stihl fs 280 manual pdf

The STIHL FS 280 is a professional-grade, high-power brushcutter/string trimmer designed for demanding clearing and maintenance tasks. It features a powerful 2-stroke engine, robust cutting attachments, anti-vibration system, and ergonomic design for extended use. Below are key sections covering safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Instructions 3. Assembly & Preparation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Components 6. Starting & Stopping the Engine 7. Operating Instructions 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage 10. Warranty & Support 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Powerful 2-stroke engine, loop handle or bike handle options, anti-vibration system, quick-stop inertia clutch, semi-automatic choke, and compatibility with multiple cutting heads and blades.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	2-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled
Displacement	Approx. 36.3 cc
Power Output	High power for professional use
Fuel System	Diaphragm carburetor with semi-automatic choke
Ignition System	Electronic, capacitor discharge (CDI)
Starter	STIHL ErgoStart for easy pulling
Anti-Vibration System	Integrated dampers in handle and shaft
Cutting Attachments	Accepts trimmer heads, circular blades, brush knives
Shaft	Solid or flexible drive shaft
Handle System	Loop handle or bike handle options

Safety Instructions

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

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, sturdy boots, long pants, and close-fitting clothing.
Work Area Safety: Keep bystanders and pets at least 50 feet away. Clear area of debris like stones and wire.
Fuel Safety: Refuel outdoors, with engine off and cool. Use clean, fresh fuel mix (gasoline and STIHL 2-stroke oil).
Operation: Hold unit firmly with both hands. Be aware of kickback zone. Never operate with damaged parts.

WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death from rotating cutting attachment. Never operate without proper guards and protective equipment.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack all parts. Assemble according to instructions.

Attach Handle: Secure loop handle or bike handle to shaft as per diagram. Tighten all bolts.
Install Cutting Attachment: Ensure clutch drum is clean. Attach trimmer head or blade, secure with retaining nut using appropriate wrench. Install correct guard.
Fuel Mix: Prepare fuel mixture of unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) and STIHL 2-stroke oil at 50:1 ratio. Shake well.
Fill Fuel Tank: Clean area around cap. Fill with fuel mix. Do not overfill.

CAUTION! Ensure all fasteners are tight before starting. Use only STIHL-approved attachments and accessories.

Specifications

Engine Displacement: 36.3 cc
Powerhead Weight: Approx. 12.1 lbs (5.5 kg) without cutting attachment
Fuel Tank Capacity: Approx. 1.3 pints (0.6 liters)
Oil Tank Capacity: (If equipped with automatic bar & chain oiler) - N/A for standard FS 280 trimmer.
Sound Pressure Level: Typically 95-105 dB(A) - hearing protection required.
Vibration Level: Reduced by anti-vibration system.
Recommended Fuel/Oil Mix: 50:1 (STIHL 2-Stroke Oil)
Idle Speed: Factory set, approx. 2800 rpm
Maximum Power Speed: Approx. 9000 rpm

Controls and Components

Main Controls located on the handle and engine housing.

Handle Area: Throttle trigger with lockout, throttle trigger lock, stop switch (I/O). Engine Housing: Choke lever (for starting), fuel tank cap, primer bulb (if equipped), air filter cover, spark plug, muffler. Shaft/Drive: Clutch, drive shaft, attachment interface.

Operation: Squeeze throttle trigger lock and throttle trigger to operate. Release to idle. Press stop switch to "O" to stop engine.

Starting & Stopping the Engine

Place unit on clear, flat ground. Ensure cutting attachment is clear of obstacles.

Cold Start: Set stop switch to "I". Press fuel primer bulb 5-10 times (if equipped). Move choke lever to full choke position. Pull starter rope smoothly until engine 'fires'. Move choke lever to half-choke or run position. Pull starter rope again to start. Allow brief warm-up.
Warm Start: Stop switch at "I". Choke lever at run position. Pull starter rope.
Stopping: Release throttle. Press stop switch to "O".

Tip: Do not pull starter rope to its full extent or let handle snap back. Guide it back gently.

Operating Instructions

Use a balanced, firm stance. Swing the tool in a controlled arc from right to left (for right-handed users).

Trimming: Use monofilament line head for grass and light weeds. Maintain slight contact with ground. Avoid hitting hard objects.
Brush Cutting: Use appropriate metal blade for thick weeds, brush, and saplings up to specified diameter. Use sweeping motions.
Technique: Keep cutting attachment parallel to ground. Do not raise above waist height. Be mindful of kickback zone (upper quadrant of blade).
Fatigue Prevention: Take frequent breaks. Use harness if provided for heavier attachments.

WARNING! Never use a blade attachment without the correct blade guard installed. Watch for hidden objects.

Maintenance Schedule

Perform maintenance with engine off and spark plug disconnected.

Task	Frequency
Check/clean air filter	Daily or every 10 hours
Check fuel filter	Every 3 months or as needed
Clean spark arrestor screen (muffler)	Every 50 hours
Check spark plug	Every 50 hours, replace as needed
Clean cooling fins	Every 100 hours
Check clutch shoes	Every 100 hours or if slipping
Check/tighten all fasteners	Before each use
Gearbox grease (if equipped)	Every 25 hours of operation

Storage

For storage longer than 30 days, prepare engine to prevent fuel system damage.

Drain fuel tank completely and run engine until it stops to empty carburetor.
Remove spark plug, add a teaspoon of engine oil into cylinder, pull starter rope slowly to distribute, reinstall plug.
Clean entire unit, especially cooling fins and air filter.
Store in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.

CAUTION! Never store unit with fuel in the tank for extended periods. Old fuel can damage engine components.

Warranty & Support

STIHL Limited Warranty applies to original purchaser. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper fuel, or unauthorized repairs. For genuine parts, accessories, and service, see your authorized STIHL dealer. For support, locate your dealer at www.stihlusa.com or contact STIHL Incorporated customer service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No fuel, flooded engine, dirty air filter, faulty spark plug, choke position incorrect	Check fuel, dry plug, clean filter, check/replace spark plug, ensure correct choke procedure.
Engine starts but dies	Clogged fuel filter, dirty carburetor, faulty fuel line, air leak	Replace fuel filter, clean carburetor, inspect fuel lines, check for air leaks.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, clogged spark arrestor, carbon buildup	Clean air filter and spark arrestor screen. Decarbonize muffler/cylinder if needed.
Excessive vibration	Bent drive shaft, unbalanced/damaged blade, loose fasteners	Inspect shaft and cutting attachment. Tighten all bolts. Replace damaged parts.
Cutting attachment does not spin	Broken drive cable (flex shaft), worn clutch, engagement issue	Inspect drive cable and clutch. Replace if worn or broken.

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

Support: www.stihlusa.com - Find a Dealer. Use only STIHL-approved replacement parts.