STIHL FS 60 Manual

The STIHL FS 60 is a lightweight, versatile gasoline-powered string trimmer/brushcutter designed for residential and professional use. It features a reliable 2-stroke engine, a straight shaft with bicycle-style handles for comfortable operation, a PolyCut head for easy line advance, and a range of cutting attachments. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke engine, straight drive shaft, bicycle handles with throttle trigger and stop switch, PolyCut cutting head, shoulder harness, and muffler with spark arrestor.

Feature	Description
Engine	STIHL 2-MIX engine technology for reduced emissions
Powerhead	Lightweight design with anti-vibration system
Shaft	Straight solid shaft for durability
Handles	Bicycle-style handles with full-wrap for control
Cutting Head	STIHL PolyCut head for easy line advance (bump feed)
Harness	Shoulder harness included for operator comfort
Throttle Trigger	With throttle trigger lockout for safety
Stop Switch	Easy access on rear handle
Fuel Tank	Integrated, translucent for fuel level check
Muffler	Equipped with USDA approved spark arrestor screen

Safety Information

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

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, long pants, and sturdy boots.
2. Clear Work Area: Remove stones, nails, wire, and other debris that could be thrown.
3. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors, away from sparks. Use STIHL 2-stroke oil and fresh gasoline.
4. Operation: Keep bystanders and pets at least 50 feet away. Never operate in poor visibility.

WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death from blade thrust, thrown objects, and fire. Never operate without proper guards and equipment.

Assembly & Preparation

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

1. Attach Handle: Align handle halves on shaft, insert and tighten screws.
2. Install Harness: Attach harness loops to harness attachment points on the unit.
3. Install Cutting Attachment: Ensure engine is off. Fit PolyCut head or other attachment, secure with retaining nut using appropriate wrench.
4. Fill Fuel: Use proper fuel/oil mix (50:1 with STIHL 2-stroke oil). Fill to marked level.

CAUTION! Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation. Do not force components during assembly.

Specifications

• Engine Type: STIHL single-cylinder 2-stroke with 2-MIX.
• Displacement: 27.2 cc (1.66 cu. in.).
• Power Output: 0.9 kW (1.2 bhp).
• Fuel/Oil Mix: 50:1 (Gasoline to STIHL 2-stroke oil).
• Fuel Tank Volume: 0.53 L (18 fl. oz.).
• Weight (Powerhead): 5.4 kg (11.9 lbs).
• Shaft Type: Straight solid shaft.
• Standard Cutting Attachment: STIHL PolyCut head with 2.0 mm line.
• Sound Pressure Level: Approx. 94 dB(A).
• Vibration Levels: Left/Right Handle: Approx. 4.5/5.5 m/s².

Controls and Components

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Main Controls: Throttle Trigger (with lockout), Stop Switch (I/O), Throttle Lock (for starting), Choke Lever, Primer Bulb, Decompression Valve (if equipped).

Components: Fuel Tank Cap, Air Filter Cover, Spark Plug, Muffler, Drive Shaft Housing, Gearhead, Cutting Attachment Guard, Harness Attachment Points.

Operation: The throttle trigger controls engine speed. The lockout must be depressed before the throttle can be engaged. The stop switch stops the engine.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use only clean, fresh unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) mixed with STIHL 2-stroke engine oil at a 50:1 ratio.

1. Mixing: Pour specified amount of oil into an approved fuel can, then add gasoline. Close and shake thoroughly.
2. Filling: Clean area around cap. Open cap slowly. Fill to marked level. Do not overfill. Tighten cap securely.
3. Gearhead Lubrication: Lubricate gearhead with STIHL gear oil after every 25 hours of operation or as needed.

Tip: Use STIHL MotoMix® pre-mixed fuel for optimum performance and convenience, eliminating mixing.

Starting & Operation

Follow cold or warm starting procedure.

1. Cold Start: Place unit on clear, level ground. Set stop switch to "I". Press fuel primer bulb 5 times. Set choke lever to full choke. Press throttle lock and pull starter cord sharply until engine fires. Move choke lever to half-throttle position. Pull starter cord again until engine starts. Allow to idle briefly.
2. Warm Start: Follow above but do not press primer and set choke lever to run position.
3. Operation: Put on harness and adjust. Hold unit firmly. Swing trimmer in an arc from right to left, keeping cutting head parallel to ground. Do not raise above waist level.
4. Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle. Press and hold stop switch ("O") until engine stops.

WARNING! Never start the engine indoors or in enclosed areas. Keep hot muffler away from flammable materials.

Cutting Attachments

Accepts various STIHL attachments. Always use correct guard.

• PolyCut Head: For trimming grass and weeds with nylon line. Advance line by tapping head on ground at high speed (bump feed).
• Circular Grass Blade: For heavy grass and weeds. Ensure blade is sharp and balanced.
• Circular Brush Knife: For clearing brush and saplings.
• Metal Saw Blade: For cutting small trees and woody brush.

CAUTION! Always ensure cutting attachment is properly installed, tightened, and guard is in place. Inspect for damage before each use.

Maintenance & Storage

Regular maintenance ensures long life and safe operation. Always disconnect spark plug boot before servicing.

1. Daily: Clean exterior, check for loose fasteners, inspect cutting attachment and guard.
2. Air Filter: Clean regularly (more often in dusty conditions). Replace if damaged.
3. Spark Plug: Check gap (0.020 in./0.5 mm), clean, replace if electrodes are worn.
4. Fuel Filter: Replace annually or as needed.
5. Storage: For long-term storage, run engine dry of fuel or add fuel stabilizer. Clean unit thoroughly. Store in a dry, secure place.

CAUTION! Use only genuine STIHL replacement parts. Improper maintenance can cause unsafe operation.

Regulatory Information

This machine conforms to applicable safety standards and EPA emission regulations. The spark arrestor muffler meets USDA Forest Service requirements. STIHL is a registered trademark of Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KG. For the latest information, parts, and service, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer or visit www.stihlusa.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No fuel, flooded, spark plug faulty	Check fuel, wait if flooded, check/replace spark plug, ensure choke is set correctly.
Engine runs poorly/dies	Clogged air filter, old fuel, carburetor issues	Clean/replace air filter, use fresh fuel mix, have dealer service carburetor.
Line does not advance	Line tangled, head worn, incorrect technique	Disassemble and rewind line, replace head if worn, bump head firmly on ground at high speed.
Excessive vibration	Bent drive shaft, unbalanced blade, loose parts	Inspect shaft and blade for damage, tighten all fasteners, have dealer check.
Loss of power	Clogged muffler, carbon buildup, worn piston/cylinder	Clean spark arrestor screen, decarbonize, have dealer inspect engine.

Dealer Service: For repairs beyond routine maintenance, take the unit to an authorized STIHL dealer.

Support: 1-800-467-8445; www.stihlusa.com