stihl fs36 manual

The STIHL FS 36 is a lightweight, gasoline-powered string trimmer designed for residential trimming and clearing of grass, weeds, and light vegetation. It features a 2-stroke engine, a straight shaft, a loop handle for comfortable operation, a Tap 'n Go™ semi-automatic cutting head line advance system, and a debris-deflecting clutch cover. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke engine, Straight shaft, Loop handle, Tap 'n Go™ cutting head, Debris-deflecting clutch cover, Throttle trigger with lockout, Stop switch.

Feature	Description
Engine	STIHL 2-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled
Shaft	Straight, solid drive shaft
Handle	Loop handle with vibration damping
Cutting Head	Tap 'n Go™ semi-automatic line advance
Clutch Cover	Deflects debris for operator safety
Throttle Trigger	With lockout to prevent accidental operation
Stop Switch	For immediate engine shutdown
Fuel Tank	Integrated, see-through for fuel level check
Starter	Rewind starter with starter grip
Spark Plug	Accessible for maintenance

Safety Information

Read and understand all instructions before use. Wear proper PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear eye protection, hearing protection, long pants, sturdy boots, and gloves.
2. Clear Work Area: Remove stones, sticks, wire, and other debris before trimming.
3. Fuel Safety: Mix fuel outdoors, away from ignition sources. Use approved gasoline and STIHL 2-stroke oil.
4. Operation: Keep bystanders and pets at a safe distance. Never operate in a closed area.

WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death from rotating cutting line, thrown objects, fire, or carbon monoxide. Operate with extreme caution.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble according to instructions.

1. Attach Handle: Secure loop handle to shaft using provided hardware.
2. Install Debris Shield: Attach clutch cover to gearhead.
3. Install Cutting Head: Thread Tap 'n Go™ head onto gearhead shaft.
4. Fill with Fuel: Use proper fuel/oil mix (50:1 with STIHL 2-Stroke Oil).

CAUTION! Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation. Do not operate without debris shield installed.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 27.2 cc (1.7 cu. in.).
• Power Output: 0.9 kW (1.2 bhp).
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (STIHL 2-Stroke Oil).
• Fuel Tank Capacity: Approx. 0.47 liters (16 fl. oz.).
• Cutting Swath: Approx. 43 cm (17 inches).
• Drive System: Solid steel drive shaft.
• Cutting Attachment: Tap 'n Go™ cutting head with monofilament line.
• Dry Weight: Approx. 5.2 kg (11.5 lbs).
• Sound Power Level: Complies with applicable standards.

Controls and Components

Main Controls: Throttle trigger with lockout, Stop switch, Choke lever, Primer bulb.

Handle Area: Throttle trigger lockout, Throttle trigger, Stop switch (I/O). Engine Area: Choke lever (positions: RUN, START), Primer bulb, Rewind starter grip, Fuel tank cap, Spark plug boot.

Operation: Depress throttle trigger lockout to enable throttle. Use choke and primer for cold starts.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use fresh, unleaded gasoline with a minimum octane rating of 89 (RON). Mix with STIHL 2-Stroke Oil at a 50:1 ratio.

1. Mix fuel in an approved container. Pour correct amount of oil first, then gasoline.
2. Shake container thoroughly before filling trimmer's fuel tank.
3. Lubricate gearhead periodically with STIHL gear grease.

Tip: Never use fuel older than 30 days. Do not use automotive oil or fuel intended for 4-stroke engines.

Starting & Stopping

Starting Procedure (Cold Engine):

1. Place trimmer on clear, flat ground.
2. Press fuel primer bulb 5-10 times.
3. Move choke lever to START position.
4. Depress throttle trigger lockout and squeeze throttle trigger once, then release.
5. Pull starter rope briskly until engine fires (usually 1-3 pulls).
6. Immediately move choke lever to RUN position.
7. Pull starter rope again to start engine.
8. Allow engine to warm up at idle for ~30 seconds.

Stopping: Release throttle trigger. Press and hold stop switch (move to "O" position) until engine stops.

Operating Instructions

Hold trimmer with right hand on rear handle (throttle) and left hand on loop handle.

1. Cutting Technique: Use a smooth, sweeping motion from side to side, keeping cutting head parallel to ground.
2. Line Advance: Tap cutting head firmly on ground (with engine at high idle) to advance fresh line ("Tap 'n Go").
3. Avoid Obstacles: Do not force trimmer into dense material or against hard objects.
4. Overload: If engine bogs down, reduce load by moving slower or cutting smaller areas.

WARNING! Never operate with damaged cutting line, shield, or handles. Keep rotating parts away from body and clothing.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Perform maintenance with engine off and cool. Clean after each use.

Daily/Before Use: Check for loose fasteners, damaged parts, and fuel leaks. Clean exterior and air intake area. Periodic: Clean spark arrestor screen (if equipped). Check and clean spark plug. Inspect cutting line and replace if worn. Lubricate gearhead as needed.

CAUTION! Use only STIHL replacement parts. Do not clean with pressurized water or solvents.

Storage

For storage longer than 30 days, prepare fuel system.

1. Drain fuel tank completely.
2. Start engine and run until it stops to use up fuel in carburetor.
3. Remove spark plug, add a few drops of 2-stroke oil into cylinder, pull starter rope slowly 2-3 times, reinstall plug.
4. Clean entire unit and store in a dry, secure place.

CAUTION! Store fuel mix and unit away from open flames, sparks, and heat sources.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No fuel, flooded, spark plug	Check fuel level; use correct starting procedure; check/clean spark plug.
Engine runs poorly/dies	Dirty air filter, old fuel, carb adjustment	Clean air filter; use fresh fuel; have carb adjusted by dealer.
Line does not advance	Line too short, head jammed	Tap head on ground at high idle; remove head and clear debris.
Excessive vibration	Damaged cutting head, loose parts	Inspect head for damage; tighten all fasteners.
Loss of power	Clogged fuel filter, exhaust screen	Replace fuel filter; clean spark arrestor screen.

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

Support: Refer to official STIHL website or contact your local STIHL dealer.