Stihl FSE 71 Manual

The Stihl FSE 71 is a powerful and efficient electric string trimmer designed for residential and light commercial use. It features a robust electric motor, an adjustable telescopic shaft, an easy-load cutting head, and a range of safety and ergonomic features. Below are key sections covering safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-torque electric motor, Adjustable telescopic shaft, Easy-load cutting head (AutoCut C5-2), Ergonomic handle with controls, Power cord with strain relief, Shoulder strap attachment points.

Feature	Description
Motor	High-efficiency electric motor, 120V AC operation
Shaft	Telescopic, adjustable for user height
Cutting Head	AutoCut C5-2, easy line advance (bump feed)
Cutting Swath	Up to 16 inches
Handle	Ergonomic D-handle with trigger lockout and throttle
Power Cord	Heavy-duty, with integrated strain relief
Weight	Approximately 10.1 lbs (without cord)
Safety Features	Trigger lockout, protective guard, instant brake

Safety Instructions

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

1. **Personal Safety:** Wear safety glasses, hearing protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
2. **Work Area Safety:** Keep bystanders and pets at a safe distance. Clear area of stones, wires, and debris.
3. **Electrical Safety:** Use only a properly grounded outlet. Inspect power cord before each use. Do not use in wet conditions.
4. **Tool Use & Care:** Keep hands and feet away from cutting head. Never operate with a damaged guard or without safety devices installed.
5. **Service:** Have service performed by a qualified technician using only identical Stihl replacement parts.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury or death. The cutting line can throw objects at high speed.

Assembly & Preparation

Unpack all parts. Assembly requires attaching the handle, adjusting the shaft, and installing the cutting line.

1. **Attach Handle:** Slide the D-handle onto the shaft at the desired position and tighten the clamping screws securely.
2. **Adjust Shaft Length:** Loosen the shaft lock knob, extend or retract the shaft to a comfortable operating length, and re-tighten the knob firmly.
3. **Install Cutting Line:** Press the two tabs on the cutting head to unlock and remove the spool cover. Wind .095" diameter nylon line onto the spool as directed by the arrows. Lead the ends through the eyelets, reassemble the cover until it clicks.
4. **Connect Power:** Ensure the trigger is in the locked position. Plug the power cord into a grounded 120V outlet.

CAUTION! Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation. Do not force parts during assembly.

Specifications

• Model: FSE 71
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz, 12 Amp
• Motor Speed: Up to 10,000 RPM
• Cutting Swath: 16 inches
• Line Diameter: .095 inch (recommended)
• Shaft: Telescopic, steel
• Cutting Head: AutoCut C5-2 (bump feed)
• Sound Power Level: 96 dB(A)
• Vibration Level: < 2.5 m/s²
• Weight (without cord): 10.1 lbs (4.6 kg)

Controls and Components

**Main Handle (D-Handle):** Contains the trigger switch, trigger lockout (safety lever), and main body.

**Trigger Lockout:** Must be depressed before the trigger can be squeezed. This is a safety feature to prevent accidental starting.

**Trigger:** The throttle control. Squeeze to start the motor and increase speed.

**Shaft Lock Knob:** Allows adjustment of the telescopic shaft length.

**Cutting Head:** Houses the spool and cutting line. Bump the head on the ground (with motor running) to advance fresh line.

**Protective Guard:** Deflects debris away from the operator.

Operation

1. **Starting:** Depress the trigger lockout with your right hand, then squeeze the trigger. The motor will start.
2. **Line Advance:** While operating at full speed, lightly bump the cutting head on the ground. This will release approximately 1 inch of fresh cutting line.
3. **Cutting Technique:** Use a smooth, sweeping motion from side to side, keeping the cutting head parallel to the ground. Cut from right to left for best debris dispersal.
4. **Stopping:** Release the trigger. The motor will stop and the cutting head will brake almost instantly.
5. **Trimming Near Objects:** Be extremely careful around fences, trees, and walls. The line can damage surfaces and can be worn down quickly.

Tip: For tall grass, work in layers, cutting the top first and then lowering the head for a final trim.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Daily/Before Use: Inspect the tool for damage. Check the cutting head and guard for cracks. Ensure the line is the correct length and not worn excessively. Clean grass and debris from the air intake vents and guard.

Regular Maintenance: Lubricate the drive shaft at the coupling point (if specified) with Stihl grease. Check and tighten all screws and fasteners.

Cleaning: Unplug the tool. Wipe the housing with a damp cloth. Use a brush or compressed air to clear debris from the motor housing vents and cutting head area.

CAUTION! Always unplug the trimmer before performing any maintenance or cleaning. Never use water or solvents to clean the motor housing.

Storage

Store the trimmer in a dry, secure place out of reach of children.

1. Unplug the power cord and coil it loosely.
2. Clean the trimmer thoroughly as described in the Maintenance section.
3. Inspect and replace worn cutting line if necessary before next use.
4. Hang the trimmer by the handle or lay it flat to avoid damaging the cutting head.

WARNING! Do not store the trimmer outdoors or in damp locations. Protect from extreme temperatures.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Motor does not start	No power, trigger lockout not engaged, faulty outlet	Check power cord is plugged in. Ensure trigger lockout is depressed. Try a different outlet. Check household circuit breaker.
Motor starts but head does not spin	Drive shaft disconnected, damaged gearhead	Ensure shaft is fully engaged at the coupling. Contact authorized STIHL service.
Line does not advance	Empty spool, line tangled, worn bump knob	Refill spool with new line. Disassemble head and rewind line neatly. Replace worn bump knob or spool cover.
Excessive vibration	Bent shaft, unbalanced cutting head, loose parts	Inspect shaft for damage. Ensure line is cut to even lengths. Tighten all screws and the shaft lock knob.
Tool overheats	Blocked air vents, excessive load, faulty motor	Clean air intake vents. Do not force tool through dense vegetation. Allow to cool. If problem persists, contact service.

Reset: If a thermal overload protector trips, unplug the tool and allow it to cool for 15-20 minutes.

Warranty & Support

STIHL products are backed by a limited warranty. Please refer to your STIHL warranty card for specific terms and duration.

For technical support, genuine STIHL parts, and service, contact an authorized STIHL servicing dealer.

**STIHL Inc.**
536 Viking Drive
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
USA
**Website:** www.stihlusa.com
**Customer Support:** 1-800-467-8445

Always use only identical STIHL replacement parts. The use of non-STIHL parts may void your warranty and can impair performance and safety.