Stihl FS130R Service Manual

The Stihl FS130R is a professional-grade, high-performance brushcutter/string trimmer designed for demanding clearing and maintenance work. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective servicing, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the FS130R powerhead. It covers engine specifications, fuel system, ignition system, cutting attachments, safety procedures, and routine maintenance schedules.

Safety Information & Symbols

Before performing any service, read and understand all safety warnings. Use proper personal protective equipment (PPE).

Symbol	Meaning	Action
⚠️	Warning - Risk of Injury	Follow instructions carefully to avoid serious or fatal injury.
🔥	Fire Hazard	Keep away from sparks, open flames, and heat sources. Fuel is highly flammable.
⚡	Electrical Hazard (Ignition)	Disconnect spark plug boot before servicing to prevent accidental starting.
🛠️	Maintenance Required	Refer to manual for specific procedures. Use only STIHL-approved tools and parts.

WARNING! Always stop the engine and allow it to cool before servicing. Ensure the cutting attachment is stopped and detached for certain procedures.

Specifications & Identification

Key identification and technical data for the FS130R powerhead.

• Model: FS 130 R
• Engine Type: STIHL 2-MIX engine, single cylinder, 2-stroke
• Displacement: 36.3 cm³ (2.21 cu. in.)
• Power Output: 1.8 kW (2.4 hp)
• Idle Speed: 2,800 rpm
• Max. Engine Speed (WOT): 12,500 rpm
• Fuel/Oil Mix: 50:1 with STIHL HP Ultra or equivalent ISO-L-EGD (JASO FD, ISO EGD) certified 2-stroke oil.
• Ignition System: Electronic, capacitor discharge (CDI)
• Spark Plug: Bosch WSR 6 F or equivalent, gap 0.5 mm (0.020 in.)
• Carburetor: Zama C1Q-S series (adjustable)
• Serial Number Location: Stamped on the crankcase.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance is critical for performance, longevity, and safety.

1. Before Each Use: Check for loose fasteners, damage, and fuel system leaks. Inspect cutting attachment.
2. Daily/After Use: Clean exterior and cooling fins. Check air filter, clean if necessary.
3. Every 50 Hours: Clean spark arrestor screen (if equipped). Check fuel filter and replace if clogged.
4. Every 100 Hours: Clean carburetor air intake and check all fuel lines. Replace spark plug.
5. Annually or Every 300 Hours: Clean combustion chamber, check piston and cylinder for wear. Inspect and service gearbox/drive shaft.

CAUTION! Use only genuine STIHL replacement parts. Incorrect parts can cause failure and void warranty.

Fuel System & Carburetor

Service procedures for the fuel tank, lines, filter, and carburetor adjustment.

Fuel Line Replacement:

1. Empty fuel tank.
2. Remove tank cover and carburetor cover.
3. Disconnect fuel lines from carburetor and tank fittings.
4. Install new lines, ensuring they are routed correctly and securely clamped.

Carburetor Adjustment (at sea level, with warm engine):

• L (Low Speed): Turn in until slight rpm drop, then out 1/4 turn.
• H (High Speed): Do not exceed max governed speed (12,500 rpm). For basic setting, turn in until seated lightly, then out 1 turn.
• LA (Idle Speed): Adjust to achieve stable idle (2,800 rpm) and ensure cutting attachment does not rotate.

Tip: Always clean the air filter before adjusting the carburetor.

Ignition System

Testing and replacement of ignition components.

1. Spark Plug Test: Remove plug, reconnect boot, ground electrode against cylinder. Pull starter - look for strong blue spark.
2. Ignition Module (CDI) Test: Check for spark with a known-good plug. No spark may indicate faulty module, stop switch, or wiring.
3. Replacement: Disconnect spark plug boot. Remove mounting screws for module. Note wire routing. Install new module, ensuring air gap (if specified) between flywheel and module poles.

WARNING! Never test for spark with the plug installed in the cylinder and the fuel system connected.

Engine & Cylinder

Major service procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly.

Compression Check: Use compression gauge. Healthy engine should exceed 110 psi. Low compression indicates worn piston, rings, or cylinder.

Cylinder & Piston Inspection:

1. Remove muffler and inspect piston through exhaust port for scoring.
2. For full inspection, remove cylinder head. Check cylinder walls and piston for scratches, scoring, or excessive carbon buildup.
3. Measure piston skirt and cylinder bore for wear and clearance limits (refer to specifications).

Decarbonizing: Remove carbon deposits from piston crown, exhaust port, and combustion chamber using a soft tool to avoid damaging surfaces.

Cutting Attachments

Service for trimmer heads, blades, and drive shafts.

Attachment	Service Procedure	Precautions
PolyCut Head	Replace worn cutting line. Ensure line length does not exceed specified limit.	Disconnect spark plug. Wear gloves.
Metal Blades	Check for cracks, nicks, and balance. Sharpen evenly. Replace damaged blades.	Always use correct blade washer and retaining nut. Tighten to specified torque.
Drive Shaft	Inspect for bends or damage. Lubricate flexible shaft per maintenance schedule.	Ensure shaft is properly engaged with engine and gearbox couplers.

Drive Shaft & Gearbox

Maintenance of the drive train.

1. Gearbox Lubrication: Remove fill plug. Pack with STIHL gearbox grease until it emerges from the fill hole. Reinstall plug.
2. Shaft Bearing Inspection: Check for smooth rotation and no play. Replace if rough or noisy.
3. Clutch Inspection: Check clutch shoes for wear and springs for integrity. Replace if engine rpm rises but tool does not engage properly.

CAUTION! Never operate the unit without proper lubrication in the gearbox, as this will cause rapid failure.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No spark, flooded, fuel issue	Check spark, plug condition. Dry plug. Check fuel lines, filter, and carburetor.
Engine starts but dies	Clogged fuel filter, dirty air filter, carb adjustment	Replace fuel filter. Clean air filter. Check carburetor settings and diaphragms.
Loss of power	Clogged muffler, air leak, compression loss	Clean spark arrestor. Check crankcase seals & gaskets. Perform compression test.
Excessive vibration	Bent drive shaft, unbalanced blade, loose fasteners	Inspect shaft and cutting attachment. Tighten all mounting bolts and nuts.
Cutting attachment does not spin	Broken drive cable, clutch failure, gearbox damage	Inspect drive shaft and clutch. Check gearbox for broken gears.

Torque Specifications

Critical fastener torque values (use a calibrated torque wrench).

• Cylinder Head Nuts: 20 Nm (15 ft-lb)
• Spark Plug: 25 Nm (18 ft-lb)
• Muffler Bolts: 10 Nm (7.5 ft-lb)
• Clutch Nut: 40 Nm (30 ft-lb) - Use holder tool to prevent crankshaft rotation.
• Gearbox Retaining Bolts: 15 Nm (11 ft-lb)
• Cutting Attachment Retaining Nut: 40 Nm (30 ft-lb) - Use appropriate spanner.

Exploded Views & Parts List

Refer to official STIHL parts catalog for detailed exploded views and part numbers for the FS130R. Key assemblies include:

1. Crankcase & Engine Assembly
2. Carburetor & Fuel Tank Assembly
3. Ignition & Flywheel Assembly
4. Starter Assembly
5. Drive Shaft & Handle Assembly
6. Gearbox & Cutting Attachment Interface

Service: For technical support and genuine parts, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer or visit www.stihlusa.com.