Stihl FS 55 User manual

STIHL FS 55
Instruction Manual2 - 36

Contents
1 Guide to Using this Manual.........................2
2 Safety Precautions and Working Techni‐
ques............................................................ 2
3 Approved Combinations of Cutting Attach‐
ment, Deflector, Handle and Harness.......11
4 Mounting the Bike Handle.........................12
5 Mounting the Loop Handle........................13
6 Fitting the Carrying Ring........................... 15
7 Mounting the Deflector..............................15
8 Mounting the Cutting Attachment..............16
9 Fuel........................................................... 20
10 Fueling...................................................... 21
11 Fitting the Harness....................................21
12 Balancing the Machine..............................22
13 Starting / Stopping the Engine.................. 23
14 Transporting the Unit................................ 26
15 Operating Instructions...............................26
16 Cleaning the Air Filter............................... 27
17 Adjusting the Carburetor........................... 27
18 Spark Plug................................................ 29
19 Engine Running Behavior......................... 30
20 Storing the Machine.................................. 30
21 Sharpening Metal Cutting Blades............. 30
22 Maintaining the Mowing Head...................31
23 Inspections and Maintenance by Dealer...32
24 Maintenance and Care..............................32
25 Main Parts.................................................33
26 Specifications............................................34
27 Maintenance and Repairs......................... 35
28 Disposal.................................................... 35
29 EC Declaration of Conformity................... 35
Dear Customer,
Thank you for choosing a quality engineered
STIHL product.
It has been built using modern production techni‐
ques and comprehensive quality assurance.
Every effort has been made to ensure your satis‐
faction and trouble-free use of the product.
Please contact your dealer or our sales company
if you have any queries concerning this product.
Your
Dr. Nikolas Stihl
1 Guide to Using this Manual
1.1 Pictograms
The meanings of the pictograms attached to the
machine are explained in this manual.
Depending on the model concerned, the follow‐
ing pictograms may be attached to your
machine.
Fuel tank; fuel mixture of gasoline
and engine oil
Operate decompression valve
Manual fuel pump
Operate manual fuel pump
Tube of grease
Intake air: Summer operation
Intake air: Winter operation
Handle heating
1.2 Symbols in text
WARNING
Warning where there is a risk of an accident or
personal injury or serious damage to property.
NOTICE
Caution where there is a risk of damaging the
machine or its individual components.
1.3 Engineering improvements
STIHL's philosophy is to continually improve all
of its products. For this reason we may modify
the design, engineering and appearance of our
products periodically.
Therefore, some changes, modifications and
improvements may not be covered in this man‐
ual.
2 Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
Because the machine is a high-speed
fast-cutting power tool, special safety
precautions must be observed to
reduce the risk of personal injury.
English
2 0458-233-8321-G
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG 2021
0458-233-8321-G. VA0.F21.
Printed on chlorine-free paper Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.
Original Instruction Manual 0000006615_014_GB

It is important that you read and
understand the User Manual before
commissioning and keep it in a safe
place for future reference. Non-com‐
pliance with the User Manual may
cause serious or even fatal injury.
Observe all applicable local safety regulations,
e.g. by trade organizations, social insurance
institutions, labor safety authorities etc.
If you have never used a power tool before:
Have your dealer or other experienced user
show you how to operate your machine – or
attend a special course to learn how to operate
it.
Minors should never be allowed to use the
machine – except for apprentices over the age of
16 when working under supervision.
Children, animals and bystanders must remain at
a distance.
When not using the machine, it must be laid
down in such a way that it does not endanger
anyone. Ensure that the machine cannot be
used without authorization.
The user is responsible for accidents or risks
involving third parties or their property.
Do not lend or rent your power tool without the
User Manual. Be sure that anyone using it under‐
stands the information contained in this manual.
The use of machines that emit noise may be limi‐
ted to certain hours of the day as specified by
national and/or regional or local regulations.
Anyone operating the machine must be well res‐
ted, in good physical health and in good mental
condition.
If you have any condition that might be aggrava‐
ted by strenuous work, check with your doctor
before operating a machine.
If you have a pacemaker: The ignition system of
your machine produces an electromagnetic field
of very low intensity. This field may interfere with
some pacemakers. STIHL recommends that per‐
sons with pacemakers consult their physician
and the pacemaker manufacturer to reduce any
health risk.
Anyone who has consumed alcohol or drugs or
medicines affecting their ability to react must not
operate a power tool.
Depending on the cutting attachment fitted, use
your power tool only for cutting grass, wild
growth, shrubs, scrub, bushes, small diameter
trees and similar materials.
The machine must not be used for any other pur‐
poses – risk of accidents!
Only use cutting attachments and accessories
that are explicitly approved for this power tool
model by STIHL or are technically identical. If
you have any questions in this respect, consult
your dealer. Use only high quality parts and
accessories. in order to avoid the risk of acci‐
dents and damage to the machine.
STIHL recommends the use of original STIHL
tools and accessories. They are specifically
designed to match the product and meet your
performance requirements.
Never attempt to modify your power tool in any
way since this may increase the risk of personal
injury. STIHL excludes all liability for personal
injury and damage to property caused while
using unauthorized attachments.
Do not use a high-pressure washer to clean the
power tool. The solid jet of water may damage
parts of the unit.
The guard provided with your machine may not
protect the operator from all foreign objects
(gravel, glass, wire etc.) ejected by the revolving
cutting attachment. Ejected objects may also ric‐
ochet and strike the operator.
2.1 Clothing and equipment
Wear proper protective clothing and equipment.
Clothing must be sturdy but allow
complete freedom of movement.
Wear close-fitting clothes such as a
boiler suit, not a loose jacket.
Do not wear clothing which could
become trapped in wood, brush or
moving parts of the machine. Do not
wear a scarf, necktie or jewelry. Tie
up and confine long hair above your
shoulders.
Wear safety boots with steel toe caps
and non-slip soles.
Sturdy shoes with non-slip shoes are permissible
only when using mowing heads.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of eye injuries,
wear close-fitting safety glasses in
accordance with European Standard
EN 166. Make sure the safety
glasses are a snug fit.
2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques English
0458-233-8321-G 3

Wear face protection and make sure it is a good
fit. Face protection alone is not sufficient to pro‐
tect the eyes.
Wear "personal" sound protection, e.g. ear
defenders.
Wear a safety hard hat for thinning operations,
when working in high scrub and where there is a
danger of head injuries from falling objects.
Wear sturdy protective gloves made
of a resistant material (e. g. leather).
STIHL can supply a comprehensive range of per‐
sonal protective equipment.
2.2 Transporting the machine
002BA079 KN
Always stop the engine.
Carry the machine hanging on the harness or by
the shaft so that it is balanced.
To reduce the risk of cut injuries, fit transport
guard on the cutting attachment, even when car‐
rying the tool for short distances – see also
"Transporting the Unit".
Avoid touching hot parts of the
machine and gearbox – risk of burns!
By vehicle: When transporting in a vehicle, prop‐
erly secure your machine to prevent turnover,
damage and fuel spillage.
2.3 Refueling
Gasoline is an extremely flammable
fuel. Keep clear of naked flames. Do
not spill any fuel – do not smoke.
Always shut off the engine before refueling.
Do not fuel a hot engine – fuel may spill and
cause a fire.
Open the fuel cap carefully to allow any pressure
build-up in the tank to release slowly and avoid
fuel spillage.
Only refuel the machine in a well ventilated
place. If fuel has been spilled, immediately clean
the machine – do not allow your clothes to be
splashed with fuel. If that happens, change your
clothes at once.
After refueling, close the fuel cap as
tightly as possible.
This helps reduce the risk of unit vibrations caus‐
ing an incorrectly tightened fuel cap to loosen or
come off and spill quantities of fuel.
Check for leaks. Do not start the engine if there
is a fuel leak – serious or fatal burns could result!
2.4 Before starting
Check that your power tool is properly assem‐
bled and in good condition – refer to appropriate
chapters in the User Manual.
–Check the fuel system for leaks, especially the
visible parts, e. g., fuel cap, hose connections,
manual fuel pump (only in machines with a
manual fuel pump). In case of leakage and
damage, do not start the engine – risk of fire!
Have the machine serviced by a dealer before
using it
–Use only an approved combination of cutting
attachment, deflector, handle and harness. All
parts must be assembled properly and
securely
–Slide control / stop switch must move easily to
STOP or 0
–Throttle trigger lockout (if installed) and throttle
trigger must move easily – the throttle trigger
must return to the idle position automatically
–Check that the spark plug boot is secure – a
loose boot may cause sparking that could
ignite combustible fumes and cause a fire!
–Cutting attachment or interchangeable attach‐
ment: correctly fitted, secure and in perfect
condition
English 2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques
4 0458-233-8321-G

–Safety devices (e. g., deflector for cutting
attachments, rider plate) for damage and/or
wear. Always replace damaged parts. Do not
use the machine with a damaged deflector or
worn rider plate (if the writing and arrows are
no longer discernible)
–Never attempt to modify the controls or safety
devices
–Keep the handles dry and clean – free from oil
and dirt – this is important for safe control of
the machine
–Adjust the harness and handle(s) to suit your
height and reach Observe the chapter "Fitting
the Harness" – "Balancing the machine"
To reduce the risk of personal injury, do not
operate your power tool if it is damaged or not
properly assembled!
To prepare for emergencies when using a har‐
ness: Practice setting down the machine quickly.
To avoid damage, do not throw the unit to the
ground when practicing.
2.5 Starting the engine
Start the engine at least 3 meters from the fuel‐
ing spot, outdoors only.
Place the unit on firm ground in an open area.
Make sure you have good balance and secure
footing. Hold the unit securely. The cutting
attachment must be clear of the ground and all
other obstructions because it may begin to run
when the engine starts.
This is a one-person machine – ensure that there
is no-one within 15 meters of the machine, not
even when starting the power tool! Risk of injury
due to ejected objects!
Avoid contact with the cutting attach‐
ment – risk of injury!
Do not drop-start the power tool –
start the engine as described in the
User Manual. The cutting attachment
runs on for a short while after releas‐
ing the throttle trigger – coasting
effect!
Check engine idling: The cutting attachment
must remain at a standstill when the engine idles
– throttle trigger released.
Keep easily combustible materials (e. g., wood
chips, bark, dry grass, fuel) away from hot
exhaust gases and hot muffler surfaces – risk of
fire!
2.6 Holding and guiding the
machine
Always hold the unit firmly with both hands on
the handles.
Make sure you always have good balance and
secure footing.
2.6.1 For versions with bike handle
002BA055 KN
Right hand on control handle, left hand on grip
on handlebar.
2.6.2 For versions with loop handle
002BA080 KN
For versions with loop handle and loop handle
with barrier bar, left hand on the loop handle,
right hand on the control handle – even if you are
left-handed.
2.7 While working
Make sure you always have good balance and
secure footing.
In the event of impending danger or in an emer‐
gency, switch off the engine immediately - move
the slide control/stop switch to STOP or 0.
15m (50ft)
Within a wide area around the workplace, there
is a risk of accident by ejected objects, therefore
ensure that there is no-one within a 15 m radius
of the machine. This distance must also be main‐
tained in relation to objects (vehicles, window
2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques English
0458-233-8321-G 5

panes) – risk of property damage! Even at a dis‐
tance over 15 m, danger cannot be ruled out.
Check that the engine is properly idling so that
the cutting tool will not continue rotating after you
release the throttle trigger.
Check and correct the idle speed setting at regu‐
lar intervals. If the cutting attachment still rotates
at idle speed, have your dealer make proper
adjustments or repairs. STIHL recommends you
have this work done by a STIHL servicing dealer.
Take special care in slippery conditions – damp,
snow, ice, on slopes or uneven ground.
Watch out for obstacles: tree stumps, roots – risk
of tripping or stumbling!
Only work while standing on the ground, never
on a ladder or mobile elevated work platform.
Be particularly alert and cautious when wearing
hearing protection because your ability to hear
warnings (shouts, alarms, etc.) is restricted.
Take breaks when you start getting tired or feel‐
ing fatigue – risk of accidents!
Work calmly and carefully – in daylight conditions
and only when visibility is good. Proceed with
caution, do not put others in danger.
As soon as the engine is running, the
power machine generates toxic
exhaust gas.As soon as the engine is
running, the power machine gener‐
ates toxic exhaust gas. These gases
may be odorless and invisible and
may contain unburned hydrocarbons
and benzene. Never run the engine
indoors or in poorly ventilated loca‐
tions, even if your model is equipped
with a catalytic converter.
To reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury from
breathing toxic fumes, ensure proper ventilation
when working in trenches, hollows or other con‐
fined locations.
Stop work immediately if you start suffering from
nausea, headaches, impaired vision (e.g. your
field of vision gets smaller), impaired hearing,
dizziness, or impaired concentration – these
symptoms may possibly be the result of too-high
exhaust gas concentration – Risk of accidents!
Operate your power tool so that it produces a
minimum of noise and emissions – do not run the
engine unnecessarily, accelerate the engine only
when working.
To reduce the risk of fire, do not smoke while
operating or standing near your power tool. Com‐
bustible fuel vapor may escape from the fuel sys‐
tem.
Dust, fumes and smoke produced while working
may be hazardous to health. Wear respiratory
protection in case of heavy dust or smoke emis‐
sion.
If your power tool is subjected to unusually high
loads for which it was not designed (e.g. heavy
impact or a fall), always check that it is in good
condition before continuing work – see also
"Before Starting".
Check in particular that the fuel system has no
leaks and the safety equipment is fully operative.
Never use a power tool that is no longer safe to
operate. In case of doubt, contact a dealer.
Do not operate your power tool in the starting
throttle position – engine speed cannot be con‐
trolled in this position.
To reduce the risk of injuryfrom ejec‐
ted objects, never operate the unit
without the proper deflector for the
type of cutting attachment being
used.
Check the work site – rocks, metal
objects etc. may be caught up and
ejected – possibly over a distance of
15 m – risk of injury! – They can also
damage the cutting attachment and
other property (e. g. parking vehicles,
windows).
Be particularly careful when working on difficult,
densely grown terrain.
When mowing in high shrubbery, under shrub‐
bery and hedges: Hold the cutting tool at a work‐
ing height of at least 15 cm – avoid risks to ani‐
mals.
Always shut off the engine before leaving the
unit unattended.
Examine the cutting attachment periodically at
short intervals and as soon as you note any
noticeable changes:
–Stop the engine, hold the machine securely,
allow the cutting attachment to come to a stop
–Check condition and secure fitting; watch out
for cracks
–Ensure that the cutting blades are sharp
–Replace damaged or blunt cutting attachments
immediately, even in the event of minor hair‐
line cracks
Clean grass and plant residue off the cutting
attachment mounting at regular intervals –
English 2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques
6 0458-233-8321-G

remove any accumulated material from the cut‐
ting attachment and deflector.
To reduce the risk of injury, shut off the engine
before replacing the cutting attachment.
The gearbox gets hot during opera‐
tion. Never touch the gearbox – risk
of burns!
If a rotating cutting attachment touches a rock or
another hard object, sparks can be generated
which may possibly ignite combustible materials.
Also dried-out plants and brushwood are com‐
bustible, above all in hot and dry weather. If
there is a risk of fire, do not use cutting attach‐
ments in the vicinity of combustible materials,
dried-out plants or brushwood. It is mandatory
that you ask the responsible forestry office about
current fire hazards.
2.8 Using mowing heads
Extend the cutting attachment deflector with the
attached parts specified in the User Manual.
Only use a deflector with a properly fitted blade
that limits the mowing line to the permissible
length.
For manually adjustable mowing heads, always
switch off the engine before adjusting the mow‐
ing line – risk of injury!
Misuse with mowing lines that are too long
reduces the working speed of the engine. The
constant slipping of the clutch causes overheat‐
ing and damage to important components (e. g.
clutch, plastic housing parts) – e. g. due to the
cutting attachment rotating during idling – risk of
injury!
2.9 When using metal cutting
attachments
STIHL recommends the use of original STIHL
metal cutting attachments. These have been
optimized for the machine and the user’s require‐
ments.
Metal cutting attachments rotate very fast, gener‐
ating forces acting on the attachments and on
the cuttings.
Metal cutting attachments must be sharpened in
regular intervals in accordance with the instruc‐
tions.
Unevenly sharpened metal cutting attachments
generate an imbalance which may cause
extreme loads on the machine – risk of break‐
age!
Dull or improperly sharpened cutting edges can
put a higher load on the cutting attachment and
increase the risk of injuryfrom cracked or broken
parts.
After each contact of the metal cutting attach‐
ment with hard objects (e.g. stones, rocks, metal
parts), check it for damage (e.g. tears and defor‐
mation). To reduce the risk of injury, remove
burrs and other visible accumulated material
because they may become detached and ejec‐
ted at high speed during operation.
Do not continue using or attempt to repair dam‐
aged or cracked cutting attachments by means
of welding, straightening or modifying the shape
(unbalanced).
Particles or pieces may come off and hit the
operator or a bystander at a high speed – risk of
most severe injuries!
To reduce the above-named risks involved in
operating a metal cutting attachment, ensure that
the diameter of your metal cutting attachment is
not too big. Also, the attachment must not be too
heavy. It must be made of high-quality materials
and have a suitable geometry (shape, thickness).
A metal cutting attachment not made by STIHL
must not have a different weight, thickness,
shape or a larger diameter than the largest
STIHL metal cutting attachment approved for this
metal cutting attachment – risk of injury!
2.10 Vibrations
Prolonged use of the power tool may result in
vibration-induced circulation problems in the
hands (whitefinger disease).
No general recommendation can be given for the
length of usage because it depends on several
factors.
The period of usage is prolonged by:
–Hand protection (wearing warm gloves)
–Work breaks
The period of usage is shortened by:
–Any personal tendency to suffer from poor cir‐
culation (symptoms: frequently cold fingers,
tingling sensations).
–Low outside temperatures.
–The force with which the handles are held (a
tight grip restricts circulation).
2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques English
0458-233-8321-G 7

Continual and regular users should monitor
closely the condition of their hands and fingers. If
any of the above symptoms appear (e.g. tingling
sensation in fingers), seek medical advice.
2.11 Maintenance and Repairs
Service the machine regularly. Do not attempt
any maintenance or repair work not described in
the instruction manual. Have all other work per‐
formed by a servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends that you have servicing and
repair work carried out exclusively by an author‐
ized STIHL servicing dealer. STIHL dealers are
regularly given the opportunity to attend training
courses and are supplied with the necessary
technical information.
Only use high-quality replacement parts in order
to avoid the risk of accidents and damage to the
machine. If you have any questions in this
respect, consult a servicing dealer.
STIHL recommends the use of original STIHL
replacement parts. They are specifically
designed to match your model and meet your
performance requirements.
To reduce the risk of injury, always shut off the
engine before carrying out any maintenance or
repairs or cleaning the machine. – Exception:
Carburetor and idle speed adjustments.
Do not turn the engine over on the starter with
the spark plug boot or spark plug removed
unless the slide control / stop switch is on STOP
or 0 since there is otherwise a risk of fire from
uncontained sparking.
To reduce the risk of fire, do not service or store
your machine near open flames.
Check the fuel filler cap for leaks at regular inter‐
vals.
Use only a spark plug of the type approved by
STIHL and make sure it is in good condition –
see "Specifications".
Inspect the ignition lead (insulation in good con‐
dition, secure connection).
Check the condition of the muffler.
To reduce the risk of fire and damage to hearing,
do not operate your machine if the muffler is
damaged or missing. –
Do not touch a hot muffler since burn injury will
result.
2.12 Symbols on Deflectors
An arrow on the deflector shows the correct
direction of rotation of the cutting attachments.
Some of the following symbols are applied to the
outside of the deflector to indicate the approved
combination of cutting tool and deflector.
Use deflector in combination with
mowing heads only. Do not use metal
cutting attachments.
Do not use deflector with brush kni‐
ves or circular saw blades.
Do not use deflector with mowing
heads.
Use deflector in combination with
grass cutting blades only.
2.13 Shoulder strap
► Use a shoulder strap.
► With the engine running, attach the machine to
the shoulder strap.
Grass cutting blades must always be used in
combination with a shoulder strap.
English 2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques
8 0458-233-8321-G

2.14 Mowing Head with Nylon Line
000BA015 KN
Nylon line achieves a soft cut for edging and
trimming around trees, fence posts, etc. – less
risk of damaging tree bark.
The mowing head comes with an instruction leaf‐
let. Refill the mowing head with nylon line as
described in the instruction leaflet.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of serious injury, never use
wire or metal-reinforced line in place of the nylon
line.
2.15 STIHL Polycut Mowing Head
with Polymer Blades
For mowing unobstructed edges of meadows
(without posts, fences, trees or similar obsta‐
cles).
Check the wear limit marks!
002BA049 KN
If one of the wear limit marks on the PolyCut
mowing head is worn through (arrow): Do not
continue using the mowing head. Install a new
one. There is otherwise a risk of injury from
thrown parts of the head.
It is important to follow the maintenance instruc‐
tions for the PolyCut mowing head.
The PolyCut can also be equipped with mowing
line in place of the polymer blades.
The mowing head comes with instruction leaflets.
Equip the mowing head with polymers blades or
nylon line as described in the instruction leaflets.
WARNING
Never use wire in place of the nylon mowing line
– risk of injury.
2.16 Risk of Kickout (Blade Thrust)
with Metal Cutting Attachments
WARNING
When using metal cutting attach‐
ments there is a risk of kickout when
the rotating blade comes into contact
with a solid object such as a tree
trunk, branch, tree stump, rock or
similar. The machine is thrown to the
right or to the rear – opposite to the
attachment's direction of rotation.
002BA135 KN
2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques English
0458-233-8321-G 9

The risk of kickout is greatest when the black
area of the rotating cutting attachment comes
into contact with a solid object.
2.17 Grass Cutting Blade
000BA020 KN
Use for grass and weeds only – sweep the
brushcutter in an arc like a scythe.
WARNING
Improper use may damage the grass cutting
blade – risk of injury from thrown parts.
Resharpen the grass cutting blade according to
instructions when it has dulled noticeably.
English 2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques
10 0458-233-8321-G

3 Approved Combinations of Cutting Attachment, Deflector, Han‐
dle and Harness
Cutting attachment Deflector Handle Carrying strap
12
46
8
910
11
12
14
15 16
17
15 16
17
19 20
20
19
18 20
0000-GXX-0400-A2
3
7
13
5
3.1 Permissible combinations
Choose the correct combination from the table
depending on the cutting tool!
WARNING
For safety reasons only the cutting attachments,
deflector, handle and harness versions within
one line of the table may be combined with one
another. No other combinations are permitted
because of the risk of accidents!
3.2 Cutting attachments
3.2.1 Mowing heads
1 STIHL SuperCut 20‑2
2 STIHL AutoCut C 25-2
3 STIHL AutoCut 25-2
4 STIHL AutoCut C 26-2
5 STIHL FixCut 31-2
6 STIHL TrimCut 31-2
7 STIHL DuroCut 20-2
8 STIHL PolyCut 20-3
3.2.2 Metal cutting tools
9 Grass cutting blade 230-2
(Ø 230 mm)
10 Grass cutting blade 230-4
(Ø 230 mm)
11 Grass cutting blade 230-8
(Ø 230 mm)
WARNING
Grass cutting blades of materials other than
metal must not be used.
3.3 Deflectors
12 Deflector for mowing heads
13 Deflector for metal cutting attachments
3.4 Handles
14 Loop handle
15 Loop handlewith
16 Barrier bar
17 Bike handle
3 Approved Combinations of Cutting Attachment, Deflector, Handle and Harness English
0458-233-8321-G 11

3.5 Shoulder straps
18 Shoulder strap can be used
19 Shoulder strap must be used
20 Full harness can be used
4 Mounting the Bike Handle
4.1 Mounting the Handlebar
13
2
5
7
6
4
233BA025 KN
► Position the clamp (1) and handlebar sup‐
port (2) on the shaft (3)
► Place the handlebar (4) in the handlebar sup‐
port – the rubber handle (5) must be on the left
(viewing direction from engine to handlebar)
► Place the clamp (6) on the handlebar support
► Insert the screws (7) through the holes in the
parts and screw them into the clamp (6) as far
as they will go
4
A
3
233
B
A018 KN233BA018 KN
► Fasten the handlebar (4) at a distance (A) of
approx. 15 cm (6 in) ahead of the engine
housing on the shaft (3)
► Line up the handlebar and tighten down the
screws firmly
4.2 Mounting the Control Handle
002BA357 KN
12
8
9
4
11
12
10
English 4 Mounting the Bike Handle
12 0458-233-8321-G

► Unscrew the bolt (8) with a combination
wrench or hex key wrench – the nut (9)
remains in the control handle (10)
► Push the control handle with the throttle trig‐
ger (11) facing toward the gearbox onto the
handlebar (4) until the holes (12) align
► Insert and tighten screw (8)
4.3 Fastening the Throttle Cable
NOTICE
Do not kink the throttle cable or lay it in tight radii
– make sure the throttle trigger moves freely.
13
14
14
13
233BA027
► Position the throttle cable retainer (14) and the
throttle cable (13) on the shaft
► Squeeze the throttle cable retainer (14). The
throttle cable retainer (14) engages in position
with an audible click
5 Mounting the Loop Handle
5.1 Mounting Loop Handle with
Barrier Bar
2
002BA098 KN
1
1
► Fit the square nuts (1) in the barrier bar (2);
the holes must line up.
5
4
002BA099 KN
2
3
67
► Place the clamp (3) in the loop handle (4) and
position them both against the drive tube (5).
5 Mounting the Loop Handle English
0458-233-8321-G 13

► Position the clamp (6) against the drive tube.
► Place the barrier bar (2) in position as shown.
► Line up the holes.
► Insert the screws (7) in the holes and screw
them into the barrier bar (2) as far as stop.
► Go to "Securing the Loop Handle".
5.2 Mounting the Loop Handle
without Barrier Bar
7
8
5
4
1
6
1
3
8
7
002BA614 KN
► Place the clamp (3) in the loop handle (4) and
position them both against the drive tube (5).
► Position the clamp (6) against the drive tube.
► Line up the holes.
► Fit washers (8) on the screws (7) and insert
the screws in the holes. Fit the square nuts (1)
and screw them down as far as stop.
► Go to "Securing the Loop Handle".
5.3 Securing the Loop Handle
9
4
A
002BA615 KN
The loop handle can be adjusted to suit the
height and reach of the operator and the applica‐
tion by changing distance (A).
Recommendation: distance (A): about 20 cm
(8 in)
► Slide the handle to the required position.
► Line up the loop handle (4).
► Tighten down the screws until the loop handle
can no longer be rotated on the drive tube. If
no barrier bar is fitted – lock the nuts if neces‐
sary.
The sleeve (9) (not fitted on all models) must be
between the loop handle and the control handle.
English 5 Mounting the Loop Handle
14 0458-233-8321-G

6 Fitting the Carrying Ring
6.1 Polymer Version
1
002BA529 KN
For position of carrying ring see "Main Parts".
► Push the carrying ring (1) over the drive tube.
► Insert the M5 nut in the hex recess in the car‐
rying ring.
► Fit the M5x14 screw.
► Line up the carrying ring.
► Tighten down the screw firmly.
6.2 Metal Version
The carrying ring comes standard with the
machine or is available as a special accessory.
002BA142 KN
1
2
1
For position of carrying ring see "Main Parts".
► Place the clamp (1) against the drive tube with
the tapped hole on the left (viewed from
engine).
► Squeeze the two ends of the clamp together
and hold in that position.
► Insert the M6x14 screw (2).
► Line up the carrying ring.
► Tighten down the screw firmly.
7 Mounting the Deflector
7.1 Use the right deflector
002BA262 KN
1
6 Fitting the Carrying Ring English
0458-233-8321-G 15

WARNING
Deflector (1) is approved for mowing heads only
and must therefore be mounted before fitting a
mowing head
002BA263 KN
2
WARNING
Deflector (2) is approved for grass cutting blades
only and must therefore be mounted before fit‐
ting a grass cutting blade.
7.2 Mounting the deflector
Deflectors (1) and (2) are both mounted to the
gearbox in the same way.
0414BA007 KN
► Position the deflector against the gearbox so
that the lug (3) engages the recess (4) in the
deflector.
► Insert the screw (5) and tighten it down firmly.
On some versions the M5x14 screw is packed
loose with the deflector.
8 Mounting the Cutting
Attachment
8.1 Placing power tool on the
ground
002BA104 KN
► Shut off the engine.
► Lay your power tool on its back so that the cut‐
ting attachment mounting face is pointing up.
8.2 Mounting Hardware for Cutting
Attachments
The mounting hardware supplied depends on the
cutting attachment that comes as original equip‐
ment with the new machine.
8.2.1 Machine supplied with mounting hard‐
ware
Mowing heads and metal cutting attachments
may be mounted.
2
002BA164 KN
1
3
4
5
English 8 Mounting the Cutting Attachment
16 0458-233-8321-G

Depending on the cutting attachment, it may be
necessary to use the nut (3), rider plate (4) and
thrust washer (5).
These parts are included in a kit supplied with
the machine and are also available as special
accessories.
8.2.2 Removing the transport lock
► Pull the hose (1) off the shaft (2).
8.2.3 Machine supplied without mounting
hardware
2
002BA266 KN
Only mowing heads may be used which mount
directly to the shaft (2).
8.3 Blocking the Shaft
6
7
2
002BA330 KN
6
The output shaft (2) must be blocked with the
stop pin (6) or screwdriver (6) to mount or
remove cutting attachments. These parts come
standard with the machine or are available as
special accessories.
► Insert the stop pin (6) or screwdriver (6) in the
hole (7) in the gearbox as far as stop – and
apply slight pressure.
► Rotate shaft, nut or cutting attachment until
the stop pin slips into position and blocks the
shaft.
8.4 Removing the Mounting Hard‐
ware
3
4
2
271BA057 KN
1
5
► Block the shaft.
► Use the combination wrench (1) to loosen and
remove the nut (2) clockwise (left-hand
thread).
► Take the thrust washer (3) off the shaft (4). Do
not remove the thrust plate (5).
8.5 Mounting the Cutting Attach‐
ment
WARNING
Use a deflector that matches the cutting attach‐
ment – see "Mounting the Deflector".
8.6 Fitting the mowing head with
screw mounting
Keep the supplement sheet for the mowing head
in a safe place.
8 Mounting the Cutting Attachment English
0458-233-8321-G 17

1
002BA385 KN
► Fit the thrust plate
► Turn the mowing head anticlockwise on the
shaft (1) as far as it will go
► Retain the shaft
► Tighten the mowing head
NOTICE
Remove the tool that was used to block the
shaft.
8.7 Removing the Mowing Head
► Retain the shaft
► Turn the mowing head clockwise
8.8 Fitting Mowing Head without
Screw Mounting
Keep the instruction leaflet for the mowing head
in a safe place.
8.8.1 STIHL FixCut 31-2
► Fit the thrust plate (2).
► Place the mowing head on the thrust plate (2).
WARNING
Collar (see arrows) must engage the mowing
head's mounting hole.
► Push the thrust washer (3) (convex side up)
over the shaft (1) until it is seated on the base.
► Block the shaft.
► Use the combination wrench (5) to screw the
mounting nut (4) onto the output shaft and it
tighten down firmly.
WARNING
If the mounting nut has become too loose, fit a
new one.
NOTICE
Remove the tool used to block the shaft.
8.9 Removing the Mowing Head
► Block the shaft.
► Use the combination wrench to loosen and
unscrew the mounting nut counterclockwise
from the output shaft.
English 8 Mounting the Cutting Attachment
18 0458-233-8321-G

8.10 Mounting Metal Cutting Attach‐
ment
WARNING
Wear protective gloves to reduce the risk of
direct contact with the sharp cutting edges.
Mount only metal cutting attachments.
Check direction of rotation of cutting attachment
123
681BA121 KN
The cutting edges of the grass cutting blades (1)
and (2) may point in either direction – these cut‐
ting attachments must be turned over regularly to
reduce one-sided wear.
Cutting edges of grass cutting blade (3) must
point clockwise.
WARNING
Direction of rotation is indicated by an arrow on
the inside of the deflector.
681BA051 KN
6
9
7
8
5
4
► Place the cutting attachment (4) on the thrust
plate (5).
WARNING
Collar (see arrow) must engage the cutting
attachment's mounting hole.
Securing the cutting attachment
► Fit the thrust washer (6) – convex side must
face up.
► Fit the rider plate (7).
► Block the shaft (8).
► Use the combination wrench (14) to screw the
mounting nut (9) on to the output shaft coun‐
terclockwise and tighten it down firmly.
8 Mounting the Cutting Attachment English
0458-233-8321-G 19

WARNING
If the mounting nut has become too loose, fit a
new one.
NOTICE
Remove the tool used to block the shaft.
8.11 Removing the Metal Cutting
Attachment
WARNING
Wear protective gloves to reduce the risk of
direct contact with the sharp cutting edges.
► Block the shaft.
► Unscrew the mounting nut clockwise.
► Remove cutting attachment and its mounting
hardware from the gearbox – but do not
remove the thrust plate (5).
9 Fuel
Your engine requires a mixture of gasoline and
engine oil.
WARNING
For health reasons, avoid direct skin contact with
gasoline and avoid inhaling gasoline vapor.
9.1 STIHL MotoMix
STIHL recommends the use of STIHL MotoMix.
This ready-to-use fuel mix contains no benzol or
lead, has a high octane rating and ensures that
you always use the right mix ratio.
STIHL MotoMix uses STIHL HP Ultra two-stroke
engine oil for an extra long engine life.
MotoMix is not available in all markets.
9.2 Mixing Fuel
NOTICE
Unsuitable fuels or lubricants or mix ratios other
than those specified may result in serious dam‐
age to the engine. Poor quality gasoline or
engine oil may damage the engine, sealing rings,
hoses and the fuel tank.
9.2.1 Gasoline
Use only high-quality brand-name gasoline with
a minimum octane rating of 90 – leaded or unlea‐
ded.
Gasoline with an ethanol content of more than
10% can cause running problems in engines with
a manually adjustable carburetor and should not
be used in such engines.
Engines equipped with M-Tronic deliver full
power when run on gasoline with an ethanol con‐
tent of up to 25% (E25).
9.2.2 Engine Oil
If you mix the fuel yourself, use only STIHL two-
stroke engine oil or another high-performance
engine oil in accordance with JASO FB, JASO
FC, JASO FD, ISO-L-EGB, ISO-L-EGC or ISO-L-
EGD.
STIHL specifies STIHL HP Ultra two-stroke
engine oil or an equivalent high-performance
engine oil in order to maintain emission limits
over the machine’s service life.
9.2.3 Mix Ratio
STIHL 50:1 two-stroke engine oil: 50 parts gaso‐
line to 1 part oil
9.2.4 Examples
Gasoline STIHL engine oil 50:1
Liters Liters (ml)
1 0.02 (20)
5 0.10 (100)
10 0.20 (200)
15 0.30 (300)
20 0.40 (400)
25 0.50 (500)
► Use a canister approved for storing fuel. Pour
oil into canister first, then add gasoline and
mix thoroughly.
9.3 Storing Fuel
Store fuel only in approved safety-type fuel can‐
isters in a dry, cool and safe location protected
from light and the sun.
English 9 Fuel
20 0458-233-8321-G