FS 55, FS 55 C, FS 55 R, FS 55 RC
English
5
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.
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
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.
Wear an approved safety hard hat to 
reduce the risk of injury to your head 
when there is a danger of head injuries.
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.
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. For the 
cutting attachments authorized by 
STIHL for your unit, see the chapter 
"Approved Combinations of Cutting 
Attachment, Deflector, Handle and Har-
ness" in the instruction manual or the 
STIHL "Cutting Attachments, Parts & 
Accessories" catalog.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of injury from loss of 
control and blade or line contact, never 
carry or transport your power tool with 
the cutting attachment moving.