Stihl FS 55 RC Manual: A Comprehensive Guide
This manual provides detailed instructions for the Stihl FS 55 RC trimmer, covering adjustments, maintenance, troubleshooting, and safe operation for optimal performance․
The Stihl FS 55 RC is a popular, lightweight gasoline-powered string trimmer designed for residential use and maintaining smaller lawns and gardens․ Known for its reliable two-stroke engine and ease of use, this model offers a balance of power and maneuverability․ This manual serves as a comprehensive resource for owners, detailing everything from initial setup and safe operating procedures to routine maintenance and troubleshooting common issues․
Understanding the features and proper care of your FS 55 RC will ensure years of efficient and dependable performance, maximizing its lifespan and minimizing potential problems․ Always prioritize safety when operating this powerful tool․
Safety Precautions and Warnings
Operating the Stihl FS 55 RC requires strict adherence to safety guidelines․ Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including eye protection, hearing protection, sturdy footwear, and long pants․ Never operate the trimmer with missing or damaged guards․ Be aware of your surroundings and keep bystanders, especially children and pets, at a safe distance․
Inspect the trimmer before each use, ensuring all components are securely fastened․ Avoid operating on slippery surfaces or in poor visibility․ Always shut off the engine before making any adjustments or repairs․ Fueling should be done outdoors in a well-ventilated area․
Understanding the Components
The Stihl FS 55 RC consists of several key components working in unison․ These include a two-stroke engine providing power, a robust gearbox transmitting that power to the cutting head, and the cutting head itself – accepting various attachments like trimmer line or blades․ The fuel tank houses the gasoline-oil mixture, while the air filter protects the engine from debris․
The throttle control manages engine speed, and the on/off switch controls operation․ A comfortable harness distributes weight, and the handles provide control during use․ Familiarizing yourself with each part is crucial for safe and effective operation․
Engine Overview
The Stihl FS 55 RC is powered by a compact, lightweight 27․2cc two-stroke engine․ This engine is designed for efficient fuel consumption and reliable performance․ It features a carburetor that mixes air and fuel for combustion, and a spark plug ignites the mixture․ A recoil starter initiates the engine, while a muffler reduces exhaust noise․
The engine’s design prioritizes ease of maintenance, with accessible components for inspection and repair․ Proper fuel mixing and air filter cleaning are vital for maintaining optimal engine health and longevity․ Regular checks ensure consistent power output․
Cutting Head and Accessories
The Stihl FS 55 RC utilizes a robust AutoCut C 6-2 cutting head, designed for efficient grass and weed trimming․ This head employs nylon trimmer line, automatically advancing as needed during operation․ Various optional accessories are available, including grass blades and brush cutter blades, expanding the trimmer’s versatility․
Proper line replacement and head maintenance are crucial for optimal cutting performance․ Always inspect the line for wear and replace it promptly․ Using genuine Stihl accessories ensures compatibility and safety․ Guard installation is essential to protect the operator from debris․
Fuel System Breakdown
The Stihl FS 55 RC employs a stratified scavenging two-stroke engine, requiring a precise fuel mixture of gasoline and high-quality two-stroke oil․ The fuel tank capacity is 0․75 liters․ The system includes a fuel filter to prevent debris from reaching the carburetor, ensuring smooth operation․
A manual fuel pump primes the carburetor before starting․ Proper fuel mixing ratios (typically 50:1) are critical for engine longevity and performance․ Always use fresh fuel and avoid ethanol-blended fuels when possible․ Regular fuel filter replacement is essential for optimal engine health․
Assembly and Initial Setup
Before first use, carefully assemble the Stihl FS 55 RC․ This involves attaching the handle securely, ensuring all bolts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications․ Next, connect the harness, adjusting the straps for a comfortable and secure fit․
Prepare the fuel mixture according to the recommended 50:1 ratio of two-stroke oil and gasoline․ Carefully fill the fuel tank, avoiding spills․ Double-check all connections and ensure the trimmer is balanced before proceeding to initial operation and testing․
Attaching the Handle and Harness
Properly attaching the handle is crucial for control․ Align the handle components and secure them with the provided bolts, tightening firmly but avoiding over-tightening․ The harness distributes weight, reducing fatigue․ Adjust the shoulder straps and waist belt for a snug, comfortable fit․
Ensure the harness connects securely to the trimmer, allowing free movement while maintaining stability․ Regularly inspect the harness for wear and tear, replacing damaged parts immediately for continued safe operation and user comfort during extended use․
Fuel Mixing and Filling
The Stihl FS 55 RC requires a precise fuel mixture of gasoline and 2-stroke engine oil․ Use a high-quality 2-stroke oil specifically designed for air-cooled engines, adhering to the recommended ratio (typically 50:1 – check your manual!)․ Thoroughly mix the fuel and oil in a clean container before pouring it into the fuel tank․
Avoid spilling fuel and always use a funnel․ Never use straight gasoline! Ensure the fuel cap is securely tightened after filling to prevent leaks and maintain optimal engine performance․ Store fuel in an approved container, away from heat sources․
Adjusting the Harness for Comfort
Proper harness adjustment is crucial for comfortable and efficient operation of the Stihl FS 55 RC․ Begin by loosening all straps․ Position the harness over your shoulders, ensuring the padded sections rest comfortably․ Tighten the shoulder straps to distribute the weight evenly, avoiding excessive pressure․
Adjust the waist belt to provide additional support and stability․ The trimmer should feel balanced and secure, minimizing strain during prolonged use․ Regularly check and readjust the harness as needed to maintain optimal comfort and prevent fatigue․
Operating Instructions
Before operating the Stihl FS 55 RC, ensure a clear and safe work area․ Always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection and hearing protection․ Familiarize yourself with all controls and safety features․ For a cold start, prime the carburetor, set the choke, and pull the starter cord firmly․ Once running, disengage the choke․
A warm start typically requires only a pull of the starter cord, without priming or choking․ Maintain a firm grip and a stable stance while trimming, moving in a smooth, controlled manner․
Starting the Engine – Cold Start
To initiate a cold start on your Stihl FS 55 RC, first, ensure the trimmer is on a flat, stable surface․ Press the primer bulb several times until fuel is visible․ Then, engage the choke lever – this enriches the fuel mixture for easier ignition․ Firmly grasp the starter handle and pull the cord with a swift, controlled motion․
Repeat this pulling action until the engine attempts to start․ Once it sputters, gradually disengage the choke, allowing the engine to warm up and stabilize․
Starting the Engine – Warm Start
When starting a warm engine on your Stihl FS 55 RC, the procedure differs slightly from a cold start․ Do not engage the choke lever․ Instead, set the throttle to the starting position – typically a halfway point․ Firmly grasp the starter handle and pull the cord with a smooth, deliberate motion․
The engine should ignite with minimal effort due to the retained heat․ If it fails to start after a few pulls, briefly engage the choke and repeat the starting process․ Avoid excessive pulling, which could flood the engine․
Proper Trimming Techniques
Employing correct techniques with your Stihl FS 55 RC ensures efficient and safe trimming․ Maintain a slight angle when trimming, moving the trimmer head in a sweeping arc rather than directly into the growth․ Avoid forcing the trimmer; let the cutting head do the work․
When trimming around obstacles, proceed cautiously․ Use the guard to protect surfaces from accidental contact․ Regularly clear accumulated debris from the cutting head to maintain optimal performance and prevent strain on the engine․ Always wear appropriate safety gear․
Maintenance and Care
Consistent maintenance is crucial for extending the life and performance of your Stihl FS 55 RC․ Regularly inspect all components for wear or damage․ Prioritize cleaning the air filter after each use, or more frequently in dusty conditions, to ensure proper engine function․
Check the fuel filter periodically and replace it as needed․ Inspect the spark plug and replace it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations․ Proper storage, especially during winter, is vital for preventing fuel degradation and corrosion․
Air Filter Cleaning and Replacement
Maintaining a clean air filter is paramount for optimal engine performance․ After each use, or more frequently in dusty environments, remove the air filter cover․ Gently tap the filter to dislodge loose debris, or use low-pressure compressed air, blowing from the inside out․
If the filter is heavily soiled or damaged, replace it with a new Stihl-approved filter․ A clogged air filter restricts airflow, leading to reduced power and potential engine damage․ Regular inspection and cleaning are key to longevity․
Spark Plug Inspection and Replacement
Regular spark plug inspection ensures reliable engine ignition․ Disconnect the spark plug wire before inspection․ Remove the spark plug using a Stihl spark plug wrench․ Examine the electrode for fouling, wear, or damage․ A properly functioning spark plug exhibits a light tan or gray color․
If the plug is excessively worn, fouled with carbon, or damaged, replace it with a new Stihl-recommended spark plug․ Ensure the new plug is gapped correctly according to the manual’s specifications before installation, promoting efficient combustion․
Fuel Filter Replacement
A clean fuel filter is crucial for consistent engine performance․ Locate the fuel filter within the fuel tank, typically accessible via a small cap․ Before removal, ensure the fuel tank is partially full to minimize air intake․ Carefully remove the fuel filter and discard it responsibly․
Install a new, genuine Stihl fuel filter, ensuring proper seating and a secure fit․ Reattach the fuel filter cap tightly to prevent fuel leaks and contamination․ Regularly replacing the fuel filter—every 50-100 operating hours—maintains optimal fuel delivery․
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Encountering problems with your Stihl FS 55 RC? A frequent issue is a failure to start, often due to a fouled spark plug or stale fuel․ Rough running or stalling can indicate a dirty air filter or carburetor needing adjustment․ Loss of power during operation may signal a clogged fuel filter or a worn spark plug․
Always check fuel quality and ensure proper mixing ratios․ Inspect the air filter and spark plug regularly․ If issues persist, consult a qualified Stihl service technician for diagnosis and repair, avoiding potential damage․
Engine Fails to Start
If your Stihl FS 55 RC engine won’t start, first verify the fuel tank isn’t empty and the fuel shut-off valve is open․ A common culprit is a fouled spark plug – remove, clean, and re-gap it․ Ensure the choke is engaged for cold starts and disengaged for warm restarts․ Check for stale fuel, which can prevent ignition․
Confirm the spark plug wire is securely connected․ If problems continue, inspect the carburetor for blockages or a need for adjustment․ A professional technician may be needed for complex issues․
Engine Runs Rough or Stalls
A rough-running or stalling Stihl FS 55 RC engine often indicates fuel system issues․ Begin by checking the air filter for dirt and debris; a clogged filter restricts airflow․ Inspect the fuel filter for blockages and replace if necessary․ Stale fuel can also cause this, so drain and refresh the fuel mixture․
Carburetor problems, like a partially clogged jet, are frequent causes․ Consider a carburetor cleaning or adjustment․ Spark plug issues can also contribute; inspect and replace if needed․
Loss of Power During Operation
Reduced power in your Stihl FS 55 RC typically points to fuel delivery or cutting head problems․ First, verify the air filter isn’t clogged, restricting airflow to the engine․ A dirty fuel filter or stale fuel mixture can starve the engine, causing power loss․ Inspect the spark plug for fouling or damage, replacing it if necessary․
Examine the cutting head for excessive wear or damage, and ensure it’s properly attached․ Carburetor issues can also contribute; cleaning or adjustment may be required to restore optimal performance․
Carburetor Adjustment
Proper carburetor adjustment is crucial for the Stihl FS 55 RC’s performance․ Locate the high and low-speed adjustment screws – typically marked ‘H’ and ‘L’ – on the carburetor․ Begin with the engine warmed up․ Adjust the ‘L’ screw for smooth idling, then the ‘H’ screw for maximum engine speed without surging․
Fine-tune both screws for optimal responsiveness․ Incorrect settings can lead to poor fuel economy, difficult starting, or engine damage․ Refer to the technical specifications for factory settings as a starting point․
Identifying High and Low Speed Screws
Locating the carburetor adjustment screws on your Stihl FS 55 RC is the first step․ The low-speed screw, often marked ‘L’ or ‘Idle’, controls the fuel-air mixture at idle and low engine speeds․ The high-speed screw, marked ‘H’, manages the mixture at higher RPMs․
These screws are usually small and recessed․ Consult your manual’s diagram for precise locations, as placement can vary slightly․ Incorrect identification can lead to improper adjustments and engine performance issues․ Be careful not to damage the screws during identification․
Adjusting the Carburetor for Optimal Performance
Fine-tuning the carburetor ensures smooth operation and efficient fuel use․ Begin by warming up the engine․ Adjust the low-speed screw until the engine idles steadily without stalling․ Next, slowly increase the high-speed screw while briefly revving the engine, seeking the highest RPM without hesitation․
If the engine hesitates or runs rough, make small adjustments to both screws․ Remember to turn screws clockwise to decrease fuel and counterclockwise to increase it․ Always consult the manual for specific settings and proceed cautiously․
Gearbox Maintenance
Regular gearbox maintenance is crucial for the longevity of your Stihl FS 55 RC․ Every 50-100 hours of operation, or annually, the gearbox requires greasing with a Stihl-recommended lithium-based grease․ Access the gearbox by removing the gearbox housing․ Thoroughly clean old grease, inspect for metal shavings indicating wear, and apply fresh grease․
Check for excessive play or unusual noises during operation, which may signal gearbox wear․ Promptly address any issues to prevent further damage and costly repairs․ Proper lubrication minimizes friction and extends component life․
Greasing the Gearbox
To grease the FS 55 RC gearbox, begin by safely disconnecting the spark plug wire․ Remove the gearbox housing, carefully cleaning away any old, degraded grease with a suitable solvent․ Using a Stihl-approved lithium-based grease, pack the gearbox thoroughly, ensuring all internal components are coated․
Avoid overfilling, as this can cause pressure buildup․ Reinstall the gearbox housing securely․ This process, performed every 50-100 operating hours, minimizes friction, reduces wear, and ensures smooth, reliable operation of your trimmer’s power transmission․
Checking for Gearbox Wear
Regularly inspect the FS 55 RC gearbox for signs of wear․ Listen for unusual noises – grinding or clicking sounds during operation indicate potential issues․ Disconnect the spark plug and carefully check for excessive play or looseness in the gearbox components․ Examine the grease for metal shavings, a clear sign of internal damage․
If wear is detected, promptly address the problem․ Continued operation with a worn gearbox can lead to complete failure and costly repairs․ Consider professional servicing for thorough inspection and component replacement․
Chain/Head Replacement
Replacing the cutting head or chain on your Stihl FS 55 RC requires careful attention․ First, disconnect the spark plug to prevent accidental starting․ Utilize the appropriate tools to remove the retaining nut and guard․ Carefully detach the worn cutting head or chain, noting its orientation for correct reinstallation․
Install the new component, ensuring it’s securely fastened with the retaining nut․ Double-check that the guard is properly reattached․ Always use genuine Stihl replacement parts for optimal performance and safety․
Removing the Old Cutting Head/Chain
Before removing the old cutting head, disconnect the spark plug wire for safety․ Secure the trimmer head․ Use the appropriate combination wrench to loosen and remove the central retaining nut․ This nut secures the cutting head or chain to the drive shaft․
Once the nut is removed, carefully pull the old cutting head straight off the drive shaft․ Inspect the drive shaft and surrounding components for any damage or wear․ Note the position of any spacers or washers for reassembly․
Installing a New Cutting Head/Chain
Ensure the drive shaft is clean and free of debris before installation․ Carefully slide the new cutting head onto the drive shaft, aligning it correctly․ Reinstall any spacers or washers in their original positions․
Thread the central retaining nut onto the drive shaft and tighten it securely with the combination wrench․ Do not overtighten, as this could damage the threads․ Reconnect the spark plug wire․ Briefly test the trimmer to ensure the new cutting head is functioning correctly and securely attached․
Storage and Winterization
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the FS 55 RC’s longevity․ Before long-term storage, thoroughly clean the unit, removing all grass and debris․ Drain the fuel tank completely to prevent fuel degradation and carburetor issues․ Add fuel stabilizer to any remaining fuel in the tank․
Remove the spark plug and pour a tablespoon of 2-stroke engine oil into the cylinder, pull the starter cord several times to distribute the oil, then reinstall the spark plug․ Store the trimmer in a dry, secure location, away from direct sunlight․
Preparing the FS 55 RC for Long-Term Storage
To prepare your Stihl FS 55 RC for extended periods of inactivity, begin with a comprehensive cleaning, removing all accumulated debris from the cutting head, engine, and housing․ Completely drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stalls to clear the carburetor․
Introduce fuel stabilizer into the remaining fuel if complete draining isn’t possible․ Remove the spark plug and add 2-stroke oil to the cylinder for internal lubrication during storage․ Store in a dry, protected environment, shielded from extreme temperatures and humidity․
Fuel Stabilization for Winter Months
As gasoline degrades over time, especially during winter storage, utilizing a fuel stabilizer is crucial for maintaining the Stihl FS 55 RC’s engine health․ Add a commercially available fuel stabilizer to a nearly full fuel tank, following the manufacturer’s instructions precisely․
Run the engine for several minutes to ensure the stabilized fuel circulates throughout the fuel system, including the carburetor․ This prevents gum and varnish buildup, facilitating easier starting when you resume use in the spring․ Store fuel in an approved container․
Technical Specifications
The Stihl FS 55 RC boasts a 27․2 cc displacement engine, delivering a power output of 1․0 kW (1․3 hp)․ Its lightweight design results in a dry weight of approximately 5․5 kg (12․1 lbs), enhancing maneuverability․ Dimensions are carefully balanced for user comfort during extended trimming sessions․
Fuel consumption rates vary based on load and operating conditions, typically ranging from 0․8 to 1․2 liters per hour․ These specifications contribute to the FS 55 RC’s efficiency and performance, making it ideal for residential landscaping tasks․
Engine Displacement and Power
The Stihl FS 55 RC is equipped with a robust 27․2 cubic centimeter (cc) displacement engine, providing ample power for various trimming tasks․ This engine generates an output of 1․0 kilowatt (kW), which translates to approximately 1․3 horsepower (hp)․ This combination delivers a balance between power and fuel efficiency․
The engine’s design ensures reliable performance, even under demanding conditions․ It’s specifically tuned for the FS 55 RC’s intended applications, offering sufficient torque for cutting through grass and weeds effectively․
Weight and Dimensions
The Stihl FS 55 RC is designed with user comfort in mind, boasting a relatively lightweight construction․ It weighs approximately 5․5 kilograms (12․1 pounds) without the cutting attachment, making it manageable for extended use․ The overall length of the trimmer is around 1․77 meters (5․8 feet) with the standard straight shaft․
These dimensions contribute to its maneuverability and ease of handling in various landscaping scenarios․ The compact design allows for precise trimming in tight spaces, while the balanced weight distribution minimizes user fatigue․
Fuel Consumption Rates
The Stihl FS 55 RC’s fuel consumption is optimized for efficient operation, typically ranging from approximately 0․8 to 1․2 liters per hour (0․21 to 0․32 gallons per hour) depending on the load and operating conditions․ It utilizes a 50:1 fuel-to-oil ratio when mixing gasoline with Stihl two-stroke engine oil, ensuring proper lubrication and engine longevity․
Factors like trimming density and the type of cutting head used can influence fuel usage․ Regular maintenance, including a clean air filter, contributes to maintaining optimal fuel efficiency and reducing emissions․