Stihl FS 56 RC-E Trimmer Manual

The Stihl FS 56 RC-E is a lightweight, professional-grade straight-shaft grass trimmer/brushcutter featuring a 2-stroke engine, Easy2Start™ system, ErgoStart™, anti-vibration system, loop handle, and a quick-release shaft coupling. It is designed for clearing grass, weeds, and light brush. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly & Preparation 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Attaching Cutting Tools 7. Operating the Trimmer 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage & Transport 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke engine, straight shaft with quick coupling, loop handle with controls, anti-vibration system, Easy2Start™, ErgoStart™, and compatible with various Stihl cutting heads and blades.

Feature	Description
Engine	2-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled
Displacement	27.2 cm³ (1.66 cu. in.)
Power Output	0.9 kW (1.2 bhp)
Starting System	Easy2Start™ with ErgoStart™
Shaft	Straight, steel, with quick-release coupling
Anti-Vibration	Integrated dampening system
Handle	Loop handle with throttle trigger and lockout
Fuel Tank Capacity	0.53 liters (18 fl. oz.)
Cutting Tools	Accepts PolyCut heads, metal blades, etc.
Weight (without tool)	Approx. 5.2 kg (11.5 lbs)

Assembly & Preparation

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

Attach the shaft: Connect the drive shaft to the engine unit using the quick-release coupling; secure firmly.
Install the handle: Slide the loop handle onto the shaft at the desired position; tighten the clamping screws.
Attach the cutting tool: Install the chosen cutting head or blade as per the tool's instructions.
Fuel mixture: Prepare a 50:1 mixture of unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) and Stihl HP Ultra 2-stroke oil.
Fill the fuel tank: Add the mixed fuel to the tank; ensure the fuel cap is tightly closed.

WARNING! Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE): safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, long pants, and sturdy boots.

First-Time Operation

Before starting, ensure the trimmer is fully assembled and fueled.

Priming: Press the fuel pump bulb (primer) several times until fuel is visible in the bulb.
Choke: Set the master control lever to the cold start (choke) position.
Starting: Place the unit on a firm, flat surface. Hold the handle firmly with one hand and pull the starter rope smoothly with the other. After the engine fires, move the master control lever to the run position.
Warm-up: Allow the engine to idle for about 30 seconds before applying throttle.
Adjustment: Ensure the harness (if used) is properly fitted for comfortable operation.

CAUTION! Never start the engine indoors or in poorly ventilated areas. Keep bystanders and pets at a safe distance.

Specifications

Model: FS 56 RC-E
Engine Type: 2-stroke, single-cylinder
Displacement: 27.2 cm³
Power Output: 0.9 kW (1.2 bhp)
Idle Speed: 2,800 rpm
Max. Engine Speed: 12,500 rpm
Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (Stihl HP Ultra oil)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 0.53 L
Sound Pressure Level: Approx. 96 dB(A)
Vibration Level (left/right): Approx. 4.5/5.5 m/s²
Weight (without cutting tool): 5.2 kg
Shaft Type: Straight, steel
Recommended Cutting Tools: PolyCut heads, circular grass blades, metal brush knives

Controls and Settings

Master Control Lever: Choke/run/stop positions. Throttle Trigger: Controls engine speed. Throttle Trigger Lockout: Must be depressed to engage throttle. Stop Switch: "0" position stops the engine. Fuel Pump Bulb (Primer): Press to fill carburetor with fuel. Quick-Release Shaft Coupling: For easy assembly/disassembly.

Adjustments: Handle position can be adjusted along the shaft. Harness attachment points are provided. Carburetor adjustment screws are sealed at the factory and should only be adjusted by authorized Stihl servicing dealers.

Attaching Cutting Tools

Ensure the engine is OFF and the spark plug boot is disconnected.

For PolyCut heads: Align the head with the drive tang on the gearbox. Push on and rotate until it clicks into place. Pull to ensure it is locked.
For metal blades: Use the appropriate blade washer and retaining nut. Tighten the nut securely with the supplied combination wrench, following the direction arrow on the gearbox housing.
Install the cutting guard: Always use the correct guard for the cutting tool being used. Secure it firmly to the gearbox.

Tip: Always use genuine Stihl cutting tools and accessories designed for this model.

Operating the Trimmer

Hold the trimmer with both hands. Use a swinging, scythe-like motion from side to side.

Starting cut: Allow the cutting tool to reach full speed before contacting material.
Cutting technique: Keep the cutting head or blade parallel to the ground. Cut from right to left for better debris discharge.
Tall grass/weeds: Work in layers, cutting the top first and then progressively lower.
Light brush: Use a metal blade and make sweeping cuts. Avoid forcing the tool.
Stopping: Release the throttle trigger and allow the engine to idle. Move the master control lever to STOP ("0") to shut off the engine.

WARNING! Never operate the trimmer without the proper cutting guard installed. Be aware of kickback zone (the upper quadrant of the cutting circle).

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Task	Frequency
Clean air filter	Every 10 operating hours
Check spark plug	Every 50 operating hours
Clean spark arrestor screen (if equipped)	Every 50 operating hours
Check fuel filter	Every 3 months or as needed
Inspect cutting tool and guard	Before each use
Gearbox grease (if applicable)	Every 100 operating hours
General inspection (nuts, bolts, vibration elements)	Before each use

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

Storage & Transport

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

Drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stops to empty the carburetor.
Remove the spark plug, add a few drops of oil into the cylinder, pull the starter rope slowly to distribute, and reinstall the plug.
Clean the entire unit thoroughly.
Store in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children.
For transport, secure the unit to prevent movement and ensure the fuel cap is tight.

Safety Information

Read and understand the manual before use. Always wear PPE. Never operate when tired, ill, or under the influence of drugs/alcohol. Be aware of your surroundings, including hidden objects like wires, rocks, and glass. Keep all parts of your body away from the cutting tool. Do not operate on unstable surfaces. Use the harness to reduce fatigue.

Symbols on the unit: Read and understand the warning and instruction labels affixed to the trimmer.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No fuel, flooded engine, spark plug boot off, choke position wrong	Check fuel; wait if flooded; ensure boot is connected; use correct choke setting.
Engine starts but dies	Clogged air filter, dirty fuel filter, carburetor issues	Clean/replace air filter; check/replace fuel filter; see servicing dealer.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, dirty spark arrestor, old fuel	Clean air filter and spark arrestor screen; use fresh fuel mix.
Excessive vibration	Damaged cutting tool, loose parts, bent shaft	Inspect and replace damaged tool; tighten all fasteners; check shaft.
Cutting line not feeding	Line too short, bump head jammed, incorrect line size	Tap head on ground at high speed; clear jam; use correct diameter line.

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

Support: Visit www.stihlusa.com or contact Stihl customer service.