Stihl FS 52 Manual PDF

The Stihl FS 52 is a lightweight, easy-to-handle straight-shaft grass trimmer designed for residential use. It features a 27.2 cc 2-stroke engine, a loop handle for comfortable operation, a Tap 'n Go semi-automatic cutting head line advance system, and a bicycle-style throttle trigger. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-MIX engine, straight shaft, Tap 'n Go cutting head, loop handle, throttle trigger lockout, and decompression valve.

Feature	Description
Engine	27.2 cc STIHL 2-MIX engine for reduced emissions and fuel consumption
Shaft	Straight solid drive shaft
Handle	Loop handle with ergonomic grip
Cutting Head	Semi-automatic "Tap 'n Go" line advance head
Throttle	Bicycle-style trigger with lockout for safety
Starter	Easy2Start™ system for reduced pulling effort
Decompression Valve	Eases starting by reducing cylinder pressure
Weight	Approximately 5.3 kg (11.7 lbs) without cutting attachment
Fuel Tank Capacity	0.53 liters (1.12 US pints)
Sound Power Level	106 dB(A)

Safety Information

Read and understand the manual before operation. Wear proper PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, long pants, sturdy boots, and gloves.
2. Clear Work Area: Remove stones, sticks, wire, and other debris before trimming.
3. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors. Use only STIHL 2-stroke oil and 89+ octane gasoline. Store fuel in approved container.
4. Operation: Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 meters away. Hold unit firmly with both hands.
5. Hot Surfaces: Avoid contact with muffler and cylinder during/after operation.

WARNING! Risk of severe injury or death from blade contact, thrown objects, fire, or carbon monoxide. Operate with extreme caution.

Assembly & First Use

Assemble handle, attach cutting tool, and fill with fuel/oil mix.

1. Handle Assembly: Attach loop handle to shaft at desired position and tighten clamp screws.
2. Cutting Attachment: Install Tap 'n Go head or approved blade according to instructions. Ensure guard is properly attached.
3. Fuel Mix: Prepare 50:1 mixture (2% oil) with STIHL 2-stroke oil and gasoline. Fill tank.
4. Starting Procedure: Place unit on clear, flat ground. Set master control lever to cold start position (choke on). Pull starter rope until engine fires. Move lever to warm start position and pull to start.
5. Break-in Period: Operate at medium throttle for first few tanks to seat engine components.

CAUTION! Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation. Do not operate with loose or damaged parts.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 27.2 cc
• Engine Type: 2-stroke, single cylinder, air-cooled
• Power Output: 0.8 kW (1.1 hp)
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (2% STIHL 2-stroke oil)
• Idle Speed: 2,800 rpm
• Maximum Powerhead Speed: 11,500 rpm
• Sound Pressure Level: 96 dB(A)
• Vibration Level (left/right): 4.5/6.5 m/s²
• Cutting Swath (with line head): Approx. 430 mm (17 inches)
• Warranty: Limited warranty for residential use (see manual).

Controls and Operation

Master control lever (stop, cold start, warm start), throttle trigger with lockout, and handle controls.

Starting: Set lever to cold start (choke). Pull starter until engine fires. Move lever to warm start, pull again to start. Stopping: Move master control lever to STOP position. Throttle: Squeeze trigger to increase speed; release to idle. Use lockout to prevent accidental throttle engagement. Tap 'n Go Head: Tap head on ground at full throttle to advance cutting line.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use fresh 89+ octane gasoline and STIHL 2-stroke engine oil for 50:1 mix.

1. Mix fuel in approved container: Add oil first, then gasoline. Shake well.
2. Fill fuel tank: Clean area around cap. Use funnel to avoid spills.
3. Gearbox Lubrication: Lubricate gearbox with STIHL gear grease periodically (see maintenance).
4. Air Filter: Check before each use; clean or replace as needed.

Tip: Never use fuel older than 30 days. Empty tank for storage over 30 days.

Cutting Tools & Attachments

Approved attachments: Tap 'n Go line head, PolyCut head, circular grass blade, metal blade.

1. Line Head: For grass and weeds. Use 2.0 mm diameter round line.
2. PolyCut Head: For tougher weeds. Uses plastic blades.
3. Circular Blades: For heavy brush and saplings. Ensure proper guard is installed.
4. Changing Attachments: Stop engine. Remove retaining nut with wrench. Replace attachment and secure nut.

WARNING! Use only STIHL-approved cutting attachments. Ensure guard is correct for attachment.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check for loose fasteners, damaged parts, air filter, fuel system.
Every 25 hours	Clean air filter, check spark plug, clean cooling fins.
Every 50 hours	Clean spark arrestor screen (if equipped), lubricate gearbox.
Every 100 hours	Replace fuel filter, check carburetor adjustment (by dealer).
Annually	Inspect/replace worn parts (drive shaft, bearings).

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug boot before performing maintenance.

Storage

Prepare unit for storage to prevent fuel system damage.

1. Empty fuel tank: Run engine until it stops from fuel starvation.
2. Drain carburetor: (Optional) Follow manual procedure to drain carburetor bowl.
3. Clean unit: Remove debris from cooling fins, air filter, and exterior.
4. Store: In dry, secure location, out of reach of children. Cover to prevent dust.

CAUTION! Never store unit with fuel in tank for more than 30 days.

Warranty Information

STIHL Limited Warranty for residential use: Coverage period varies by component (e.g., 2 years for powerhead). Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, improper fuel, lack of maintenance, or commercial use. For warranty service, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No fuel, flooded, spark plug, switch position	Check fuel, set master control correctly, check/replace spark plug.
Engine runs poorly/dies	Dirty air filter, old fuel, clogged fuel filter	Clean/replace air filter, use fresh fuel mix, replace fuel filter.
Line does not advance	Line too short, head dirty, worn	Tap head at full throttle, clean head, replace spool if worn.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, bent shaft, unbalanced blade	Tighten all fasteners, inspect shaft and cutting attachment.
Loss of power	Clogged muffler, carburetor adjustment	Clean spark arrestor screen, have dealer adjust carburetor.

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

Support: STIHL USA, www.stihlusa.com, 1-800-467-8445