Stihl FS56C Manual

The Stihl FS56C is a lightweight, professional-grade gasoline-powered string trimmer/brushcutter designed for demanding residential and commercial use. It features a 27.2cc STIHL 2-MIX engine for reduced fuel consumption and emissions, an anti-vibration system, a loop handle for comfortable operation, a straight shaft, a translucent fuel tank, a semi-automatic choke, and a Tap'n Go™ cutting head for easy line advance. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

Features at a Glance

Key components: STIHL 2-MIX engine, anti-vibration system, loop handle, straight shaft, translucent fuel tank, semi-automatic choke, Tap'n Go™ cutting head.

Feature	Description
Engine	27.2cc STIHL 2-MIX engine for power, fuel efficiency, and low emissions
Anti-Vibration System	Reduces operator fatigue during extended use
Handle	Loop handle for comfortable, two-handed control
Shaft	Straight solid shaft for durability and balance
Fuel Tank	Translucent for easy fuel level inspection
Choke	Semi-automatic for easier starting
Cutting Head	Tap'n Go™ for easy line advance without bumping
Throttle Trigger	With throttle trigger lockout for safety
Stop Switch	Easy access to stop the engine
Spark Plug	Accessible for maintenance

Safety Information

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

1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, sturdy gloves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, pets, and obstacles. Be aware of thrown objects.
3. Fuel Safety: Refuel outdoors only, with engine stopped and cool. Use clean, approved fuel containers.
4. Operation Safety: Keep firm footing. Do not operate above shoulder height. Never use near power lines.

WARNING! Risk of serious injury or death from blade contact, thrown objects, fire, or explosion. Follow all safety rules.

Assembly & First Use

Unpack and inspect contents. Assemble according to instructions.

1. Attach Shaft: Connect the drive shaft to the engine housing and secure with the provided bolts.
2. Install Handle: Position the loop handle on the shaft and tighten the clamping screws securely.
3. Install Cutting Attachment: Attach the Tap'n Go™ cutting head or optional blade, ensuring it is locked securely.
4. Add Fuel & Oil: Fill with fresh, properly mixed fuel (50:1 gasoline to STIHL HP Ultra 2-cycle oil).
5. Check Controls: Ensure throttle trigger, lockout, and stop switch function correctly.

CAUTION! Ensure all fasteners are tight before starting. Use only STIHL-approved attachments.

Specifications

• Engine Displacement: 27.2 cc (1.7 cu. in.)
• Engine Type: STIHL 2-MIX, single-cylinder, 2-stroke
• Powerhead Weight: Approximately 10.6 lbs (4.8 kg)
• Fuel/Oil Ratio: 50:1 (Gasoline to STIHL HP Ultra 2-cycle oil)
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.9 fl. oz. (0.44 liters)
• Drive Shaft: Straight, solid
• Standard Cutting Attachment: Tap'n Go™ cutting head with monofilament line
• Sound Power Level (LWA): 107 dB(A) (Measured per applicable standard)
• Vibration Levels (ah, K): Front Handle: 4.5 m/s², Rear Handle: 6.5 m/s²

Controls and Components

Main controls located on the handle and engine housing.

Handle Area: Throttle Trigger, Throttle Trigger Lockout, Stop Switch (I/O).

Engine Housing: Choke Lever (for cold start), Fuel Tank Cap, Air Filter Cover, Starter Grip, Muffler.

Shaft/Cutting Head: Drive Shaft, Clutch, Cutting Attachment (Tap'n Go™ head), Guard.

Operation: Depress lockout to enable throttle. Squeeze throttle to increase engine speed. Release throttle for idle. Press stop switch to "O" to stop engine.

Fuel & Lubrication

Use only fresh, unleaded gasoline (min. 89 octane) mixed with a high-quality 2-cycle engine oil.

1. Fuel Mix: 50:1 ratio. Use STIHL HP Ultra oil for best performance and reduced carbon deposits.
2. Mixing: Mix fuel and oil in a clean, approved container before pouring into unit. Shake gently.
3. Refueling: Stop engine and allow to cool. Clean area around cap. Fill tank outdoors. Wipe up spills.
4. Gearbox Lubrication: Lubricate gearbox at the cutting attachment with STIHL grease periodically.

WARNING! Gasoline is extremely flammable. No smoking. Never refuel a hot engine.

Starting & Stopping

Cold Start Procedure:

1. Place unit on clear, firm ground.
2. Press the fuel pump bulb (if equipped) at least 5 times.
3. Move choke lever to cold start position (full choke).
4. Depress throttle trigger lockout and squeeze throttle trigger once, then release both.
5. Pull starter rope sharply until engine fires (usually 2-5 pulls).
6. Immediately move choke lever to warm start/half-choke position.
7. Pull starter rope again to start engine. Allow to warm up at idle.

Warm Start: Choke lever in normal run position. Follow steps 4, 5, and 7.

Stopping: Release throttle. Allow engine to idle briefly. Press stop switch to "O".

Operating Instructions

Supports trimming and light brush cutting with appropriate attachments.

1. Starting Position: Hold unit firmly with both hands, right hand on throttle handle, left hand on loop.
2. Trimming Technique: Use a smooth, swinging arc. Cut from right to left for better debris discharge.
3. Line Advance (Tap'n Go™): Lightly tap the cutting head on the ground at high RPM to advance fresh line.
4. Height: Keep cutting attachment parallel to ground and just above the grass/weed level.
5. Slopes: Always stand across the slope, never up or down. Be extra cautious.
6. Fatigue: Take frequent breaks. The anti-vibration system reduces but does not eliminate fatigue.

WARNING! Never operate with a damaged guard or cutting attachment. Watch for hidden wires, rocks, or metal.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Perform regular maintenance for optimal performance and long life. Always disconnect spark plug boot first.

Daily/Before Use: Check for loose fasteners, damaged parts, and fuel leaks. Clean air intake and exterior.

After Use: Wipe down unit with a clean, dry cloth.

Air Filter: Clean regularly. Remove cover, tap out debris, or wash in soapy water if very dirty. Dry completely before reinstalling.

Spark Plug: Check and clean electrode gap periodically. Replace if worn or fouled.

Fuel Filter: Replace fuel filter in tank annually or as needed.

Cutting Head: Inspect for wear. Replace spool and line as needed.

Storage

Prepare unit for storage if not in use for more than 30 days.

1. Fuel System: Run engine until it stops to use up fuel in carburetor. Drain all fuel from tank into an approved container.
2. Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the entire unit, especially the cooling fins, air filter, and cutting attachment.
3. Storage Location: Store in a dry, well-ventilated, and secure place, out of reach of children.
4. Long-Term: Remove spark plug, add a teaspoon of engine oil into cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat, reinstall plug.

CAUTION! Storing with fuel in the tank can cause gum deposits in the carburetor. Always use fuel stabilizer if storing with fuel.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No fuel, flooded, spark plug, choke	Check fuel level. Wait if flooded. Check/replace spark plug. Ensure correct choke position.
Engine starts but dies	Clogged air filter, fuel filter, carburetor	Clean/replace air filter. Check/replace fuel filter. May need carburetor service.
Loss of power	Dirty air filter, old fuel, clogged muffler	Clean air filter. Use fresh fuel. Clean spark arrestor screen in muffler.
Excessive vibration	Damaged cutting attachment, loose parts	Inspect cutting head/blade for damage or imbalance. Tighten all bolts and nuts.
Line not advancing	Empty spool, tangled line, worn head	Refill spool with correct line. Untangle or replace spool. Replace cutting head if worn.
Cutting attachment does not spin	Drive shaft, clutch, or gearbox issue	Check for broken drive cable/shaft. Inspect clutch springs. Lubricate gearbox.

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

Support: Visit www.stihlusa.com or contact your local STIHL dealer.