Stihl FS 74 Manual PDF

The Stihl FS 74 is a lightweight, versatile trimmer designed for residential and professional use. This manual covers safety instructions, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications for the FS 74 brushcutter/trimmer. Key features include a powerful 27.2cc engine, Easy2Start™ system, ErgoStart™, anti-vibration system, translucent fuel tank, and compatibility with various cutting heads and blades. Always read the manual before operation.

1. Safety Instructions 2. Assembly & Preparation 3. Controls & Components 4. Operation 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Troubleshooting 7. Storage 8. Specifications 9. Warranty & Support

Safety Instructions

Always wear protective equipment: safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, long pants, and sturdy boots. Keep bystanders and pets at a safe distance. Operate only in well-ventilated areas. Never operate the unit while fatigued or under the influence. Be aware of kickback zone. Inspect unit before each use.

Hazard	Precaution
Fuel Handling	Use approved fuel container; refuel outdoors only; allow engine to cool
Cutting Hazards	Keep cutting attachment below waist level; clear work area of debris
Hot Surfaces	Avoid contact with muffler and engine during/after operation
Carbon Monoxide	Never operate in enclosed spaces
Thrown Objects	Inspect cutting attachment for damage; wear eye protection

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack all parts. Assemble handle, cutting attachment, and harness according to diagrams.

Attach handle: Secure to shaft with provided bolts.
Install cutting attachment: Ensure correct guard is installed; follow torque specifications.
Adjust harness: Fit for comfort and balance.
Fuel mix: Use 50:1 gasoline to 2-cycle oil (STIHL HP Ultra recommended).
Starting: Place on clear, flat surface; engage choke; pull starter cord.

WARNING! Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation. Use only STIHL-approved attachments.

Controls & Components

Main components: Engine, drive shaft, cutting head, handle, harness, and controls.

Controls: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, stop switch, choke lever, primer bulb, fuel tank cap, Easy2Start™ lever.

Cutting Attachments: Compatible with PolyCut head, circular grass blade, and metal brush knife (accessories sold separately).

Operation

Starting: Set stop switch to "I", engage choke, press primer 5x, pull starter until engine fires, disengage choke, restart.
Warm-up: Allow 30 seconds at idle.
Cutting: Swing trimmer in arc from right to left; avoid rocks and hard objects.
Stopping: Release throttle; allow idle; set stop switch to "0".

Tip: Maintain steady RPM; avoid full throttle when not cutting.

Maintenance Schedule

Daily: Clean exterior; check for loose parts; inspect cutting attachment.
Every 25 hours: Clean air filter; check spark plug.
Every 50 hours: Replace fuel filter; clean spark arrestor screen.
Seasonal: Sharpen/replace cutting blades; inspect drive shaft.
Lubrication: Grease gearhead per manual (if equipped).

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug before maintenance.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, flooded, spark plug	Check fuel; dry plug; replace spark plug.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, old fuel	Clean/replace filter; use fresh fuel mix.
Excessive vibration	Damaged blade, loose parts	Inspect blade; tighten all fasteners.
Cutting head doesn't turn	Drive shaft, clutch	Check for obstruction; inspect clutch.
Hard starting	Compression, carburetor	Check compression; adjust carburetor (authorized dealer).

Storage

For storage over 30 days:

Drain fuel tank and run carburetor dry.
Remove spark plug; add 1 tsp oil; pull starter slowly; reinstall plug.
Clean unit thoroughly.
Store in dry, secure location.

WARNING! Never store with fuel in tank indoors.

Specifications

Engine: 27.2cc 2-stroke, single cylinder
Powerhead Weight: 10.1 lbs (4.6 kg)
Fuel Capacity: 16.9 fl oz (0.5 L)
Sound Pressure: 94 dB(A)
Vibration Levels: Front handle 4.2 m/s², rear handle 3.5 m/s²
Drive: Flexible shaft
Recommended Cutting Attachments: PolyCut head 2-4, circular grass blade, brush knife
Warranty: Limited 2-year warranty

Warranty & Support

STIHL Limited Warranty: 2 years for residential use, 1 year for commercial. Proof of purchase required. For service, contact an authorized STIHL dealer. Genuine STIHL parts recommended. For manual download, visit www.stihlusa.com. Customer support: 1-800-467-8445.