Stihl FS 480 Manual

The Stihl FS 480 is a professional-grade, high-power brushcutter/trimmer designed for demanding clearing, maintenance, and landscaping work. It features a powerful 2-stroke engine with electronic ignition, an anti-vibration system, a harness attachment for operator comfort, a straight shaft with a gearbox, and compatibility with a wide range of cutting heads and blades. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Powerful 2-stroke engine, Straight drive shaft, Gearbox, Anti-vibration system, Harness attachment points, Throttle trigger with lockout, Stop switch, Fuel tank, Primer bulb, Air filter cover.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	2-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled
Ignition System	Electronic ignition (CDI)
Anti-Vibration System	Reduces operator fatigue during extended use
Drive Shaft	Straight solid shaft for high torque transmission
Gearbox	Heavy-duty gearbox for attaching cutting tools
Harness Attachment	D-rings for comfortable harness operation
Throttle Trigger Lockout	Prevents accidental throttle engagement
Stop Switch	Immediately stops the engine
Fuel Tank	Integrated tank for fuel/oil mixture
Primer Bulb	For easier cold starting

Safety Instructions

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

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, heavy-duty gloves, long pants, sturdy boots, and a hard hat if needed.
2. Clear Work Area: Ensure the area is clear of people, pets, and obstacles like stones or wire.
3. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors. Use only STIHL 2-stroke oil and fresh gasoline. Do not smoke near fuel.
4. Operation: Hold unit firmly with both hands. Keep bystanders at least 50 feet away.
5. Transport: Always carry with the cutting attachment pointed away from your body and others.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. The cutting tool can throw objects at high speed.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble the brushcutter and attach the cutting tool before first use.

1. Attach the Handle: Secure the loop handle to the shaft using the provided bolts and clamps.
2. Install the Harness: Connect the harness to the D-rings on the unit and adjust for a snug, comfortable fit.
3. Fit the Cutting Attachment: Ensure the engine is off. Fit the chosen trimmer head or blade to the gearbox, securing it with the appropriate nut and washer. Use the shaft lock to hold the shaft while tightening.
4. Fuel Mix: Prepare a 50:1 mixture of unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) and STIHL 2-stroke oil. Fill the fuel tank.

CAUTION! Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation. Do not operate with loose components.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: Approximately 72.2 cc.
• Power Output: High power output for professional applications.
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (STIHL 2-Stroke Oil).
• Drive System: Straight solid shaft with heavy-duty gearbox.
• Cutting Tools: Compatible with trimmer heads, circular metal blades, and brush knives.
• Weight (without cutting tool): Approximately 13.2 lbs (6.0 kg).
• Sound Power Level: Typically exceeds 100 dB(A). Hearing protection required.
• Vibration Levels: Reduced by anti-vibration system.

Controls and Components

Main controls located on the handle and engine housing.

Handle Area: Throttle trigger, Throttle trigger lockout, Stop switch (I/O).

Engine Housing: Choke lever (for cold start), Primer bulb, Air filter cover, Spark plug, Muffler, Fuel tank cap.

Shaft/Gearbox: Shaft lock button, Gearbox housing, Cutting attachment mounting point.

Operation: Press and hold the throttle trigger lockout to enable the throttle trigger. Release lockout to disable throttle.

Starting & Stopping the Engine

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

1. Cold Start: Set stop switch to "I" (On). Press fuel primer bulb 5-10 times. Set choke lever to closed position. Hold unit securely, place foot in handle. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires. Move choke lever to open position. Pull starter rope again to start engine.
2. Warm Start: Stop switch "I". Choke open. Pull starter rope.
3. Stopping: Release throttle. Press stop switch to "O" (Off).

Tip: Do not pull starter rope to its full extent or let it snap back. Allow engine to warm up at idle for 30 seconds.

Operation & Cutting Techniques

Use the correct cutting tool for the material. Always cut at full throttle.

1. Basic Stance: Stand firmly with feet shoulder-width apart. Wear the harness to support the unit's weight.
2. Swing Technique: Use a smooth, controlled swinging motion from right to left (for right-handed users). Let the tool do the work.
3. Trimming: Use a nylon line head for grass and light weeds. Hold the head parallel to the ground.
4. Clearing/Brush Cutting: Use a metal blade for thick weeds, brush, and saplings. Use a sweeping, scything motion.
5. Avoid Kickback: Do not touch the blade tip to solid objects. Be especially careful near fences, rocks, and trees.

WARNING! Never operate the unit with one hand. Always maintain a firm grip and secure footing.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures performance, longevity, and safety. Perform daily checks before use.

Interval	Task
Before Each Use	Check for loose fasteners, damaged parts. Check fuel level. Inspect cutting tool.
Every 10 Hours	Clean air filter. Check spark plug condition.
Every 25 Hours	Clean spark arrestor screen in muffler (if equipped).
Every 50 Hours	Clean fuel filter. Check gearbox grease level.
As Needed	Sharpen or replace metal blades. Replace worn trimmer line or head.

CAUTION! Always disconnect the spark plug boot before performing any maintenance.

Storage

Prepare the unit for storage if it will not be used for more than 30 days.

1. Empty the fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer. Run the engine for 2 minutes to circulate treated fuel.
2. Clean the entire unit, removing all dirt, debris, and plant sap.
3. Remove the cutting attachment. Clean and store separately.
4. Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place, out of reach of children.

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

Warranty Information

STIHL Limited Warranty: The STIHL FS 480 is covered by a limited warranty for professional use. Duration and terms vary by region. Proof of purchase from an authorized STIHL dealer is required. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper maintenance, or use of non-STIHL parts/fuel. For warranty service, contact your authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No fuel, flooded engine, dirty air filter, faulty spark plug	Check fuel. Wait if flooded. Clean/replace air filter. Check/replace spark plug.
Engine runs poorly or lacks power	Dirty air/fuel filter, clogged spark arrestor, old fuel	Clean air/fuel filter. Clean spark arrestor. Use fresh fuel mix.
Excessive vibration	Damaged cutting tool, loose fasteners, bent shaft	Inspect and replace cutting tool. Tighten all bolts. Inspect shaft.
Cutting attachment does not spin	Broken drive cable (if applicable), gearbox damage	Stop engine. Inspect drive shaft and gearbox. Contact dealer.
Engine overheats	Dirty cooling fins, lean fuel mixture, incorrect oil	Clean cylinder fins. Check for air leaks. Use correct oil mix.

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

Support: Visit www.stihlusa.com or contact your local STIHL dealer.