Stihl FC 56 C User manual

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STIHL FC 56 C
Warning!
Read and follow all safety
precautions in Instruction Manual –
improper use can cause serious or
fatal injury.
Advertencia!
Lea y siga todas las precauciones
de seguridad dadas en el manual
de instrucciones – el uso incorrecto
puede causar lesiones graves o
mortales.
Instruction Manual
Manual de instrucciones

Instruction Manual
1 - 37
Manual de
instrucciones
39 - 81

Original Instruction ManualPrinted on chlorine-free paper
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2011 0458-545-8621-B. M1.G11.PM. 0000001053_006_GB
FC 56 C
English
1
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Contents
Allow only persons who fully understand
this manual to operate your edger.
To receive maximum performance and
satisfaction from your STIHL edger, it is
important that you read, understand and
follow the safety precautions and the
operating and maintenance instructions
in chapter "Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques" before using your
edger. For further information you can
go to www.stihlusa.com.
Contact your STIHL dealer or the STIHL
distributor for your area if you do not
understand any of the instructions in this
manual.
Make sure your unit is equipped with the
proper deflector and handle for the type
of cutting attachment being used.
Always wear proper eye protection.
Guide to Using this Manual 2
Safety Precautions and Working
Techniques 3
Using the Unit 12
Mounting the Loop Handle 14
Mounting the Cutting Blade 15
Fuel 15
Fueling 16
Starting / Stopping the Engine 19
Operating Instructions 21
Cleaning the Air Filter 21
Engine Management 22
Adjusting the Carburetor 22
Spark Plug 23
Engine Running Behavior 24
Lubricating the Gearbox 25
Rewind Starter 25
Storing the Machine 25
Replacing the Depth Wheel 26
Replacing the Skirt 26
Replacing the Cutting Blade 27
Inspections and Maintenance by
Dealer 27
Maintenance and Care 28
Main Parts 30
Specifications 31
Special Accessories 32
Maintenance and Repairs 32
STIHL Incorporated Federal
Emission Control Warranty
Statement 33
STIHL Incorporated California
Exhaust and Evaporative
Emissions Control Warranty
Statement 35
Trademarks 37
Warning!
Because an edger is a high-speed cut-
ting tool some special safety
precautions must be observed to reduce
the risk of personal injury. Careless or
improper use may cause serious or
even fatal injury.

FC 56 C
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Symbols in Text
Many operating and safety instructions
are supported by illustrations.
The individual steps or procedures
described in the manual may be marked
in different ways:
NA bullet marks a step or procedure.
A description of a step or procedure that
refers directly to an illustration may
contain item numbers that appear in the
illustration. Example:
NLoosen the screw (1).
NLever (2) ...
In addition to the operating instructions,
this manual may contain paragraphs
that require your special attention. Such
paragraphs are marked with the
symbols and signal words described
below:
Engineering Improvements
STIHL’s philosophy is to continually
improve all of its products. As a result,
engineering changes and improvements
are made from time to time. Therefore,
some changes, modifications and
improvements may not be covered in
this manual. If the operating
characteristics or the appearance of
your machine differs from those
described in this manual, please contact
your STIHL dealer for assistance.
Pictograms
The meanings of the pictograms
attached to or embossed on the
machine are explained in this manual.
Depending on the model concerned, the
following pictograms may be on your
machine.
Guide to Using this Manual
Danger!
Indicates an imminent risk of severe or
fatal injury.
Warning!
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, could result in severe or
fatal injury.
Caution!
Indicates a risk of property damage,
including damage to the machine or its
individual components.
Fuel tank for gasoline
and engine oil mixture
Press to operate decom-
pression valve
Manual fuel pump
Press to operate manual
fuel pump
Filler hole for gear
lubricant
Air intake summer mode
Air intake winter mode
Handle heating

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Have your STIHL dealer show you how
to operate your power tool. Observe all
applicable local safety regulations,
standards and ordinances.
Use your edger only for edging in grass,
weeds and soft green plants.
Most of these safety precautions and
warnings apply to the use of all STIHL
edgers. Different models may have
different parts and controls. See the
appropriate section of your instruction
manual for a description of the controls
and function of the parts of your model.
Safe use of an edger involves
1. the operator
2. the power tool
3. the use of the power tool.
THE OPERATOR
Physical Condition
You must be in good physical condition
and mental health and not under the
influence of any substance (drugs,
alcohol, etc.) which might impair vision,
dexterity or judgment. Do not operate
this machine when you are fatigued.
Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
Because an edger is a
high-speed, fast-cutting
power tool, special safety
precautions must be
observed to reduce the
risk of personal injury.
It is important that you
read, fully understand
and observe the following
safety precautions and
warnings. Read the
instruction manual and
the safety precautions
periodically. Careless or
improper use may cause
serious or fatal injury.
Warning!
As more fully explained later in these
Safety Precautions, to reduce the risk of
personal injury, make sure your unit is
equipped with the proper handle, har-
ness and deflector. Use only cutting
attachments that are specifically author-
ized by STIHL for use on your FC
model.
Warning!
Do not lend or rent your power tool with-
out the instruction manual. Be sure that
anyone using it understands the infor-
mation contained in this manual.
Warning!
The use of this machine may be hazard-
ous. If the rotating blade comes in
contact with your body, it will cut you.
When it comes in contact with solid for-
eign objects such as rocks or bits of
metal, it may fling them directly or by ric-
ochet in the direction of bystanders or
the operator. Striking such objects could
damage the cutting attachment and may
cause blades to crack, chip or break.
Thrown objects, including broken
blades, may result in serious or fatal
injury to the operator or bystanders.
Warning!
Do not use it for other purposes, since
misuse may result in personal injury or
property damage, including damage to
the machine.
Warning!
Minors should never be allowed to use
this power tool. Bystanders, especially
children, and animals should not be
allowed in the area where it is in use.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury to bystand-
ers and damage to property, never let
your power tool run unattended. When it
is not in use (e.g. during a work break),
shut it off and make sure that unauthor-
ized persons do not use it.
Warning!
Be alert – if you get tired, take a break.
Tiredness may result in loss of control.
Working with any power tool can be
strenuous. If you have any condition
that might be aggravated by strenuous
work, check with your doctor before
operating this machine.
Warning!
Prolonged use of a power tool (or other
machines) exposing the operator to
vibrations may produce whitefinger dis-
ease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or
carpal tunnel syndrome.

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These conditions reduce the hand's
ability to feel and regulate temperature,
produce numbness and burning
sensations and may cause nerve and
circulation damage and tissue necrosis.
All factors which contribute to
whitefinger disease are not known, but
cold weather, smoking and diseases or
physical conditions that affect blood
vessels and blood transport, as well as
high vibration levels and long periods of
exposure to vibration are mentioned as
factors in the development of whitefinger
disease. In order to reduce the risk of
whitefinger disease and carpal tunnel
syndrome, please note the following:
–Most STIHL power tools are
available with an anti-vibration
("AV") system designed to reduce
the transmission of vibrations
created by the machine to the
operator's hands. An AV system is
recommended for those persons
using power tools on a regular or
sustained basis.
–Wear gloves and keep your hands
warm.
–Keep the AV system well
maintained. A power tool with loose
components or with damaged or
worn AV elements will tend to have
higher vibration levels.
–Maintain a firm grip at all times, but
do not squeeze the handles with
constant, excessive pressure. Take
frequent breaks.
All the above-mentioned precautions do
not guarantee that you will not sustain
whitefinger disease or carpal tunnel
syndrome. Therefore, continual and
regular users should closely monitor the
condition of their hands and fingers. If
any of the above symptoms appear,
seek medical advice immediately.
Proper Clothing
The deflector provided with your power
tool will not protect the operator from all
foreign objects (gravel, glass, wire, etc.)
thrown back by the rotating cutting
attachment. Thrown objects may also
ricochet and strike the operator.
Be particularly alert and cautious when
wearing hearing protection because
your ability to hear warnings (shouts,
alarms, etc.) is restricted.
Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarfs,
neckties, jewelry, flared or cuffed pants,
unconfined long hair or anything that
could become caught on branches,
brush or the moving parts of the unit.
Secure hair so it is above shoulder level.
Warning!
The ignition system of the STIHL unit
produces an electromagnetic field of a
very low intensity. This field may inter-
fere with some pacemakers. To reduce
the risk of serious or fatal injury, persons
with a pacemaker should consult their
physician and the pacemaker manufac-
turer before operating this tool.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury, the operator
should wear proper protective apparel.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of
injury to your eyes never
operate your power tool
unless wearing goggles
or properly fitted protec-
tive glasses with
adequate top and side protection com-
plying with ANSI Z 87.1 (or your
applicable national standard). To
reduce the risk of injury to your face
STIHL recommends that you also wear
a face shield or face screen over your
goggles or protective glasses.
Warning!
Power tool 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.
Always wear gloves
when handling the
machine and metal
blades. Heavy-duty, non-
slip gloves improve your
grip and help to protect
your hands.
Clothing must be sturdy
and snug-fitting, but allow
complete freedom of
movement. Wear long
pants made of heavy
material to help protect
your legs. Do not wear
shorts, sandals or go
barefoot.
Good footing is very
important. Wear sturdy
boots with nonslip soles.
Steel-toed safety boots
are recommended.

FC 56 C
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THE POWER TOOL
For illustrations and definitions of the
power tool parts see the chapter on
"Main Parts."
If this 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. Check in particular that
the fuel system is tight (no leaks) and
that the controls and safety devices are
working properly. Do not continue
operating this machine if it is damaged.
In case of doubt, have it checked by your
STIHL servicing dealer.
THE USE OF THE POWER TOOL
Transporting the Power Tool
It may be carried only in a horizontal
position. Grip the shaft in a manner that
the machine is balanced horizontally.
Keep the hot muffler away from your
body and the cutting attachment behind
you.
Fuel
Your STIHL power tool uses an oil-
gasoline mixture for fuel (see the
chapter on "Fuel" of your instruction
manual.)
Fueling Instructions
Wear an approved safety
hard hat to reduce the
risk of injury to your head
when there is a danger of
head injuries.
Warning!
Never modify this power tool in any way.
Only attachments supplied by STIHL
and expressly approved by STIHL for
use with the specific STIHL model are
authorized. Although certain unauthor-
ized attachments are useable with
STIHL power tools, their use may, in
fact, be extremely dangerous.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury from loss of
control and blade contact, never carry or
transport your power tool with the cut-
ting attachment moving.
389BA019 KN
Warning!
Always shut off the engine and make
sure that the cutting attachment has
stopped before putting an edger down.
When transporting it in a vehicle, prop-
erly secure it to prevent turnover, fuel
spillage and damage to the unit.
Warning!
Gasoline is an extremely
flammable fuel. If spilled
and ignited by a spark or
other ignition source, it
can cause fire and seri-
ous 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 or the power tool. Note that
combustible fuel vapor may escape
from the fuel system.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of serious injury from
burns, never attempt to refuel the unit
until it has been completely removed
from the operator.

FC 56 C
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In order to reduce the risk of burns and
other personal injury from escaping gas
vapor and fumes, remove the fuel filler
cap on your power tool carefully so as to
allow any pressure build-up in the tank
to release slowly. Never remove the fuel
filler cap while the engine is running.
Select bare 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
machine.
Different models may be equipped with
different fuel caps.
Toolless cap with grip
To do this with this STIHL cap, raise the
grip on the top of the cap until it is upright
at a 90° angle. Insert the cap in the fuel
tank opening with the raised positioning
marks on the grip of the cap and on the
fuel tank opening lining up. Using the
grip, press the cap down firmly while
turning it clockwise as far as it will go
(approx. 1/4 turn).
Misaligned, damaged or broken cap
NIf the cap does not drop fully into the
opening when the positioning marks
line up and/or if the cap does not
tighten properly when twisted, the
base of the cap may be prematurely
rotated (vis-à-vis the top) to the
closed position. Such misalignment
can result from handling, cleaning
or an improper attempt at
tightening.
NTo return the cap to the open
position for installation, turn the cap
(with the grip up) until it drops fully
into the tank opening. Next, twist the
cap counterclockwise as far as it will
go (approx. 1/4 turn) – this will twist
Warning!
Fuel your power tool in well-ventilated
areas, outdoors. Always shut off the
engine and allow it to cool before refu-
eling. Gasoline vapor pressure may
build up inside the fuel tank depending
on the fuel used, the weather conditions
and the tank venting system.
Warning!
Check for fuel leakage
while refueling and dur-
ing operation. If fuel
leakage is found, do not
start or run the engine
until the leak is fixed and
any spilled fuel has been wiped away.
Take care not to get fuel on your cloth-
ing. If this happens, change your
clothing immediately.
Warning!
In order to reduce the risk of fuel spill-
age and fire from an improperly
tightened fuel cap, correctly position
and tighten the fuel cap in the fuel tank
opening.
Fold the grip flush with
the top of the cap. Grip
the cap and check for
tightness. If the grip does
not lie completely flush
with the cap and the
detent on the grip does
not fit in the correspond-
ing recess in the filler
opening, or if the cap is
loose in the filler opening,
the cap is not properly
seated and tightened and
you must repeat the
above steps.
001BA220 KN
Left: Base of cap in closed posi-
tion (with open space)
Right: Base of cap correctly posi-
tioned for installation
001BA227 KN
001BA226 KN

FC 56 C
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the base of the cap into the correct
position. Then, twist the cap
clockwise, closing it normally.
NIf your cap still does not tighten
properly, it may be damaged or
broken; immediately stop use of the
unit and take it to your authorized
STIHL dealer for repair.
Screw Cap
See also the "Fueling" chapter in your
Instruction Manual for additional
information.
Before Starting
Keep the handles clean and dry at all
times; it is particularly important to keep
them free of moisture, pitch, oil, fuel mix,
grease or resin in order for you to
maintain a firm grip and properly control
your power tool.
An arrow on the deflector shows the
correct direction of rotation of the cutting
blade.
The arrow on the deflector must always
face away from you, so that cuttings and
other debris will be diverted away from
the machine and your position (see
chapter "Working Techniques".)
Adjust carrying harness and hand grip to
suit your size before starting work. The
machine should be properly balanced as
specified in your instruction manual for
proper control and less fatigue in
operation. To be better prepared in case
of an emergency, practise releasing the
unit from the harness as quickly as
possible.
Starting
For specific starting instructions, see the
appropriate section of your manual.
Place the power tool on firm ground or
other solid surface in an open area.
Maintain good balance and secure
footing.
Warning!
Unit vibrations can cause
an improperly tightened
fuel filler cap to loosen or
come off and spill quanti-
ties of fuel. In order to
reduce the risk of fuel
spillage and fire, tighten the fuel filler
cap by hand as securely as possible.
Warning!
Always check your power tool for proper
condition and operation before starting,
particularly the throttle trigger, throttle
trigger lockout, momentary stop switch,
cutting blade, deflector and harness.
The throttle trigger must move freely
and always spring back to the idle posi-
tion. Never attempt to modify the
controls or safety devices. Never use a
power tool that is damaged or not prop-
erly maintained.
Warning!
Do not attach any cutting attachment to
a unit without proper installation of all
required parts. Failure to use the proper
parts may cause the blade to fly off and
seriously injure the operator or
bystanders.
Warning!
The cutting attachment must be prop-
erly tightened and in safe operating
condition. Inspect for loose parts (nuts,
screws, etc.) and for cracked, bent,
warped or damaged blades. Replace
damaged blades before using the power
tool.
Warning!
Check that the spark plug boot is
securely mounted on the spark plug – a
loose boot may cause arcing that could
ignite combustible fumes and cause a
fire.
Warning!
To reduce the risk
of personal injury
to the operator
from blade con-
tact and thrown
objects, make
sure your unit is equipped with the
proper deflector, handle and harness.
Warning!
Start the engine at least 10 feet (3 m)
from the fueling spot, outdoors only.
002BA118 KN

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Once the engine has started,
immediately blip the throttle trigger,
which should release the starting throttle
and allow the engine to slow down to
idle.
With the engine running only at idle,
attach the power tool to the spring hook
of your harness (see appropriate
chapter of this manual.)
Important Adjustments
If you cannot set the correct idle speed,
have your STIHL dealer check your
power tool and make proper
adjustments and repairs.
During Operation
Holding and Controlling the Power
Tool
Always hold the unit firmly with both
hands on the handles while you are
working. Wrap your fingers and thumbs
around the handles.
Your right hand should grip the rear
handle. This also applies to left-handers.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury from blade
contact, be absolutely sure that the cut-
ting attachment is clear of you and all
other obstructions and objects, includ-
ing the ground, because when the
engine starts at starting-throttle, engine
speed will be fast enough for the clutch
to engage and move the cutting
attachment.
Warning!
Your power tool is a one-person
machine. Do not allow other persons in
the general work area, even when
starting.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury from loss of
control, do not attempt to "drop start"
your power tool.
Warning!
When you pull the starter grip, do not
wrap the starter rope around your hand.
Do not let the grip snap back, but guide
the starter rope to rewind it properly.
Failure to follow this procedure may
result in injury to your hand or fingers
and may damage the starter
mechanism.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of personal injury
from loss of control or contact with the
running cutting attachment, do not use
your unit with incorrect idle adjustment.
At correct idle speed, the cutting attach-
ment should not move. For directions on
how to adjust idle speed, see the appro-
priate section of your instruction
manual.
Warning!
This unit is equipped with an ignition
system that is normally in operational
readiness. After the setting lever is used
to stop the engine, it automatically
springs back to the "on" position. If the
engine is warm, it may be possible to
start it by simply pulling the starter rope,
with no further adjustments. To reduce
the risk of injury, be particularly alert to
keep children away from the unit.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury from loss of
control, never work on a ladder or on
any other insecure support. Never hold
the cutting attachment above waist
height.
Warning!
Never attempt to operate
your power tool with one
hand. Loss of control of
the power tool resulting
in serious or fatal injury
may result. To reduce
the risk of cut injuries, keep hands and
feet away from the cutting attachment.
Never touch a moving cutting attach-
ment with your hand or any other part of
your body.
002BA054 KN

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Working Conditions
Operate and start your power tool only
outdoors in a well ventilated area.
Operate it under good visibility and
daylight conditions only. Work carefully.
Operating Instructions
In the event of an emergency, switch off
the engine immediately – move the slide
control / momentary stop switch to 0or
STOP.
To reduce the risk of eye and other injury
always wear proper eye protection (see
the chapter on "Proper Clothing") and
ensure that bystanders are at least
50 feet (15 m) away. To reduce the risk
of damage to property, also maintain this
distance from such objects as vehicles
or windows. Any coworkers who must be
in the restricted area should also wear
goggles or protective glasses. Stop the
engine immediately if you are
approached.
Warning!
Do not overreach. Keep proper footing
and balance at all times. Special care
must be taken in slippery conditions
(wet ground, snow) and in difficult, over-
grown terrain. Watch for hidden
obstacles such as tree stumps, roots
and ditches to avoid stumbling. For bet-
ter footing, clear away scrub and
cuttings. Be extremely cautious when
working on slopes or uneven ground.
Warning!
As soon as the engine is
running, this product
generates toxic exhaust
fumes containing chemi-
cals, such as unburned
hydrocarbons (including
benzene) and carbon monoxide, that
are known to cause respiratory prob-
lems, cancer, birth defects, or other
reproductive harm. Some of the gases
(e.g. carbon monoxide) may be color-
less and odorless. To reduce the risk of
serious or fatal injury / illness from inhal-
ing toxic fumes, never run the machine
indoors or in poorly ventilated locations.
Warning!
If the vegetation being cut or the sur-
rounding ground is coated with a
chemical substance (such as an active
pesticide or herbicide), read and follow
the instructions and warnings that
accompanied the substance at issue.
Warning!
Inhalation of certain dusts, especially
organic dusts such as mold or pollen,
can cause susceptible persons to have
an allergic or asthmatic reaction. Sub-
stantial or repeated inhalation of dust
and other airborne contaminants, in par-
ticular those with a smaller particle size,
may cause respiratory or other ill-
nesses. Control dust at the source
where possible. Use good work prac-
tices, such as operating the unit so that
the wind or operating process directs
any dust raised by the power tool away
from the operator. Follow the recom-
mendations of EPA / OSHA / NIOSH
and occupational and trade associa-
tions with respect to dust ("particulate
matter".) When the inhalation of dust
cannot be substantially controlled, i.e.,
kept at or near the ambient (back-
ground) level, the operator and any
bystanders should wear a respirator
approved by NIOSH / MSHA for the type
of dust encountered.
Warning!
Do not operate your power tool using
the starting throttle lock, as you do not
have control of the engine speed.
Warning!
The cutting attachment continues to
rotate for a short period after the throttle
trigger is released (flywheel effect.)
Warning!
The rotating cutting attachment may
fling foreign objects directly or by rico-
chet a great distance.
15m (50ft)

FC 56 C
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Your muffler is furnished with a spark
arresting screen designed to reduce the
risk of fire from the emission of hot
particles. Never operate your unit with a
missing or damaged spark arresting
screen. If your gas/oil mix ratio is correct
Warning!
Before you start work,
examine the area for
stones, glass, fence wire,
metal, trash or other solid
objects. The cutting
attachment could throw
objects of this kind.
Warning!
During cutting, check the tightness and
the condition of the cutting attachment
at regular short intervals with the engine
and attachment stopped. If the behavior
of the attachment changes during use,
stop the engine immediately, wait until
the cutting attachment stops, and check
the nut securing the attachment for
tightness and the blade for cracks, wear
and damage.
Warning!
A loose blade may vibrate, crack, break
or come off the edger, which may result
in serious or fatal injury. Make sure that
the cutting attachment is properly tight-
ened. Use the wrench supplied or one of
sufficient length to obtain the proper
torque. If the blade loosens after being
properly tightened, stop work immedi-
ately. The retaining nut may be worn or
damaged and should be replaced. If the
blade continues to loosen, see your
STIHL dealer. Never use an edger with
a loose cutting attachment.
Warning!
Replace a cracked, bent, warped, dam-
aged, dull or worn out blade
immediately, even if damage is limited
to superficial cracks. Such attachments
may shatter at high speed and cause
serious or fatal injury.
Warning!
When using your edger, avoid cutting
close to fences, sides of buildings, tree
trunks, stones or other such objects that
could cause the power tool to kick out or
could cause damage to the blade.
Warning!
If the blade or deflector becomes
clogged or stuck, always shut off the
engine and make sure the cutting
attachment has stopped before clean-
ing. Grass, weeds, etc. should be
cleaned off the blade at regular
intervals.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of unintentional rota-
tion of the cutting attachment and injury,
always shut off the engine before
replacing the cutting attachment.
Warning!
The gearbox becomes hot during oper-
ation. To reduce the risk of burn injury,
do not touch the gear housing when it is
hot.
Warning!
Never modify your muffler. Any modifi-
cation could cause an increase in heat
radiation, sparks or sound level, thereby
increasing the risk of fire, burn injury or
hearing loss. You may also permanently
damage the engine. Have your muffler
serviced and repaired by your STIHL
servicing dealer only.
Warning!
The muffler and other parts of the
engine (e.g. fins of the cylinder, spark
plug) become hot during operation and
remain hot for a while after stopping the
engine. To reduce risk of burns, do not
touch the muffler and other parts while
they are hot. Keep the area around the
muffler clean. Remove excess lubricant
and all debris such as pine needles,
branches or leaves. Let the engine cool
down sitting on concrete, metal, bare
ground or solid wood away from any
combustible substances.
Warning!
An improperly mounted or damaged cyl-
inder housing or a damaged/deformed
muffler shell may interfere with the cool-
ing process of the muffler. To reduce the
risk of fire or burn injury, do not continue
work with a damaged or improperly
mounted cylinder housing or a dam-
aged/deformed muffler shell.

FC 56 C
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11
(i.e., not too rich), this screen will
normally stay clean as a result of the
heat from the muffler and need no
service or maintenance. If you
experience loss of performance and you
suspect a clogged screen, have your
muffler maintained by a STIHL servicing
dealer. Some state or federal laws or
regulations may require a properly
maintained spark arrestor for certain
uses. See the "Maintenance, Repair and
Storing" section of these Safety
Precautions. Remember that the risk of
a brush or forest fire is greater in hot or
dry conditions.
USING THE CUTTING ATTACHMENT
For an illustration of the cutting
attachment and instructions on proper
mounting see the chapter on "Replacing
the Cutting Blade" in your instruction
manual.
MAINTENANCE, REPAIR AND
STORING
Maintenance, replacement, or repair
of the emission control devices and
systems may be performed by any
nonroad engine repair establishment
or individual. However, if you 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.
Strictly follow the maintenance and
repair instructions in the appropriate
sections of your instruction manual.
Wear gloves when handling or
performing maintenance on blades.
In California, it is a violation of § 4442 or
§ 4443 or the Public Resources Code to
use or operate gasoline-powered tools
on forest-covered, brush-covered or
grass-covered land unless the engine’s
Warning!
Some STIHL power tools
are equipped with a cata-
lytic converter, which is
designed to reduce the
exhaust emissions of the
engine by a chemical
process in the muffler. Due to this proc-
ess, the muffler does not cool down as
rapidly as conventional mufflers when
the engine returns to idle or is shut off.
To reduce the risk of fire and burn inju-
ries when using a catalytic converter,
always set your power tool down in the
upright position and never locate it
where the muffler is near dry brush,
grass, wood chips or other combustible
materials while it is still hot.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of severe or fatal
injury from blade contact and / or loss of
control, never attempt to use a metal
blade on an FC model for which it is not
authorized.
Warning!
Use only identical STIHL replacement
parts for maintenance and repair. Use of
non-STIHL parts may cause serious or
fatal injury.
Warning!
Always stop the engine and make sure
that the cutting attachment is stopped
before doing any maintenance or repair
work or cleaning the power tool. Do not
attempt any maintenance or repair work
not described in your instruction man-
ual. Have such work performed by your
STIHL servicing dealer only.
Warning!
Use the specified spark plug, and make
sure it and the ignition lead are always
clean and in good condition. Always
press the spark plug boot snugly onto
the spark plug terminal of the proper
size. (Note: If the terminal has a detach-
able SAE adapter nut, it must be
securely attached.) A loose connection
between the spark plug and the ignition
wire connector in the boot may create
arcing that could ignite combustible
fumes and cause a fire.
Warning!
Never test the ignition system with the
spark plug boot removed from the spark
plug or with a removed spark plug, since
uncontained sparking may cause a fire.
Warning!
Do not operate your power tool if the
muffler is damaged, missing or modi-
fied. An improperly maintained muffler
will increase the risk of fire and hearing
loss. Your muffler is equipped with a
spark-arresting screen to reduce the
risk of fire; never operate your power
tool if the screen is missing, damaged or
clogged. Remember that the risk of a
brush or forest fire is greater in hot or dry
weather.

FC 56 C
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12
exhaust system is equipped with a
complying spark arrester that is
maintained in effective working order.
The owner/operator of this product is
responsible for properly maintaining the
spark arrester. Other states or
governmental entities/agencies, such as
the U.S. Forest Service, may have
similar requirements. Contact your local
fire agency or forest service for the laws
or regulations relating to fire protection
requirements.
Tighten all nuts, bolts and screws,
except the carburetor adjustment
screws, after each use.
Do not clean your machine with a
pressure washer. The solid jet of water
may damage parts of the machine.
Store the power tool in a dry and high or
locked location out of reach of children.
Before storing for longer than a few
days, always empty the fuel tank. See
chapter "Storing the Machine" in the
instruction manual.
Your power edger is designed to
produce sharp contoured borders
around lawns and flower beds. It will cut
almost all types of grass, weeds and soft
green plants.
Preparations
If the soil is very dry, spray it with water
before you start work: this softens the
soil a little and also reduces the amount
of dust created. Slightly damp green
plants are easier to cut.
NPlan the best route for edging.
Always hold and operate your edger
on the right-hand side of your body.
Adjusting Depth of Cut
NTo reduce the risk of injury, shut
off the engine.
NLoosen the wingnut (1)
counterclockwise.
NAdjust the wheel (2): Upwards to
increase the depth of cut (A) or
downwards to reduce the depth of
cut (A).
Warning!
Never repair damaged cutting attach-
ments by welding, straightening or
modifying the shape. This may cause
parts of the cutting attachment to come
off and result in serious or fatal injuries.
Using the Unit
Clear away all obstacles and solid
objects from the work area.
0815BA003 KN
2
1
241BA001 KN
A

FC 56 C
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13
Adjust correctly
The depth of cut depends on the
uneveness of the ground, your height
and the way you hold the edger. Use the
following procedure:
NAdjust the depth wheel (2) so that
the blade (3) just touches the
ground or breaks the surface of the
soil by no more than 0.2 in
(5 mm) (B) in the normal working
position.
NTighten down the wingnut
clockwise.
NStanding in the normal working
position, check the depth of cut
again and correct it if necessary,
The deflector has been set at the factory
so that the arrow on the deflector and
the open side point away from the
operator. This ensures that cuttings and
other debris are directed away from the
machine and operator.
Lawn edging
NStarting the engine
NStart the cut at no less than half
throttle and continue cutting at full
throttle.
NHold and guide your edger so that
the blade is vertical.
NCut steadily so that the engine is not
lugged down – do not apply force.
NCut at no more than a normal
walking pace.
NDo not push the blade into the
ground.
NAlways walk forwards when cutting,
do not pull the unit towards you.
NEdge at a steady pace to avoid
having to make several passes.
B
241BA002 KN
2
3
Do not adjust the deflector.
241BA003 KN
0815BA004 KN
241BA004 KN
90°

FC 56 C
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14
NUse the gunning sight (1) to line up
the blade on the edge.
Your new power tool comes with the
loop handle mounted on the drive tube,
but it must be turned and lined up to suit
your requirements.
Adjusting the Loop Handle
NLoosen the star knob (1).
NTurn the handle to the vertical
position.
The loop handle can be adjusted to suit
the height and reach of the operator and
the application by changing
distance (A).
Recommended distance (A): about 6 in
(15 cm)
NSlide the handle to the required
position.
NTighten down the star knob so that
the handle cannot be rotated on the
drive tube.
241BA005 KN
1
Mounting the Loop Handle
1
546BA010 KN
545BA004 KN
546BA011 KN
A

FC 56 C
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15
NLay the power edger on its back so
that the blade mounting (1) faces
up.
NInsert the stop pin (2) or screwdriver
– see "Special Accessories" – into
the hole (3) as far as stop – apply
slight pressure and turn back and
forth together with the thrust
washer (4) until the pin slips into
position and blocks the shaft.
NFit the combination wrench (5) on
the nut (6).
NLoosen and unscrew the nut
clockwise (left-hand thread).
NRemove the thrust washer.
NPlace the blade (7) on the thrust
plate (8).
NFit the thrust washer (4) on the
shaft (9) and block the shaft.
NScrew the mounting nut (6) on to the
shaft counterclockwise and tighten
it down firmly.
This engine is certified to operate on
unleaded gasoline and the STIHL two-
stroke engine oil at a mix ratio of 50:1.
Your engine requires a mixture of high-
quality gasoline and two-stroke air
cooled engine oil.
Use mid-grade unleaded gasoline with a
minimum octane rating of 89 (R+M/2)
and no more than 10% ethanol content.
Fuel with a lower octane rating may
increase engine temperatures. This, in
turn, increases the risk of piston seizure
and damage to the engine.
The chemical composition of the fuel is
also important. Some fuel additives not
only detrimentally affect elastomers
(carburetor diaphragms, oil seals, fuel
lines, etc.), but magnesium castings and
catalytic converters as well. This could
cause running problems or even
damage the engine. For this reason
STIHL recommends that you use only
high-quality unleaded gasoline!
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.
The ethanol content in gasoline affects
engine running speed – it may be
necessary to readjust the carburetor if
you use fuels with various ethanol
contents.
Mounting the Cutting Blade
241BA006 KN
1
6
3
24
5
241BA011 KN
Collar (see arrow) must engage
the blade's mounting hole.
If the cup spring (10) on the
nut (6) has lost its tension, fit a
new nut.
6
10
8
9
241BA012 KN
7
4
7
Fuel

FC 56 C
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16
The idle speed and maximum speed of
the engine change if you switch from a
fuel with a certain ethanol content to
another fuel with a much higher or lower
ethanol content.
This problem can be avoided by always
using fuel with the same ethanol
content.
Use only STIHL two-stroke engine oil or
equivalent high-quality two-stroke
engine oils that are designed for use
only in air cooled two-cycle engines.
We recommend STIHL HP Ultra 2-Cycle
Engine Oil since it is specially
formulated for use in STIHL engines.
Do not use BIA or TCW rated (two-
stroke water cooled) mix oils or other
mix oils that state they are for use in both
water cooled and air cooled engines
(e.g., outboard motors, snowmobiles,
chain saws, mopeds, etc.).
Take care when handling gasoline.
Avoid direct contact with the skin and
avoid inhaling fuel vapor. When filling at
the pump, first remove the container
from your vehicle and place the
container on the ground before filling. To
reduce the risk of sparks from static
discharge and resulting fire and/or
explosion, do not fill fuel containers that
are sitting in or on a vehicle or trailer.
The container should be kept tightly
closed in order to limit the amount of
moisture that gets into the mixture.
The machine‘s fuel tank should be
cleaned as necessary.
Fuel mix ages
Only mix sufficient fuel for a few days
work, not to exceed 3 months of storage.
Store in approved fuel-containers only.
When mixing, pour oil into the container
first, and then add gasoline. Close the
container and shake it vigorously by
hand to ensure proper mixing of the oil
with the fuel.
Dispose of empty mixing-oil containers
only at authorized disposal locations.
Preparations
NBefore fueling, clean the filler cap
and the area around it to ensure that
no dirt falls into the tank.
Always thoroughly shake the mixture in
the canister before fueling your
machine.
NPosition the machine so that the
filler cap is facing up.
One of two different filler caps is
installed as standard at the factory.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of personal injury
from loss of control and / or contact with
the running cutting tool, do not use your
unit with incorrect idle adjustment. At
correct idle speed, the cutting tool
should not move.
If your power tool shows an incorrect
idle adjustment, have your STIHL dealer
check your power tool and make proper
adjustments and repairs.
Gaso-
line
Oil (STIHL 50:1 or equiva-
lent high-quality oils)
US gal. US fl.oz.
12.6
2 1/2 6.4
5 12.8
Fueling
In order to reduce the risk of fire
and personal injury from escaping
gas vapor and fumes, remove the
fuel filler cap carefully so as to
allow any pressure build-up in the
tank to release slowly.
002BA456 KN

FC 56 C
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17
Toolless filler cap (with folding grip)
Threaded filler cap
Opening the toolless filler cap
NRaise the grip into an upright
position.
NTurn the cap counterclockwise
(approx. 1/4 turn).
NRemove fuel filler cap.
Refueling
Take care not to spill fuel while fueling
and do not overfill the tank. STIHL
recommends use of the STIHL filling
system (special accessory).
Closing the toolless filler cap
With grip in an upright position:
NInsert the cap – positioning marks
on the cap and the fuel tank opening
must line up.
NThe cap should drop fully into the
opening in this position.
NWhile pressing the cap down, twist it
firmly clockwise as far as it will go
(approx. 1/4 turn).
NFold down the grip.
002BA418 KN
002BA419 KN
001BA218 KN
001BA219 KN
001BA224 KN
001BA220 KN
001BA221 KN
001BA222 KN

FC 56 C
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Checking for proper closure
NThe lug on the grip must engage
entirely in the recess (arrow), and
the grip must lie completely flush
with the top of the cap.
NGrip the cap and check for
tightness.
NIf the cap can be moved, it is not
properly installed.
Misalignment of the cap parts
NIf the cap does not drop fully into the
opening when the positioning marks
line up and/or if the cap does not
tighten properly when twisted, the
base of the cap may be rotated out
of position vis-à-vis the top.
NSuch misalignment can result from
handling, cleaning or an improper
attempt at tightening.
NTo correct a misalignment, turn the
cap (with the grip up) until it drops
fully into the tank opening.
NTwist the cap counterclockwise as
far as it will go (approx. 1/4 turn) –
this will twist the base of the cap into
the correct position.
NTwist the cap clockwise, closing it
normally – see the sections
"Closing" and "Checking for proper
closure."
NIf your cap still does not tighten
properly, it may be damaged or
broken; immediately stop use of the
unit and take it to your authorized
STIHL dealer for repair.
Opening the threaded filler cap
NTurn the cap counterclockwise until
it can be removed from the tank
opening.
NRemove the filler cap.
Refueling
Take care not to spill fuel while fueling
and do not overfill the tank. STIHL
recommends use of the STIHL filling
system (special accessory).
Closing the threaded filler cap
NPosition cap.
NTurn the cap clockwise as far as it
will go and tighten it as securely as
possible by hand.
001BA223 KN
001BA225 KN
Left: Base of improperly aligned
cap (with open space)
Right: Base of cap correctly posi-
tioned for installation
001BA227 KN
001BA226 KN
002BA447 KN
002BA448 KN