Stihl FS 65 Manual

The Stihl FS 65 is a lightweight, professional-grade brushcutter/grass trimmer designed for demanding clearing and trimming work. It features a powerful 2-stroke engine with electronic ignition, a loop handle for comfortable two-handed operation, a semi-automatic choke (START-STOP switch), a translucent fuel tank, a polycut head for nylon line trimming, and a metal blade for cutting heavier vegetation. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke engine, Loop handle, START-STOP switch, Throttle trigger lockout, Throttle trigger, Translucent fuel tank, Drive shaft, Gearhead, Polycut head/Metal blade.

Feature	Description
Engine	Powerful 2-stroke, air-cooled engine with electronic ignition
Handle	Loop handle for secure two-handed control
START-STOP switch	Combined on/off and choke control
Throttle trigger lockout	Safety feature to prevent accidental throttle engagement
Fuel Tank	Translucent for easy fuel level inspection
Drive System	Rigid drive shaft with gearhead
Cutting Attachments	Accepts Polycut head for line or metal blades for brush
Anti-vibration system	Reduces operator fatigue
Spark Arrestor Muffler	Standard equipment for safe operation

Safety Instructions

Read and understand the manual before operation. Always wear appropriate PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, sturdy gloves, long pants, and boots.
2. Operation Area: Keep bystanders, children, and pets at least 50 feet away. Be aware of thrown objects.
3. Fuel Safety: Refuel outdoors only, with engine stopped and cool. Use approved fuel containers. Wipe up spills.
4. Starting & Carrying: Start on the ground in a clear area. Never drop-start. Carry unit with cutting attachment stopped.

WARNING! The cutting attachment can cause serious injury. Never operate without proper guard installed. Beware of kickback.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble handle and cutting attachment.

1. Attach the loop handle to the shaft using the supplied bolts. Adjust for comfortable operator height if possible.
2. Install the cutting attachment (Polycut head or blade). Ensure the correct guard is installed for the attachment.
3. Fill fuel tank with fresh, properly mixed fuel (50:1 gasoline to STIHL 2-stroke oil). Fill bar & chain oil tank (if applicable).
4. Check all fasteners for tightness before starting.

CAUTION! Ensure cutting attachment is securely fastened and guard is properly installed before starting.

Specifications

• Engine Power: Approx. 1.3 kW / 1.8 hp.
• Engine Displacement: 30.1 cc.
• Fuel/Oil Mix: 50:1 (Gasoline to STIHL 2-Stroke Oil).
• Fuel Tank Capacity: Approx. 0.53 liters.
• Sound Power Level: Typically 106 dB(A).
• Vibration Levels: Front/Rear handle values per applicable standards.
• Weight (without cutting attachment): Approx. 5.9 kg.
• Recommended Cutting Attachments: Polycut head, circular grass blade, brush knife.

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Controls: START-STOP switch (Choke/Off/Run), Throttle trigger, Throttle trigger lockout, Primer bulb (if equipped).

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

1. Press fuel pump bulb (if equipped) until fuel is visible.
2. Move START-STOP switch to choke position (often symbolized by a rabbit).
3. Press throttle trigger lockout and squeeze throttle trigger once to set fast idle.
4. Place unit on firm ground. Hold handle firmly with one hand, place foot in shoulder strap/boot. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires.
5. Immediately move START-STOP switch to run position (horizontal line).
6. Pull starter rope again to start. Let engine warm up at idle.

Stopping: Release throttle, allow engine to idle, move START-STOP switch to STOP (0).

Fuel & Lubrication

Use only fresh, unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) mixed with a high-quality 2-stroke engine oil at a 50:1 ratio. STIHL HP Ultra oil is recommended.

1. Mixing: Add oil to an approved fuel can, then add gasoline. Shake thoroughly.
2. Refueling: Stop engine and allow to cool. Clean area around fuel cap. Fill tank. Tighten cap securely.
3. Gearhead Lubrication: Lubricate gearhead with STIHL gear grease periodically as per maintenance schedule.

WARNING! Gasoline is extremely flammable. No smoking. Avoid sparks.

Cutting Attachments

Supports line trimmer heads and metal blades.

1. Polycut Head (Line Trimming): For grass and weeds. Tap head on ground while at high RPM to advance line. Replace spool when line is worn.
2. Metal Blades: For thick weeds, brush, and saplings. Ensure correct blade (grass blade, brush knife) for the task. Sharpen or replace when dull.
3. Changing Attachments: Stop engine. Use wrench to hold drive shaft. Use appropriate tool to loosen retaining nut. Replace attachment and guard as a set.

WARNING! Always use the correct guard for the cutting attachment. Inspect blades for cracks or damage before each use.

Maintenance & Storage

Regular maintenance ensures long life and safe operation.

Daily/Before Use: Check fasteners, inspect cutting attachment and guard, check fuel for contamination.

Cleaning: Keep unit clean, especially cooling fins and air filter area. Use a brush or cloth.

Air Filter: Clean regularly. Replace if damaged or excessively dirty.

Spark Plug: Check and clean electrode. Adjust gap or replace as needed.

Storage (Long Term): Drain fuel tank and run carburetor dry. Remove spark plug, add a teaspoon of oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat, reinstall plug. Store in a dry, secure place.

CAUTION! Perform maintenance only when engine is off and cool. Use only STIHL approved parts.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No fuel, flooded, spark plug	Check fuel mix, move switch to run, dry spark plug, check for spark.
Engine runs poorly/dies	Clogged air filter, fuel filter, carb adjustment	Clean/replace air filter, check fuel filter, have carb adjusted by dealer.
Excessive vibration	Loose parts, bent drive shaft, unbalanced blade	Tighten all fasteners, inspect shaft and cutting attachment for damage.
Cutting attachment does not turn	Sheared clutch spring, drive shaft issue	Stop engine. Inspect clutch and drive shaft. Have serviced by dealer.
Line does not advance	Empty spool, tangled line, worn head	Refill spool with correct line, untangle or replace spool/head.

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

Support: Refer to your local STIHL dealer or www.stihlusa.com for manuals and support.