Stihl FSE 52 Manual

The Stihl FSE 52 is a cordless electric string trimmer designed for residential and light commercial use. It features a brushless motor for high efficiency and long runtime, a PowerSlide™ adjustable telescopic shaft for user comfort, an EasySpool™ Advance cutting head for quick line advancement, an adjustable auxiliary handle, and compatibility with Stihl AK series batteries. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Brushless electric motor, PowerSlide™ telescopic shaft, EasySpool™ Advance cutting head, Adjustable auxiliary handle, Battery compartment, Safety trigger lockout, and On/Off switch.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

1. Always wear eye protection, long pants, sturdy gloves, and closed-toe shoes.
2. Inspect the trimmer and cutting line before each use. Do not operate if damaged.
3. Keep bystanders, children, and pets at least 50 feet away during operation.
4. Be aware of your surroundings. Clear the area of stones, wires, and other debris.
5. Always hold the trimmer with both hands. Keep a firm grip.

WARNING! The cutting line rotates at high speed and can cause serious injury. Never operate without the proper guard in place. Do not use the trimmer in wet conditions or rain.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack all components. Assemble according to the provided pictorial guide.

1. Attach the shaft: Extend the PowerSlide™ shaft to your desired length and lock the collar.
2. Install the auxiliary handle: Slide onto the shaft, adjust to a comfortable position, and tighten.
3. Install the guard: Align with the mounting points on the cutting head and secure firmly.
4. Insert the battery: Ensure the trimmer is OFF. Insert a charged Stihl AK battery into the compartment until it clicks.
5. Load the cutting line: Follow the instructions in Section 7 to spool new line into the EasySpool™ head.

CAUTION! Do not force parts during assembly. Ensure all connections are secure before operation.

Specifications

• Power Source: Stihl AK Series Lithium-Ion Battery.
• Motor Type: Brushless Electric.
• Cutting Width: 14 inches.
• Shaft Type: Telescopic, Steel.
• Cutting Head: EasySpool™ Advance (Bump Feed).
• Line Diameter: 0.080 inches (2.0 mm).
• Sound Power Level: Approx. 85 dB(A).
• Weight (without battery): 6.8 lbs (3.1 kg).
• Vibration Level: Low, due to brushless motor design.

Controls and Components

Main Handle: Contains On/Off switch, Safety lockout trigger, and Main trigger. Battery Compartment: Located near the motor housing. Auxiliary Handle: Adjustable for user comfort. Cutting Head Guard: Protects user from debris.

Operation: Press and hold the safety lockout trigger with your left hand, then squeeze the main trigger with your right hand to start the motor. Release the main trigger to stop. The variable speed trigger allows for precise control.

Adjustments: Shaft length, auxiliary handle position, and cutting line length are all user-adjustable.

Operation

Hold the trimmer at a slight angle, allowing the tip of the line to do the cutting.

1. Ensure the area is clear and you are wearing proper PPE.
2. Insert a fully charged battery.
3. Hold the trimmer firmly with both hands, feet shoulder-width apart.
4. Engage the safety lockout, then squeeze the main trigger to start.
5. Use a smooth, sweeping motion from side to side, slightly overlapping each pass.
6. To advance line, tap the cutting head firmly on the ground while the motor is running at full speed (bump feed).
7. Release the trigger to stop. Wait for all movement to cease before setting the trimmer down.

Tip: Cut tall grass in stages from top to bottom. Avoid forcing the trimmer through dense vegetation.

Cutting Head & Line Replacement

The EasySpool™ Advance head uses pre-wound spools for easy replacement.

1. Turn the trimmer OFF and remove the battery.
2. Press the two tabs on the sides of the cutting head and remove the spool cover.
3. Remove the empty spool. Clean any debris from the spool chamber.
4. Insert a new spool of 0.080" line, ensuring the line ends feed through the eyelets on the head.
5. Replace the cover, ensuring it clicks securely into place.
6. Pull the line ends out to the proper length (approx. the diameter of the guard).

WARNING! Always use genuine Stihl replacement line of the specified diameter. Incorrect line can damage the head or motor.

Maintenance & Storage

Unplug the battery before performing any maintenance.

1. After each use: Clean grass and debris from the guard, cutting head, and motor housing with a dry brush or cloth.
2. Inspect: Regularly check for loose screws, cracks in the housing, or damage to the line guard.
3. Battery Care: Store batteries in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Charge fully before long-term storage.
4. Long-Term Storage: Clean the trimmer thoroughly. Remove the battery and store separately.

CAUTION! Do not use water or solvents to clean the motor or electrical components. Never store the trimmer or battery in damp locations.

Regulatory Information

This product complies with relevant safety and EMC directives. The crossed-out wheelie bin symbol indicates that the product and its battery must not be disposed of with household waste. Return to an authorized Stihl dealer for recycling. Stihl is a registered trademark of Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KG. For support, visit www.stihlusa.com or contact your local authorized Stihl servicing dealer.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs not covered in this manual, contact your local authorized Stihl servicing dealer. Do not attempt to disassemble the motor or gear housing.