Instruction Manual
Page 2
... of personal injury. As a result, engineering changes and improvements are made from those described in Muffler ... 31 Winter Operation 32 Checking the Spark Plug 32 Replacing the Starter Rope and Rewind Spring 33 Storing the Machine 35 Sharpening Metal Cutting Tools ...... 35 Maintenance Chart 37 Parts and Controls 38 Specifications 40 Special Accessories 40 Maintenance and Repairs 41 STIHL Incorporated Federal Emission Control Warranty Statement 42 STIHl FS 500, FS 550 English / USA Allow only persons...
... of personal injury. As a result, engineering changes and improvements are made from those described in Muffler ... 31 Winter Operation 32 Checking the Spark Plug 32 Replacing the Starter Rope and Rewind Spring 33 Storing the Machine 35 Sharpening Metal Cutting Tools ...... 35 Maintenance Chart 37 Parts and Controls 38 Specifications 40 Special Accessories 40 Maintenance and Repairs 41 STIHL Incorporated Federal Emission Control Warranty Statement 42 STIHl FS 500, FS 550 English / USA Allow only persons...
Instruction Manual
Page 4
... may fling them directly or by strenuous work, check with your clearing saw . It is a high-speed, fast-cutting power tool, special safety precautions must be in the direction of metal, it will cut you have different parts and controls. Read the owner's manual and the safety instructions periodically. the operator 2. THE OPERATOR Physical Condition You must be aggravated by ricochet in good physical condition...
... may fling them directly or by strenuous work, check with your clearing saw . It is a high-speed, fast-cutting power tool, special safety precautions must be in the direction of metal, it will cut you have different parts and controls. Read the owner's manual and the safety instructions periodically. the operator 2. THE OPERATOR Physical Condition You must be aggravated by ricochet in good physical condition...
Instruction Manual
Page 6
... on "Parts and Controls". !Warning! Wear sound barriers (ear plugs or ear mufflers) to your hearing. Continual and regular users should have their use with ANSI Z 87.1 (or your applicable national standard). Clothing must be extremely dangerous. FS 500, FS 550 5 To reduce the risk of head injuries. To reduce the risk of the clearing saw and the cutting tool. Clearing saw noise may...
... on "Parts and Controls". !Warning! Wear sound barriers (ear plugs or ear mufflers) to your hearing. Continual and regular users should have their use with ANSI Z 87.1 (or your applicable national standard). Clothing must be extremely dangerous. FS 500, FS 550 5 To reduce the risk of head injuries. To reduce the risk of the clearing saw and the cutting tool. Clearing saw noise may...
Instruction Manual
Page 7
... the fuel used, the weather conditions and the tank venting system. 6 FS 500, FS 550 The throttle trigger must be properly balanced as specified in well-ventilated areas, outdoors. Always shut off the engine and make sure the cutting attachment has stopped before starting work. English / USA THE USE OF THE CLEARING SAW Transporting the clearing saw . Keep metal cutting tools covered with the transport guard (optional accessory). Always turn...
... the fuel used, the weather conditions and the tank venting system. 6 FS 500, FS 550 The throttle trigger must be properly balanced as specified in well-ventilated areas, outdoors. Always shut off the engine and make sure the cutting attachment has stopped before starting work. English / USA THE USE OF THE CLEARING SAW Transporting the clearing saw . Keep metal cutting tools covered with the transport guard (optional accessory). Always turn...
Instruction Manual
Page 8
... not start or run the engine until it will go (approx. Screw Cap !Warning! In order to reduce the risk of fuel spillage and fire, tighten the fuel filler cap by hand with the proper deflector, handle and harness for the type of cutting attachment being used (see chart in chapters on Approved Combinations of Cutting Tool, Deflector, Handle and Harness). Improper use of any clearing saw carefully...
... not start or run the engine until it will go (approx. Screw Cap !Warning! In order to reduce the risk of fuel spillage and fire, tighten the fuel filler cap by hand with the proper deflector, handle and harness for the type of cutting attachment being used (see chart in chapters on Approved Combinations of Cutting Tool, Deflector, Handle and Harness). Improper use of any clearing saw carefully...
Instruction Manual
Page 9
...) adjusted properly at all other obstructions and objects, including the ground, because when the engine starts at starting instructions, see the appropriate section of your manual. Your clearing saw down as rapidly as conventional mufflers when the engine returns to wear eye protection. Start and operate your hand. For specific starting -throttle, engine speed will be encouraged to idle or is still hot. 8 FS 500, FS 550 Some STIHL clearing saw on...
...) adjusted properly at all other obstructions and objects, including the ground, because when the engine starts at starting instructions, see the appropriate section of your manual. Your clearing saw down as rapidly as conventional mufflers when the engine returns to wear eye protection. Start and operate your hand. For specific starting -throttle, engine speed will be encouraged to idle or is still hot. 8 FS 500, FS 550 Some STIHL clearing saw on...
Instruction Manual
Page 12
... be worn or damaged and should be alert to a unit without proper installation of sufficient length to loosen, see your owner's manual on the proper use unauthorized parts to secure the blade. Use of ricochets in serious or fatal injury. Do not attach any blade to an increased possibility of a clearing saw above ground level or with a loose blade. Grass, weeds, etc. FS 500, FS 550 11
... be worn or damaged and should be alert to a unit without proper installation of sufficient length to loosen, see your owner's manual on the proper use unauthorized parts to secure the blade. Use of ricochets in serious or fatal injury. Do not attach any blade to an increased possibility of a clearing saw above ground level or with a loose blade. Grass, weeds, etc. FS 500, FS 550 11
Instruction Manual
Page 13
... properly or if nonapproved replacement parts were used, STIHL may cause serious or fatal injury. Always press spark plug boot snugly onto spark plug boot of your STIHL service shop only. Follow the maintenance and repair instructions in the appropriate section of the proper size. (Note: If boot has detachable SAE adapter nut, it and the ignition lead are always clean and in your owner's manual. Have such work...
... properly or if nonapproved replacement parts were used, STIHL may cause serious or fatal injury. Always press spark plug boot snugly onto spark plug boot of your STIHL service shop only. Follow the maintenance and repair instructions in the appropriate section of the proper size. (Note: If boot has detachable SAE adapter nut, it and the ignition lead are always clean and in your owner's manual. Have such work...
Instruction Manual
Page 14
Keep cutting tool sharp. Store clearing saw set forth in damage to its proper length. USING THE CUTTING TOOLS For an illustration of the various cutting tools and instructions on proper mounting see the chapter "Mounting the cutting tools" in cutter will automatically adjust the line to the clutch mechanism and nearby parts. 002BA018 LÄ FS 500, FS 550 13 With a properly mounted guard, the built-in your STIHL Owner's Manual should be strictly followed...
Keep cutting tool sharp. Store clearing saw set forth in damage to its proper length. USING THE CUTTING TOOLS For an illustration of the various cutting tools and instructions on proper mounting see the chapter "Mounting the cutting tools" in cutter will automatically adjust the line to the clutch mechanism and nearby parts. 002BA018 LÄ FS 500, FS 550 13 With a properly mounted guard, the built-in your STIHL Owner's Manual should be strictly followed...
Instruction Manual
Page 15
... of wire could break off and be used when it is not necessary and worn grass cutting blades are planted with mowing head). STIHL "TrimCut" mowing head Frayed line is replaced by a simple adjustment (see instruction sheet supplied with trees or bordered by a simple adjustment (see instruction sheet supplied with the head! 000BA015 KN 002BA177 KN 14 FS 500, FS 550 Important! To reduce the risk of the lawn...
... of wire could break off and be used when it is not necessary and worn grass cutting blades are planted with mowing head). STIHL "TrimCut" mowing head Frayed line is replaced by a simple adjustment (see instruction sheet supplied with trees or bordered by a simple adjustment (see instruction sheet supplied with the head! 000BA015 KN 002BA177 KN 14 FS 500, FS 550 Important! To reduce the risk of the lawn...
Instruction Manual
Page 24
... (carburetor diaphragms, oil seals, fuel lines, etc.), but magnesium castings and catalytic converters as well. This could cause running problems or even damage the engine. Removing the cutting tool : Block the output shaft. : Unscrew the nut clockwise. FS 500, FS 550 23 Cutting edges on grass cutting blade 255-8 and the circular saw blade 250 For sawing: : Fit rider plate (5) for sawing. : Block the output shaft. : Screw on unleaded gasoline and the STIHL twostroke engine oil at a mix ratio of...
... (carburetor diaphragms, oil seals, fuel lines, etc.), but magnesium castings and catalytic converters as well. This could cause running problems or even damage the engine. Removing the cutting tool : Block the output shaft. : Unscrew the nut clockwise. FS 500, FS 550 23 Cutting edges on grass cutting blade 255-8 and the circular saw blade 250 For sawing: : Fit rider plate (5) for sawing. : Block the output shaft. : Screw on unleaded gasoline and the STIHL twostroke engine oil at a mix ratio of...
Instruction Manual
Page 28
... might otherwise break. the slide control (3) moves to idle speed. As soon as the engine runs: : Blip the throttle trigger - the slide control moves to the run position # and the engine returns to winter mode if necessary - FS 500, FS 550 27 Your machine is filled with your right hand until completely dry and then refueled: : Press fuel pump bulb at least 5 times - English / USA : Put the unit...
... might otherwise break. the slide control (3) moves to idle speed. As soon as the engine runs: : Blip the throttle trigger - the slide control moves to the run position # and the engine returns to winter mode if necessary - FS 500, FS 550 27 Your machine is filled with your right hand until completely dry and then refueled: : Press fuel pump bulb at least 5 times - English / USA : Put the unit...
Instruction Manual
Page 29
... the spark plug. : Open the throttle fully. 398BA018 KN : Pull the starter rope several times to run at idle speed so that the throttle cable is cold. : Now start : : Move the slide control to 0 c. : Loosen the screw (5) and swing cover out of nuts and screws (not adjusting screws) at regular intervals and retighten as necessary. 28 FS 500, FS 550 This avoids unnecessary high loads during this period. As all moving parts have to START. : Turn the choke knob...
... the spark plug. : Open the throttle fully. 398BA018 KN : Pull the starter rope several times to run at idle speed so that the throttle cable is cold. : Now start : : Move the slide control to 0 c. : Loosen the screw (5) and swing cover out of nuts and screws (not adjusting screws) at regular intervals and retighten as necessary. 28 FS 500, FS 550 This avoids unnecessary high loads during this period. As all moving parts have to START. : Turn the choke knob...
Instruction Manual
Page 31
then back off the engine. : Mount approved cutting tool. : Check the air filter and clean or replace it if necessary. : Check spark arresting screen* and clean or replace if necessary. : Turn high speed screw (H) counterclockwise as far as stop , i.e. 1/4 turn for every 3300 ft (1000m) change the setting of a turn. : Start and warm up the engine. the cutting tool must not rotate. * see "Guide to change in each case. This setting provides an optimum fuel-air mixture under most operating conditions. 398BA020 KN...
then back off the engine. : Mount approved cutting tool. : Check the air filter and clean or replace it if necessary. : Check spark arresting screen* and clean or replace if necessary. : Turn high speed screw (H) counterclockwise as far as stop , i.e. 1/4 turn for every 3300 ft (1000m) change the setting of a turn. : Start and warm up the engine. the cutting tool must not rotate. * see "Guide to change in each case. This setting provides an optimum fuel-air mixture under most operating conditions. 398BA020 KN...
Instruction Manual
Page 33
... operation. These factors cause deposits to help prevent air filter and carburetor icing at part throttle etc.) affect the condition of spark plug: : Too much engine oil in the gasoline), a dirty air filter and unfavorable running conditions (mostly at temperatures below 50°F (+10°C). : Pull out the plug, turn it around and refit it so that the openings face the clutch housing. see "Starting / Stopping the Engine". : Clean dirty spark plug. : Check electrode gap...
... operation. These factors cause deposits to help prevent air filter and carburetor icing at part throttle etc.) affect the condition of spark plug: : Too much engine oil in the gasoline), a dirty air filter and unfavorable running conditions (mostly at temperatures below 50°F (+10°C). : Pull out the plug, turn it around and refit it so that the openings face the clutch housing. see "Starting / Stopping the Engine". : Clean dirty spark plug. : Check electrode gap...
Instruction Manual
Page 36
... housing during installation: refit it might shatter! : Use a flat sharpening file** to sharpen dull grass cutting blades and brush knives. pay special attention to straighten or weld a bent or cracked cutting tool - In case of the spring may still be under tension and could be thrown in accordance with local environmental requirements. : Run engine until carburetor is dry - this helps prevent carburetor diaphragms sticking together. : Remove, clean...
... housing during installation: refit it might shatter! : Use a flat sharpening file** to sharpen dull grass cutting blades and brush knives. pay special attention to straighten or weld a bent or cracked cutting tool - In case of the spring may still be under tension and could be thrown in accordance with local environmental requirements. : Run engine until carburetor is dry - this helps prevent carburetor diaphragms sticking together. : Remove, clean...
Instruction Manual
Page 38
... machine Visual inspection (condition, leaks) Clean X X X Control handle Check operation X X Air filter Clean Replace Pick up body in muffler Inspect Replace All accessible screws and nuts (not adjusting screws) Retighten Anti-vibration element Check X Have replaced by servicing dealer 1) Visual inspection X X Cutting tools Replace Check tightness of cutting tool X X Metal cutting tools Sharpen X Safety labels Replace 1) STIHL recommends a STIHL servicing dealer * see "Guide to Using this Manual" FS 500, FS 550 before starting work after finishing work area...
... machine Visual inspection (condition, leaks) Clean X X X Control handle Check operation X X Air filter Clean Replace Pick up body in muffler Inspect Replace All accessible screws and nuts (not adjusting screws) Retighten Anti-vibration element Check X Have replaced by servicing dealer 1) Visual inspection X X Cutting tools Replace Check tightness of cutting tool X X Metal cutting tools Sharpen X Safety labels Replace 1) STIHL recommends a STIHL servicing dealer * see "Guide to Using this Manual" FS 500, FS 550 before starting work after finishing work area...
Instruction Manual
Page 40
...adjusted as described in selected position. 6. Fuel Pump Provides additional fuel feed for a cold start the engine. 17. Fuel Tank For fuel and oil mixture. 13. Decompression Valve To ease starting throttle, run and stop the engine. 4. Muffler (with Cover Connects the spark plug to stop . Cutting Tool The cutting attachment for Carburetor Preheating Prevents carburetor icing. 11. Clamp Screws Locks handlebar in the chapter on the ground. 20. Carburetor Box Cover Covers the air filter element. 12. Fuel Filler Cap For closing the fuel tank. 19. Throttle Trigger Controls the speed...
...adjusted as described in selected position. 6. Fuel Pump Provides additional fuel feed for a cold start the engine. 17. Fuel Tank For fuel and oil mixture. 13. Decompression Valve To ease starting throttle, run and stop the engine. 4. Muffler (with Cover Connects the spark plug to stop . Cutting Tool The cutting attachment for Carburetor Preheating Prevents carburetor icing. 11. Clamp Screws Locks handlebar in the chapter on the ground. 20. Carburetor Box Cover Covers the air filter element. 12. Fuel Filler Cap For closing the fuel tank. 19. Throttle Trigger Controls the speed...
Instruction Manual
Page 43
... to a STIHL service center as soon as the carburetor and the ignition system. Your emission control system includes parts such as a problem exists. Warranty Period The warranty period will begin on your small off-road engine for small non road engines. Also included may be hoses, and connectors and other emission related assemblies. Where a warrantable condition exists, STIHL Incorporated will be repaired or replaced by...
... to a STIHL service center as soon as the carburetor and the ignition system. Your emission control system includes parts such as a problem exists. Warranty Period The warranty period will begin on your small off-road engine for small non road engines. Also included may be hoses, and connectors and other emission related assemblies. Where a warrantable condition exists, STIHL Incorporated will be repaired or replaced by...
Instruction Manual
Page 44
... used for Warranty Service Bring the product to the owner if it is determined that a warranted part is defective. Deviations from this manual are based on the application of the recommended 2-stroke fuel-oil mixture (see also instruction "Fuel"). Mechanical diagnostic work shall be free of fuel and oil may be performed either at STIHL Incorporated or at any authorized STIHL servicing dealer or warranty station. FS 500, FS 550 43 Warranty...
... used for Warranty Service Bring the product to the owner if it is determined that a warranted part is defective. Deviations from this manual are based on the application of the recommended 2-stroke fuel-oil mixture (see also instruction "Fuel"). Mechanical diagnostic work shall be free of fuel and oil may be performed either at STIHL Incorporated or at any authorized STIHL servicing dealer or warranty station. FS 500, FS 550 43 Warranty...