The Stihl FS 55 C is a lightweight, professional-grade gasoline-powered string trimmer/brushcutter designed for demanding clearing and trimming tasks. It features a powerful 2-stroke engine with STIHL anti-vibration system, a loop handle for comfortable operation, a straight shaft with a gearbox, a Tap'N Go™ cutting head for easy line advance, and a PolyCut™ head for brush cutting. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Key components: 2-stroke engine, Loop handle, Straight drive shaft with gearbox, Tap'N Go™ cutting head, PolyCut™ head, Throttle trigger lockout, Stop switch.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine | STIHL 2-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder |
| Anti-Vibration System | Reduces operator fatigue |
| Drive Shaft | Straight, solid design with gearbox |
| Cutting Head | Tap'N Go™ for easy line advance; PolyCut™ head for brush |
| Handle | Loop handle for balanced, two-handed control |
| Throttle Trigger | With lockout for safety |
| Stop Switch | Immediately stops engine |
| Fuel Tank | Integrated, see-through for fuel level check |
| Spark Plug | Easily accessible for maintenance |
| Air Filter | Easy-to-clean foam element |
Read and understand all instructions before use. Wear appropriate PPE.
WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death from rotating cutting attachment, kickback, flying debris, and fuel fire/explosion. Never operate without proper guards and PPE.
Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.
CAUTION! Ensure all fasteners are tight. Do not force parts during assembly.
Main Controls: Throttle trigger with lockout, Stop switch, Choke lever, Primer bulb, Fuel tank cap, Decompression valve (if equipped).
Handle Area: Throttle trigger lockout must be depressed before throttle can be engaged. Stop switch moves to STOP position to kill engine.
Engine Area: Choke lever for cold starts. Primer bulb to draw fuel into carburetor. Decompression valve reduces pulling resistance for starting.
Cutting Attachment: Guard MUST always be in place. Tap'N Go™ head: Tap on ground while at high idle to advance line. PolyCut™ head: For cutting brush and tough weeds.
Use only fresh, unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 89 (RON). Mix with a high-quality 2-stroke engine oil at 50:1 ratio. STIHL MotoMix® pre-mixed fuel is recommended.
Gearbox Lubrication: Lubricate gearbox with STIHL gear oil periodically as specified in maintenance schedule.
WARNING! Gasoline is extremely flammable. No smoking. Engine must be off and cool.
Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):
Operation: Hold unit with both hands. Use a slow, sweeping motion from right to left. Let the tool do the work; do not force it.
Tap'N Go™ Cutting Head (Standard): For trimming grass and light weeds. To advance line: Run engine at high idle (not full throttle) and tap head firmly on bare ground.
PolyCut™ Head (Optional): For cutting dense weeds, brush, and saplings up to approx. 10 mm thick. Install according to specific instructions.
Changing Line: For Tap'N Go head, use only STIHL recommended nylon line of correct diameter. Wind line onto spool following directional arrows.
WARNING! Always stop engine and ensure it is cool before handling or changing any cutting attachment.
Daily/Before Use: Check for loose fasteners, damaged parts, and fuel leaks. Clean air filter if dirty. Inspect cutting attachment and guard.
Regular Maintenance: Clean spark arrestor screen (if equipped). Check spark plug condition and gap. Clean cooling fins. Lubricate gearbox as needed.
End of Season/Storage: 1. Run engine until fuel tank is empty. 2. Remove spark plug and add a teaspoon of 2-stroke oil into cylinder. Pull starter rope slowly to distribute oil, then reinstall plug. 3. Thoroughly clean entire unit. 4. Store in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.
CAUTION! All maintenance should be performed with engine off and cool. Use only STIHL replacement parts.
This STIHL product is covered by a limited warranty. Proof of purchase from an authorized STIHL dealer is required. Warranty covers defects in material and workmanship under normal use and maintenance. It does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper fuel, or unauthorized repairs. For full warranty terms, see the warranty card included with your unit or contact your STIHL dealer.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine will not start | No fuel, flooded, spark plug faulty, switch off | Check fuel; wait if flooded; check/chang spark plug; ensure switch is ON. |
| Engine starts then dies | Dirty air filter, clogged fuel filter, carburetor adjustment | Clean/replace air filter; replace fuel filter; see dealer for carb adjustment. |
| Loss of power | Dirty air filter, clogged spark arrestor, old fuel | Clean air filter & spark arrestor screen; use fresh fuel mix. |
| Excessive vibration | Loose parts, bent drive shaft, unbalanced cutting attachment | Tighten all fasteners; inspect shaft/attachment for damage. |
| Line not advancing | Line too short, head dirty/worn, incorrect technique | Reload line; clean or replace head; tap firmly on bare ground at high idle. |
| Cutting attachment does not spin | Drive shaft disconnected, gearbox damaged | Check shaft connection; inspect gearbox for damage (see dealer). |
Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact your authorized STIHL servicing dealer. Use only genuine STIHL parts.
Support: Visit www.stihlusa.com or contact your local STIHL dealer.