Stihl 55R Manual

The Stihl 55R is a professional-grade gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for demanding cutting tasks. It features a robust engine, advanced anti-vibration system, quick-stop chain brake, and ergonomic design for operator comfort and safety. Below are key sections covering safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-performance 2-stroke engine, Quickstop inertia-activated chain brake, Ergonomic front and rear handles with anti-vibration system, Side-access chain tensioner, Tool-free air filter cover, and Decompression valve for easier starting.

Feature	Description
Engine Displacement	55.5 cc
Power Output	3.5 kW (4.7 bhp)
Fuel Tank Volume	0.55 L
Oil Tank Volume	0.33 L
Recommended Bar Length	40 cm (16") - 50 cm (20")
Chain Pitch/Gauge	3/8" PM / 1.5 mm
Weight (powerhead)	6.2 kg
Ignition System	Electronic, capacitor discharge
Anti-Vibration System	Yes
Chain Brake	Inertia-activated Quickstop

Safety Information

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

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear chainsaw chaps, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toed boots.
2. Operating Area: Ensure clear work zone, stable footing, and no bystanders within 15 feet.
3. Kickback Awareness: Keep right hand on rear handle, left on front; do not cut with tip.
4. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors; use STIHL 2-stroke oil and 89+ octane gasoline. Store in approved container.

WARNING! Chainsaws are dangerous. Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death.

Assembly & First Use

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble guide bar and chain.

1. Attach Guide Bar & Chain: Place bar on studs, loop chain over sprocket and bar groove, adjust tension with side knob.
2. Fill Fluids: Add mixed fuel (50:1 ratio) to fuel tank and STIHL chain oil to oil tank.
3. Starting Procedure: Set master control lever to cold start position (choke on), pull starter rope until engine fires, move lever to warm start, pull to start.
4. Initial Run: Allow engine to warm at idle for 30 seconds before cutting.

CAUTION! Ensure chain brake is disengaged before starting. Keep saw on ground, firm grip on handles.

Specifications

• Engine Type: Single cylinder, 2-stroke, air-cooled.
• Displacement: 55.5 cc.
• Powerhead Weight: 6.2 kg (13.7 lbs).
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (STIHL 2-stroke oil).
• Idle Speed: 2,800 rpm.
• Maximum Power Speed: 9,500 rpm.
• Sound Pressure Level: 106 dB(A).
• Vibration Levels (front/rear): 4.5/2.5 m/s².
• Warranty: 1 year commercial, 2 year residential.

Controls and Components

Master Control Lever: Combines stop switch, choke, and run positions. Throttle Trigger: Located on rear handle. Throttle Trigger Lockout: Must be depressed to engage throttle. Chain Brake Lever: Front hand guard; activates manually or by inertia. Decompression Valve: Reduces cylinder pressure for easier starting. Side-Access Chain Tensioner: Tool-free adjustment knob.

Maintenance Points: Air filter cover, Spark plug, Chain oiler adjustment screw, Fuel cap, Muffler.

Operation

Starting, cutting techniques, and shutdown.

1. Starting (Cold): Engage chain brake. Set master control to cold start. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires. Move control to run position, pull to start.
2. Starting (Warm): Set control to run position, pull starter.
3. Cutting: Use full throttle when cutting. Let chain do the work; avoid forcing. For bucking, use log supports.
4. Shutdown: Release throttle, allow idle, move master control to stop position.

Tip: Maintain sharp chain and proper tension for efficient cutting and safety.

Maintenance Schedule

Daily/Before Use: Check chain tension, sharpness, and lubrication. Check air filter, fuel, and chain oil levels. Inspect for loose fasteners and damage.

Every 10 Hours: Clean air filter (replace if damaged). Check spark plug condition and gap.

Every 50 Hours: Clean cooling fins, check fuel filter, clean spark arrestor screen in muffler.

Annually: Have dealer check carburetor adjustment, anti-vibration elements, and overall condition.

WARNING! Perform maintenance only when saw is cool and spark plug wire disconnected.

Chain & Bar Care

Chain Sharpening: Use round file and guide. Maintain correct filing angle (typically 30°). File all cutters evenly.

Bar Maintenance: Clean bar groove regularly. Flip bar monthly for even wear. Lubricate sprocket nose.

Chain Tension: Correct when snug against bar but can be rotated by hand. Re-tension after initial warm-up and periodically during use.

Storage

Long-term storage (over 30 days): Drain fuel tank and run engine until it stops. Remove chain and bar, clean and oil. Store in dry, secure place.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for extended periods; fuel can degrade and damage carburetor.

Warranty & Support

STIHL Limited Warranty: 1 year for commercial use, 2 years for residential use from date of purchase. Proof of purchase required. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. For service, contact an authorized STIHL dealer. For support, visit www.stihlusa.com or call 1-800-467-8445.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No fuel, flooded, spark plug	Check fuel; move control to run, pull starter with throttle open; check/replace spark plug.
Engine starts then dies	Clogged air/fuel filter, carburetor	Clean/replace air filter; check fuel filter; may need carb adjustment.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, muffler screen, dull chain	Clean air filter and spark arrestor screen; sharpen chain.
Chain does not turn	Brake engaged, clutch, sprocket	Disengage chain brake; check clutch drum and sprocket for wear.
Excessive vibration	Loose components, damaged AV mounts	Tighten all fasteners; inspect anti-vibration elements.
Chain not oiling	Empty oil tank, clogged oil passages	Fill oil tank; clean oil holes in bar; check oiler pump.

Dealer Service: For complex issues, take to authorized STIHL dealer.

Support: 1-800-467-8445; www.stihlusa.com