Stihl FSE 60 Manual Download

The Stihl FSE 60 is a professional-grade electric string trimmer designed for demanding landscaping and maintenance work. It features a powerful electric motor, adjustable cutting head, ergonomic design with anti-vibration system, telescopic shaft, and compatibility with various Stihl trimmer heads and attachments. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Electric motor unit, Telescopic shaft, Adjustable auxiliary handle, Cutting head with automatic line feed, Power cord with strain relief, and Shoulder strap attachment points.

Feature	Description
Motor Type	High-efficiency brushless electric motor
Power Source	230V AC, 50Hz (check local voltage)
Shaft Type	Telescopic steel shaft, adjustable length
Cutting Width	Up to 42 cm (with appropriate head)
Line Diameter	Accepts 2.0 mm - 2.4 mm trimmer line
Weight	Approximately 5.2 kg (without cable)
Noise Level	Reduced noise operation compared to gas models
Handle System	Ergonomic D-handle with anti-vibration
Safety Features	Two-hand operation required, safety trigger lock
Compatibility	Accepts Stihl PolyCut heads and accessories

Safety Instructions

Read all instructions before assembly or operation. Always wear appropriate PPE.

1. Personal Protective Equipment: Always wear safety glasses, hearing protection, sturdy gloves, long pants, and non-slip boots.
2. Work Area Safety: Clear area of bystanders, pets, and obstacles. Be aware of hidden objects like wires or stones.
3. Electrical Safety: Inspect power cord before each use. Use only properly grounded outdoor-rated extension cords. Keep cord away from cutting area.
4. Tool Handling: Always hold trimmer with both hands. Keep proper footing and balance. Do not operate when fatigued.

WARNING! Never operate without proper guards in place. Keep hands and feet away from cutting head at all times.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack all components and check against packing list.

1. Attach Shaft: Insert lower shaft into motor housing until it clicks. Secure with provided locking mechanism.
2. Install Handle: Slide auxiliary handle onto shaft at desired height. Tighten clamping screw securely.
3. Attach Cutting Head: Align head with drive shaft and rotate clockwise until it locks. Pull to ensure secure attachment.
4. Install Shoulder Strap: Connect strap to attachment points on motor housing and shaft bracket.
5. Load Trimmer Line: Follow instructions in section 7 for proper line loading and threading.

CAUTION! Ensure all connections are tight before operation. Do not force components during assembly.

Technical Specifications

• Model: Stihl FSE 60 Electric String Trimmer
• Power Input: 1200 W
• Voltage: 230V AC (check local specifications)
• No-load Speed: 10,000 rpm
• Shaft Length: Adjustable from 140-180 cm
• Cutting System: Automatic line feed (AutoCut C 6-2)
• Line Capacity: Up to 6 m of 2.0 mm line
• Sound Pressure: 85 dB(A) typical
• Vibration Level: Front handle: 2.5 m/s², Rear handle: 4.5 m/s²
• Warranty: 2 years commercial, 4 years private use

Controls and Components

Main controls located on motor housing and handle. Front Panel: Power switch with lock-off position, Overload reset button, Cord retention hook.

Handle Controls: Safety trigger lock, Main operating trigger, Auxiliary handle with height adjustment, Quick-adjust shoulder strap connectors.

Cutting Head: AutoCut C 6-2 head with tap-to-advance feature, Line cutter on guard, Spool release button for easy reloading. Motor Housing: Ventilation slots, Motor brush access cover, Serial number plate. Safety Features: Two-hand operation required (both triggers must be engaged), Automatic brake when triggers released, Overload protection circuit.

Operation Guide

Proper technique ensures efficient cutting and extends tool life.

1. Starting: Connect to power source. Press safety lock and squeeze main trigger simultaneously.
2. Basic Cutting: Use sweeping motion from side to side. Keep cutting head parallel to ground.
3. Edging: Rotate handle 90° to use trimmer as edger. Guide along sidewalk or border.
4. Line Advance: Tap head gently on ground while running to advance fresh line.
5. Slope Operation: Always stand across slope, not up and down. Use shoulder strap for balance.
6. Shutting Down: Release trigger. Wait for head to stop completely before setting down.

Tip: Work in sections, overlapping each pass slightly for even cutting.

Cutting Head & Line Replacement

Supports various Stihl trimmer heads and line diameters.

1. Stop Tool: Ensure trimmer is unplugged from power source.
2. Remove Old Spool: Press spool release buttons and remove cover. Remove empty spool.
3. Load New Line: Wind 6 meters of approved line onto spool in direction indicated by arrows.
4. Thread Line: Insert line ends through eyelets in spool cover. Pull through until 10-15 cm extends.
5. Reassemble: Place spool in head, ensuring line feeds freely. Replace cover until it clicks.
6. Test: Plug in and test line advance by tapping head on ground.

WARNING! Use only Stihl-approved trimmer line. Incorrect line can damage feed mechanism.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Inspect power cord, check guards, verify line condition
After each use	Clean housing vents, wipe down shaft, check for damage
Every 25 hours	Lubricate shaft joints, check brush wear, inspect bearings
Every 50 hours	Replace carbon brushes (if equipped), check motor ventilation
Seasonally	Full inspection, gear lubrication, electrical connection check

CAUTION! Always disconnect from power before performing any maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage extends tool life and ensures safety.

1. Clean Thoroughly: Remove all grass and debris from housing, shaft, and cutting head.
2. Inspect: Check for damage or wear that needs repair before next season.
3. Store Line: Remove trimmer line or retract fully to prevent deformation.
4. Protect Cord: Loosely coil power cord; avoid sharp bends or kinks.
5. Storage Location: Store in dry, secure area protected from extreme temperatures.

Tip: Hang tool by handle or store horizontally on shelf to prevent shaft bending.

Warranty Information

Stihl Limited Warranty: 2 years for commercial use, 4 years for private use from date of purchase. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Does not cover normal wear, misuse, improper maintenance, or unauthorized repairs. For warranty service, contact authorized Stihl dealer with proof of purchase. For support, visit www.stihl.com or contact Stihl customer service at 1-800-GO-STIHL.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Motor won't start	No power, safety lock engaged	Check power source and cord; ensure both triggers fully engaged.
Line not advancing	Empty spool, tangled line	Reload with fresh line; ensure proper winding direction.
Excessive vibration	Damaged shaft, unbalanced head	Inspect shaft for bends; check head for damage or debris.
Motor overheats	Blocked vents, excessive load	Clean ventilation slots; reduce cutting load; allow to cool.
Poor cutting performance	Dull line, incorrect technique	Advance fresh line; maintain proper cutting angle and speed.
Circuit breaker trips	Overload, extension cord issue	Use heavier gauge extension cord; reduce cutting load.

Reset: Wait 5 minutes after overload; press reset button on housing if equipped.

Service: For repairs, contact authorized Stihl dealer only. Do not attempt to repair motor or electrical components.