STIHL FE 55 Electric Trimmer Manual

The STIHL FE 55 is a lightweight, easy-to-handle electric trimmer designed for domestic garden maintenance. It features a powerful electric motor, adjustable telescopic shaft, ergonomic handles, automatic line feed, and a robust cutting head for trimming grass and weeds. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Installation 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Attachments & Accessories 7. Operating Instructions 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electric motor, Telescopic shaft, Ergonomic front and rear handles, Automatic line feed (AutoCut C 5-2) cutting head, Power cord with strain relief, Safety guard.

Feature	Description
Electric Motor	Powerful 550W motor for efficient trimming
Telescopic Shaft	Adjustable length for user comfort
AutoCut C 5-2 Head	Automatic line feed for continuous cutting
Ergonomic Handles	D-shaped rear handle and loop handle for control
Safety Guard	Protects user from debris
Power Cord	With strain relief to prevent disconnection
Weight	Lightweight design for easy handling
Trigger Switch	With safety lock-off to prevent accidental start
Line Spool	Easy to replace, uses 2mm diameter line
Vibration Damping	Reduces user fatigue during operation

Assembly & Installation

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.

Attach shaft: Connect upper and lower shaft sections; tighten locking mechanism.
Install handle: Slide front handle onto shaft and secure with provided screws.
Attach cutting head: Align head with drive shaft and twist to lock into place.
Install safety guard: Secure guard to shaft above cutting head.
Check power cord: Ensure cord and strain relief are undamaged.

WARNING! Always disconnect from power before assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tight.

First-Time Operation

Before first use, read all safety instructions. Prepare work area.

Adjust shaft length: Loosen adjustment collar, extend to comfortable length, retighten.
Load cutting line: Follow instructions in manual to spool new line into head.
Power connection: Plug into grounded 120V outlet. Ensure cord is routed safely.
Test operation: Press safety lock-off, then squeeze trigger to start motor briefly.
Adjust handle position: Rotate to most comfortable angle for trimming.

CAUTION! Wear safety glasses, long pants, and sturdy shoes. Keep cord clear of cutting area.

Specifications

Power: 550W electric motor.
Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz.
Cutting Width: Approx. 14 inches.
Line Diameter: 2.0 mm (0.08 in).
Shaft: Telescopic, adjustable length.
Weight: Approx. 5.1 lbs (2.3 kg).
Sound Pressure: < 85 dB(A).
Vibration: Low vibration design.
Cutting Head: STIHL AutoCut C 5-2.
Warranty: Limited 2-year warranty.

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on rear handle. Front handle for guidance and stability.

Rear Handle: Trigger switch with lock-off button. Must press lock-off before squeezing trigger to start motor.

Shaft Adjustment: Loosen collar, extend/retract shaft, tighten collar for desired length.

Handle Rotation: Loosen handle clamp, rotate to preferred angle, retighten.

Line Feed: Automatic (bump-and-feed). Tap head lightly on ground while running to advance fresh line.

Attachments & Accessories

Compatible with select STIHL attachments (sold separately).

PolyCut knife: For tougher weeds and grass.
Carrying strap: For reduced user fatigue.
Spare spools: Pre-wound with 2mm line.
Storage cover: For protection during storage.

Tip: Use only genuine STIHL accessories. Non-approved attachments may void warranty.

Operating Instructions

For trimming grass, weeds, and light vegetation.

Starting: Ensure area is clear. Press lock-off, squeeze trigger.
Cutting technique: Use sweeping motion side-to-side, keeping head parallel to ground.
Line feed: If line wears, tap head lightly on ground while running.
Adjusting reach: Use telescopic shaft to maintain comfortable posture.
Stopping: Release trigger. Motor stops immediately.
Avoiding obstacles: Keep head away from fences, trees, and hard surfaces.
Cord management: Always be aware of cord location; keep it behind you.
Overload protection: Motor may shut off if overloaded. Release trigger, wait 30 seconds, restart.

WARNING! Never operate without safety guard. Do not use in wet conditions.

Safety Features

Lock-off switch: Prevents accidental starting. Safety guard: Protects from debris. Overload protection: Cuts power if motor overheats. Insulated shaft: For user protection.

Care & Maintenance

Disconnect from power before any maintenance.

After each use: Clean housing and guard with dry cloth.
Inspect cutting line: Replace if worn or broken.
Check fasteners: Ensure all screws and clamps are tight.
Store properly: Keep in dry place, away from children.
Annual check: Have inspected by authorized STIHL dealer.

CAUTION! Do not use water or solvents to clean. Never immerse in liquid.

Regulatory Information

Complies with relevant safety standards. UL listed. For indoor/outdoor residential use only. Copyright © STIHL. All rights reserved. For support, visit www.stihlusa.com or contact STIHL customer service at 1-800-467-8445.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Motor does not start	No power, lock-off not pressed	Check outlet; press lock-off before trigger; check cord for damage.
Line not feeding	Empty spool, tangled line	Replace or rewind spool; ensure line is not tangled inside head.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, damaged head	Tighten all fasteners; inspect cutting head for damage.
Motor stops during use	Overload, overheating	Release trigger, wait 30 seconds; reduce cutting load.
Poor cutting performance	Dull/worn line, incorrect technique	Replace cutting line; use proper sweeping motion.

Reset: For thermal overload, wait for motor to cool.

Service: 1-800-467-8445; www.stihlusa.com. Use authorized STIHL service centers.