FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C
English
3
The terminology utilized in this manual 
when referring to the power tool reflects 
the type of cutting attachments that may 
be mounted on it. The term "trimmer" is 
used to designate an FS unit that is 
equipped with a nylon line head or a 
head with flexible plastic blades (i.e., the 
PolyCut head).
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, 
harness and deflector for the type of 
cutting attachment you are using. Use 
only cutting attachments that are 
specifically authorized by STIHL for use 
on your FS model. 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 this trimmer.
Have your STIHL dealer show you how 
to operate your power tool. Observe all 
applicable local safety regulations, 
standards and ordinances.
WARNING
Do not lend or rent your power tool 
without the instruction manual. Be sure 
that anyone using it understands the 
information contained in this manual.
WARNING
The use of this machine may be 
hazardous. If the rotating line or blade 
comes in contact with your body, it will 
cut you. When it comes in contact with 
solid foreign objects such as rocks or 
bits of metal, it may fling them directly or 
by ricochet in the direction of bystanders 
or the operator. Striking such objects 
could damage the cutting attachment. 
Thrown objects, including broken heads 
or blades, may result in serious or fatal 
injury to the operator or bystanders.
Use your trimmer equipped with the 
appropriate cutting attachment only for 
cutting grass and similar material.
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 bystanders 
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 
unauthorized persons do not use it.
Most of these safety precautions and 
warnings apply to the use of all STIHL 
trimmers. Different models may have 
different parts and controls. See the 
appropriate section of your instruction 
manual for a description of the controls 
and the function of the parts of your 
model.
Safe use of a trimmer 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.
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.
Safety Precautions and 
Working Techniques
Because a trimmer 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.