Stihl FS85T Manual

The Stihl FS85T is a professional-grade trimmer featuring a powerful 2-stroke engine, loop handle with vibration damping, straight shaft design, modular attachment system (KombiSystem), electronic ignition, adjustable harness, and anti-vibration system. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 2-stroke engine, straight drive shaft, loop handle, adjustable harness, KombiSystem attachment interface, throttle trigger lockout, and anti-vibration system.

Feature	Description
Engine Type	2-stroke, single cylinder, air-cooled
Displacement	27.2 cc
Power Output	0.9 kW (1.2 hp)
Fuel System	Diaphragm carburetor
Ignition System	Electronic, capacitor discharge
Drive Shaft	Straight, solid
Handle System	Loop handle with vibration damping
Attachment System	STIHL KombiSystem
Cutting Attachment	Standard trimmer head (Line Cutter)
Safety Features	Throttle trigger lockout, anti-vibration

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack and inspect all components. Assemble on a clean, flat surface.

1. Attach handle: Align handle with shaft and secure with provided bolts.
2. Install harness: Connect harness D-rings to attachment points on unit.
3. Attach cutting head: Align KombiSystem head and twist until it clicks into place.
4. Fuel mixture: Prepare 50:1 gasoline to 2-stroke oil mixture (STIHL HP Ultra recommended).
5. Fill fuel tank: Use clean fuel container; avoid spills.

WARNING! Always wear protective equipment: safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, long pants, and sturdy boots.

First-Time Operation

Before starting, ensure unit is on flat ground away from flammable materials.

1. Primer bulb: Press several times until fuel is visible in bulb.
2. Choke: Move lever to cold start position (full choke).
3. Ignition: Set stop switch to "I" (run) position.
4. Starting: Place unit on ground, hold handle with one hand, pull starter rope briskly.
5. Warm-up: After engine starts, move choke to run position; allow 30-second warm-up.
6. Adjust harness: Fit harness for comfortable operation before trimming.

CAUTION! Keep bystanders and pets at least 15 meters away during operation.

Specifications

• Engine: 2-stroke, 27.2 cc displacement.
• Power: 0.9 kW (1.2 hp) at 9,500 rpm.
• Fuel Capacity: 0.53 liters.
• Oil: 50:1 gasoline to 2-stroke oil mix.
• Weight: 5.9 kg (without cutting attachment).
• Shaft: Straight solid shaft.
• Sound Pressure: 96 dB(A).
• Vibration Levels: Left handle: 4.2 m/s², Right handle: 5.8 m/s².
• Warranty: Limited commercial warranty (see manual).

Controls and Settings

Main controls located on handle and engine housing.

Handle Controls: Throttle trigger, throttle trigger lockout, stop switch (I/0).

Engine Controls: Choke lever (cold start/warm start/run), primer bulb, decompression valve.

Adjustments: Harness length adjustment, handle rotation, carburetor adjustment screws (idle speed (LA), high speed (H) - factory set).

Safety: Throttle trigger lockout prevents accidental throttle engagement. Always engage lockout when starting.

Attaching Accessories

STIHL KombiSystem allows attachment of various tools.

1. Ensure engine is off and cool.
2. Press and hold shaft lock button near attachment point.
3. Align accessory drive with shaft and insert.
4. Rotate accessory until it clicks into locked position.
5. Test security by gently pulling on accessory.

Available Attachments: Trimmer head, brush cutter blade, hedge trimmer, pole pruner, edger.

Tip: Use only genuine STIHL KombiSystem attachments for safe operation.

Operating Procedures

Proper technique ensures efficiency and safety.

1. Starting: Follow cold/warm start procedure above.
2. Trimming: Use sweeping motion from right to left; cut at full throttle.
3. Height: Maintain cutting head parallel to ground; avoid digging into soil.
4. Moving: Shut off engine when moving between work areas.
5. Shutdown: Release throttle, move stop switch to "0".
6. Clearing debris: Always shut off before removing entangled material.

WARNING! Never operate unit with damaged cutting attachment or loose components.

Safety Features

Throttle trigger lockout: Must be engaged before throttle can be activated. Anti-vibration system: Reduces operator fatigue. Decompression valve: Eases starting. Deflector shield: Protects from debris.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and safe operation.

1. Daily: Clean air filter, check for loose fasteners, inspect cutting attachment.
2. Weekly: Clean cooling fins, check spark plug, clean exterior.
3. Monthly: Check fuel filter, inspect drive shaft, lubricate attachment interface.
4. Seasonal: Replace spark plug, clean carburetor, store with empty fuel tank.

CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Regulatory Information

EPA and CARB compliant for emissions. Meets ANSI B175.3 safety standards. Contains parts manufactured in Germany, USA, and other countries. Copyright © STIHL Incorporated. For genuine parts and service, contact authorized STIHL dealers only. Customer service: 1-800-467-8445 or www.stihlusa.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, air	Check fuel mixture, spark plug, air filter; ensure choke set correctly.
Engine runs poorly	Clogged filter, carburetor	Clean/replace air filter; check fuel filter; adjust carburetor.
Excessive vibration	Loose components	Tighten all fasteners; check cutting attachment balance.
Line not feeding	Spool jammed, worn line	Tap head on ground at full throttle; replace trimmer line.
Overheating	Dirty cooling fins, lean mixture	Clean cooling fins; check carburetor adjustment; use proper fuel mix.

Service: For major repairs, contact authorized STIHL service center.

Support: 1-800-467-8445; www.stihlusa.com