STIHL FS 40, 50 Instruction Manual

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STIHL FS 40, 50   Instruction Manual
English

                                                               Contents

                                                               Guide to Using this Manual          2                                                                        Dear Customer,
                                                               Safety Precautions and Working                                                                               Thank you for choosing a quality
                                                               Techniques                           2                                                                       engineered STIHL product.
                                                               Approved Combinations of Cutting
Original Instruction Manual

                                                                                                                                                                            It has been built using modern
                                                               Attachment, Deflector, Handle and                                                                            production techniques and
                                                               Harness                              9                                                                       comprehensive quality assurance.
                                                               Mounting the Loop Handle            10                                                                       Every effort has been made to ensure
                                                               Mounting the Deflector              10                                                                       your satisfaction and troublefree use of
                                                                                                                                                                            the product.
                                                               Mounting the Cutting Attachment     11
                                                               Fuel                                14                                                                       Please contact your dealer or our sales
                                                                                                                                                                            company if you have any queries
                                                               Fueling                             15
Printing inks contain vegetable oils, paper can be recycled.

                                                                                                                                                                            concerning this product.
                                                               Starting / Stopping the Engine      18
                                                                                                                                                                            Your
                                                               Operating Instructions              20
                                                               Cleaning the Air Filter             20
                                                               Adjusting the Carburetor            21
                                                               Spark Plug                          21
                                                               Engine Running Behavior             22
Printed on chlorine-free paper

                                                               Rewind Starter                      22                                                                       Dr. Nikolas Stihl
                                                               Storing the Machine                 23
                                                               Maintaining the Mowing Head         23
                                                               Maintenance and Care                28
                                                               Minimize Wear and Avoid Damage      29
                                                               Main Parts                          30
                                                               Specifications                      31
                                                               Maintenance and Repairs             32
                                                               Disposal                            32
© ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, 2015

                                                               EC Declaration of Conformity        32
0458-546-0121-D. VA3.A15.
0000001049_019_GB

                                                               {                                        This instruction manual is protected by copyright. All rights reserved, especially the rights to reproduce, translate and process
                                                                                                        with electronic systems.

                                                               FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C                                                                                                                                          1
English

                                           Pictograms
Guide to Using this Manual                                                           Safety Precautions and
                                                                                     Working Techniques
                                           All the pictograms attached to the
                                           machine are shown and explained in this                  Some special safety pre-
Pictograms
                                           manual.                                                  cautions have to be
                                                                                                    observed when working
The meanings of the pictograms             Symbols in text                                          with this power tool
attached to the machine are explained in                                                            because of the very high
this manual.                                                                                        speed of the cutting
                                                                                                    attachment.
Depending on the model concerned, the           WARNING
following pictograms may be attached to                                                             It is important that you
your machine.                              Warning where there is a risk of an
                                                                                                    read the instruction man-
                                           accident or personal injury or serious
                                                                                                    ual before first use and
              Fuel tank; fuel mixture of   damage to property.
                                                                                                    keep it in a safe place for
              gasoline and engine oil
                                                                                                    future reference. Non-
                                                NOTICE                                              observance of the
              Operate decompression                                                                 instruction manual may
                                           Caution where there is a risk of
              valve                                                                                 result in serious or even
                                           damaging the machine or its individual
                                                                                                    fatal injury.
                                           components.
                                                                                     Observe all applicable local safety
                                           Engineering improvements                  regulations, standards and ordinances.
              Manual fuel pump
                                                                                     If you have not used this type of power
                                           STIHL's philosophy is to continually      tool before: Have your dealer or other
                                           improve all of its products. For this     experienced user show you how to
              Operate manual fuel                                                    operate your unit or attend a special
                                           reason we may modify the design,
              pump                                                                   course in its operation.
                                           engineering and appearance of our
                                           products periodically.                    Minors should never be allowed to use a
                                           Therefore, some changes, modifications    power tool.
              Tube of grease               and improvements may not be covered       Keep bystanders, especially children,
                                           in this manual.                           and animals away from the work area.
              Intake air: Summer
              operation                                                              When the power tool is not in use, shut it
                                                                                     off so that it does not endanger others.
                                                                                     Secure it against unauthorized use.
              Intake air: Winter                                                     The user is responsible for avoiding
              operation                                                              injury to third parties or damage to their
                                                                                     property.
              Handle heating

2                                                                                            FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C
English

Do not lend or rent your power tool          servicing dealer. Use only high quality
without the instruction manual. Be sure      cutting attachments and accessories in              WARNING
than anyone using your power tool            order to avoid the risk of accidents and
                                                                                                          To reduce the risk of eye
understands the information contained        damage to the machine.
                                                                                                          injuries, wear snug-fitting
in this manual.
                                             STIHL recommends the use of genuine                          safety glasses in accord-
The use of noise emitting power tools        STIHL cutting attachments and                                ance with European
may be restricted to certain times by        accessories. They are specifically                           Standard EN 166. Make
national or local regulations.               designed to match the product and meet                       sure the safety glasses
                                             your performance requirements.                               are a good fit.
To operate the power tool you must be
rested, in good physical condition and       The deflector on this power tool cannot        Wear a face shield and make sure it is a
mental health. If you have any condition     protect the operator from all objects          good fit. A face shield alone does not
that might be aggravated by strenuous        thrown by the cutting attachment               provide adequate eye protection.
work, check with your doctor before          (stones, glass, wire, etc.). Such objects
                                                                                            Wear hearing protection, e.g. earplugs
operating a power tool.                      may ricochet and then hit the operator.
                                                                                            or ear muffs.
Persons with pacemakers only: The
ignition system of your power tool           Clothing and Equipment                                       Wear robust work gloves
produces an electromagnetic field of a                                                                    made of durable material
very low intensity. This field may                                                                        (e.g. leather).
                                             Wear proper protective clothing and
interfere with some pacemakers. STIHL        equipment.
recommends that persons with
pacemakers consult their physician and                      Clothing must be sturdy         STIHL offers a comprehensive range of
the pacemaker manufacturer to reduce                        but allow complete free-        personal protective clothing and
any health risk.                                            dom of movement. Wear           equipment.
                                                            snug-fitting clothing, an
Do not operate the power tool if you are                    overall and jacket combi-
under the influence of any substance                                                        Transporting the Power Tool
                                                            nation, do not wear a
(drugs, alcohol) which might impair                         work coat.
vision, dexterity or judgment.
                                             Avoid clothing that could get caught on
Depending on the cutting attachment          branches or brush or moving parts of the
fitted, use your trimmer only for cutting    machine. Do not wear a scarf, necktie or
grass, wild growth and similar materials.    jewelry. Tie up and confine long hair
It must not be used for any other            (e.g. with a hair net, cap, hard hat, etc.).
purpose because of the increased risk of

                                                                                                                                   546BA001 KN
                                                            Wear sturdy shoes with
accidents and damage to the machine.
                                                            non-slip soles.
Never attempt to modify your power tool
in any way since this may result in
accidents or damage to the machine.                                                         Always turn off the engine.
Only use cutting attachments and                                                            Carry the unit properly balanced by the
accessories that are explicitly approved                                                    drive tube or loop handle.
for this power tool model by STIHL or
are technically identical. If you have any
questions in this respect, consult a

FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C                                                                                                      3
English

In vehicles: Properly secure your power       To reduce the risk of serious or fatal        –   Check that the spark plug boot is
tool to prevent turnover, fuel spillage and   burn injuries, check for fuel leakage. If         secure – a loose boot may cause
damage.                                       fuel leakage is found, do not start or run        arcing that could ignite combustible
                                              the engine until leak is fixed.                   fumes and cause a fire.
Fueling                                                                                     –   Check cutting attachment for
                                              Before Starting                                   correct and secure assembly and
               Gasoline is an extremely                                                         good condition.
               flammable fuel. Keep           Check that your power tool is properly        –   Check protective devices (e.g.
               clear of naked flames. Do      assembled and in good condition – refer           deflector for cutting attachment) for
               not spill any fuel – do not    to appropriate chapters in the instruction        damage or wear. Always replace
               smoke.                         manual.                                           damaged parts. Never operate the
Always shut off the engine before             –   Check the fuel system for leaks,              unit with a damaged deflector.
refueling.                                        paying special attention to visible       –   Never attempt to modify the controls
                                                  parts such as the tank cap, hose              or safety devices in any way.
Do not fuel a hot engine – fuel may spill         connections and the manual fuel
and cause a fire.                                 pump (on machines so equipped). If        –   Keep the handles dry and clean –
Open the fuel cap carefully to allow any          there are any leaks or damage, do             free from oil and dirt – for safe
pressure build-up in the tank to release          not start the engine – risk of fire.          control of the power tool.
slowly and avoid fuel spillage.                   Have your machine repaired by a           –   Adjust the harness and handle(s) to
                                                  servicing dealer before using it              suit your height and reach.
Fuel your power tool only in well-
                                                  again.
ventilated areas. If you spill fuel, wipe                                                   To reduce the risk of accidents, do not
the machine immediately – if fuel gets on     –   Use only an approved combination          operate your power tool if it is damaged
your clothing, change immediately.                of cutting attachment, deflector,         or not properly assembled.
                                                  handle and harness. All parts must
Your power tool comes standard with                                                         If you use a shoulder strap or full
                                                  be assembled properly and
either a screw-type or bayonet-type fuel                                                    harness: Practice removing and putting
                                                  securely. To reduce the risk of
cap.                                                                                        down the power tool as you would in an
                                                  injury, never use metal cutting
                                                  attachments.                              emergency. To avoid damage, do not
               After fueling, tighten
                                                                                            throw the machine to the ground when
               down the screw-type fuel       –   The stop switch must move easily to       practicing.
               cap as securely as                 0.
               possible.
                                              –   Check smooth action of choke              Starting the Engine
                                                  knob, throttle trigger lockout and
               After fueling, insert the          throttle trigger – the throttle trigger
               fuel cap with hinged grip                                                    Start the engine at least 3 meters from
                                                  must return automatically to the idle     the fueling spot, outdoors only.
               (bayonet-type cap) cor-            position. The choke lever must
               rectly in the opening, turn        spring back from the g and <              Place the unit on firm ground in an open
               it clockwise as far as stop        positions to the run position F when      area. Make sure you have good balance
               and fold the grip down.            the throttle trigger lockout and          and secure footing. Hold the unit
This reduces the risk of unit vibrations          throttle trigger are squeezed.            securely. The cutting attachment must
causing the fuel cap to loosen or come                                                      be clear of the ground and all other
off and spill quantities of fuel.                                                           obstructions because it may begin to run
                                                                                            when the engine starts.

4                                                                                                  FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C
English

Your power tool is a one-person unit. To                                                            Check and correct the idle speed setting
reduce the risk of injury from thrown                                                               regularly. If the cutting attachment
objects, do not allow other persons                                                                 continues to rotate when the engine is
within a radius of 15 meters of your own                                                            idling, have the machine checked by
position – even when starting.                                                                      your servicing dealer. STIHL
                                                                                                    recommends a STIHL servicing dealer.
               To reduce the risk of

                                                                                      546BA002 KN
               injury, avoid contact with                                                           Take special care in slippery conditions
               the cutting attachment.                                                              (ice, wet ground, snow), on slopes or
                                                                                                    uneven ground.
                                             Left hand on loop handle, right hand on
                                                                                                    Watch out for obstacles: Roots, tree
                                             control handle, even if you are left-
Do not drop start the power tool – start                                                            stumps or holes which could cause you
                                             handed.
the engine as described in the                                                                      to trip or stumble.
instruction manual.                                                                                 Make sure you always have good
                                             During Operation
               Note that the cutting                                                                balance and secure footing.
               attachment continues to                                                              Always stand on the ground while
               run for a short period        In the event of impending danger or in
                                             an emergency, switch off the engine                    working, never on a ladder, work
               after you let go of the                                                              platform or any other insecure support.
               throttle trigger – flywheel   immediately – move the stop switch in
               effect.                       the direction of 0.                                    Be particularly alert and cautious when
                                                                                                    wearing hearing protection because
Check idle speed setting: The cutting                                                               your ability to hear warnings (shouts,
attachment must not rotate when the                                                                 alarms, etc.) is restricted.
                                                           15m (50ft)
engine is idling with the throttle trigger
released.                                                                                           To reduce the risk of accidents, take a
                                                                                                    break in good time to avoid tiredness or
To reduce the risk of fire, keep hot                                                                exhaustion.
exhaust gases and hot muffler away
from easily combustible materials (e.g.                                                             Work calmly and carefully – in daylight
wood chips, bark, dry grass, fuel).          The cutting attachment may catch and                   conditions and only when visibility is
                                             fling objects a great distance and cause               good. Stay alert so as not to endanger
                                             injury - therefore, do not allow any other             others.
Holding and Controlling the Unit
                                             persons within a radius of 15 meters of
                                             your own position. To reduce the risk of
Always hold the power tool firmly with       damage to property, also maintain this
both hands on the handles. Make sure         distance from other objects (vehicles,
you always have good balance and             windows). Even maintaining a distance
secure footing.                              of 15 meters or more cannot exclude the
                                             potential danger.
                                             The correct engine idle speed is
                                             important to ensure that the cutting
                                             attachment stops rotating when you let
                                             go of the throttle trigger.

FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C                                                                                                            5
English

               Your power tool produces     If your power tool is subjected to          Always shut off the engine before
               toxic exhaust fumes as       unusually high loads for which it was not   leaving the unit unattended.
               soon as the engine is        designed (e.g. heavy impact or a fall),
                                                                                        Check the cutting attachment at regular
               running. These fumes         always check that it is in good condition
                                                                                        short intervals during operation or
               may be colorless and         before continuing work – see also
                                                                                        immediately if there is a noticeable
               odorless and contain         "Before Starting". Check the fuel system
                                                                                        change in cutting behavior:
               unburned hydrocarbons        in particular for leaks and make sure the
               and benzol. Never run        safety devices are working properly. Do     –   Turn off the engine. Hold the unit
               the engine indoors or in     not continue operating your power tool if       firmly and wait for the cutting
               poorly ventilated loca-      it is damaged. In case of doubt, have the       attachment to come to a standstill.
               tions, even if your model    unit checked by your servicing dealer.      –   Check condition and tightness, look
               is equipped with a cata-     Do not operate your power tool with the         for cracks.
               lytic converter.             choke lever in the warm start position <    –   Replace damaged cutting
To reduce the risk of serious or fatal      – the engine speed cannot be controlled         attachments immediately, even if
injury from breathing toxic fumes,          in this position.                               they have only superficial cracks.
ensure proper ventilation when working
                                                                  To reduce the risk    Clean grass and plant residue off the
in trenches, hollows or other confined
                                                                  of injury from        cutting attachment mounting at regular
locations.
                                                                  thrown objects,       intervals – remove any build up of
To reduce the risk of accidents, stop                             never operate the     material from the cutting attachment and
work immediately in the event of                                  power tool without    deflector.
nausea, headache, visual disturbances                             the proper deflec-
(e.g. reduced field of vision), problems                          tor for the type of   To reduce the risk of injury, shut off the
with hearing, dizziness, deterioration in                         cutting attachment    engine before replacing the cutting
ability to concentrate. Apart from other                          being used.           attachment.
possibilities, these symptoms may be                                                    Do not continue using or attempt to
                                                           Inspect the work area:
caused by an excessively high                                                           repair damaged or cracked cutting
                                                           Stones, pieces of metal
concentration of exhaust gases in the                                                   attachments by welding, straightening or
                                                           or other solid objects may
work area.                                                                              modifying the shape (out of balance).
                                                           be thrown more than 15
Operate your power tool so that it                         meters and cause per-        This may cause parts of the cutting
produces a minimum of noise and                            sonal injury or damage       attachment to come off and hit the
emissions – do not run the engine                          the cutting attachment       operator or bystanders at high speed
unnecessarily, accelerate the engine                       and property (e.g. parked    and result in serious or fatal injuries.
only when working.                                         vehicles, windows).
To reduce the risk of fire, do not smoke                                                When using mowing heads
while operating or standing near your       Special care must be taken when
                                                                                        Use only the deflector with properly
power tool. Note that combustible fuel      working in difficult, over-grown terrain.
                                                                                        mounted line limiting blade to ensure the
vapor may escape from the fuel system.      When cutting high scrub, under bushes       mowing lines are automatically trimmed
The dusts, vapor and smoke produced         and hedges: Keep cutting attachment at      to the approved length.
during operation may be dangerous to        a minimum height of 15 cm to avoid
health. If the work area is very dusty or   harming small animals.
smoky, wear a respirator.

6                                                                                               FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C
English

To reduce the risk of injury, always turn   Continual and regular users should          Do not turn the engine over on the
off the engine before adjusting the nylon   monitor closely the condition of their      starter with the spark plug boot or spark
line of manually adjustable mowing          hands and fingers. If any of the above      plug removed since there is otherwise a
heads                                       symptoms appear (e.g. tingling              risk of fire from uncontained sparking.
                                            sensation in fingers), seek medical
Using the unit with over-long nylon                                                     To reduce the risk of fire, do not service
                                            advice.
cutting lines reduces the engine's                                                      or store your machine near open flames.
operating speed. The clutch then slips
                                            Maintenance and Repairs                     Check the fuel filler cap for leaks at
continuously and this causes
                                                                                        regular intervals.
overheating and damage to important
components (e.g. clutch, polymer            Service the machine regularly. Do not       Use only a spark plug of the type
housing components) – and this can          attempt any maintenance or repair work      approved by STIHL and make sure it is
increase the risk of injury from the        not described in the instruction manual.    in good condition – see "Specifications".
cutting attachment rotating while the       Have all other work performed by a          Inspect the ignition lead (insulation in
engine is idling.                           servicing dealer.                           good condition, secure connection).
                                            STIHL recommends that you have              Check the condition of the muffler.
Vibrations
                                            servicing and repair work carried out
                                            exclusively by an authorized STIHL          To reduce the risk of fire and damage to
Prolonged use of the power tool may         servicing dealer. STIHL dealers are         hearing, do not operate your machine if
result in vibration-induced circulation     regularly given the opportunity to attend   the muffler is damaged or missing.
problems in the hands (whitefinger          training courses and are supplied with      Do not touch a hot muffler since burn
disease).                                   the necessary technical information.        injury will result.
No general recommendation can be            Only use high-quality replacement parts
given for the length of usage because it    in order to avoid the risk of accidents     Symbols on Deflectors
depends on several factors.                 and damage to the machine. If you have
                                            any questions in this respect, consult a
The period of usage is prolonged by:
                                            servicing dealer.
–   Hand protection (wearing warm
                                            STIHL recommends the use of genuine
    gloves)
                                            STIHL replacement parts. These parts
–   Work breaks                             are specifically designed to match your
The period of usage is shortened by:        machine model and meet your
                                            performance requirements.
–   Any personal tendency to suffer
    from poor circulation (symptoms:        To reduce the risk of injury from
    frequently cold fingers, tingling       unintentional engine startup, always
                                            shut off the engine and disconnect the      An arrow on the deflector (inside and
    sensations).
                                            spark plug boot before performing any       outside) shows the correct direction of
–   Low outside temperatures.               repairs, maintenance or cleaning work. –    rotation of the cutting attachments.
–   The force with which the handles        Exception: Carburetor and idle speed
    are held (a tight grip restricts        adjustments.
    circulation).

FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C                                                                                                     7
English

Mowing Head with Nylon Lines                                                                                It is important to follow the maintenance
                                                                                                            instructions for the Polycut mowing
                                                                                                            head.
                                                                                                            Check the wear limit marks!
                                                                                                            Wear limit marks are integrated in the
                                                                                                            base of the PolyCut.
                                                                                                            Do not continue using the PolyCut 6-3 if
                                                                                                            one of the circular holes (1; arrow)
                                                         N   If the raised moldings (1) on the              becomes visible or if the projecting rim
                                                             base of the attachment are worn as             (2; arrow) has worn away. Install a new
                                                             shown in the illustration (above               mowing head.
                                                             right), do not continue using the
                                                             mowing head. Install a new one.                     WARNING
                                                             There is otherwise a risk of injury
                                                             from thrown parts of the head.                 If the wear limit marks are ignored, there
                                                                                                            is a risk of the cutting tool shattering and
                                                         STIHL PolyCut 6-3 Mowing Head with                 flying parts injuring the operator or
                                                                                                            bystanders.
                                           000BA019 KN

                                                         Polymer Blades
                                                                                                            To reduce the risk of accidents from
                                                                                                            shattered blades, avoid contact with
Nylon line achieves a soft cut for edging                                                                   stones, metal and similar solid objects.
and trimming around fence posts, trees,                                                                     Check PolyCut blades for cracks at
etc. – less risk of damaging tree bark.                                                                     regular intervals. If a crack is found in
                                                                                                            one of the blades, always replace all the
     WARNING                                                                                                blades.

                                                                                              002BA073 KN
To reduce the risk of injury, never use
                                                                           1
steel wire in place of the nylon cutting
line.

STIHL FixCut

Check the wear limit marks!
                                                                                              002BA074 KN

                                                                           2

                                                         For mowing unobstructed edges of
                                                         meadows (without posts, fences, trees
                                                         or similar obstacles).

8                                                                                                                   FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C
English

Approved Combinations of Cutting Attachment, Deflector, Handle and Harness

Cutting Attachment                                      Deflector               Handle   Shoulder
                                                                                         Strap/Harness

       1                                   2
                           2
                             E
                           IN
                               /L
                                 ur
                                    hn
                                      Sc

                                                               5
           Sc
            hn
                ur
                 /L
                     IN
                       E
                       1

                                                                                     6        7

       3                                   4

                                                                                                              546BA018 KN
Approved Combinations                          Deflector

Select correct combination from the            5   Deflector with blade for mowing
table according to the cutting                     heads
attachment you intend to use.
                                               Handle
     WARNING
For safety reasons no other                    6   Loop handle
combinations are permitted – risk of
accidents.                                     Shoulder Strap

Cutting Attachments
                                               7   Shoulder strap may be used

Mowing heads
1   STIHL AutoCut C 5-2
2   STIHL AutoCut 5-2
3   STIHL FixCut 5-2
4   STIHL PolyCut 6-3

FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C                                                                                 9
English

Mounting the Loop Handle                                                                                   Mounting the Deflector
                                                                        A
Your new power tool comes with the
loop handle mounted on the drive tube,
but it must be turned and lined up to suit
                                                                                                               2

                                                                                             546BA004 KN
your requirements.
                                                                                                                                 1
Adjusting the loop handle

                                                                                                                                                     232BA066 KN
                                                      The loop handle can be adjusted to suit
                                                      the height and reach of the operator and
                                                      the application by changing
                                                      distance (A).
                                                      Recommended distance (A):
                                                      about 15 cm
                                                                                                                     4
      1                     2                         N   Slide the handle to the required
                                        546BA003 KN

                                                          position.
                                                                                                                                        3

                                                                                                                                                    546BA005 KN
                                                      N   Tighten down the screw or star knob
                                                          so that the handle cannot be rotated
Versions with screw (FS 40)                               on the drive tube.
N    Use a screwdriver or the                                                                              N   Push the deflector (1) over the
     combination wrench to loosen the                                                                          clamp (2) as far as stop.
     screw (1) on the handle.                                                                              N   Insert the nut (3) in the hex recess in
                                                                                                               the deflector – make sure the holes
Versions with star knob (FS 50)
                                                                                                               line up.
N    Loosen the star knob (2) on the
                                                                                                           N   Insert the screw (4) with washer and
     handle.
                                                                                                               tighten it down firmly.
All versions
                                        545BA004 KN

N    Turn the handle to the vertical
     position.

10                                                                                                                 FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C
English

                                                    Thrust plate                                             Block the shaft.
Mounting the Cutting
Attachment
Placing power tool on the ground                                          1
                                                                                                                                6
                                                                      3

                                                                              2

                                      546BA016 KN
                                                                      4

N   Switch off the engine.
                                                                                                                           6
N   Lay your trimmer on its back with

                                                                                               232BA033 KN

                                                                                                                                                    546BA017 KN
    the loop handle and shroud pointing
    down and the output shaft facing up.                                                                                   5

                                                    The thrust plate is shipped with the                     N   To block the shaft, insert a suitable
                                                    PolyCut 6-3 and FixCut 5-2. It is only                       tool (5) through the holes (6) in the
                                                    required for these mowing heads.                             deflector and thrust plate – turn the
                                                    STIHL AutoCut 5-2 mowing head,                               thrust plate back and forth if
                                                    STIHL AutoCut C 5-2 mowing head                              necessary.

                                                    N   Pull the thrust plate (1), if fitted, off            Fitting Mowing Head with Screw
                                                        the shaft (2).                                       Mounting
                                                    STIHL PolyCut 6-3 mowing head,
                                                    STIHL FixCut 5-2 mowing head                             Keep the instruction leaflet for the
                                                    N   Slip the thrust plate (1) over the                   mowing head in a safe place.
                                                        shaft (2) and engage the hex
                                                        recess (3) on the external
                                                        hexagon (4).

FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C                                                                                                                      11
English

                                                     STIHL AutoCut 5-2

                                                                                                                                       8

                                                                         4                                                     2

                        1                                                                                                          7

                                                                         2              3                                          5
                                                                                                                           6
                                                                             1

                                                                                                                                                 232BA053 KN
                                       002BA385 KN

                                                                                             232BA054 KN
                                                            3
N    Screw the mowing head                                                                                 N   Slip the mowing head (2) over the
     counterclockwise on to the shaft (1)                                                                      shaft (5) and engage hex recess (7)
                                                     N   Fit the spring (1) in the mowing
     as far as stop.                                                                                           on the external hexagon (6).
                                                         head (2).
N    Block the shaft.                                                                                      N   Fit the cap (8) on the mowing head
                                                     N   Wind the mowing line (3) on to the
                                                                                                               – screw it clockwise on to the shaft
N    Tighten down the mowing head                        spool (4).
                                                                                                               as far as stop and tighten it down
     firmly.
                                                     N   Thread the nylon line through the                     firmly.
                                                         sleeves and fit the spool in the head.
     NOTICE                                          The individual steps are described in the
Remove the tool used to block the shaft.             instruction sheet supplied.

Removing the Mowing Head

N    Block the shaft.
N    Unscrew the mowing head
     clockwise.

Fitting Mowing Head without Screw
Mounting

Keep the instruction leaflet for the
mowing head in a safe place.

12                                                                                                                FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C
English

STIHL AutoCut C 5-2                                             STIHL PolyCut 6-3                                      STIHL FixCut 5-2

                                                                              10                                                               5
            8

                                                                                   11
                               2
                                     E
                                   IN
                                     r/L
                                         nu
                                           ch
                                              S

    2                                                                                                                                         4
                           9
        S
        ch
            nu
             r/L
                 IN
                   E
                       1

                                                                                 5                                                             3

                                                                                                                                              1
                                                  681BA018 KN

                                                                                                         681BA019 KN

                                                                                                                                                                 232BA074 KN
                                                                                                                                                     2

N   Slip the mowing head (2) on to the                          N   Fit the thrust plate on the shaft.                 N   Slip the thrust plate (2) over the
    shaft – as AutoCut 5-2.                                                                                                shaft.
                                                                N   Insert the nut (10) in the mowing
N   Turn the spool (9) clockwise until                              head.                                              N   Place the mowing head on the
    the two arrow heads line up –                                                                                          thrust plate (2).
                                                                N   Screw the mowing head (11)
    secure the spool in this position.
                                                                    clockwise on to the shaft (5) as far
N   Insert the cap (8) in the spool, press                          as stop.                                               WARNING
    it down as far as stop and turn it                                                                                 Collar (see arrows) must engage the
                                                                N   Block the shaft.
    clockwise at the same time.                                                                                        mowing head's mounting hole.
                                                                N   Tighten down the mowing head
N   Turn the cap until you feel                                                                                            Push the thrust washer (3) over the
                                                                    firmly.                                            N
    resistance and then tighten it down                                                                                    shaft (1) so it is seated on the base.
    firmly by hand.
                                                                     WARNING                                           N   Block the shaft.
                                                                If the mounting nut has become too                     N   Use the combination wrench (5)
                                                                loose, fit a new one.                                      (special accessory) to screw the
                                                                                                                           mounting nut (4) on to the output
                                                                                                                           shaft and tighten it down firmly.
                                                                     NOTICE
                                                                Remove the tool used to block the shaft.                   WARNING
                                                                                                                       If the mounting nut has become too
                                                                                                                       loose, fit a new one.

FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C                                                                                                                                  13
English

                                                                                      If your machine is equipped with a
     NOTICE
                                           Fuel                                       catalytic converter, you must use
                                                                                      unleaded gasoline.
Remove the tool used to block the shaft.
                                           Your engine requires a mixture of
Remove the mowing head.                    gasoline and engine oil.                        NOTICE
                                                                                      A few tankfuls of leaded gasoline will
                                                WARNING                               greatly reduce the efficiency of the
STIHL AutoCut                                                                         catalytic converter.
                                           For health reasons, avoid direct skin
N    Hold the mowing head steady.          contact with gasoline and avoid inhaling   Gasoline with an ethanol content of
N    Unscrew the cap counterclockwise.     gasoline vapor.                            more than 10% can cause running
                                                                                      problems in engines with a manually
STIHL PolyCut                              STIHL MotoMix                              adjustable carburetor and should not be
                                                                                      used in such engines.
N    Block the shaft.
                                           STIHL recommends the use of STIHL          Engines equipped with M-Tronic deliver
N    Unscrew the mowing head
                                           MotoMix. This ready-to-use fuel mix        full power when run on gasoline with an
     counterclockwise.
                                           contains no benzol or lead, has a high     ethanol content of up to 25% (E25).
STIHL FixCut                               octane rating and ensures that you
                                           always use the right mix ratio.            Engine oil
N    Block the shaft.
                                           STIHL MotoMix uses STIHL HP Ultra          Use only high-quality two-stroke engine
N    Use the combination wrench            two-stroke engine oil for an extra long    oil – preferably STIHL HP, HP Super or
     (special accessory) to loosen and     engine life.                               HP Ultra, which are specially formulated
     unscrew the mounting nut                                                         for use in STIHL engines. HP Ultra
     counterclockwise from the output      MotoMix is not available in all markets.
                                                                                      guarantees high performance and a
     shaft.                                                                           long engine life.
                                           Mixing Fuel
                                                                                      These engine oils are not available in all
                                                                                      markets.

                                                NOTICE                                Use only STIHL 50:1 two-stroke engine
                                                                                      oil for the fuel mix in models with a
                                           Unsuitable fuels or lubricants or mix      catalytic converter.
                                           ratios other than those specified may
                                           result in serious damage to the engine.    Mix Ratio
                                           Poor quality gasoline or engine oil may
                                                                                      STIHL 50:1 two-stroke engine oil: 50
                                           damage the engine, sealing rings, hoses
                                                                                      parts gasoline to 1 part oil
                                           and the fuel tank.

                                           Gasoline
                                           Use only high-quality brand-name
                                           gasoline with a minimum octane rating
                                           of 90 – leaded or unleaded.

14                                                                                            FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C
English

Examples                                       Dispose of remaining fuel and cleaning
                                               fluid properly in accordance with local   Fueling
Gasoline        STIHL engine oil 50:1          regulations and environmental
Liters          Liters  (ml)                   requirements.
1               0.02    (20)                                                             Preparations
5               0.10    (100)
10              0.20    (200)
15              0.30    (300)
20              0.40    (400)
25              0.50    (500)
N   Use a canister approved for storing

                                                                                                                                   002BA456 KN
    fuel. Pour oil into canister first, then
    add gasoline and mix thoroughly.

Storing Fuel                                                                             N   Before fueling, clean the filler cap
                                                                                             and the area around it to ensure that
Store fuel only in approved safety-type                                                      no dirt falls into the tank.
fuel canisters in a dry, cool and safe                                                   N   Position the machine so that the
location protected from light and the sun.                                                   filler cap is facing up.
Fuel mix ages – only mix sufficient fuel                                                 A number of different filler caps are
for a few weeks work. Do not store fuel                                                  installed as standard at the factory.
mix for longer than 30 days. Exposure to
light, the sun, low or high temperatures
can quickly make the fuel mix unusable.
STIHL MotoMix may be stored for up to
2 years without any problems.
N   Thoroughly shake the mixture in the

                                                                                                                                   002BA418 KN
    canister before fueling your
    machine.

     WARNING                                                                             Cliplock filler cap (bayonet-type)

Pressure may build up in the canister –
open it carefully.
N   Clean the fuel tank and canister
    from time to time.

FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C                                                                                                    15
English

                                                                                                                                                      001BA221 KN
                                                                                            001BA224 KN
                                     002BA419 KN
Threaded filler cap                                N   Remove the cap.                                       N   While holding the cap depressed,
                                                                                                                 turn it clockwise until it engages in
Opening tank cap with hinged grip                  Filling up with fuel                                          position.

                                                   Take care not to spill fuel while fueling
                                                   and do not overfill the tank.
                                                   STIHL recommends you use the STIHL
                                                   filler nozzle for fuel (special accessory).

                                                                                                                                                      001BA222 KN
                                                   N   Filling up with fuel
                                     001BA218 KN

                                                   Closing tank cap with hinged grip
                                                                                                             N   Fold the grip flush with the top of the
N    Swing the grip to the upright                                                                               cap.
     position.
                                                                                                             Checking security of cap

                                                                                               001BA220 KN
                                     001BA219 KN

                                                   Grip must be vertical:

                                                                                                                                                      001BA223 KN
                                                   N   Fit the cap in the opening – the
N    Rotate the cap about 1/4 turn                     marks on the cap and filler neck
     counterclockwise.                                 must line up.
                                                                                                             –   The lug on the grip must fully
                                                   N   Press the cap down as far as stop.                        engage the recess (arrow).

16                                                                                                                  FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C
English

                                                                                                                Filling up with fuel

                                                                                                                Take care not to spill fuel while fueling
                                                                                                                and do not overfill the tank. STIHL
                                                                                                                recommends you use the STIHL filler
                                                                                                                nozzle (special accessory).

                                                                                                  001BA226 KN
                                          001BA225 KN
                                                                                                                Closing screw-type tank cap

N   Grip the cap – it is properly locked if             N   Place the cap on the opening and
    it cannot be turned or removed.                         rotate it counterclockwise until it
                                                            engages the filler neck.
If the cap can be turned or removed                     N   Continue rotating the cap
                                                            counterclockwise (about a quarter
Bottom of cap is twisted in relation to                     turn) – this causes the bottom of the
                                                            cap to be turned to the correct

                                                                                                                                                            002BA448 KN
top:
                                                            position.
                                                        N   Turn and lock the cap clockwise –
                                                            see sections on "Closing" and                       N   Place the cap in the opening.
                                                            "Checking security of cap".
                                                                                                                N   Turn the cap clockwise as far as
                                                        Opening screw-type tank cap                                 stop and tighten it down as firmly as
                                                                                                                    possible by hand.
                                          001BA227 KN

Left:      Bottom of cap twisted
Right:     Bottom of cap correctly
           positioned
                                                                                                  002BA447 KN

                                                        N   Turn the cap counterclockwise until
                                                            it can be removed from the tank
                                                            opening.
                                                        N   Remove the cap.

FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C                                                                                                                         17
English

                                                     Starting the Engine                                    Also use this setting if the engine has
Starting / Stopping the                                                                                     been running but is still cold.
Engine
                                                                                                            Cranking
Controls
                                                                       4
Version with Loop Handle

                                                                                              547BA015 KN

                                                                                                                                                      547BA018 KN
                                                     N   Press the manual fuel pump
                                                         bulb (4) at least five times – even if
                                                         the bulb is filled with fuel.                      N   Place the unit on the ground: It must
                                                                                                                rest securely on the engine support
                                                     Cold engine (cold start)                                   and the deflector. Check that the
            3                                                                                                   cutting attachment is not touching
                     1
                                                                                                                the ground or any other obstacles.
                                                                                                            N   Make sure you have a safe and
                                                                                                                secure footing.
                                                                                                            N   Hold the unit firmly on the ground
                                                                        5                                       with your left hand and press down

                                                                                             547BA016 KN
                 2                                                                                              – do not touch the throttle trigger or
                                       546BA007 KN

                                                                                                                lockout lever.

                                                     N   Press in the choke lever (5) and turn                   NOTICE
1    Throttle trigger lockout                            it to g at the same time.
2    Throttle trigger                                                                                       Do not stand or kneel on the drive tube.
                                                     Warm engine (warm start)
3    Stop switch with Run and 0 = Stop
     positions.

Function of stop switch and ignition
system                                                                     5
The stop switch is normally in the Run
position, i.e. when it is not depressed:
                                                                                             547BA017 KN

The ignition is switched on – the engine
is ready to start. If the stop switch is
moved to the 0 position, the ignition is
switched off. The ignition is switched on            N   Press in the choke lever (5) and turn
again automatically after the engine                     it to < at the same time.
stops.

18                                                                                                                 FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C
English

                                                         As soon as the engine runs                             Engine does not start in warm start
                                                                                                                position <
                                                                                                                N   Move the choke knob to g and
                                                                                                                    continue cranking until the engine
                                                                                                                    runs.
                                                                                                                If the engine does not start

                                                                                                  547BA021 KN
                                                                                                                N   Check that all settings are correct.
                                                                                                                N   Check that there is fuel in the tank
                                                                                                                    and refuel if necessary.
                                                         N   Press down the throttle trigger                    N   Check that the spark plug boot is
                                                             lockout and open the throttle – the                    properly connected.
                                                             choke knob moves to the run
                                                             position F. After a cold start, warm               N   Repeat the starting procedure.
                                                             up the engine by opening the                       Fuel tank run until completely dry
                                           547BA020 KN

                                                             throttle several times.
                                                                                                                N   After refueling, press the manual
                                                                                                                    fuel pump bulb at least five times –
                                                              WARNING                                               even if the bulb is filled with fuel.
N   Hold the starter grip with your right
                                                         Make sure the carburetor is correctly                      Set the choke knob to suit the
    hand.                                                                                                       N
                                                         adjusted. The cutting attachment must                      engine temperature.
Version without ErgoStart                                not rotate when the engine is idling.
                                                                                                                N   Start the engine.
                                                         The machine is now ready for operation.
N   Pull the starter grip slowly until you
    feel it engage and then give it a brisk
    strong pull.                                         Shut off the engine.

Version with ErgoStart                                   N   Move the stop switch in the direction
N   Pull the starter grip steadily.                          of 0 – the engine stops – release
                                                             the stop switch – it springs back to
                                                             the run position.
     NOTICE
Do not pull out the starter rope all the                 Other Hints on Starting
way – it might otherwise break.
N   Do not let the starter grip snap back.               Engine stalls in cold start position g or
    Guide it slowly back into the housing                under acceleration
    so that the starter rope can rewind
    properly.                                            N   Move the choke knob to < and
                                                             continue cranking until the engine
N   Continue cranking until engine runs.                     runs.

FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C                                                                                                                        19
English

Operating Instructions                          Cleaning the Air Filter
                                                                                                                           4

During break-in period                          If there is a noticeable loss of engine
                                                power

                                                                                                                                                    547BA023 KN
A factory-new machine should not be
run at high revs (full throttle off load) for
the first three tank fillings. This avoids
unnecessary high loads during the                                     3                                 N   Reach into the recess (4) in the filter
break-in period. As all moving parts                                                                        housing and take out the felt
have to bed in during the break-in                                           2                              filter (5).
period, the frictional resistances in the                         1                                     N   Fit a new felt filter element (5). As a

                                                                                          547BA022 KN
engine are greater during this period.
                                                                                                            temporary measure you can knock it
The engine develops its maximum
                                                                                                            out on the palm of your hand or blow
power after about 5 to 15 tank fillings.
                                                                                                            it out with compressed air. Do not
                                                N   Move the choke lever (1) to
English

                                                                                                                 Checking the spark plug
Adjusting the Carburetor                                Spark Plug

                                                        N   If the engine is down on power,
                                                            difficult to start or runs poorly at idle
                                                            speed, first check the spark plug.
                                                        N   Fit a new spark plug after about 100

                                                                                                                                                         000BA039 KN
                                                            operating hours – or sooner if the

                                         0815BA006 KN
                                                            electrodes are badly eroded. Install
                                                            only suppressed spark plugs of the                                                 A
                                                            type approved by STIHL – see
                                                            "Specifications".                                    N   Clean dirty spark plug.
The carburetor has been set at the
factory to provide an optimum fuel-air                                                                           N   Check electrode gap (A) and
                                                        Removing the Spark Plug
mixture under most operating                                                                                         readjust if necessary – see
conditions.                                                                                                          "Specifications".
                                                        N   Shut off the engine.
                                                                                                                 N   Rectify the problems which have
Adjusting Idle Speed                                                                                                 caused fouling of the spark plug.
                                                                                                                 Possible causes are:
Engine stops while idling                                                          1
                                                                                                                 –   Too much oil in fuel mix.
N   Warm up the engine for about                                                    2                            –   Dirty air filter.
    3 minutes.

                                                                                                   547BA041 KN
                                                                                                                 –   Unfavorable running conditions.
N   Turn the idle speed screw (LA)
    slowly clockwise until the engine
    runs smoothly – the cutting
    attachment must not run.                            N   Remove the spark plug boot (1).
                                                                                                                                                   1
Cutting attachment runs when engine is                  N   Unscrew the spark plug (2).
idling

                                                                                                                                                         000BA045 KN
N   Turn the idle speed screw (LA)
    counterclockwise until the cutting
    attachment stops moving and then
    rotate the screw another 1/2 to 3/4
    turn in the same direction.                                                                                       WARNING
                                                                                                                 If the spark plug comes with a
     WARNING
                                                                                                                 detachable adapter nut (1), screw the
If the cutting attachment continues to run                                                                       adapter onto the thread and tighten it
when the engine is idling, have your                                                                             down firmly to reduce the risk of arcing
machine checked and repaired by your                                                                             and fire.
servicing dealer.

FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C                                                                                                                           21
English

Installing the Spark Plug
                                            Engine Running Behavior                     Rewind Starter
N    Screw the spark plug into the
     cylinder.                              If engine running behavior is               To help prolong the wear life of the
                                            unsatisfactory even though the air filter   starter rope, observe the following
N    Press the boot firmly onto the spark   is clean and the carburetor is properly     points:
     plug.                                  adjusted, the cause may be the muffler.
                                                                                        N   Pull the starter rope only in the
                                            Have the muffler checked for                    direction specified.
                                            contamination (carbonization) by your
                                                                                        N   Do not pull the rope over the edge of
                                            servicing dealer.
                                                                                            the guide bushing.
                                            STIHL recommends that you have
                                                                                        N   Do not pull out the rope more than
                                            servicing and repair work carried out
                                                                                            specified.
                                            exclusively by an authorized STIHL
                                            servicing dealer.                           N   Do not allow the starter grip to snap
                                                                                            back, guide it back into the housing
                                                                                            slowly – see chapter on "Starting /
                                                                                            Stopping the Engine."
                                                                                        Have a damaged starter rope replaced
                                                                                        by your dealer before it breaks
                                                                                        completely. STIHL recommends that
                                                                                        you have servicing and repair work
                                                                                        carried out exclusively by an authorized
                                                                                        STIHL servicing dealer.

22                                                                                             FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C
English

                                                                                                    Adjusting nylon line
Storing the Machine                          Maintaining the Mowing
                                             Head
                                                                                                    STIHL AutoCut
For periods of about 3 months or longer
                                             Placing power tool on the ground
N   Drain and clean the fuel tank in a
    well ventilated area.
N   Dispose of fuel properly in
    accordance with local
    environmental requirements.
N   Run the engine until the carburetor
    is dry – this helps prevent the

                                                                                      546BA016 KN
    carburetor diaphragms sticking
    together.                                                                                                       2
N   Remove, clean and inspect the
    cutting attachment. Coat metal           N   Switch off the engine.
    cutting attachments with corrosion       N   Lay your trimmer on its back with                           1
    inhibitor.                                   the loop handle and shroud pointing
                                                 down and the output shaft facing up.

                                                                                                                                                 232BA007 KN
N   Thoroughly clean the machine – pay
    special attention to the cylinder fins
    and air filter.                          Replacing nylon line
N   Store the machine in a dry and
    secure location – out of the reach of    Always check the mowing head for signs                 N   Hold the rotating mowing head
    children and other unauthorized          of wear before replacing the nylon line.                   above the ground – tap it on the
    persons.                                                                                            ground once – about 3 cm (1.2 in) of
                                                                                                        fresh line is advanced.
                                                  WARNING
                                                                                                    N   The blade (1) on the deflector (2)
                                             If there are signs of serious wear,
                                                                                                        trims surplus line to the correct
                                             replace the complete mowing head.
                                                                                                        length – avoid tapping the mowing
                                             The nylon mowing line is referred to as                    head more than once at a time.
                                             "nylon line" or "line" in the following.
                                                                                                    Line feed operates only if both lines still
                                             The mowing head is supplied with                       have a minimum length of 2.5 cm (1 in).
                                             illustrated instructions for replacing the
                                                                                                    If the line is shorter than 2.5 cm (1 in):
                                             nylon line. Keep the instructions for the
                                             mowing head in a safe place.
                                                                                                         WARNING
                                             N   If necessary, remove the mowing
                                                 head.                                              To reduce the risk of injury, always shut
                                                                                                    off the engine before adjusting the
                                                                                                    mowing line by hand.

FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C                                                                                                               23
English

N    Turn the machine over.                                                                          Assembling the mowing head
N    Press down the cap on the spool as
     far as stop.
                                                              1
N    Pull the ends of the lines out of the
     spool.
If the spool is empty, refill with nylon line.
                                                         2                                                                         4
All other mowing heads
Refer to the instructions supplied with                                                                       2
the mowing head.
                                                     3

                                                          S
                                                          ch
     WARNING

                                                             nur
                                                                 /L
                                                                   IN
                                                                      E
                                                                          1
To reduce the risk of injury, always shut

                                                                                                               S
                                                                                                               ch
                                                                                                                  nur
                                                                                                                      /L
                                                                                                                        IN
                                                                                                                           E
off the engine before adjusting the

                                                                                                                               1
                                                                                       681BA021 KN
mowing line by hand.

                                                                                                                                             681BA022 KN
Replacing nylon line
                                                 N   Hold the mowing head steady and
                                                     rotate the cap (1) counterclockwise
STIHL FixCut                                                                                         N   Fit the empty spool in the mowing
                                                     until it can be removed.
                                                                                                         head.
                                                 N   Pull the spool (2) out of the mowing
     WARNING                                                                                         If the spring (4) has popped out:
                                                     head (3) and remove the remaining
To reduce the risk of injury, always shut            line.                                           N   push it into the spool (2) until it
off the engine before refilling the mowing                                                               engages in position with an audible
head.                                                                                                    click.
N    Fit nylon line in mowing head as                                                                N   Mount the mowing head – see
     described in the instructions                                                                       "Mounting the Mowing Head".
     supplied.

STIHL AutoCut C 5-2

Disassembling the mowing head and
removing remaining nylon line
In normal operation, the supply of nylon
line in the head is used up almost
completely.

24                                                                                                          FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C
English

Winding line onto spool                                                                                                    STIHL AutoCut 5-2

                                                                                                                           Removing remaining nylon line

                                2
                                    E
                                      IN
                                    /L       r
                                           nu
                                         ch
                                        S
     3
                            2
           S
            ch
              nu
                r
               /L
                 IN
                    E

                                                                                             Schnur/LINE 2
                        1

                                                                         Schnur/LINE 1
                                                                                                                                              1
                                                                                                                                                     2
         3
              5

                                                                                                             681BA024 KN
                                                 681BA023 KN

                                                               N   Hold the mowing head steady.

                                                                                                                                                                  681BA008 KN
N   Use green-coded nylon line with a                          N   Rotate the spool counterclockwise
    diameter of 2.0 mm (0.08 in).                                  until the shortest line is about 10 cm
                                                                   (4 in).
N   Cut two 2 m (6ft 6in) lengths of
                                                                                                                           N   Open the mowing head – hold it
    nylon line from the reel (special                          N   If necessary, cut the longer line to a
                                                                                                                               steady with one hand and turn the
    accessory).                                                    length of about 10 cm (4 in).
                                                                                                                               cap (1) counterclockwise.
N   Rotate the spool (2)                                       The mowing head is now full.
                                                                                                                           N   Disengage the spool (2), take it out
    counterclockwise until the two arrow
                                                                                                                               of the mowing head and remove the
    points are in alignment.
                                                                                                                               remaining line.
N   Push the straight end of each line
    through one sleeve (5) in the                                                                                          Winding line onto spool
    mowing head (3) until you feel a                                                                                       A prewound spool (special accessory)
    noticeable resistance – and then                                                                                       may be used as an alternative to the
    continue pushing as far as stop.                                                                                       following procedure.

FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C                                                                                                                                  25
English

                   3
                                                                                                                                           2
     4

                    3
                                                            5
                                                                                                                                                     6
                                                                                           5
                                                                                                                                               7

                                          681BA009 KN

                                                                                                                                                         681BA011 KN
                                                                                                  681BA010 KN
                                                                                                                     6

N    Use green-coded nylon line with a                  N   Straighten out the nylon lines and                  N   Thread the ends of the lines (6)
     diameter of 2.0 mm (0.08 in).                          wind them tightly on to the spool –                     through the sleeves (7) and push
                                                            one nylon line in each chamber.                         the spool (2) into the head so that it
N    Cut two 3 m (9ft 9in) lengths of
                                                                                                                    snaps into position.
     nylon line from the reel (special                  N   Engage the ends of the lines in the
     accessory).                                            notches (2).                                        The nylon lines must disengage from the
                                                                                                                notches (5) as the spool is pushed into
N    Insert the ends of each line (3) in the            Assembling the mowing head                              position.
     holes (4) in the spool.
                                                                                                                N   Pull out the ends of the lines as far
N    Bend the ends of the lines over the
                                                             NOTICE                                                 as stop.
     edge of the holes to form a hook.
                                                        Check that the spring is installed (see                 N   Mount the mowing head on the
                                                        "Mounting the Mowing Head").                                machine.

                                                                                                                Replacing Cutting Blades

                                                                                                                STIHL PolyCut
                                                                                                                Always check the mowing head for signs
                                                                                                                of wear before installing new cutting
                                                                                                                blades.

26                                                                                                                       FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C
English

     WARNING
If there are signs of serious wear,
replace the complete mowing head.
The thermoplastic cutting blades are
referred to as "blades" in the following.
The mowing head is supplied with
illustrated instructions for replacing the
blades. Keep the instructions for the
mowing head in a safe place.

     WARNING
To reduce the risk of injury, always shut
off the engine before installing the
blades.
N   Remove the mowing head.
N   Replace blades as shown in the
    illustrated instructions.
N   Mount the mowing head on the
    machine.

FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C                   27
English

Maintenance and Care

The following intervals apply to normal operating conditions only. If your daily work-

                                                                                                                after finishing work or daily
ing time is longer or operating conditions are difficult (very dusty work area, etc.),

                                                                                                                                                after each refueling stop
shorten the specified intervals accordingly.

                                                                                         before starting work

                                                                                                                                                                                               every 12 months

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           as required
                                                                                                                                                                                                                              if damaged
                                                                                                                                                                                                                 if problem
                                                                                                                                                                                     monthly
                                                                                                                                                                            weekly
                                            Visual inspection (condition, leaks)                    X                                                         X
Complete machine
                                            Clean                                                                                X

Control handle                              Check operation                                         X                                                         X

                                            Clean                                                                                                                                                                     X                          X
Air filter
                                            Replace                                                                                                                                                                                X

                                            Check                                                   X
Manual fuel pump (if fitted)
                                            Have repaired by servicing dealer1)                                                                                                                                                    X

                                            Check                                                                                                                                                                     X
Pickup body in fuel tank
                                            Replace                                                                                                                                                    X                           X             X

Fuel tank                                   Clean                                                                                                                                                                     X                          X

                                            Check idle adjustment – the cutting
                                                                                                    X                                                         X
Carburetor                                  attachment must not rotate

                                            Readjust idle                                                                                                                                                                                        X

                                            Readjust electrode gap                                                                                                                                                    X
Spark plug
                                            Replace after every 100 operating hours

                                            Visual inspection                                                                    X
Cooling inlets
                                            Clean                                                                                                                                                                                                X

All accessible screws and nuts (not adjust-
                                            Retighten                                                                                                                                                                                            X
ing screws)

                                            Visual inspection                                       X                                                         X

Cutting attachment                          Replace                                                                                                                                                                                X

                                            Check tightness                                         X                                                         X

Safety labels                               Replace                                                                                                                                                                                X
1)
       STIHL recommends an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

28                                                                                                                                                                                    FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C
English

                                             servicing dealer. STIHL dealers are          –   Rewind starter
Minimize Wear and Avoid                      regularly given the opportunity to attend
Damage                                                                                    –   Spark plug
                                             training courses and are supplied with
                                             the necessary technical information.
Observing the instructions in this manual
helps reduce the risk of unnecessary         If these maintenance operations are not
wear and damage to the power tool.           carried out as specified, the user
                                             assumes responsibility for any damage
The power tool must be operated,
                                             that may occur. Among other parts, this
maintained and stored with the due care
                                             includes:
and attention described in this owner's
manual.                                      –   Damage to the engine due to
                                                 neglect or deficient maintenance
The user is responsible for all damage
                                                 (e.g. air and fuel filters), incorrect
caused by non-observance of the safety
                                                 carburetor adjustment or
precautions, operating and maintenance
                                                 inadequate cleaning of cooling air
instructions in this manual. This includes
                                                 inlets (intake ports, cylinder fins).
in particular:
                                             –   Corrosion and other consequential
–   Alterations or modifications to the
                                                 damage resulting from improper
    product not approved by STIHL.
                                                 storage.
–   Using tools or accessories which
                                             –   Damage to the machine resulting
    are neither approved or suitable for
                                                 from the use of poor quality
    the product or are of a poor quality.
                                                 replacement parts.
–   Using the product for purposes for
    which it was not designed.               Parts Subject to Wear and Tear
–   Using the product for sports or
    competitive events.                      Some parts of the power tool are subject
–   Consequential damage caused by           to normal wear and tear even during
    continuing to use the product with       regular operation in accordance with
    defective components.                    instructions and, depending on the type
                                             and duration of use, have to be replaced
Maintenance Work                             in good time. Among other parts, this
                                             includes:

All the operations described in the          –   Cutting attachments (all types)
"Maintenance Chart" must be performed        –   Mounting hardware for cutting
on a regular basis. If these maintenance         attachments (rider plate, nut, etc.)
operations cannot be performed by the
                                             –   Deflectors for cutting attachments
owner, they should be performed by a
servicing dealer.                            –   Clutch
STIHL recommends that you have               –   Filters (air, fuel)
servicing and repair work carried out
exclusively by an authorized STIHL

FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C                                                                                     29
English

Main Parts

                                                                           1    Loop handle
                                                                           2    Carrying ring
                                                         9                 3    Stop switch
          1                                                                4    Throttle trigger lockout
                                           6                               5    Throttle trigger
                         3       4                  8                      6    Carburetor adjusting screws
                     2                     7
                                                                           7    Choke lever
                                                                           8    Air filter cover
                                                                           9    Spark plug boot
                             5
                                                        10                 10   Machine support
                                                    #                      11   Manual fuel pump
                                                                           12   Tank cap
                                                                           13   Tank
                                                                           14   Starter grip
                                          19                               15   Muffler
            11 14                                                          16   Mowing head
                                                                           17   Line limiting blade
          12
                                                                           18   Deflector
                                               18                          19   Drive tube
                    15                                                     #    Serial number
          13
                                                    17
                                                             546BA015 KN
                                     16

30                                                                                 FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C
English

                                            Fuel System                                Sound pressure level Lp to ISO 22868
Specifications
                                                                                       FS 40, FS 40 C:             94 dB(A)
                                            All position diaphragm carburetor with
                                                                                       FS 50, FS 50 C:             93 dB(A)
Engine                                      integral fuel pump
                                                                                       Sound power level Lw to ISO 22868
                                            Fuel tank capacity:      340 cc (0.34 l)
Single cylinder two-stroke engine                                                      FS 40, FS 40 C:             107 dB(A)
                                            Weight                                     FS 50, FS 50 C:             108 dB(A)
FS 40, FS 40 C
                                                                                       Vibration measurement ahv,eq to
Displacement:            27.2 cc            Dry, without cutting attachment and        ISO 22867
Bore:                    34 mm              deflector
Stroke:                  30 mm              FS 40:                      4.4 kg                         Handle,     Handle,
Engine power to          0.7 kW (1 bhp)     FS 40 C with ErgoStart:     4.5 kg                         left        right
ISO 8893                 at 8,500 rpm       FS 50:                      4.4 kg         FS 40, FS 40 C: 7.0 m/s2    6.4 m/s2
Idle speed:              2,800 rpm          FS 50: with long shaft:     4.5 kg         FS 50, FS 50 C: 6.0 m/s2    5.7 m/s2
Cut-off speed (rated):   10,000 rpm         FS 50 C with ErgoStart:     4.5 kg         The K-factor in accordance with
Max. output shaft                           FS 50 C with ErgoStart and                 Directive 2006/42/EC is 2.5 dB(A) for
speed (cutting                                        long shaft:       4.6 kg         the sound pressure level and sound
attachment):             10,600 rpm                                                    power level; the K-factor in accordance
                                            Dimensions                                 with Directive 2006/42/EC is 2.0 m/s2
FS 50, FS 50 C                                                                         for the vibration measurement.

Displacement:            27.2 cc                                                       REACH
                                            without cutting attachment
Bore:                    34 mm
                                            FS 40:                       1450 mm
Stroke:                  30 mm
                                            FS 40 C with ErgoStart:      1450 mm       REACH is an EC regulation and stands
Engine power to          0.8 kW (1.1 bhp)                                              for the Registration, Evaluation,
                                            FS 50:                       1450 mm
ISO 8893                 at 8,500 rpm                                                  Authorisation and Restriction of
                                            FS 50: with long shaft:      1650 mm
Idle speed:              2,800 rpm                                                     Chemical substances.
                                            FS 50 C with ErgoStart:      1450 mm
Cut-off speed (rated):   10,000 rpm                                                    For information on compliance with the
                                            FS 50 C with ErgoStart and
Max. output shaft                                                                      REACH regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006
                                                     long shaft:         1650 mm
speed (cutting                                                                         see www.stihl.com/reach.
attachment):             10,600 rpm
                                            Noise and Vibration Data
Ignition System
                                            Noise and vibration data measurements
                                            include idling and rated maximum speed
Electronic magneto ignition
                                            with the same duration of exposure.
Spark plug (resistor                        For further details on compliance with
type):                   NGK CMR 6 H        Vibration Directive 2002/44/EC see
Electrode gap:           0.5 mm             www.stihl.com/vib.

FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C                                                                                                31
English

Maintenance and Repairs                     Disposal                                             EC Declaration of Conformity

Users of this machine may only carry out    Observe all country-specific waste                   ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG
the maintenance and service work            disposal rules and regulations.                      Badstr. 115
described in this user manual. All other                                                         D-71336 Waiblingen
repairs must be carried out by a
                                                                                                 confirms that the product described
servicing dealer.
                                                                                                 below
STIHL recommends that you have
servicing and repair work carried out                                                            Category:                Trimmer
exclusively by an authorized STIHL                                                               Make:                    STIHL

                                                                                   000BA073 KN
servicing dealer. STIHL dealers are                                                              Model:                   FS 40
regularly given the opportunity to attend
                                                                                                                          FS 40 C
training courses and are supplied with
the necessary technical information.                                                                                      FS 40 C-E
                                            STIHL products must not be thrown in                                          FS 50
When repairing the machine, only use        the garbage can. Take the product,
replacement parts which have been                                                                                         FS 50-L
                                            accessories and packaging to an
approved by STIHL for this power tool or    approved disposal site for environment-                                       FS 50 C
are technically identical. Only use high-   friendly recycling.                                                           FS 50 C-E
quality replacement parts in order to                                                                                     FS 50 C-E L
                                            Contact your STIHL servicing dealer for
avoid the risk of accidents and damage
                                            the latest information on waste disposal.            Serial identification:   4144
to the machine.
                                                                                                 Displacement:            27.2 cm3
STIHL recommends the use of original
STIHL replacement parts.                                                                         conforms to the provisions of Directives
                                                                                                 2006/42/EC, 2004/108/EC and
Original STIHL parts can be identified by                                                        2000/14/EC and has been developed
the STIHL part number, the {                                                                     and manufactured in compliance with
logo and the STIHL parts symbol K                                                                the following standards in the versions
(the symbol may appear alone on small                                                            valid at the time of production:
parts).
                                                                                                 EN ISO 11806-1, EN 61000-6-1,
                                                                                                 EN 55012
                                                                                                 The measured and guaranteed sound
                                                                                                 power levels were determined according
                                                                                                 to Directive 2000/14/EC, Annex V, using
                                                                                                 the ISO 10884 standard.
                                                                                                 Measured sound power level

                                                                                                 all FS 40:               107 dB(A)
                                                                                                 all FS 50:               108 dB(A)

32                                                                                                       FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C
English

Guaranteed sound power level

all FS 40:            109 dB(A)
all FS 50:            110 dB(A)
Technical documents deposited at:
ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG
Produktzulassung (Product Licensing)
The year of manufacture and serial
number are applied to the product.
Done at Waiblingen, 15.08.2014
ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG

Thomas Elsner
Director Group Product Management

FS 40, FS 40 C, FS 50, FS 50 C             33
0458-546-0121-D
englisch
G

www.stihl.com

                  *04585460121D*
                     0458-546-0121-D
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