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Stihl FS 55R User Manual

Stihl FS 55R
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STIHL FS 55
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

Table of Contents

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Stihl FS 55R Specifications

General IconGeneral
Displacement27.2 cc
Power Output0.75 kW
Engine Power1.0 bhp
Fuel Capacity0.33 L
Fuel Tank Capacity0.33 L
Starter SystemRecoil
Cutting Diameter420 mm
Overall Length1.7 m
Shaft TypeStraight
Cutting Width23 cm
Engine Type2-stroke gasoline engine

Summary

Guide to Using this Manual

Safety Precautions and Working Techniques

Approved Combinations of Cutting Attachment, Deflector, Handle and Harness

Guide to Using this Manual

Pictograms

Explains meanings of pictograms attached or embossed on the machine.

Symbols in Text

Describes how steps/procedures are marked with bullets or item numbers.

Engineering Improvements

STIHL's philosophy of product improvement and how to get assistance.

Safety Precautions and Working Techniques

General Safety Precautions

Read and follow safety precautions. Careless use can cause fatal injury.

Proper Clothing and Footing

Wear sturdy, snug clothing, long pants, and sturdy boots with non-slip soles.

THE OPERATOR

Physical Condition

Be in good physical/mental health, not under influence of substances, avoid fatigue.

Vibration Effects

Prolonged exposure to vibration can cause whitefinger disease or carpal tunnel syndrome.

Pacemaker Interference

Electromagnetic field may interfere with pacemakers; consult physician.

Proper Clothing

Wear proper protective apparel to reduce risk of injury.

Safety Precautions and Working Techniques

Eye and Face Protection

Wear goggles or protective glasses with side protection; consider face shield.

Head Protection

Wear an approved safety hard hat to reduce risk of head injury.

Hearing Protection

Wear sound barriers to protect hearing from noise damage.

Gloves

Always wear gloves for better grip and hand protection.

Clothing Requirements

Wear sturdy, snug-fitting clothing, long pants, avoid loose items.

Footing Requirements

Wear sturdy boots with non-slip soles; steel-toed boots recommended.

THE POWER TOOL

Modifications and Authorized Attachments

Never modify the tool; use only STIHL authorized attachments.

Checking Condition After Load

Check tool condition after heavy loads or falls; ensure fuel tightness and controls work.

THE USE OF THE POWER TOOL

Transporting the Power Tool

Never carry or transport with cutting attachment moving.

Fuel

Fuel Requirements

Uses oil-gasoline mixture; high-quality gasoline and two-stroke air-cooled engine oil.

Fueling Instructions

Flammability Warning

Gasoline is flammable; avoid sparks, flames, and smoking.

Refueling Procedure

Refuel outdoors in well-ventilated areas, engine off and cool. Release tank pressure slowly.

Spilled Fuel

Wipe off spilled fuel, change clothing if fuel gets on it.

Fueling Instructions

Toolless Cap Operation

Instructions for opening and closing the toolless fuel cap.

Screw Cap Tightening

Tighten fuel cap securely to prevent spillage and fire.

Before Starting

Pre-Start Checks

Check throttle trigger, lockout, stop switch, attachment, deflector, harness for proper condition.

Tampering Warning

Never modify controls or safety devices.

Operating Damaged Tools

Never operate if damaged, improperly adjusted, or not securely assembled.

Safety Precautions

Cutting Attachment Installation

Ensure all required parts are properly installed; failure can cause injury.

Cutting Attachment Condition

Check for loose parts, cracks, damage; keep blades sharp.

Handle Grip and Dryness

Keep handles clean and dry for firm grip and control.

Spark Plug Boot

Ensure boot is securely mounted to prevent arcing and fire.

Deflector and Harness

Use proper deflector, handle, and harness for cutting attachment type.

Deflector Adjustment

Keep deflector and skirt adjusted properly.

Cutting Attachment Rotation

Shows correct rotation direction; counterclockwise when viewed from above.

Starting

Starting Location

Start engine outdoors, 10 ft (3m) from fueling spot on firm ground.

Clearance for Starting

Ensure cutting attachment is clear of obstructions when starting.

Starting

One-Person Operation

Machine is for one person; do not allow others in work area.

Drop Starting Warning

Do not attempt to 'drop start' the power tool to avoid injury.

Starter Rope Handling

Do not wrap rope around hand; guide grip back slowly to avoid injury.

Idle Speed Adjustment

Ensure correct idle speed; cutting attachment must not move at idle.

During Operation

Holding and Controlling

Hold firmly with both hands; never operate with one hand.

Hand/Foot Placement

Keep hands and feet away from cutting attachment.

Terrain and Balance

Maintain footing and balance; be cautious on slippery or uneven terrain.

Overreaching and Ladders

Do not overreach, work on ladders, or hold attachment above waist height.

Working Conditions

Operating Environment

Operate outdoors in well-ventilated area, good visibility, daylight conditions.

Working Conditions

Exhaust Fumes

Engine exhaust contains toxic chemicals; never run indoors.

Vegetation Treatment

Follow chemical substance instructions if vegetation is treated.

Dust Inhalation

Inhalation of dust can cause respiratory issues; control dust at source.

Operating Instructions

Starting Throttle Lock

Do not operate using starting throttle lock; you lose engine speed control.

Emergency Stop

In emergency, shut off engine immediately using slide control or stop switch.

Cutting Attachment Rotation

Attachment continues to rotate briefly after throttle release (flywheel effect).

Thrown Objects

Rotating attachment flings objects; maintain 50 ft (15m) distance for bystanders.

Pre-Work Area Inspection

Examine area for stones, glass, metal, trash before starting.

Operating Instructions

Ground Level Operation

Use at ground level; above ground or perpendicular use increases injury risk.

Attachment Tightness Checks

Check attachment tightness and condition at regular intervals.

Loose Blade/Head Warning

Loose blade/head can vibrate, break, or fly off; ensure proper tightening.

Damaged/Worn Attachments

Replace cracked, damaged, or worn attachments immediately.

Cutting Near Obstacles

Avoid cutting near fences, buildings, rocks; use nylon line heads.

Clogged Attachments

Shut off engine and stop attachment before cleaning clogged parts.

Attachment Replacement Safety

Shut off engine, remove spark plug boot before replacing attachment.

Gearbox Heat

Gearbox becomes hot; do not touch when hot to avoid burns.

Muffler/Engine Heat

Muffler and engine parts get hot; avoid touching when hot.

Muffler Area Cleaning

Keep muffler area clean; remove debris to reduce fire risk.

Muffler Modification Warning

Never modify muffler; can increase fire risk and damage engine.

Catalytic Converter

Converter Heat Warning

Muffler with converter stays hot longer; set tool down carefully.

Damaged Housing/Muffler

Damaged housing/muffler can affect cooling; do not continue work.

USING THE CUTTING ATTACHMENT

Attachment Mounting

See 'Mounting the Cutting Attachment' chapter for instructions.

Metal Blade Restriction

Never use metal blade on FS model for which it is not authorized.

Using the Mowing Heads

Line Length and Deflector

Use correct line length; deflector adjusts line to proper length.

Overly Long Line Effects

Long line increases engine load, causes clutch slip, overheating, and damage.

Deflector Requirement

Mowing heads require line-limiting blade in deflector.

Nylon Line vs. PolyCut

Nylon line for trees/fences; PolyCut for lawn edges without plants.

Using the Mowing Heads

Wire/Metal Line Warning

Never use wire/metal-reinforced line; pieces can break off and injure.

STIHL SuperCut Mowing Head

Fresh line advances automatically; frayed line adjusted simply.

STIHL AutoCut Mowing Head

Line advances automatically by tapping on ground (TapAction).

STIHL TrimCut Mowing Head

Frayed line replaced by simple adjustment.

STIHL PolyCut Mowing Head

Has wear limit marks; do not use when worn to marks.

PolyCut Wear Indicators

Ignore wear limits risk shattering; check blades for cracks; replace all if cracked.

STIHL FixCut Mowing Head

Uses pre-cut lengths of nylon line.

Risk of Kickout (Blade Thrust) with All Rigid Cutting Blades

Kickout Definition

Sudden motion towards operator when blade contacts rigid object; can cause loss of control.

Using the Grass Cutting Blade

Blade Sharpening

Resharpen blades when dull; use arc motion similar to scythe.

Cutting Woody Materials

Never use blade to cut woody materials; risk of injury from breakage.

4-Tooth Grass Cutting Blade

Cuts grass/weeds; can be turned over when one side dull.

8-Tooth Grass Cutting Blade

Recommended for cutting fern or reed.

MAINTENANCE, REPAIR AND STORING

Emission Control Maintenance

Can be serviced by any qualified establishment; warranty may be denied for non-approved parts.

Replacement Parts

Use only identical STIHL replacement parts; non-STIHL parts may cause injury.

Maintenance Procedures

Follow manual instructions; stop engine before maintenance.

Spark Plug and Ignition

Use specified spark plug; ensure boot is snug to prevent arcing.

Ignition System Testing

Never test ignition system with boot removed; can cause fire.

Muffler Condition

Do not operate with damaged/missing muffler; risk of fire and hearing loss.

Cutting Attachment Repair

Never repair damaged cutting attachments by welding/modifying; risk of parts flying off.

MAINTENANCE, REPAIR AND STORING

Blade Sharpening and Tightening

Keep blades sharp; tighten nuts, bolts, screws (except carburetor).

Cleaning the Machine

Do not clean with pressure washer; water jet can damage parts.

Storage Instructions

Store in dry, secure location; empty fuel tank for storage over a few days.

Approved Combinations of Cutting Attachment, Deflector, Handle and Harness

Combination Selection

Select correct combinations from table for safety; no other combinations permitted.

Cutting Attachments List

Lists mowing heads (1-5) and metal mowing attachments (7-8).

Approved Combinations of Cutting Attachment, Deflector, Handle and Harness

Deflectors

Lists deflectors (9-12) for mowing heads and metal attachments.

Handles

Lists loop handle (13-15) and bike handle (16).

Harnesses

Lists shoulder strap (17-18) and full harness (19).

Mounting the Bike Handle

Mounting the Handlebar

Instructions for attaching handlebar to drive tube.

Mounting the Bike Handle

Mounting the Control Handle

Instructions for attaching the control handle and throttle trigger.

Fitting the Throttle Cable

Connect throttle cable to retainer, ensuring free movement.

Mounting the Loop Handle

Mounting the Loop Handle with Barrier Bar

Instructions for attaching loop handle with barrier bar.

Mounting the Loop Handle without Barrier Bar

Instructions for attaching loop handle without barrier bar.

Securing the Loop Handle

Fitting the Skirt and Blade

Mounting the Cutting Attachment

Preparations

Lay brushcutter on its back with cutting attachment mounting face up.

Mounting Hardware for Cutting Attachments

Describes hardware supplied with machine or needing separate purchase.

Mounting the Cutting Attachment

Removing the Mounting Hardware

Instructions for removing mounting hardware from the shaft.

Blocking the Output Shaft

How to insert stop pin to block the shaft for removal/installation.

Attaching the Mowing Head

Turn mowing head counterclockwise until flush; block shaft, tighten.

Removing the Mowing Head

Block shaft, then unscrew nut.

Mounting metal cutting attachments

Cutting Attachment Placement

Place attachment on thrust plate; collar must engage hole.

Thrust Washer and Rider Plate

Fit thrust washer and rider plate on shaft.

Shaft Blocking and Nut Tightening

Block shaft and screw mounting nut counterclockwise.

Feed out mowing line

STIHL SuperCut Feed

Line fed automatically; deflector shortens excessively long line.

STIHL AutoCut Feed

Tap head on ground to feed line; avoid repeated tapping.

Other Mowing Lines

Refer to mowing head information sheet for other lines.

Switching Off Engine

Always switch off engine before feeding line by hand.

Replacing mowing line and/or cutting blade

Fuel

Engine Certification

Engine certified for unleaded gasoline and STIHL two-stroke oil mix 50:1.

Gasoline Requirements

Use mid-grade unleaded gasoline (89 octane); premium if lower octane.

Fuel Additives Warning

Some additives affect elastomers, magnesium, converters; use high-quality gasoline.

Ethanol Content

Gasoline with >10% ethanol may cause problems; M-Tronic up to 25%.

Oil Recommendations

Use STIHL two-stroke oil or equivalent; avoid BIA/TCW oils.

Gasoline Handling

Avoid skin contact, vapor inhalation; fill canister on ground.

Fuel Mix Ages

Mix only fuel for a few days (max 3 months); store in approved canisters.

Fueling

Fueling Preparation

Clean filler cap and area before fueling.

Mixture Shaking

Always thoroughly shake mixture in canister before fueling.

Pressure Release

Remove filler cap carefully to release pressure slowly.

Cap Tightening

Tighten fuel cap securely by hand after fueling.

Fitting the Harness

Shoulder Strap

Put on strap; adjust length so hook is below right hip.

Balancing

Balance the trimmer/brushcutter.

Fitting the Harness

Full Harness

Put on full harness; adjust strap length so hook is below right hip.

Balancing the Trimmer/Brushcutter

Attaching the Unit to the Harness

Attach carabiner to carrying ring on drive tube.

Floating Position Adjustment

Adjust carrying ring position for balanced floating position.

Balancing the Trimmer/Brushcutter

Securing the Carrying Ring

Tighten screw on carrying ring firmly once correct floating position is reached.

Detaching the Unit from the Harness

Starting / Stopping the Engine

Controls (Bike Handle)

Identifies controls: trigger lockout, throttle trigger, slide control.

Starting Procedure

Press lockout, squeeze trigger, move slide to START, release trigger.

Starting Throttle Position

Describes the starting throttle position after initial start.

Starting / Stopping the Engine

Controls (Loop Handle)

Identifies controls: stop switch, trigger lockout, throttle trigger, tongue.

Starting Procedure (Loop Handle)

Move stop switch to I, press lockout, squeeze trigger until catch engages.

All versions Starting

Set choke, press fuel pump bulb, continue cranking.

Starting

Unit Placement and Stability

Place unit on ground securely; check attachment clearance.

Holding the Unit

Hold unit firmly with left hand, thumb under fan housing.

Starter Grip Operation (No Easy2Start)

Pull grip slowly, then briskly; do not let it snap back.

Starter Grip Operation (Easy2Start)

Pull grip slowly and steadily; do not let it snap back.

Choke Adjustment During Cranking

After five pulls, move choke to ; continue cranking.

Engine Start Completion (Bike Handle)

Blip throttle trigger to settle engine to idle.

Engine Start Completion (Loop Handle)

Squeeze throttle trigger to disengage tongue; engine settles to idle.

Carburetor Adjustment Check

Ensure carburetor is correct; attachment must not rotate at idle.

Stopping the engine

If the engine does not start

Choke Lever Operation

Set choke to ; start engine; 10-20 pulls may be needed.

Troubleshooting No Start

Check spark plug, dry it, crank engine, refit plug, set choke to .

Operating Instructions

During break-in period

Avoid high revs for first three tank fillings; allows parts to bed in.

During Operation

Allow engine to idle after long full throttle use to prevent thermal overload.

After Finishing Work

Wait for engine to cool, drain fuel tank, store in dry place.

Cleaning the Air Filter

Loss of Engine Power

If power loss occurs, check air filter.

Filter Cover Removal

Set choke, press tab, swing filter cover down; clean dirt.

Felt Element Replacement

Remove felt element, replace; do not wash.

Adjusting the Carburetor

Standard Setting

Includes stopping engine, mounting attachment, checking air filter, spark arrestor.

Carburetor Adjustment Screws

Adjusts high speed (H) and low speed (L) screws.

Fine Tuning

Correcting setting for altitude or after changing attachment.

High Altitude Adjustment

Turn H screw clockwise (leaner) for altitude.

Sea Level Adjustment

Turn H screw counterclockwise (richer) for sea level.

Adjusting Idle Speed

Warm up Engine

Warm up engine before adjusting idle speed.

Engine Stops While Idling

Turn LA screw clockwise until smooth; attachment must not turn.

Cutting Attachment Rotates at Idle

Turn LA screw counterclockwise; then another 1/2-1 turn.

Erratic Idling Behavior

Adjust L screw (leaner/richer) for smooth running and acceleration.

Spark Plug

Spark Plug Issues

Check spark plug if power is low, difficult to start, or runs poorly.

Spark Plug Replacement

Replace after approx. 100 operating hours or sooner if eroded.

Removing the Spark Plug

Move stop switch to 0; pull boot; unscrew plug.

Spark Plug

Checking the Spark Plug

Clean plug; check/readjust electrode gap; use resistor type plugs.

Spark Plug Fouling Causes

Too much oil, dirty filter, unfavorable conditions cause fouling.

Installing the Spark Plug

Screw in plug, fit boot, press down firmly.

Engine Running Behavior

Muffler as Cause

If behavior is unsatisfactory despite clean filter/carburetor, check muffler.

Servicing Recommendations

Have servicing and repair work done by authorized STIHL dealer.

Rewind Starter

Starter Rope Care

Pull rope in direction specified; do not pull over edge; guide grip back slowly.

Lubricating the Gearbox

Gearbox Lubrication

Check lubricant periodically; screw in STIHL gear lubricant tube.

Storing the Machine

Long-Term Storage

Drain fuel tank, dry carburetor; clean machine, store in dry, secure location.

Sharpening Metal Cutting Blades

Blade Sharpening Tools

Use sharpening file; for wear/nicks, use grinder or dealer.

Sharpening Technique

Resharpen frequently, remove minimal material; resharpen cutters uniformly.

Balancing After Sharpening

Check cutting tool for balance after about 5 sharpenings.

Inspections and Maintenance by Dealer

Maintenance Work

STIHL recommends authorized dealer for servicing and repair.

Fuel Pickup Body Replacement

Have pickup body in fuel tank replaced every year.

Spark Arrestor Check

If engine has power loss, have spark arrestor in muffler checked.

Maintenance and Care

Complete Machine Checks

Visual inspection (leaks) and cleaning before/after work, after refueling.

Control Handle Checks

Check operation and clean.

Air Filter Maintenance

Clean or replace air filter.

Fuel Tank Maintenance

Clean fuel tank.

Carburetor Adjustment

Check idle adjustment; readjust idle speed.

Spark Plug Maintenance

Readjust electrode gap; replace after 100 hours.

Cooling Inlets Maintenance

Visual inspection and cleaning.

Spark Arrestor Maintenance

Check by dealer; clean or replace by dealer.

Screw Tightening

Retighten accessible screws and nuts.

Maintenance and Care

Cutting Attachment Visual Inspection

Visual inspection and replace.

Metal Cutting Attachment Sharpening

Sharpen metal cutting attachments.

Safety Labels

Replace safety labels.

Main Parts

Component Identification

Diagram and list identifying main parts like Fuel Pump, Carburetor, Starter Grip.

Definitions

Mowing Head Definition

Cutting attachment for different purposes.

Deflector Definitions

Defines deflectors for mowing heads and skirt for attachments.

Line Limiting Blade

Metal blade on deflector to keep line at proper length.

Metal Mowing Tool

Cutting attachment made of metal.

Specifications

Engine Specifications

Displacement, bore, stroke, power, speeds, ignition, spark plug, fuel system.

Specifications

EPA / CEPA Emissions

Emission compliance periods for engine.

CARB Emissions

Emission compliance periods for CARB.

Engine Type

Single cylinder two-stroke engine.

Ignition System Details

Electronic magneto ignition, spark plug type, electrode gap.

Fuel System Details

Diaphragm carburetor, fuel tank capacity.

Weight

FS 55 Weights

Lists weights for FS 55, FS 55 R, FS 55 C, FS 55 RC models.

Special Accessories

Maintenance and Repairs

User Maintenance

Carry out only maintenance described in manual; other repairs by authorized dealer.

Warranty Claims

Claims accepted only if repairs done by authorized dealer with original parts.

STIHL Incorporated Federal Emission Control Warranty Statement

Warranty Rights and Obligations

Explains EPA regulations, warranty coverage for defects, owner responsibilities.

Manufacturer's Warranty Coverage

Two-year warranty for emission-related parts; repair or replacement free of charge.

Owner's Warranty Responsibilities

Perform required maintenance; retain receipts; avoid abuse, neglect, improper maintenance.

Coverage by STIHL Incorporated

Warrants engine meets regulations and is free from defects for two years.

Warranty Period

Starts from purchase date; parts replaced at no cost to owner.

STIHL Incorporated Federal Emission Control Warranty Statement

Warranty Interpretation

Defines warranty for parts not scheduled for replacement vs. scheduled maintenance.

Diagnosis Costs

No charge for diagnostic labor if part is defective; charge if non-defective.

Warranty Work Procedure

Work done by authorized dealer free of charge if part is defective.

Emission Warranty Parts List

Lists specific emission-related warranted parts.

Where to make a Claim for Warranty Service

Bring product to authorized dealer with registration card.

Limitations

Excludes coverage for abuse, neglect, improper maintenance.

STIHL Incorporated California Exhaust and Evaporative Emissions Control Warranty Statement

Warranty Rights and Obligations

Explains CARB regulations, warranty for emissions control system.

Manufacturer's Warranty Responsibilities

Two-year warranty for California; defective parts repaired/replaced free.

Owner's Warranty Responsibilities

Perform maintenance; retain receipts; avoid abuse, neglect, modifications.

Coverage by STIHL Incorporated

Warrants engine meets California regulations and is free from defects for two years.

Defects Warranty Period

Starts from purchase date; parts replaced at no cost.

STIHL Incorporated California Exhaust and Evaporative Emissions Control Warranty Statement

Warranty Interpretation

Defines warranty for parts not scheduled for replacement vs. scheduled maintenance.

Emission Warranty Parts List

Lists specific emission-related warranted parts.

Where to make a Claim for Warranty Service

Bring product to authorized dealer with registration.

Limitations

Excludes coverage for abuse, neglect, improper maintenance; adjustments with limiters are covered.

Trademarks

STIHL Registered Trademarks

Lists registered STIHL trademarks.

Common Law Trademarks

Lists common law STIHL trademarks.

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