Starting shown with the FS 50

Step 1 of 10: Laying the brushcutter on the ground

Lay the brushcutter down in a safe position on the ground. It should rest on the support on the engine and the cutting attachment guard. Make sure that the cutting attachment is not touching the ground or any other object as it may start to rotate when you start the engine. Keep everyone else at least 15 m away from the machine. Make sure you have a steady footing.

Step 2 of 10: Stop switch in operating position

On this machine the stop switch on the multi-function control handle is always in the operating position (Position I). Depressing the switch moves it to the 0 position, but it automatically moves back to I.

Step 3 of 10: Pressing the primer bulb

Push the primer bulb down at least 5 times, even if it is still full of fuel. This reduces the number of pulls required to start the engine, making starting easier.

Step 4 of 10: Setting the choke lever to the Choke position

If the engine is cold the choke shutter should be closed. To close it, move the choke lever to the cold starting position (top position).

Not illustrated: If the engine is warm, move the choke lever to the warm starting position (center position). Also use this position if the engine has been running but is still cold.

Step 5 of 10: Secure footing / pushing the brushcutter onto the ground

Make sure you have a secure footing and check once again that the brushcutter is lying in a secure position. Push the machine firmly down onto the ground so that it cannot tilt when starting. Check that the cutting attachment is not touching anything.

Step 6 of 10: Pulling the starter rope

Slowly pull out the starter grip with your right hand until you feel it reach the first stop. On machines without ErgoStart, give a quick, strong pull on the starter rope. On machines with ErgoStart, pull the starter rope gently, using steady force. Pull it upward, keeping it as vertical as you can. Take care not to pull the rope all the way out.

Do not allow the starter grip to spring back. Instead, guide it back in the opposite direction to allow the starter rope to rewind correctly.

Step 7 of 10: Engine fires briefly

The engine fires and then runs for about another 5-7 seconds. During that time, briefly press the throttle trigger lockout on the multifunction control handle and accelerate. The choke shutter is automatically moved to the operating position (bottom position) and the engine will then idle. There is no need to pull the starter grip again. As soon as the engine starts idling the cutting attachment will stop turning.

If you do not manage to accelerate during that 5-7 second time span, the engine will stop. In this case, manually move the choke shutter to the warm starting position (central position) and pull the starter grip again until the engine fires.

Step 8 of 10: Picking up the brushcutter

Slowly lift up the brushcutter, taking care not to accelerate unintentionally.

Step 9 of 10: Off you go!

The brushcutter is now ready for use.

Step 10 of 10: Switching off the machine

Move the stop switch on the multi-function control handle to the Stop position (Position O). The engine stops and the stop switch returns to Position I when released.

Note:
If your brushcutter does not start, refer to your Instruction Manual and check that you are following the correct procedure. If the brushcutter still will not start, contact your STIHL Approved Dealer. He will be able to advise and assist and help you solve any problems that may arise.