STIHL FS44 Owner Manual

 Ч
Contents
Parts and Controls
- Version with Bike Handle 2
- Version with "J" Handle 2
- Version with Loop Handle 4
- Version with Loop Handle and
Standoff Lever 4
- All Versions 4
Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques 6
Selecting the Cutting Tool 16
Mounting the Bike Handle 18
Mounting the "J"-Handle 19
Mounting Loop Handle with
Standoff Lever 19
Mounting the Loop Handle
- Version A 20
- Version B 21
Mounting the Deflector 22
Mounting the Cutting Tools 23
- STIHL Supercut 20-1 24
- STIHL Supercut 20-2 24
- STIHL Polycut 20-3 24
- STIHL Autocut 20-2 25
- STIHL Autocut 25-2 25
- STIHL Polymatic 30-2 26
- STIHL Autocut 24-2 | 26
- STIHL Fixed Line Head 27
- Grass Cutting Blade 230 28
©1895 Andreas Stihl, Waiblingen
0458 343 3021. M20, K6. PS, Printed in USA
Fue!
Fueling
Fitting the Harness
| Starting
| - Version with Bike Handle
- Stop Switch on Throttle Trigger
Housing
- Stop Switch on Engine Housing
Adjusting Carburetor
Checking Spark Plug
Cleaning Air Filter
Spark Arresting Screen
in Muffler
Gearbox Lubrication
Lubricating Flexible Shaft
oharpening Cutting Tools
- Grass Cutting Blade 230-4
- Grass Cutting Blade 230-8
Operating Instructions
Storing the Machine
Maintenance Chart
Specifications
Special Accessories
STIHL
28
30
30
32
36
39
42
44
45
46
46
47
48
48
49
50
51
52
53
This manual contains warnings,
operating and safety precautions for the
STIHL FS 44 brushcutter.
Pay special attention to the safety
precautions outlined on pages 6 to 15.
Allow only persons who understand this
manual to operate your brushcutter.
To receive maximum performance and
satisfaction from your STIHL brush-
cutter, it is important that you read and
understand the maintenance and safety
precautions before using your brush-
cutter. Contact your STIHL dealer or the
STIHL distributor for your area if you do
not understand any of the instructions in
; this manual.
| Warning!
Because a brushcutter is a high-speed
cutting tool some special safety pre-
cautions must be observed to reduce
the risk of personal injury. Careless or
improper use may cause serious or even
fatal injury. Make shure your unit is
equipped with the proper deflector,
handle and harness for the type of
cutting attachment being used. Always
wear proper eye protection.
STIHL's philosophy is to continually
improve all of its products. As a result,
engineering changes and improve-
menis are made from time to time. If the
operating characteristics or the appear-
ance of your brushcutter differs from
those described in this manual, please
contact your STIHL dealer for informa-
tion and assistance.
Parts and Controls
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lo
343BA060 KN
343BADG61 KN
Bike Handle Version
1= Bike handle
2= Throttle trigger
= Throttle trigger interlock
= Handle support
5 = Clamp (Harness)
= Starter grip
= Spark plug terminal
8 = Carburetor adjusting screws
9 = Fuel filler cap
10 = Machine support
11 = Throttle cable / stop switch wire
12 = Throttle cable retainer
13 = Slide control
"J"-Handle Version
1 = "J"handle
2 = Throttle trigger
3 = Throttle trigger interlock
4 = Handle support
5= Clamp (Harness)
= Starter grip
7 = Spark plug terminal
= Carburetor adjusting screws
9 = Fuel filler cap
10 = Machine support
11 = Throttle cable/stop switch wire
14 = Stop switch
15 = Handle hose
Definitions
1. Bike handle,
"J"-handle.
To hold the brushcutter with both
hands.
2. Throttle trigger.
Controls the speed of the engine.
3. Throttle trigger interlock.
Must be depressed before the
throttle trigger can be activated.
4. Handle support.
Connects the drive shaft to the
handle bars.
5. Clamp.
The device to connect the brush-
cutter to the harness.
6. Starter grip.
The grip of the pull starter, which is
the device to start the engine.
7. Spark plug terminal.
Connects the spark plug to the
ignition wire.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15. Handle hose.
For holding machine during starting
and cutting work.
Carburetor adjusting screws.
For tuning carburetor.
Fuel filler cap.
For closing the fuel tank.
Machine support.
For resting machine on the ground.
Throttle cable/stop switch wire.
Connect operator's control grip to
the powerhead.
Throttle cable retainer
Fixes the throttle cable on the drive
shaft.
Slide control.
Starting throttle lock and stop
switch. Keeps the throttle partially
open during starting and switches
the engine's ignition off and stops
the engine.
Stop switch.
Switches the engine's ignition
system off and stops the engine.
343BA058 K
17
Versions with loop handle and loop
handle with standoff lever
1= Loop handle
2 = Standoff lever
3 = Stop switch 1)
4= Throttle trigger interlock 2)
= Starter grip
= Spark plug terminal
= Carburetor adjusting screws
= Fuel filler cap
= Machine support
10 = Throttle cable
11 = Handle hose
12 = Throttle trigger
13 = Clamp (Harness) 2)
All versions
14 = Fuel pump
15 = Air filter cover / choke
16 = Muffler
17 = Deflector
(version for all cutting tools)
18 = Skirt
19 = Line limiting blade
20 = Cutting tool
(STIHL "Supercut 20-1")
1) Position varies according to
country-specific requirements
2) Not all markets
Definitions
1.
Loop handle.
To hold the brushcutter with both
hands.
. Standoff lever.
Helps keep unit at a safe distance
from operator’s feet and legs.
Stop switch.
Switches the engine’s ignition
system off an stops the running
engine.
Throttle trigger interlock.
Must be depressed before the
throttle trigger can be activated.
Starter grip.
The grip of the pull starter, which is
the device to start the engine.
Spark plug terminal.
Connects the spark plug to the
ignition wire.
Carburetor adjusting screws.
For tuning carburetor.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
. Fuel filler cap.
For closing the fuel tank.
. Machine support.
For resting machine on the ground.
Throttle cable.
Connect operator's control grip to
the powerhead.
Handle hose.
For holding machine during starting
and cutting work.
Throttle trigger.
Controls the speed of the engine.
Clamp.
The device to connect the brush-
cutter to the harness.
Fuel pump.
Provides additional fuel feed for a
cold start.
Air filter cover/ Choke.
Covers the air filter element.
Eases engine starting by enriching
mixture.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
Muffler.
Attenuates exhaust noises and
diverts exhaust gases away from
operator.
Deflector with Skirt.
The deflector is designed to reduce
the risk of injury from foreign
objects flung backwards toward the
operator by the cutting tool and
from contact with the cutting tool.
Skirt.
The skirt at the bottom of the
deflector must be adjusted as
discribed in the chapters on
mounting the various cutting tools.
Line limiting blade.
Metal blade at the skirt in order to
keep the line of the cutting head at
the proper length.
Cutting tool.
The cutting attachment, i. e. blade,
made from metal for different
purposes (special accessory).
Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques
Warning!
Because a brushcutter 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 owner's manual and
the safety instructions periodically. Care-
less or improper use of any brushcutter
may cause serious or fatal injury.
Have your STIHL dealer show you how
to operate your brushcutter. Observe all
applicable local safety regulations,
standards and ordinances.
Warning!
The use of any brushcutter may be
hazardous. If the rotating cutting tool
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 and may cause
blades to crack, chip or break.
STIHL does not recommend the use of
rigid blades when cutting in stony areas.
Thrown objects or damaged blades may
result in serious or fatal injury to the
operator or bystanders.
6
Warning!
Minors should never be allowed to use
a brushcutter. Bystanders, especially
children, and animals should not be
allowed in the area where a brushcutter
is in use.
Never let the brushcutter run unattended.
Warning!
Do not lend or rent your brushcutter
without the owners manual. Be sure that
anyone using your brushcutter under-
stands the information contained in this
manual.
Most of these safety precautions and
warnings apply to the use of all STIHL
brushcutters. Different models may have
different parts and controls. See the
appropriate section of your owner's
manual for a description of the controls
and function of the parts of your model
brushcutter.
Safe use of a brushcutter involves
1. the operator
2. the brushcutter
3. the use of the brushcutter.
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 a
brushcutter when you are fatigued.
Be alert - if you get tired while operating
your brushcutter, take a break.
Tiredness may result in loss of control.
Working with any brushcutter can be
strenuous. If you have any condition that
might be aggravated by strenuous work,
check with your doctor before operating
a brushcutter.
Prolonged use of a brushcutter (or other
machines) exposing the operator to
vibrations may produce whitefinger di-
sease (Raynaud's phenomenon) or car-
pal tunnel syndrome. These conditions
reduce the hand's ability to feel and regu-
late temperature, produce numbness
and burning sensations and may cause
nerve and circulation damage and tissue
necrosis.
Warning!
Antivibration systems do not guarantee
that you will not sustain whitefinger di-
sease or carpal tunnel syndrome.
Therefore, continual and regular users
should monitor closely the condition of
their hands and fingers. If any of the
above symptoms appear, seek medical
advice immediately.
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 safety glasses.
Warning!
Brushcutter 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.
Raco Y
O00BADOS
Proper Clothing
Warning!
Brushcutter operation can
90; cause serious injury to eyes,
= cars and person. The de-
flector provided with your brushcutter
may not protect the operator from all
foreign objects (gravel, glass, wire, etc.)
thrown by the wheeling cutting attach-
ment. Thrown objects may also ricochet
and strike the operator. Therefore, to re-
duce the risk of injury to your eyes never
operate a brushcutter unless wearing
goggles or properly fitted safety glasses
with adequate top and side protection
complying with ANSI Z 87.1 (or your app-
licable national standard).
Wear proper protective clothing.
Protect your hands with gloves when
handling the brushcutter and the cutting
tool. Heavy-duty, nonslip gloves improve
your grip and protect your hands.
Clothing must be sturdy and shug-fitting,
but allow complete freedom of move-
ment. Avoid loose-fitting jackets, scarfs,
neckties, jewelry, flared or cuffed pants,
unconfined long hair or anything that
could become caught on branches,
brush or moving parts of the unit. Wear
long pants made of heavy material to
protect your legs. Do not wear shorts.
Good footing is most important in
brushcutter work. Wear sturdy boots with
nonslip soles. Steel-toed safety boots
are recommended. Wear an
approved safety hard hat to reduce the
risk of injury to your head when there is
a danger of head injuries.
THE BRUSHCUTTER
For illustrations and definitions of the
brushcutter parts see the chapter on
"Parts and Controls"!
Warning!
Never modify a brushcutter in any way.
Only attachments supplied by STIHL or
expressly approved by STIHL for use
with the specific STIHL brushcutter
models are authorized. Although certain
unauthorized attachments are useable
for the STIHL brushcutter, their use
may, in fact, be extremely dangerous.
THE USE OF THE BRUSHCUTTER
Transporting the brushcutter
Warning!
Always turn off the engine and make
sure the cutting attachment has stop-
ped before putting a brushcutter down.
When transporting your brushcutter in a
vehicle, properly secure it to prevent
turnover, fuel spillage and damage to
the brushcutter. Keep metal cutting
tools covered with the transport guard
(optional accessory).
Preparation for the use of the
brushcutter
Adjust carrying harness and hand grip
to suit your size before starting work.
The machine should be properly
balanced as specified in your owners
manual for proper control and less
fatique in operation.
8
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CO0BAQODE
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000BA007
Always check your bruhcutter for
proper condition and operation before
starting, particularly the throttle trigger,
throttle trigger interlock (if applicable
stop switch, cutting tool, deflector and
harness.
Arrows on the deflector (A) and stop (B)
show the correct direction of rotation of
the cutting tool.
The throttle trigger must move freely
and always spring back to the idle
position. The cutting tool must be
properly tightened and in safe operating
condition. Inspect for loose parts (nuts,
screws, etc.) and for cracked, bent,
warped or damaged blades.
Fueling
Your STIHL brushcutter uses an oil-
gasoline mixture for fuel (see the chapter
on "Fuel" of your owner's manual).
Warning!
Gasoline is an extremely flammable fuel.
If spilled or ignited by a spark or other
ignition source, it can cause fire and
serious burn injury or property damage.
Use extreme caution when handling
gasoline or fuel mix.
Do not smoke or bring any fire or flame
near the fuel.
Fueling Instructions
Fuel your brushcutter in well-ventilated
areas, outdoors.
Warning!
Gasoline vapor pressure may build up
inside the gas tank of a two cycle engine
depending on the fuel used, the weather
condition, and the venting system of the
tank. In order to personal injury from
escaping gas vapor and fumes, remove
the fuel filler cap on your brushcutter
carefully so as to allow any pressure
build-up in the tank to release slowly.
Never remove fuel filler cap while engine
is running. Select bare ground for fueling
and move at least 10 feet (3 m) from the
fueling spot before starting the engine.
Wipe off any spilled fuel before starting
your brushcutter and check for leakage.
Check for fuel leakage while refueling
and during operation. If fuel or oll
leakage is found, do not start or run the
engine until leak is fixed and spilled fuel
has been wiped away. If this happens,
change your clothing immediately.
Warning!
Unit vibrations can
à cause an improperly
4 tightened fuel cap to
~ loosen or come off and
spill quantities of fuel. In order to reduce
risk of fuel spillage and fire, tighten fuel
cap by hand with as much force as
possible. The screw driver end of the
STIHL combination wrench or other
similar tool can be used as an aid in
tightening slotted fuel caps.
Starting
Warning!
Your brushcutter is a one person machi-
ne. Once started it may fling foreign
objekts for a great distance.
I D A
To reduce the risk of eye and other injury
insure that bystanders are at least 50
feet (15 m) away. Stop the engine and
cutting tool immediately if you are
approached. Start and operate your
brushcutter without assistance. For
specific starting instructions, see the
appropriate section of your manual.
Place the brushcutter on firm ground or
other solid surface in an open area.
Maintain a good balance and secure
footing.
To reduce the risk of injury from loss of
control, be absolutely sure that the
cutting tool is clear of you and all other
obstructions and objects, including the
ground, because when the engine starts
at starting-throttle, engine speed will be
fast enough for the clutch to engage and
turn the cutting tool.
When you pull the starter grip, don't
wrap the starter rope around your hand.
Do not allow the grip to snap back, but
guide the starter rope to rewind properly.
Failure to follow this procedure may
result in injury to hand or fingers and
may damage the starter mechanism.
000BAQ14
Working Conditions
Operate and start your brushcutter only
outdoors in a ventilated area. Operate
the brushcutter under good visibility
and daylight conditions only. Work
carefully.
Always hold the brushcutter firmly with
both hands. Wrap your fingers tightly
around the handles, keeping the hand-
les cradled between your thumb and
forefinger. Keep your hands in this positi-
on, to have your brushcutter under con-
trol at all times. Make sure your brush-
cutter handles and grip are in good con-
dition and free of moisture, pitch, oil or
grease.
10
Warning!
Never attempt to operate any brush
cutter with one hand. Loss of control of
the unit leading to serious or
fatal injury may result.
To reduce the risk of bodily injury
002BA009 K
resulting from loss of control and contact
with the cutting tool, make sure your unit
is equipped with the proper handle and
harness for the type of cutting attach-
ment being used (see chart in chapter
on "Selecting the Cutting Tool")
Special care must be taken in slippery
conditions (wet ground, snow) and in
difficult, over-grown terrain. Watch for
hidden obstacies such as tree stumps,
roots and ditches to avoid stumbling.
Before cutting, inspect the
area for stones, glass,
(a pieces of metal, trash or
other solid objects. The
cutting attachment could throw objects
of this kind.
To reduce the
risk of injury
from thrown
objects and
blade contact,
never operate your unit without the pro-
per deflector for the cutting attachment
being used ( see chart in chapter on
"Selecting the Cutting Tool"). Make sure
the deflector and any skirt is properly
mounted and adjusted (see chapter on
mounting the various cutting tools of
your owners manual). Do not over-
reach. Keep proper footing and balance
at all times.
Warning!
This brushcutter is normally to be used
at ground level with the cutting attach-
ment parallel to the ground. Use of a
brushcutter above ground level or with
the cutting attachment perpendicular to
the ground may increase the risk of
injury, since the cutting attachment is
more fully exposed and the brushcutter
may be more difficult to control. Never
use your brushcutter as a hedge
trimmer.
Warning!
When using rigid blades, avoid cutting
close to fences, sides of buildings, tree
trunks, stones or other such objects
that could cause the brushcutter to kick
out or could cause damage to the
blade. STIHL recommends use of the
nylon line heads or Polycut head for
such jobs. In addition, be alert to an
increased possibility of ricochets in
such situations.
Do not operate using the starting
throttle lock as you do not have control
of the engine speed. See section of your
owners manual on the proper use of the
slide control.
If the cutting tool or deflector becomes
clogged or stuck, always turn off the
engine and make sure the cutting tool
has stopped, before cleaning. Grass,
weeds, etc. should be cleaned off the
cutting tool at regular intervals.
Warning!
During cutting, check the tightness and
the condition of the cutting tool at
regular intervals. If the behavior of the
tool changes, stop the engine immedi-
ately, and check the nut securing
the tool for tightness and the cutting tool
for cracks and damage.
Replace cracked, bent, warped, dam
aged or dull cutting tools immediately.
Such tools may shatter at high speed
and cause serious or fatal injury.
Warning!
A loose blade may cause the blade to
vibrate, crack, break or come off the
brushcutter, which may result in
serious or fatal injury. Make sure that
the blade is properly tightened. Use the
wrench supplied or one of sufficient
length to obtain the proper torque. If the
blade loosens after being properly
tightened, stop work immediately. The
retaining nut may be worn or damaged
and should be replaced. Never use
unauthorized parts to secure the blade.
If the blade continues to loosen, see
your STIHL dealer. Never use a
brushcutter with a loose blade.
Important adjustments
Warning!
To reduce the risk of personal injury
from loss of control or contact with the
running cutting blade, do not use a cut-
ting blade with incorrect idle adjustment.
At correct idle speed, the cutting blade
should not move. For directions to adjust
idle speed, see the appropriate section
of your owner's manual.
If you cannot set the correct idle speed,
have your STIHL dealer check your
brushcutter and make proper
adjustments or repairs.
Warning!
Never touch a rotating cutting tool with
your hand or any part of your body. It
continues to rotate for a short period
after the throttle trigger is released
(flywheel effect).
11
Operating instructions
Warning!
Improper use of any
brush- cutter can
cause serious or
fatal personal injury. Read, understand
and follow all safety instructions in your
owners manual before operating these
products. To reduce the risk of personal
injury to the operator from blade con-
tactand thrown objects, make sure your
unit is equipped with the proper de-
flector, handle and harness for the type
of cutting attachment being used ( see
chart in chapter on "Selecting the
Cutting Tool"). Always wear proper eye
protection.
12
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Do not cut any material other than
grass, brush and wood. The cutting
tools may be used only for the
operations described in your manual.
With the engine running, attach the
brusheutter to the spring hook of your
harness (see appropriate chapter of this
manual).
USING THE CUTTING TOOLS
For an illustration of the various cutting
tools and instructions on proper mount-
ing see the chapter on "mounting the
cutting tools” in your owners manual.
Using the mowing heads
The STIHL Supercut, Autocut, Polymatic
and Polycut mowing heads are intended
to supplement a lawn mower.
They produce a clean and tidy finish.
They are to be used only on brushcut-
ters equipped with a chopper blade in
the deflector in order to keep the line at
the proper length (see "Parts and
Controls" chapter of this manual).
If the lawn edges are planted with trees
or bordered by a fence etc., it is best to
use a nylon line head. It achieves a
"softer" cut with less risk of damaging
tree bark than with the polymer blades.
However, the polymer bladed STIHL
"Polycut" produces a better cut if there
are no plants along the edge of the lawn.
Sharpening is not necessary and worn
cutting blades are easily replaced.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of serious injury,
never use wire or metal-reinforced line
or other material in place of the nylon
cutting lines. Pieces of wire could break
off and be thrown at high speed toward
the operator or bystanders.
STIHL "Supercut" mowing head
Fresh line is advanced automatically.
Frayed line is replaced by a simple
adjustment (see instruction sheet
supplied with cutting head).
000BA011
STIHL "Polymatic" mowing head
Frayed line is replaced by a simple
adjustment (see instruction sheet
supplied with mowing head).
STIHL "Autocut" mowing head
Nylon cutting cord advances automat-
ically when tapped against the ground.
STIHL "Polyeut" mowing head
Important!
Three rectangular wear limit marks are
applied to the base (periphery) of the
Polycut. To reduce the risk of serious
injury from breakage of the head or
blades, the Polycut must not be used
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when it has worn as far as one of these
marks. It is important to follow the
maintance instructions supplied with
the head!
Using the grass cutting blade
All kinds of grass and weeds can be
easily cut with the cutting blade. The
brushcutter is swept in an
arcsimiliar to a scythe.
Warning!
To reduce the risk of serious or fatal
injury never attempt to cut woody
materials.
The 4-tooth cutting blade is
intended to cut grass and weeds. It has
4 cutting knives with cutting edges on
both sides, i.e. front and rear.
The 8-tooth cutting blade is
recommended for cutting matted or dry
grass, fern or reed.
Both blades have to be resharpened
when all cutting edges are dull.
13
Risk of "kickout" (blade thrust)
with all rigid cutting blades
Warning!
Kickout (blade thrust) is the sudden and
uncontrolled motion towards the opera-
tor's right or rear that can occur when
the shaded area of the rotating blade
comes in contact with a solid object like
a tree, rock, bush or wall. The rapid
counterclockwise rotation of the blade
may be stopped or slowed, and the
cutting attachment may be thrown in an
area to the right or to the rear. This
kickout (blade thrust) may cause loss of
control of the brushcutter and may result
in serious or fatal injury to the operator
or bystanders.
14
| O00BA012
To reduce the risk, extreme caution
should be used when cutting with the
shaded area of any rigid blade and
never use a rigid blade on a brushcutter
with a loop handle.
MAINTENANCE, REPAIR AND
STORING
Use only identical STIHL replacement
parts for maintenance and repair.
Use of parts manufactured by others
may cause serious or fatal injury.
Follow the maintenance and repair
instructions in the appropriate section of
your owner's manual. Please refer to the
maintenance chart on the last pages of
this manual.
Warning!
Always stop the engine and make sure
that the cutting tool is stopped before
doing any maintenance or repair work or
cleaning the brushcutter. Do not attempt
any maintenance or repair work not
described in your owners manual. Have
such work performed at your STIHL
service shop only.
Never repair damaged cutting attach-
ments by welding, straightening or
modifying the shape. This may cause
parts of the cutting tool to come off and
result in serious or fatal injuries.
Check condition of cutting tool at regular
short intervals. If behavior of tool
changes, check it immediately for
tightness or any signs of cracks in par-
ticular. Replace damaged or dull cutting
tools immediately, even if they have only
superficial cracks. If the blade loosens
after being properly tightened, the
retaining nut may be worn or damaged
and should be replaced. If the blade
continues to loosen, see your STIHL
dealer. Do not attach any blade to a unit
without proper installation of all required
parts. Never use unauthorized parts to
secure the blade. Failure to use the
proper parts may cause the blade to fly
off and seriously injure the operator or
bystanders.
Check fuel filler cap for leaks at regular
intervals. Use the specified spark plug
and make sure it and the ignition lead
are always in good condition.
Warning!
Do not operate your brushcutter if the
muffler is damaged, missing or modified.
An improperly maintained muffler will in-
crease the risk of fire and hearing loss.
Never touch a hot muffler or burn will re-
sult. If your muffler was equipped with a
spark-arresting screen to reduce the risk
of fire (e.g. in the USA, Canada and
Australia), never operate your brush-
cutter if the screen is missing or dama-
ged. Remember that the risk of forest fi-
res is greater in hot or dry weather.
Warning!
In order to reduce the risk of fire, do not
modify or remove any part of the muffler
or spark arrestor.
Keep cutting tool sharp. Tighten all nuts,
bolts and screws except the carburetor
adjustment screws after each use.
Keep spark plug and wire connection
tight and clean. The spark plug electrode
gap should be checked with a feeler
gauge at least every 50 operating hours
and reset if necessary. Fit a new spark
plug if the electrodes are badly pitted.
Store brushcutter in a dry, high or locked
location place and out of reach of
children.
Before storing for longer than a few
days, always empty the fuel tank.
Warning!
Keep hands and feet away from cutting
tool.
Selecting the Cutting Tool
Cutting tools:
STIHL Supercut 20-1 mowing head
STIHL Supercut 20-2 mowing head
STIHL Autocut 20-2 mowing head
STIHL Autocut 24-2 mowing head
STIHL Autocut 25-2 mowing head
STIHL Pelymatic 30-2 mowing head
STIHL Polycut 20-3 mowing head
STIHL Fixed Line head
CA O0 SQ N —
Grass cutting blade 230-4
Grass cutting blade 230-8
= ©
Deflectors:
11 Deflector for mowing heads
12 Deflector for all cutting tools
with
13 Skirt and line limiting blade
14 Deflector for ali cutting toois
without skirt and line limiting blade
Handles:
15 Loop handle
16 Loop handle with
17 Standoff lever
18 J-handle
19 Bike handle
Carrying straps:
20 Shoulder strap recommended
21 Shoulder strap
22 Full harness recommended
16
A fully equipped brushcutter comprises,
among other items:
- Cutting tool
- Deflector
- Handle
~ Carrying strap
Select the correct combination from
the table according to the cutting tool
you intend to use;
For safety reasons, you may only combi-
ne the cutting tool, deflector, handle and
carrying strap versions shown when you
read the table horizontally from left to
right.
Other combinations, e.g. reading the
table diagonally, are not permitted
since there is otherwise a risk of
serious injury,
Warning!
STIHL brushcutters with a loop handle
without standoff lever may be used
only with the above-mentioned mowing
heads with nylon line or plastic blades.
Other plastic or metal cutting tocls may
only be used on brushcutters with a bike
handle, "J"-handie or ioop handle with
standoff lever in order to minimize the
risk of personal injury through contact
with the cutting tool.
Cutting Tool
Deflector
Handle
Carrying Strap
s ÓN
20
21
Rs
D
7
Rs
в
NN
21 22
17
Jeet
dE ——
18
— Ee
Mount the bike handle (1) on the
drive tube (2) - 30cm/12" (A)
forward of the engine.
Position the clamp (3) and
support (4) on the drive tube.
Place the bike handle (1) in the
support so that the molded handle
is on the left (looking at handle from
engine).
Fit clamp (5) on support.
Insert screws (6) in holes.
Fit nuts (7) on screws - fingertight.
Line up the bike handle as required.
Tighten the screws firmly.
Mounting the control handle
® Remove the screw (8)
from the nut (9).
e Take both parts out of
the control handle (13).
e Push the control handle
onto the bike handle (1) -
throttle trigger (11) must
point in direction of gear head.
Line up the holes (12).
Fit nut and screw in the
control handle.
e Tighten the screw firmly.
Securing the throttle cable
e Lay your brushcutter on its back
with the gear gear facing up.
® Push the throttle cable retainers
(13) into the holes on the underside
of the drive tube.
Mounting the "J" Handle
Mount the "J" handle (1)
on the drive tube (2) -
20cm/8" (A) forward of the
throttle trigger block.
Position the clamp (3) and support
(4) on the drive tube.
Place "J" handle (1) in the support -
handle must point to left (looking at
handle from engine).
Place clamp (5) on support -
Insert screws (6) through the parts
and fit the nuts - fingertight.
Locate the plug (8) against the
support (4).
Line up the "J" handle as required.
Tighten the screws firmly.
Mounting Loop Handle with
Standoff Lever
34ЗВАО55 К
Em >=;
e Mount the loop handle (1) with
standoff lever 20 cm/8" (A) forward
of the control handle (2).
o
Cd
02BA010 K
e Insert square nuts (3) in the
standoff lever (4) -
line up the holes.
19
20
Mounting the Loop Handle
Version A
SN y
er
= —- В
02BA011 K
Place the clamp (5) in the loop e
handle (1) and position them both
against the drive tube (6).
Fit the clamp (7) and place standoff
lever (4) in position -
line up the holes.
Insert screws (8) in holes and
screw them into standoff lever
fingertight.
Align the loop handle.
Tighten the screws firmly.
AG)
« —— A — — >
—
1
2 | Г
O:
7 TD DD 7
O2BADI2 K
Mount the loop handle (1)
20 cm/8" (A) forward of the
control handle (2).
| 143BA056 K
Place the clamp (3) in the loop
handle (1) and position them both
against the drive tube (4).
Fit the clamp (5) -
line up the holes.
Insert screws (6) in holes and
screw on the nuts (7) fingertight.
Align the loop handle.
Lock the nuts and tighten
the screws firmly.
Mounting the Loop Handle
Version B
MN
1
| « A — |
> | — | |, |
| _ of ple |
3
143BA058 K
|
D
— —"
e Mount the loop handle (1)
on the drive tube -
15cm/6" (A) forward of the
control handle (2).
® Position clamp (3) against the
drive tube and slide it into the loop
handle.
(2")
| 343BA023
== — sg ——- = —
Fit square nut (4) in the loop handle.
Insert the clamp screw (5) from
the other side and tighten down
securely.
Adjusting loop handle to most
comfortable position:
@ Release clamp screw (5).
® Move the loop handle along the
drive tube as required and then
tighten the clamp screw.
21
Mounting the Deflector
Mounting the deflector
e Place either deflector (1) for all
cutting tools
or
deflector (2) for mowing heads
on the gearhead flange.
e Fit the plate (3) and line it up.
@ Insert M 5 x 18 screws and tighten
down securely.
22
Fitting skirt and blade
e Slide the lower guide slot of the
skirt (4) over the deflector (1) -
it must snap into position.
@ Push blade (5) into the upper guide
on the skirt and line it up with the
first hole.
@ Fit the screw and tighten it down
firmly.
Mounting the Cutting Tools
LA
|
ae
rr —————— ze
Lay your brushcutter on its back with
the gear head facing up.
Blocking the output shaft
® Insert stop pin (1) in the bore (2) at
the side of the gear head as far as
stop - apply slight pressure.
e Rotate output shaft until the stop
pin slips into position and blocks the
shaft.
am 4
[
E
Removing cutting tool
mounting hardware
e Position combination wrench (3)
on the mounting nut (4).
e Release and unscrew the nut
clockwise (left-hand thread).
® Remove shipping keeper (5) -
if fitted.
e Pull the rider plate (6) and
thrust washer (7) off
the shaft (8).
e Now fit the cutting tool.
23
STIHL Supercut 20-1
STIHL Supercut 20-2
e Lay your brushcutter on its back
with the gear head facing up.
@ Screw mowing head counterclock-
wise onto the output shaft (1) -
as far as it will go.
Block the output shaft.
Tighten down the mowing head
securely.
Important!
Remove the stop pin.
Keep instruction sheet for mowing
head in a safe place.
24
Removing mowing head
e Block the output shaft -
O unscrew mowing head clockwise.
Adjusting nylon line
® Fresh line is advanced auto-
matically, providing at least
6cm/2.4" of line is still projecting
from the head.
Blade on deflector trims surplus line
to correct length.
e Fit new nylon line as described in
instructions supplied with mowing
head.
E:
|)
Fa
343BA024
STIHL Polycut 20-3
e Lay your brushcutter on its back
with the gear head facing up.
® Screw mowing head counterclock-
wise onto the output shaft (1) -
as far as it will go.
Block the output shaft.
Tighten down the mowing head
securely.
Important!
Remove the stop pin.
Keep instruction sheet for mowing
head in a safe place.
Removing mowing head
e Block the output shaft -
unscrew mowing head clockwise.
Replacing cutting blades
O Refer to instruction sheet supplied
with mowing head.
|
J
| 8
+
со
STIHL Autocut 20-2
STIHL Autocut 25-2
Assembling STIHL Autocut 20-2
® Push the bolt (1) into
the mowing head (2) and
engage it in the hexagon recess.
@ Screw the cap (3) counterclockwise
on to the bolt and tighten it down
securely.
Keep instruction sheet for mowing
head in a safe place.
Ha
=)
343ET026
Mounting the mowing head
Lay your brushcutter on its back
with the gear head facing up.
Screw mowing head counterclock-
wise onto the output shaft (4) -
as far as it will go.
Block the output shaft.
Tighten down the mowing head
securely.
Important!
Remove the stop pin.
Removing mowing head
Block the output shaft -
unscrew mowing head clockwise.
25
Adjusting nylon line
26
Hold the rotating mowing head
horizontal above the ground -
tap it on the ground -
about 3cm/1 1/4" fresh line is
advanced - blade on deflector trims
surplus line to the correct length -
avoid tapping head more than
once.
. Line feed operates only if
both lines still have a
minimum length of 2.5cm/1".
Fit new nylon line as described in
instructions supplied with mowing
head.
STIHL Polymatic 30-2
STIHL Autocut 24-2
e Lay your brushcutter on its back
with the gear head facing up.
Oe Slip the plain washer (1) and
thrust washer (2) over the
shaft (3) and against the
thrust plate (4).
@ Screw mowing head counterclock-
wise onto the output shaft -
as far as it will go.
Block the output shaft.
Tighten down the mowing head
securely.
Important!
Remove the stop pin.
Keep instruction sheet for mowing
head in a safe place.
Removing mowing head
e Block the output shaft -
unscrew mowing head clockwise.
Adjusting nylon line
O Refer to instruction sheet supplied
with mowing head.
STIHL Fixed Line Head
Lay your brushcutter on its back
with the gear head facing up.
Position the head on the thrust pla-
te (1).
Slip the thrust washer (2) over the
output shaft (3).
Block the output shaft.
Screw mounting nut (4) counter-
clockwise on to the output shaft and
tighten it down firmly.
Important!
Remove the stop pin.
Keep instruction sheet for mowing
head in a safe place.
Releasing mounting nut
e Block the output shaft and
unscrew the mounting nut
clockwise.
If the mounting nut becomes slack due
to frequent loosening and retightening,
fit a new one.
Fitting nylon line
O Refer to instruction sheet supplied
with fixed line head.
Grass cutting blade 230
Note: Remove skirt and blade from
deflector before mounting this
cutting tool.
28
Lay your brushcutter on its back
with the gear head facing up.
Place cutting tool (1) on the thrust
plate (2).
Cutting edges of blade 230-8 (3)
must point clockwise.
Cutting blade 230-4 (4) may be
fitted either way round.
e Slip the thrust washer (5)
and rider plate (6) over
the output shaft (7).
e Block the output shaft.
@ Screw mounting nut (8) coun-
terclockwise on to output shaft and
tighten down securely.
Important!
Remove the stop pin.
Releasing mounting nut
e Block the output shaft and unscrew
the mounting nut clockwise.
If the mounting nut becomes slack due
to frequent loosening and retightening,
fit a new one.
Fuel
Your two-stroke engine requires a
mixture of brand-name gasoline and
quality two-stroke engine oil with the
classification TC.
Use regular branded unleaded gasoline
with a minimum octane number of
90 ROZ (U.S.A./Canada: pump octane
min. 89). If the octane number of the
regular grade gasoline in your area is
lower use premium unleaded fuel.
Fuel with a lower octane number may
result in preignition (causing pinging")
which is accompanied by an increase in
engine temperature. This, in turn,
increases the risk of the piston seizure
and damage to the engine.
The chemical composition of the fuel is |
also important. Some fuel additives not |
only detrimentally affect elastomers
(carburetor diaphragms, oil seals, fuel
lines etc.), but magnesium castings as
well. This could cause running problems
or even damage the engine. For this
reason it is essential that you use only
name branded fuels!
Use only STIHL two-stroke engine oil or
equivalent branded two-stroke air-cooled
engine oils with the classification TC for
mixing.
We recommend STIHL 50:1 two-stroke
engine oil since it is specially formulated
for use in STIHL engines. The mix ratio
with STIHL oil is 50:1 (50 parts gasoline
to 1 part oil), or 25:1 (25 parts gasoline to
1 part oil) with other branded two-stroke-
air-cooled engine oils.
Do not use BIA or TCW (two-stroke
water cooled) mix oils!
Take care when handling gasoline.
Avoid direct contact with the skin and
avoid inhaling fuel vapour.
The canister should be kept tightly
closed in order to avoid any moisture
getting into the mixture.
The fuel tank and the canister in which
fuel mix is stored should be cleaned
from time to time.
Fuel mix ages:
Only mix sufficient fuel for a few days
work, not to exceed 30 days of storage.
Store in approved safety fuel-canisters
only. When mixing, pour oil into the
canister first, and then add gasoline.
Gaso- STIHL Other branded
line engine oil TC oils
50:1 25:1
Liters Liters (cc) Liters (cc)
1 0.02 (20) 0.04 (40)
5 0.10 (100) 02 (200)
10 0.20 (200) 04 (400)
15 0.30 (300) 0.6 (600)
20 0.40 (400) 0.8 (800)
25 0.50 (500) 1.0 (1000)
Gaso- 5STIHL Other branded
line engine oil TC oils
50:1 25:1
US gal. US fl.oz US fl.oz
1 2.6 5.1
21/2 6.4 12.8
5 12.8 25.6
29
Fueling (MD) Y
Г
oo
—
| 7 N
у
< ©
343BA027
р —
Before fueling, clean the filler cap and
the area around it to ensure that no dirt
falls into the tank.
Always thoroughly shake the mixture in
the canister before fueling your machi-
ne.
Warning! In order to reduce the risk of
burns or other personal injury from esca-
ping gas vapor and fumes, remove the
fuel filler cap carefully so as to allow any
pressure build-up in the tank to release
slowly.
Warning! After fueling, tighten fuel cap
as securely as possible by hand.
30
| 343BA028
Change the fuel pick up body every year.
Before storing your machine for a long
period, drain and clean the fuel tank and
run engine until carburetor is dry.
Fitting the Harness *
Models with a loop handle come without
a harness (available as special acces-
sory for these models).
Shoulder strap
e Put on the shoulder strap (1).
e Adjust length until the spring
hook (3) rests against your right hip.
* Special accessory
alo = O
Full harness
e Puton the full harness (2).
e Adjust length until the spring
hook (3) rests against your right hip.
|
Мк в. НЫ, 4 Gt. ES as da
Balancing the brushcutter
e Attach the spring hook (2) to
the clamp (3) on the drive shaft.
slacken the screw (4).
e Slide the clamp up or down
the drive shaft.
e Tighten the screw moderately.
e Let go of the brushcutter and check
to see how it Is balanced.
In normal working position, cutting
tool must just touch the ground.
Oe Tighten the screw firmly.
31
Starting -
Version with Bike Handle
|
O Observe safety precautions - see
chapter "Safety Precautions and
Working Techniques.
e Hold down the throttle trigger
interlock (1) and squeeze
the throttle trigger (2).
e Move the slide control (3)
to START position.
Now release the throttle trigger,
slide control and trigger interlock
in that order = This is the
starting-throttle position.
32
LAN
\
If engine is cold:
® Turn filter cover (4) clockwise to
CHOKE.
If engine is warm:
e Turn filter cover (4) counterclockwi-
se to RUN.
Also use this setting if engine has been
running but is still cold.
O Press transparent fuel pump bulb at
least five times
- it must be filled with fuel.
4
343BA031
SA
e Put the unit on the ground:
It must rest securely on the engine
support and deflector. Check that
the cutting tool is not touching the
ground or any other obstacles.
® Make sure you have a firm
footing: Hold the unit with you left
hand and press it down firmly -
your thumb should be under the dri-
ve shaft.
e Do not stand or kneel on the drive
shaft!
Pull the starter grip slowly with your
right hand until you feel it engage -
and then give it a brisk strong pull.
Do not pull out starter rope more
than 70cm (27") - it might break.
Do not let the starter grip snap
back - guide it slowly into the
housing so that the starter rope
can rewind properly.
N
34384032
When engine begins to fire:
If engine is cold:
e Turn filter cover (4) counterclockwi-
se until mark on filter cover
points to |]
continue cranking until engine runs.
If engine is warm:
@ Continue cranking until engine runs.
33
34
As soon as engine runs,
If engine is warm:
If engine is cold: e Blip the throttle trigger (2) -
the slide control (3) moves to the
"Run" position I and the engine
returns to idling speed.
Squeeze the throttle trigger (2) -
warm up engine for brief period at
full throttle.
Release throttle trigger -
slide control (3) moves to the
“Run” position I and the engine
returns to idling speed.
Turn filter cover to RUN.
Make sure carburetor is correctly
adjusted - cutting tool must not
rotate when engine is idling.
Your brushcutter is ready for
operation.
To shut down the engine:
Move slide control (3) to STOP.
At very low outside temperatures:
Allow engine to warm up
As soon as engine runs:
® Warm up engine for about 1 minute
at full throttle.
® Release throttle trigger -
slide control moves to the
"Run" position L and the engine
returns to idling speed.
e Turn filter cover to RUN.
Fe Th
ЗАЗВАОЗА
If the engine doesn't start:
Oe If you did not turn the
filter cover to RUN quickly
enough after the engine began
to fire, the combustion chamber
is flooded.
Remove spark plug terminal (5).
Unscrew and dry off the
spark plug.
Set slide control to STOP.
Open the throttle fully.
Pull the starter rope several times to
clear the combustion chamber.
| 343BA035
Refit the spark plug and connect
the spark plug terminal.
Set slide control to START .
Turn filter cover to RUN,
even if engine is cold.
Now start the engine.
Fuel tank run until dry and then
refueled
@ Press transparent fuel pump bulb
(6) several times - it must be filled
with fuel.
® Now start the engine.
35
Starting -
Stop Switch on Throttle
Trigger Housing
A | TT
343BA036
4 3
PP
| ==
e Observe safety precautions - see
chapter "Safety Precautions".
® Move stop switch (1) to I
e Hold down the interlock lever (2),
squeeze the throttle trigger (3) and
engage the spring lock (4) in the
notch (see arrow) on the throttle
trigger retainer.
e Let go of the throttle trigger, spring
lock and interlock lever in that
order. The trigger is now in the star-
ting throttle position.
36
A
|
+ | =
— —]Ñ. = PE
If engine is cold: @ Press transparent fuel
pump bulb at least five times
Turn the filter cover (5) clockwise to - it must be filled with fuel.
CHOKE .
If engine is warm:
Turn filter cover (5) counterclockwi-
se to RUN.
Also use this setting if engine has been
running butis still cold.
| 343BA031
e Put the unit on the ground: e Pull the starter grip slowly with your
It must rest securely on the engine right hand until you feel it engage -
support and deflector. Check that and then give it a brisk strong pull.
the cutting tool is not touching the Do not pull out starter rope more
ground or any other obstacles. than 70cm (27") - it might break.
e Make sure you have a firm
footing: Hold the unit with you left
hand around the handle hose
Do not let the starter grip snap
back - guide it slowly into the
(thumb under the handle) and press housing so that the starter rope
it down firmly. can rewind properly.
® Do not stand or kneel on the drive
shaft!
/
N
343BA033
\
When engine begins to fire:
If engine is cold:
Turn filter cover (5) counter-
clockwise to |x|]
and continue cranking
until the engine runs.
If engine is warm:
Continue cranking until the engine
runs.
37
| 3BA036
0 A |}
343BA037
A
[a
„ As soon as engine runs: Make sure carburetor is correctly
adjusted - cutting tool must not
If engine is cold: rotate when engine is idling.
e Hold down interlock lever (2) and
warm up engine for brief period
at full throttle.
® Release the throttle trigger (3) and
turn filter cover to RUN so that
engine returns to idle speed.
At very low outside temperatures:
Allow engine to warm up
As soon as engine runs:
® Hold down interlock lever -
warm up the engine by running it for
® Hold down interlock lever (2) and about 1 minute at full throttle -
blip the throttle trigger (3) to dis- release the throttle trigger.
engage the spring lock (4) so that e Turn the filter cover to RUN so
the engine can return to idle speed. that engine returns to idle speed.
If engine is warm:
To shut down the engine:
Move stop switch (1) to the O position.
39
«
Pa
A
343BA038
rt
|
If the engine doesn’t start:
e If you did not turn the filter cover
to RUN quickly enough after
the engine began to fire, the
combustion chamber is flooded.
Remove spark plug terminal (6).
Unscrew and dry off the
spark plug.
Move stop switch to O position,
Hold down interlock lever and
open the throttle fully.
Pull the starter rope several
times to clear the combustion
chamber.
343BA039
Refit the spark plug and connect
the spark plug terminal.
Move stop switch to I position.
Turn filter cover to RUN -
even if engine is cold.
Now start the engine.
Fuel tank run until dry and then
refueled
e Press transparent fuel pump bulb
(7) several times - it must be filled
with fuel.
® Now start the engine.
Starting -
Stop Switch on
Engine Housing
== -
|
343BA042
O Observe safety precautions - see
chapter "Safety Precautions”.
e Move stop switch (1) to Т
@ Squeeze the throttle trigger (2) and
engage the spring lock (3) in the
notch (see arrow) on the throttle
trigger retainer.
e Let go of the throttle trigger and
spring lock. The trigger is now in the
starting throttle position.
4 N
E
——
If engine is cold:
Turn filter cover (4) clockwise to
CHOKE.
If engine is warm:
Turn the filter cover (4) counter-
clockwise to RUN.
Also use this setting if engine has
been running but is still cold.
39
|
|
|
|
—
——
——
=
| 343BA042
| 343BA031
O Press transparent fuel e Put the unit on the ground: e Pull the starter grip slowly with your When engine begins to fire: As soon as engine runs:
pump bulb at least five times It must rest securely on the engine right hand until you feel it engage -
- it must be filled with fuel. support and deflector. Check that and then give it a brisk strong pull. If engine is cold: If engine is cold:
the cutting tool is not touching the Do not pull out starter rope more e Tum filter cover (4) counter- e Warm up engine for brief period
ground or any other obstacles. than 70cm (27") - it might break. clockwise to |N] at full throttle.
® Make sure you have a firm | and continue cranking e Release the throttle trigger.
footing: Hold the unit with you left Do not let the starter grip snap until the engine runs. e Turn the filter cover to RUN so
hand around the handle hose back - guide it slowly into the that engine returns to idle speed.
(thumb under the handle) and press housing so that the starter rope If engine is warm:
it down firmly. | can rewind properly. @ Continue cranking until the engine If engine is warm:
o ны го, stand or krieel or Ihe drive runs. e Blip the throttle trigger (2) to dis-
shat engage the spring lock (3) so that
the engine can return to idle speed.
To shut down the engine:
Move the stop switch (1) to D.
40
Make sure carburetor is correctly
adjusted - cutting tool must not
rotate when engine is idling.
At very low outside temperatures:
Allow engine to warm up
As soon as engine runs:
e Warm up engine for about 1 minute
at full throttle.
® Release throttle trigger -
and turn filter cover to RUN so that
engine returns to idle speed.
41
Ц
- 1
—
| 343BA034
If the engine doesn’t start:
e If you did not turn the filter cover
to RUN quickly enough after
the engine began to fire, the
combustion chamber is flooded.
Remove spark plug terminal (5).
Unscrew and dry off the
spark plug.
Move stop switch to O position.
Open the throttle fully.
Pull the starter rope several
times to clear the combustion
chamber.
42
e Refit the spark plug and connect
the spark plug terminal.
e Set stop switch to I position.
e Turn filter cover to RUN -
even if engine is cold.
e Now start the engine.
Fuel tank run until dry and then
refueled
® Press transparent fuel
pump bulb (6) several times
- it must be filled with fuel.
® Now start the engine.
343BA035
Adjusting Carburetor
|
|
The carburetor has been adjusted for
optimum performance under the
barometric pressure and climatic
conditions at the factory.
Basic setting
This setting is the starting point for fine
tuning:
e Check air filter and clean it if
necessary.
e Carefully screw the low speed
adjusting screw (L) down onto its
seat (clockwise) and make the
following adjustment:
L Open 1 full tun
| 343BA044
|
| >
|
a
Ев — —
e Start the engine and adjust
idling speed with the idle
speed adjusting screw (LA):
cutting tool must not rotate.
H Open 1 full turn.
This setting must not be changed
in any way.
This is the optimum setting to ensure
that your machine will deliver maximum
power, be fuel efficient and operate
reliably.
| 343BAD46
Adjusting idle speed
It is usually necessary to change the
setting of the idle speed adjusting
screw (LA) after every correction to the
low speed adjusting screw (L).
Engine stops while idling
® Turn the idle speed
adjusting screw (LA)
clockwise until engine runs
smoothly - cutting
tool must not rotate.
С
| O@
L |
a
| ©
LA
=
343BA046
pe
|
|
|
|
Cutting tool rotates when
engine is idling
® Turn the idle speed adjusting
screw (LA) counterclockwise until
cutting tool stops rotating -
then back off screw about
another one half turn from that
position.
Erratic idling behavior,
poor acceleration
e Idle setting is too lean.
Turn the low speed adjusting
screw (L) counterclockwise until
engine runs and accelerates
smoothly.
43
Checking Spark Plug
— |
343BA044
—— a
| 1
00BA002 ЦА
Exhaust smokes at idle speed
e Idle setting is too rich.
Turn the low speed adjusting
screw (L) clockwise until
engine speed drops. Then turn
screw back one quarter turn
and check that engine still
accelerates smoothly when
you open the throttle.
44
If engine is down on power, difficult
to start or runs poorly at idling speed,
first check the spark plug.
@ Remove spark plug -
see "If engine doesn’t start:"
e Clean dirty spark plug.
e Check electrode gap (A)
occasionally -
A lt should be 0.7 - 0.8 mm
(about 0.03") - readjust as
necessary.
® Use only suppressed spark plugs of
the approved type.
Rectify faults which have caused
fouling of spark plug:
Incorrect carburetor setting, too much oil
in fuel mix, dirty air filter, unfavorable
running conditions, e.g. operating at
part load.
® Install a new spark plug after
approx. 50 operating hours -
or earlier if the electrodes are
badly eroded.
Cleaning Air Filter
\
(ax \
If there is a noticeable loss
of engine power:
e Turn filter cover (1) to
CHOKE -
to prevent dirt falling into the
carburetor.
e Take out the screw (2) and
pull off the filter cover without
turning it.
AN
343BA050
N
343BA0
e Take the foam filter element (3)
out of the filter housing.
e Wash the element in fresh, non-
flammable cleaning solution
(e.g. warm soapy water)
and dry it off.
Always replace a damaged
filter element.
Install foam filter element (3).
Fit the filter cover with the
choke lever (4) in the closed
position - line up choke mark
on filter cover with K of CHOKE
on housing.
Secure cover with screw (2).
45
Spark Arresting Screen in Gearbox Lubrication Lubricating Flexible Shaft
Muffler*
Î
ZA
60
A
>
!
357BA053 LA
| EL
| Ñ
| | / z | О
- EEE ESS | | a
If the engine is low on power, check the ® Check grease level regularly - e Check film of lubricant at e Pull the flexible shaft (3) out e Push shaft (3) into the drive tube -
spark arresting screen inside the muffler. about every 50 hours of regular intervals - of the drive tube. turn it to and fro until distance A is
® Slacken off but do not remove the operation. every 50 hours of operation if you O Use STIHL multipurpose grease less than 10mm (3/8").
screws (1). e Unscrew the filler plug (1). use your brushcutter daily 0781 120 1109 to coat dry areas e Slide the drive tube into
e Pull out the spark arresting screen ® If no grease can be seen on the insi- or once a year if you use your of the shaft: the gear head -
(2) from underneath the cover (3) de of the filler plug, screw the tube brushcutter occasionally. Do not apply too much grease - turn drive shaft (4) back and
in the direction of the arrow (see (2) of STIHL gear lubricant e Mark the end of the gear head on hever pump grease into the forth until mark is reached.
illustration). 0781 120 1117 into the filler hole. the drive tube. drive tube. e Line up the gear head.
e Squeeze grease into the gear ® Release the clamp screws (1). ® Tighten down the clamp screws.
® Clean spark arresting screen if housing - about 5 - 10 g (1/4 oz). e Pull the gear head (2) off the @ If shaft has turned blue, fit a
necessary. drive tube. new one.
O If screen is damaged or coked up, e Do not completely fill the
fit a new one. gear housing with grease.
e Refit the spark arresting screen.
® Assemble in the reverse sequence. e Refit the filler plug and tighten it
down firmly.
*Not all models
46 47
Sharpening Cutting Tools
357 BA056 LA
357BA057 LA
|
Grass cutting blade 230-4 Sharpen correctly
e If slightly dull:
Use flat file (4) 0814 212 3310 -
In case of more serious wear or
nicks: Resharpen with a grinder -
maintain a sharpening angle of
® Resharpen only when all cutting 30° (A) on the cutting edge (1).
edges (1) on both sides of the e File back the cutting edge
blade are dull: This ensures parallel to the lines (B) (see
balanced wear. illustration).
e Resharpen frequently, take
away as little material as
possible - two or three strokes
of the file are usually enough.
Never straighten or weld a bent or
cracked grass cutting blade - it might
shatter and cause serious or fatal injury.
To avoid out-of-balance:
e Resharpen the cutters (2)
uniformly - do not alter the contour
of the parent blade (3) in any way.
@ After resharpening about 5 times,
have blade checked on STIHL
balancer 5910 850 2600 and
rebalanced as necessary.
48
al |
o
57BA058 LA
Grass cutting blade 230-8
Never straighten or weld a bent or
cracked grass cutting blade - it might
shatter and cause serious or fatal injury.
e Resharpen when the tips of the
cutting edges (1) have worn
down to about 1mm/3/64" (A).
To avoid out-of-balance:
O Resharpen the cutters (2)
uniformly - do not alter the contour
of the parent blade (3) in any way.
O After resharpening about 5 times,
have blade checked on STIHL
balancer 5910 850 2600 and
rebalanced as necessary.
357BA059 LA
357BA060 LA
Measurements and angles for
resharpening
Leave clearance of 2mm/5/64" (B)
between cutting edge and parent
blade - R1 should be 2mm/5/64".
Radius R2 is 2.5mm/7/64" and is
obtained automatically if you use
the specified file and maintain
a filing angle of 30° (C).
Cutting edge (D) must be exactly
in line with center of blade's
mounting hole.
Sharpen correctly
If slightly dull:
Use flat file (4) 0814 212 3310 -
In case of more serious wear or
nicks: Resharpen with a grinder.
File back the cutting edge
parallel to the lines (E) (see
illustration).
Resharpen frequently, take
away as little material as
possible - two or three strokes
of the file are usually enough.
57BA061 ЦА
|
Operating Instructions
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 un-
necessary high loads during 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.
49
During operation
After long period of full-throttle
operation, allow engine to run for a while
at idling speed so that the heat in the
engine can be dissipated by flow of
cooling air. This protects engine-
mounted components (ignition,
carburetor) from thermal overioad.
50
After finishing work
Storing for short period :
To avoid condensation, fill the fuel
tank and keep the unit in a dry place
until you need it again.
Storing for a long period:
Drain and clean the fuel tank -
run engine until carburetor is dry,
Check tightness of nuts and screws
(not adjusting screws) at regular
intervals and retighten as necessary.
Storing the Machine
For periods of about-3 months or longer:
Drain and clean the fuel tank.
Run engine until carburetor is dry -
this helps prevent the carburetor
diaphragms sticking together.
Remove, clean and inspect the
cutting tool.
Thoroughly clean the machine -
pay special attention to the cylinder
fins and air filter.
Store the machine in a dry, high or
locked location - out of the reach
of children and other unauthorized
persons.
Maintenance Chart
Please note that the following maintenance intervals apply for normal operating conditions. =
If your daily working time is longer than normal or cutting conditions are difficult, shorten the 5 2x 8 la
specified intervals accordingly. 2 B50: 50 © | © a
е | 55| $5| | 2] >| | 2 =
SE| 5¥| 58] $ | | В Е D =
BE ZO £5 D е + e o D
5% | =| SL = E + = © о
BR Visual inspection {condition, leaks X X
Complete machine | 5 pection ( en
¡ Clean X | )
i Throttle trigger, stop switch Check operation X X 31-41
Clean X X 45
Air filter I I A AA
Replace X 45
Check 30
Filter In fuel tank ec x |. —
Replace X 30
Fuel tank Clean X 29
Check idle adjustment -
Carburetor cutting tool must nai tum X X 42-44
Readjust idle x | 49-44
Spark plug ¡ Readjust electrode gap x 44
Inspect X
Cooling inlets Р
Clean X
. Inspect X X 46
Spark arresting screen in muffler xp xp 46
| Clean or replace X X 46
All accessible screws and nuts
(not adjusting screws) Retighten X
Visual inspection X X 23-28
Cutting tool Replace X x | 23-28
Sharpen metal cutting 10015 48-49
Check tightness of cutting tool X X | 23-28
Inspect X ; 47
Flexible shaft SPS : : :
I ubricate | | | | | x 47 |
The user of the brusheutter may carry
out oniy the maintenance operations
described in this manual. Other repair
work may be performed only by an au-
thorized STIHL Service Shop.
Warranty claims following repairs can
be accepted only if the repair has
been performed by an authorized
STIHL Service Shop using original
STIHL spare parts.
Original STIHL parts can be identified by
the STIHL part number,
the STIHL logo
and the STIHL parts symbol 57,
The symbol may appear alone on small
parts.
51
Specifications
Engine Ignition System
Single cylinder two-stroke engine Type:
Displacement: 30.2 cm” Electronic (breakerless)
| (1.84 cu.in) magneto ignition
Bore: 34.8 mm
(1.36 cu.in) Spark plug GM AC CSR 45
Stroke: 31.8 mm (suppressed): or NGK BMR 6A;
(1.25 in) Heat range 200
Engine power Electrode gap: 0.7 - 0.8 mm
to ISO 8893: 0.7 kW (0.03 in)
(0.95 bhp) Spark plug thread: M14x 1.25;
Max. engine speed: Speed limited by 9.5 mm
control valve (0.37 in) long
Max. output
shaft speed
(tool mounting): 7 500 r.p.m.
Idle speed: 3 100 r.p.m.
| Model [Tool sound — Sound” | Vibration | Vibration |
pressure | power | acceleration | acceleration
¡level Lpeg level Lwea |
| | to ¡to ISO 7916 180 7916 |
ISO 7917 Y ISO 10884 dle speed Max, speed
| | (mvs ) (m/s? ) |
| | Handle |Handie
„| — |198 (А). —_ |dB(A) right — left (right — left
FS 4. 44?) [Mow. head 197 | Tie 183 3 30/33 36 |
FS 44° a —% — hos [33 3042 371
FS44R? Mow. head |97 —— — 08 4 52/132 95,
|FS 44 R) |Metaltoo! [94 — ___ 1108 — 141 521104 96)
1) Average for idle speed and maximum engine speed with
equal periods of exposure
Version with bike handle or "J" handle
Version with loop handle
Version with loop handle with standoff lever
52
Fuel System
Carburetor:
All position diaphragm carburetor
with integral fuel pump
Air filter:
Foam element
Fuel tank capacity:
0.51 1(1.08 US pt)
Fuel mixture;
see chapter “Fuel”
Weight
without cutting tool
and deflector:
FS44 with bike handle 5.6 kg
(12.3 lb)
FS44 with "J" handle 5.4 kg
(11.9 Ib)
FS44 with loop handle 5.1 kg
(11.2 1b)
Special Accessories
Cutting Tools
1 STIHL Supercut 20-1 mowing head
4002 710 2160
2 STIHL Supercut 20-2 mowing head
4002 710 2162
3 STIHL Autocut 24-2 mowing head
4002 710 2109
4 STIHL Autocut 20-2 mowing head
4002 710 2106
5 STIHL Autocut 25-2 mowing head
4002 710 2108
6 STIHL Polymatic 30-2 mowing head
4002 710 2120
7 STIHL Polycut 20-3 mowing head
4002 710 2130
8 Fixed Line Head
4001 713 2102
9 Grass cutting blade 230-4 *
4001 713 3801
10 Grass cutting blade 230-8 *
4001 713 3803
* Not approved for FS 44 with
loop handle.
Nylon line for cutting heads
2.0mm/0.08" diameter (green):
15m/50ft 0000 930 2217
for 4
2.Amm/0.095" diameter (orange):
15m/50ft 0000 930 2243
for | to 8
2.7mm/0.105" diameter (red):
10.7m/35ft 0000 930 2218
for 7 and 8
Thermoplastic blades
for 7
Pack of 12 4111 007 1001
Transport guard
for 9 and 10 4119 790 3906
Other special accessories
Shoulder strap
Full harness
Goggles
STIHL muitipurpose grease
(80 9/3 oz tube) 0781 1201109
(225 9/8 oz tube) 0781 120 1110
STIHL gear lubricant
(80 9/3 oz tube) 0781 120 1117
(225 9/6 oz tube) 0781 120 1119
53
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