Free Stihl FS76 Manual

The Stihl FS76 is a lightweight, professional-grade straight-shaft grass trimmer/brushcutter designed for demanding vegetation control. It features a powerful 2-stroke engine, anti-vibration system, ErgoStart™ for easy starting, a translucent fuel tank, and a versatile cutting head system. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & First Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting Attachments 7. Fuel & Lubrication 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke engine, straight shaft, ErgoStart™ system, anti-vibration handles, translucent fuel tank, and quick-release cutting head system.

FeatureDescription
Engine Type2-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled
Displacement27.2 cc
Power Output0.9 kW (1.2 bhp)
Fuel Tank Capacity0.53 liters
Weight (without cutting attachment)Approx. 5.2 kg
Starting SystemErgoStart™ (recoil starter)
Anti-Vibration SystemIntegrated dampers in handles and shaft
Shaft TypeStraight, solid drive shaft
Cutting Attachment SystemQuick-release for easy change of trimmer heads or blades
Throttle TriggerWith throttle trigger lockout for safety

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before operation. Always wear appropriate PPE.

  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, sturdy gloves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. A face shield is recommended for brushcutting.
  2. Work Area Safety: Clear work area of bystanders, pets, and obstacles. Be aware of thrown objects. Never operate in wet conditions.
  3. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors. Use only clean, fresh unleaded gasoline and STIHL 2-stroke oil at a 50:1 ratio. Store fuel in approved containers away from ignition sources.
  4. Operation: Keep firm footing. Do not operate above shoulder height. Shut off engine before adjusting or clearing debris.

WARNING! Improper use can cause serious or fatal injury. The cutting attachment continues to rotate after the throttle is released.

Assembly & First Use

Unpack all parts. Assembly requires attaching the handle, cutting attachment, and shoulder strap.

  1. Handle Attachment: Position the loop handle on the shaft as per your height and comfort. Tighten the clamping screws securely.
  2. Cutting Attachment: Ensure the engine is off. Install the chosen trimmer head or blade onto the drive shaft, following the specific instructions for the attachment. Secure with the retaining nut using the appropriate wrench.
  3. Shoulder Strap: Attach the harness or shoulder strap to the designated hooks on the unit. Adjust for a balanced, comfortable fit.
  4. Fuel Mix: Prepare a fresh fuel mixture of unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) and STIHL HP Ultra or equivalent 2-stroke oil at a 50:1 ratio. Fill the translucent tank.
  5. Starting: Place unit on a clear, flat surface. Set the master control lever to the cold start position (choke on). Press the fuel pump bulb 5-10 times. Pull the starter rope smoothly until engine fires, then move lever to run position and pull again to start.

CAUTION! Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation. Do not force attachments.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Master Control Lever: Combines stop switch, choke, and run positions. Throttle Trigger: With lockout. Throttle Trigger Lockout: Must be depressed to allow throttle operation.

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

  1. Press fuel pump bulb until fuel is visible in the clear hose.
  2. Set master control lever to cold start position (choke).
  3. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires (usually 1-3 pulls).
  4. Immediately move master control lever to run position.
  5. Pull starter rope again to start engine. Allow to warm up at idle for ~30 seconds.

Operation: Engage throttle trigger lockout, then squeeze throttle to desired speed. Use a smooth, sweeping motion when trimming. For brushcutting, use a controlled side-to-side arc.

Stopping: Release throttle and allow engine to return to idle. Move master control lever to STOP (0) position.

Cutting Attachments

Supports various trimmer heads and metal blades.

  1. Polymer Trimmer Head (Standard): For grass and light weeds. Uses monofilament line (2.0mm or 2.4mm recommended). Advance line by tapping head on ground at high idle ("Tap-n-Go").
  2. Metal Grass Blade (3-tooth): For thick grass and light brush.
  3. Circular Brush Knife (4-tooth): For heavy weeds and saplings up to approx. 1 inch diameter.
  4. Installation: Always use the correct mounting hardware, blade washer, and retaining nut. Ensure cutting direction arrow on blade matches engine rotation.

WARNING! Always shut off engine and ensure it has stopped completely before changing attachments. Inspect blades for cracks or damage before each use.

Fuel & Lubrication

Fuel Mix: Use only clean, fresh unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 89 (RON). Mix with a high-quality 2-stroke engine oil meeting STIHL HP Ultra specification at a 50:1 ratio (2% oil). Example: 5 liters gasoline to 0.1 liters oil.

Mixing Instructions:

  1. Add half the gasoline to an approved fuel can.
  2. Add the full amount of oil.
  3. Add the remaining gasoline.
  4. Close can and shake thoroughly.

Gearbox Lubrication: The gearbox at the end of the shaft is filled with grease at the factory. Check periodically for leaks. Regrease annually or after every 50 hours of operation using STIHL gearbox grease.

CAUTION! Never use automotive oil, dirty gasoline, or fuel older than 30 days. Do not mix oil directly in the machine's fuel tank.

Maintenance Schedule

ComponentBefore Each UseEvery 25 HoursEvery 50 Hours / Season
Air FilterCheck, clean if dirtyClean thoroughlyReplace if damaged/worn
Spark PlugCheck conditionClean electrode, check gap (0.5mm)Replace
Fuel Filter--Replace
Spark Arrestor Screen (Muffler)-Check, clean with brushReplace if clogged/damaged
GearboxCheck for damage/leaks-Regrease
Cutting AttachmentInspect for wear/damage, check tightnessSharpen metal bladesReplace worn parts
External Screws/NutsCheck tightnessTighten as needed-

Note: More frequent maintenance may be required under severe conditions.

Storage

Short-Term (Less than 30 days): Store in a dry, secure location out of reach of children.

Long-Term (Winterization):

  1. Run the engine until the fuel tank is empty to prevent gum formation in the carburetor.
  2. Remove spark plug and pour about 1 teaspoon of 2-stroke oil into the cylinder. Pull starter rope slowly 2-3 times to distribute oil, then reinstall plug.
  3. Thoroughly clean the entire unit, especially the cooling fins, air filter, and cutting attachment.
  4. Store in a dry, frost-free place, preferably covered.

CAUTION! Never store the unit with fuel in the tank indoors or in an enclosed space due to fire and fume hazards.

Warranty Information

STIHL products are backed by a limited warranty. The specific terms and duration vary by country/region. Proof of purchase from an authorized STIHL dealer is required for warranty service.

What is Covered: Defects in material and workmanship under normal use and maintenance.

What is Not Covered: Damage from misuse, neglect, improper fuel, unauthorized modifications, or lack of maintenance. Normal wear items (spark plugs, filters, cutting line, etc.) are not covered.

To Obtain Service: Contact the authorized STIHL dealer where the product was purchased or your local STIHL service center. For support in the USA, visit www.stihlusa.com or contact 1-800-467-8445.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not start1. No fuel
2. Flooded engine
3. Spark plug faulty
4. Choke position wrong
5. Air filter clogged
1. Check fuel level, mix.
2. Move control to run, hold throttle open, pull starter many times.
3. Check/replace spark plug.
4. Use choke for cold start only.
5. Clean/replace air filter.
Engine starts but dies1. Fuel filter clogged
2. Carburetor adjustment
3. Vent in fuel cap blocked
1. Replace fuel filter.
2. Have dealer adjust carburetor.
3. Clean fuel cap vent.
Loss of power1. Dirty air filter
2. Spark arrestor screen clogged
3. Old/dirty fuel
1. Clean air filter.
2. Clean spark arrestor screen.
3. Drain and replace with fresh fuel mix.
Excessive vibration1. Cutting attachment unbalanced/damaged
2. Loose mounting bolts
3. Bent drive shaft
1. Inspect and replace damaged blade/head.
2. Tighten all fasteners.
3. Contact authorized service.
Line does not advance1. Line too short
2. Line tangled in head
3. Worn trimmer head
1. Pull out more line manually.
2. Disassemble head and rewind line.
3. Replace trimmer head.

Safety First: Always disconnect the spark plug boot before performing any troubleshooting beyond basic checks.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

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