Persons may be seriously or fatally injured and property may be damaged. ►

Do not use the chain saw in a flammable environment.

► Make sure the metal cutting attachment is

in a safe condition.

■ Note that the cutting attachment continues to rotate for a short period after you release the trigger. They may cause serious injury to per‐ sons. ►

Wait until the cutting attachment comes to a complete stop.

8 0458-733-0121-B

+ 16 hidden pages

Stihl STIHL FS 230 STIHL FS 230 (en)

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

STIHL FS 230

1 Introduction

2 Guide to Using this Manual

2.1 Applicable Documentation

2.2 Symbols used with warnings in the text

2.3 Symbols in Text

3 Videos

4 Overview English

4.1 Trimmer

English 5 Safety Precautions

4.3 Symbols

5.1 Warning Symbols

5.2 Intended Use

5.3 The Operator

5.4 Clothing and equipment

5.6 Safe Condition

5.7 Fuel Mixture and Refueling

5.8 Working