Stihl FS 56 User manual

FS 56
2 - 33 Instruction Manual
HSS2115 (V17A)

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........................................................... 19
10 Fueling...................................................... 20
11 Fitting the Harness....................................21
12 Balancing the Machine..............................21
13 Starting / Stopping the Engine.................. 22
14 Transporting the Unit................................ 25
15 Operating Instructions...............................25
16 Cleaning the Air Filter............................... 25
17 Adjusting the Carburetor........................... 26
18 Spark Plug................................................ 26
19 Engine Running Behavior......................... 27
20 Storing the Machine.................................. 27
21 Sharpening Metal Cutting Blades............. 27
22 Maintaining the Mowing Head...................28
23 Maintenance and Care..............................29
24 Minimize Wear and Avoid Damage...........30
25 Main Parts.................................................30
26 Specifications............................................31
27 Maintenance and Repairs......................... 32
28 Disposal.................................................... 32
29 EC Declaration of Conformity................... 32
30 UKCA Declaration of Conformity.............. 33
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.
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
English
2 0458-547-0121-F
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG 2023
0458-547-0121-F. VA2.C23.
Printed on chlorine-free paper Paper is recyclable.
Original Instruction Manual
0000000931_035_GB

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 onlookers must remain at
a safe 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 genuine 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 unauthorised attachments.
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.
Do not use a high-pressure washer to clean the
power tool. The solid jet of water may damage
parts of the unit.
2.1 Clothing and equipment
Wear proper protective clothing and equipment.
Clothing must be robust 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 trap‐
ped 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 should‐
ers.
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.
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.
2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques English
0458-547-0121-F 3

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
002BA601 KN
002BA272 KN
Always stop the engine.
Carry the machine hanging on the harness or by
the shaft in such a way 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
"Mounting the Transport Guard".
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 highly flammable – keep
away from fire or flame – do not spill
any fuel – no smoking.
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 engine vibrations
causing an incorrectly tightened fuel cap to
loosen or come off and spill 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
–The stop switch / slide control must be easy to
actuate
–Check the choke lever, throttle trigger and
throttle trigger lockout for smooth action –
throttle trigger must return automatically to idle
position. The choke lever must spring back
from the g and < positions to the run posi‐
tion F when the throttle trigger lockout and
throttle trigger are squeezed
–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
–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)
English 2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques
4 0458-547-0121-F

–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 Note the information in the
chapters "Fitting the Harness" and "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 machine 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 a firm and secure
footing.
2.6.1 For versions with bike handle
002BA257 KN
Right hand on control handle, left hand on grip
on handlebar.
2.6.2 For versions with loop handle
002BA080 KN
Left hand on loop handle, right hand on control
handle, even if you are left-handed.
2.7 While working
Make sure you always have a firm and secure
footing.
In the event of impending danger or in an emer‐
gency, shut off the engine immediately – move
the stop switch / slide control in the direction of 0.
15m (50ft)
There is a risk of accident from ejected objects
within a wide area around the working space, so
you must ensure that there is no-one within a
15 m radius of the machine. This distance must
also be maintained in relation to objects (vehi‐
cles, window panes) – risk of property damage!
2 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques English
0458-547-0121-F 5

Even at distances beyond 15 m, the danger can‐
not 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, work platform or other unstable sur‐
face.
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 with the choke
lever in the warm start position < – the engine
speed cannot be controlled in this position.
Never operate the unit without the
correct deflector for the type of cutting
attachment being used – risk of injury
from ejected objects!
Check the work site – rocks, metal
objects etc. could get caught up and
ejected – potentially beyond a dis‐
tance of 15 m – risk of injury! Such
objects can also damage the cutting
attachment and other property (e.g.
parked 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 0458-547-0121-F

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 may 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,
which 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). Burrs and other visible accumulated
material must be removed since they may come
loose at any time while the machine is running
and then be ejected – risk of injury!
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
0458-547-0121-F 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 genuine STIHL
replacement parts. These parts are specifically
designed to match your machine model and
meet your performance requirements.
To reduce the risk of injury from unintentional
engine startup, always shut off the engine and
disconnect the spark plug boot before performing
any repairs, maintenance or cleaning work. –
Exception: Carburetor and idle speed adjust‐
ments.
Do not turn the engine over on the starter with
the spark plug boot or spark plug removed 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 0458-547-0121-F

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
0458-547-0121-F 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 0458-547-0121-F

3 Approved Combinations of Cutting Attachment, Deflector, Han‐
dle and Harness
Cutting attachment Deflector Handle Carrying strap
8
10
9
12 13
19
20
21
19
21
22
22
22
11
18
15
14
18
17
12
4
5
7
3
6
16 17
0000078652_004
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 / AutoCut 27-2
4 STIHL AutoCut C 26-2
5 STIHL TrimCut 31-2
6 STIHL TrimCut 32-2
7 STIHL DuroCut 20-2
8 STIHL PolyCut 18-2
9 STIHL PolyCut 20-3
10 STIHL PolyCut 28-2
3.2.2 Metal cutting tools
11 Grass cutting blade 230-2
(230 mm dia.)
12 Grass cutting blade 230-4
(230 mm dia.)
13 Grass cutting blade 230-8
(230 mm dia.)
3 Approved Combinations of Cutting Attachment, Deflector, Handle an… English
0458-547-0121-F 11

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).
► Screw the mounting nut (9) on to the shaft
counterclockwise and tighten it 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 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
The engine requires a mixture of gasoline and
engine oil.
WARNING
Avoid direct skin contact with fuel and breathing
in of gasoline fumes.
9.1 STIHL MotoMix
STIHL recommends using STIHL MotoMix. This
pre-blended fuel is free of benzene and lead, is
distinguished by a high octane rating, and
always provides the proper mixing ratio.
STIHL MotoMix uses STIHL HP Ultra two-stroke
engine oil for optimum engine life.
MotoMix is not available in all markets.
9.2 Mixing fuel
NOTICE
Unsuitable fuels or a mixing ratio that deviates
from the specification can lead to severe engine
damage. The engine, seals, fuel lines and fuel
tank may be damaged if low-quality gasoline or
engine oil is used.
9.2.1 Gasoline
Use only high-quality gasoline with an octane rat‐
ing of at least 90 ROC – leaded or unleaded.
9 Fuel English
0458-547-0121-F 19

Gasoline with an alcohol component exceeding
10% can cause impaired engine performance in
engines with manually adjustable carburetors
and thus should not be used in these engines.
Engines with M-Tronic deliver full engine per‐
formance using gasoline with an alcohol compo‐
nent of up to 27% (E27).
9.2.2 Engine oil
If you mix the fuel yourself, use only STIHL two-
stroke engine oil or another high-performance
engine oil classified as 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 Mixing ratio
with STIHL two-stroke engine oil 1:50; 1:50 =
1 part oil + 50 parts gasoline
9.2.4 Examples
Quantity of gaso‐
line
STIHL two-stroke
engine oil 1:50
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)
► Pour oil into an approved safety fuel canister
first, then add gasoline and mix thoroughly
9.3 Storing fuel mixture
Store in approved safety fuel canisters only in a
dry, cool and secure place protected against light
and sunlight.
Fuel mixture deteriorates with age – mix only as
much as needed for a few weeks. Do not store
fuel mixture for longer than 30 days. The fuel
mixture can become unusable more quickly if
exposed to light, sunlight or low or high tempera‐
tures.
STIHL MotoMix however can be stored for up to
5 years without any problems.
► Shake the canister containing the fuel mixture
thoroughly before refueling
WARNING
Pressure may have built up in the canister –
open it carefully.
► The fuel tank and the canister in which fuel
mixture is stored should be cleaned thoroughly
from time to time
Residual fuel and the liquid used for cleaning
must be disposed of in accordance with regula‐
tions and without harming the environment!
10 Fueling
10.1 Preparations
547BA045 KN
► Before fueling, clean the filler cap and the area
around it to ensure that no dirt falls into the
tank.
► Position the machine so that the filler cap is
facing up.
10.2 Opening the Tank Cap
002BA447 KN
► Turn the cap counterclockwise until it can be
removed from the tank opening.
► Remove the tank cap.
10.3 Filling Up with Fuel
Take care not to spill fuel while fueling and do
not overfill the tank.
STIHL recommends you use the STIHL filler noz‐
zle for fuel (special accessory).
► Fill up with fuel.
English 10 Fueling
20 0458-547-0121-F

10.4 Closing the Tank Cap
002BA448 KN
► Place the cap in the opening.
► Turn the cap clockwise as far as stop and
tighten it down as firmly as possible by hand.
11 Fitting the Harness
The type and style of the harness depend on the
market.
The use of the harness is described in the chap‐
ter on "Approved Combinations of Cutting
Attachment, Deflector, Handle and Harness".
11.1 Shoulder strap
► Put on the shoulder strap (1).
► Adjust the length of the strap so that the cara‐
biner (2) is about a hand’s width below your
right hip.
► Balance the machine.
11.2 Full Harness
3
002BA228 KN
2
1
► Put on the harness (1) and close the locking
plate (3).
► Adjust the length of the strap – with the
machine attached, the carabiner (2) must be
about a hand's width below your right hip.
► Balance the machine – see "Balancing the
Machine".
12 Balancing the Machine
The type and style of the harness and carabiner
(spring hook) depend on the market.
The carrying ring is integrated in the control han‐
dle on loop-handled units– see "Main Parts".
Loop-handled units do not need to be balanced.
12.1 Attaching the unit to the har‐
ness
1
2
1
2
002BA311 KN
11 Fitting the Harness English
0458-547-0121-F 21

► Attach the carabiner (1) to the carrying ring (2)
on the drive tube.
► Loosen the screw (3).
12.2 Floating position
002BA313 KN
► Mowing heads and grass cutting blades
should just touch the ground.
Proceed as follows to adjust the floating position:
► Move the carrying ring up or down the drive
tube – tighten the screw moderately – let the
unit go and wait until is its balanced – then
check the floating position.
When the correct floating position has been
reached:
► Tighten down the screw on the carrying ring
firmly.
12.3 Detaching the unit from the
harness
1
2
1
2
002BA312 KN
► Press down the bar on the carabiner (1) and
pull the carrying ring (2) out of the carabiner.
13 Starting / Stopping the
Engine
13.1 Controls
13.1.1 Version with Bike Handle
1
002BA268 KN
2
3
1 Throttle trigger lockout
2 Throttle trigger
3 Stop switch with Run and 0 = Stop positions.
English 13 Starting / Stopping the Engine
22 0458-547-0121-F

13.1.2 Version with Loop Handle
002BA269 KN
1
3
2
1 Throttle trigger lockout
2 Throttle trigger
3 Stop switch with Run and 0 = Stop positions.
13.1.3 Function of stop switch and ignition
system
The stop switch is normally in the Run position,
i.e. when it is not depressed: The ignition is
switched on – the engine is ready to start. If the
stop switch is moved to the 0 position, the igni‐
tion is switched off. The ignition is switched on
again automatically after the engine stops.
13.2 Starting the Engine
4
457BA046 KN
► Press the manual fuel pump bulb (4) at least
five times – even if the bulb is filled with fuel.
13.2.1 Cold engine (cold start)
5
547BA016 KN
►Press in the choke lever (5) and turn it to g
at the same time.
13.2.2 Warm engine (warm start)
5
547BA017 KN
►Press in the choke lever (5) and turn it to < at
the same time.
Also use this setting if the engine has been run‐
ning but is still cold.
13.2.3 Cranking
547BA018 KN
► Place the unit on the ground: It must rest
securely on the engine support and the deflec‐
tor.
► If fitted: Remove the transport guard from the
cutting attachment.
To reduce the risk of accidents, check that the
cutting attachment is not touching the ground of
any other obstacles.
► Make sure you have a firm footing, either
standing, stooping or kneeling.
13 Starting / Stopping the Engine English
0458-547-0121-F 23

► Hold the unit firmly on the ground with your left
hand and press down – do not touch the throt‐
tle trigger, lockout lever or stop switch.
NOTICE
Do not stand or kneel on the drive tube.
547BA020 KN
► Hold the starter grip with your right hand.
13.2.4 Version without ErgoStart
► Pull the starter grip slowly until you feel it
engage and then give it a brisk strong pull.
13.2.5 Version with ErgoStart
► Pull the starter grip steadily.
NOTICE
Do not pull out the starter rope all the way – it
might otherwise break.
► Do not let the starter grip snap back. Guide it
slowly back into the housing so that the starter
rope can rewind properly.
► Continue cranking until the engine runs.
13.2.6 As soon as the engine runs
547BA021 KN
► Press down the throttle trigger lockout and
open the throttle – the choke lever moves to
the run position F. After a cold start, warm up
the engine by opening the throttle several
times.
WARNING
Make sure the carburetor is correctly adjusted.
The cutting attachment must not rotate when the
engine is idling.
Your machine is now ready for operation.
13.3 Stopping the Engine
► Move the stop switch in the direction of 0 – the
engine stops – release the stop switch – it
springs back to the run position.
13.4 Other Hints on Starting
Engine stalls in cold start position g or under
acceleration
►Move the choke knob to < and continue
cranking until the engine runs.
Engine does not start in warm start position <
►Move the choke knob to g and continue
cranking until the engine runs.
If the engine does not start
► Check that all settings are correct.
► Check that there is fuel in the tank and refuel if
necessary.
► Check that the spark plug boot is properly con‐
nected.
► Repeat the starting procedure.
Engine is flooded
►Move the choke knob to F and continue crank‐
ing until the engine runs.
Fuel tank run until completely dry
► After refueling, press the manual fuel pump
bulb at least five times – even if the bulb is fil‐
led with fuel.
English 13 Starting / Stopping the Engine
24 0458-547-0121-F

► Set the choke lever to suit the engine temper‐
ature.
► Now start the engine.
14 Transporting the Unit
14.1 Using transport guard
The type of transport guard depends on the
metal cutting attachment supplied with the
machine. Transport guards are available as spe‐
cial accessories.
14.1.1 230 mm Grass Cutting Blades
681BA268 KN
681BA269 KN
681BA270 KN
681BA272 KN
15 Operating Instructions
15.1 During break-in period
A factory-new machine should not be run at high
revs (full throttle off load) for the first three tank
fillings. This avoids unnecessary high loads dur‐
ing the break-in period. As all moving parts have
to bed in during the break-in period, the frictional
resistances in the engine are greater during this
period. The engine develops its maximum power
after about 5 to 15 tank fillings.
15.2 During Operation
After a long period of full throttle operation, allow
the engine to run for a short while at idle speed
so that engine heat can be dissipated by the flow
of cooling air. This protects engine-mounted
components (ignition, carburetor) from thermal
overload.
15.3 After Finishing Work
Storing for a short period: Wait for the engine to
cool down. Empty the fuel tank and keep the
machine in a dry place, well away from sources
of ignition, until you need it again. For longer out-
of-service periods – see "Storing the Machine".
16 Cleaning the Air Filter
16.1 If there is a noticeable loss of
engine power
1
547BA022 KN
2
3
14 Transporting the Unit English
0458-547-0121-F 25

24 Minimize Wear and Avoid
Damage
Observing the instructions in this manual helps
reduce the risk of unnecessary wear and dam‐
age to the power tool.
The power tool must be operated, maintained
and stored with the due care and attention
described in this owner's manual.
The user is responsible for all damage caused by
non-observance of the safety precautions, oper‐
ating and maintenance instructions in this man‐
ual. This includes in particular:
–Alterations or modifications to the product not
approved by STIHL.
–Using tools or accessories which are neither
approved or suitable for the product or are of a
poor quality.
–Using the product for purposes for which it
was not designed.
–Using the product for sports or competitive
events.
–Consequential damage caused by continuing
to use the product with defective components.
24.1 Maintenance Work
All the operations described in the "Maintenance
Chart" must be performed on a regular basis. If
these maintenance operations cannot be per‐
formed by the owner, they should be performed
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.
If these maintenance operations are not carried
out as specified, the user assumes responsibility
for any damage that may occur. Among other
parts, this includes:
–Damage to the engine due to neglect or defi‐
cient maintenance (e.g. air and fuel filters),
incorrect carburetor adjustment or inadequate
cleaning of cooling air inlets (intake ports, cyl‐
inder fins).
–Corrosion and other consequential damage
resulting from improper storage.
–Damage to the machine resulting from the use
of poor quality replacement parts.
24.2 Parts Subject to Wear and Tear
Some parts of the power tool are subject to nor‐
mal wear and tear even during regular operation
in accordance with instructions and, depending
on the type and duration of use, have to be
replaced in good time. Among other parts, this
includes:
–Cutting attachments (all types)
–Mounting hardware for cutting attachments
(rider plate, nut, etc.)
–Deflectors for cutting attachments
–Clutch
–Filters (air, fuel)
–Rewind starter
–Spark plug
25 Main Parts
21
20
10
12
16
14
13
11
20
18
19
7
8
6
9
15
17
78
6
#
547BA049 KN
5
3
2
14
11
1 Manual fuel pump
2 Tank cap
3 Tank
4 Starter grip
5 Muffler
6 Throttle trigger
7 Stop switch
8 Throttle trigger lockout
9 Bike handle (handlebar)
10 Handle support
11 Carrying ring
English 24 Minimize Wear and Avoid Damage
30 0458-547-0121-F

12 Throttle cable retainer
13 Carburetor adjusting screws
14 Choke lever
15 Air filter cover
16 Spark plug boot
17 Machine support
18 Loop handle
19 Barrier bar (country specific)
20 Drive tube
21 Sleeve
# Serial number
1
002BA270 KN
2
3
4
5
1 Mowing head
2 Deflector for mowing heads only
3 Blade
4 Deflector for grass cutting blades only
5 Grass cutting blade
26 Specifications
26.1 Engine
Single-cylinder two-stroke engine
Displacement: 27.2cm3
Cylinder bore: 34 mm
Piston stroke: 30 mm
Engine power to ISO 8893: 0.8 kW (1.1 hp) at
8500 1/min
Idle speed: 2800 rpm
Cut-off speed (nominal
value):
10000 rpm
Max. output shaft speed
(cutting attachment):
8600 rpm
26.2 Ignition system
Electronic magneto ignition
Spark plug (suppressed): NGK CMR 6 H,
BOSCH USR 4AC
Electrode gap: 0.5 mm
26.3 Fuel system
All-position diaphragm carburetor with integral
fuel pump
Fuel tank capacity: 340 cm3 (0.34 l)
26.4 Weight
Dry, without cutting attachment and deflector
FS 56: 5.1 kg
FS 56 R: 4.7 kg
FS 56 C with ErgoStart: 5.2 kg
FS 56 RC with ErgoStart: 4.8 kg
26.5 Noise and Vibration Data
Noise and vibration data measurements include
idling and rated maximum speed with the same
duration of exposure.
For further details on compliance with Vibration
Directive 2002/44/EC see
www.stihl.com/vib
26.5.1 Sound pressure level Lpeq to
ISO 22868
FS 56, FS 56 C
with mowing head: 93 dB(A)
with metal tool: 94 dB(A)
FS 56 R, FS 56 RC
with mowing head: 93 dB(A)
with metal tool: 94 dB(A)
26.5.2 Sound power level Lw to ISO 22868
FS 56, FS 56 C, FS 56 R, FS 56 RC
with mowing head: 107 dB(A)
with metal tool: 107 dB(A)
26.5.3 Vibration measurement ahv,eq to
ISO 22867
FS 56, FS 56 C
Handle, left Handle,
right
with mowing head: 4.7 m/s23.8 m/s2
26 Specifications English
0458-547-0121-F 31