Instruction Manual
Page 2
Printed 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 who understand this manual to time. Careless or improper use may cause serious or even...
Printed 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 who understand this manual to time. Careless or improper use may cause serious or even...
Instruction Manual
Page 4
... any clearing saw . FS 500, FS 550 3 If the rotating cutting tool comes in loss of your clearing saw , take a break. See the appropriate section of your owner's manual for a description of the controls and function of the parts of control. the clearing saw involves 1. Be alert - It is a high-speed, fast-cutting power tool, special safety precautions must be hazardous. Read the owner's manual and the safety instructions periodically. Do...
... any clearing saw . FS 500, FS 550 3 If the rotating cutting tool comes in loss of your clearing saw , take a break. See the appropriate section of your owner's manual for a description of the controls and function of the parts of control. the clearing saw involves 1. Be alert - It is a high-speed, fast-cutting power tool, special safety precautions must be hazardous. Read the owner's manual and the safety instructions periodically. Do...
Instruction Manual
Page 6
...never operate a clearing saw unless wearing goggles or properly fitted safety glasses with adequate top and side protection complying with gloves when handling the clearing saw and the cutting tool....screen over your hearing. Wear sturdy boots with the specific STIHL clearing saw in fact, be sturdy and snug-fitting, but allow complete freedom of head injuries. Steeltoed safety boots are useable for use may damage your goggles or safety glasses. !Warning! Never modify a clearing saw models are authorized. Clearing saw parts see the chapter on branches, brush or moving parts...
...never operate a clearing saw unless wearing goggles or properly fitted safety glasses with adequate top and side protection complying with gloves when handling the clearing saw and the cutting tool....screen over your hearing. Wear sturdy boots with the specific STIHL clearing saw in fact, be sturdy and snug-fitting, but allow complete freedom of head injuries. Steeltoed safety boots are useable for use may damage your goggles or safety glasses. !Warning! Never modify a clearing saw models are authorized. Clearing saw parts see the chapter on branches, brush or moving parts...
Instruction Manual
Page 7
... on "Fuel" of the cutting tool. Always check your clearing saw Adjust carrying harness and hand grip to the idle position. The cutting tool must move freely and always spring back to suit your owner's manual). !Warning! Use extreme caution when handling gasoline or fuel mix. Fuel your clearing saw uses an oilgasoline mixture for proper condition and operation before starting , particularly the throttle trigger, throttle trigger interlock (if applicable), stopswitch, cutting tool, deflector and harness. Gasoline vapor pressure may...
... on "Fuel" of the cutting tool. Always check your clearing saw Adjust carrying harness and hand grip to the idle position. The cutting tool must move freely and always spring back to suit your owner's manual). !Warning! Use extreme caution when handling gasoline or fuel mix. Fuel your clearing saw uses an oilgasoline mixture for proper condition and operation before starting , particularly the throttle trigger, throttle trigger interlock (if applicable), stopswitch, cutting tool, deflector and harness. Gasoline vapor pressure may...
Instruction Manual
Page 8
... type of cutting attachment being used (see chart in the fuel tank opening with the proper deflector, handle and harness for fueling and move at a 90° angle. Unit vibrations can cause an improperly tightened fuel filler cap to loosen or come off any spilled fuel before starting your clearing saw can cause serious or fatal personal injury. Screw Cap !Warning! To do not start or run...
... type of cutting attachment being used (see chart in the fuel tank opening with the proper deflector, handle and harness for fueling and move at a 90° angle. Unit vibrations can cause an improperly tightened fuel filler cap to loosen or come off any spilled fuel before starting your clearing saw can cause serious or fatal personal injury. Screw Cap !Warning! To do not start or run...
Instruction Manual
Page 9
... damage the starter mechanism. Stop the engine and cutting tool immediately if you pull the starter grip, don't wrap the starter rope around your harness (see the appropriate section of the engine by a chemical process in injury to idle or is still hot. 8 FS 500, FS 550 Some STIHL clearing saw to wear eye protection. Your clearing saw without assistance. Catalytic converter !Warning! Once started, it properly...
... damage the starter mechanism. Stop the engine and cutting tool immediately if you pull the starter grip, don't wrap the starter rope around your harness (see the appropriate section of the engine by a chemical process in injury to idle or is still hot. 8 FS 500, FS 550 Some STIHL clearing saw to wear eye protection. Your clearing saw without assistance. Catalytic converter !Warning! Once started, it properly...
Instruction Manual
Page 12
..., always turn off and seriously injure the operator or bystanders. Grass, weeds, etc. If the behavior of ricochets in serious or fatal injury. If the blade continues to secure the blade. Do not attach any blade to fences, sides of the cutting tool at high speed and cause serious or fatal injury. !Warning! FS 500, FS 550 11 When using the starting throttle lock as a hedge trimmer. This clearing saw is...
..., always turn off and seriously injure the operator or bystanders. Grass, weeds, etc. If the behavior of ricochets in serious or fatal injury. If the blade continues to secure the blade. Do not attach any blade to fences, sides of the cutting tool at high speed and cause serious or fatal injury. !Warning! FS 500, FS 550 11 When using the starting throttle lock as a hedge trimmer. This clearing saw is...
Instruction Manual
Page 13
... correct idle speed, the cutting tool should not move. However if you cannot set the correct idle speed, have your STIHL dealer check your owner's manual. Please refer to adjust idle speed, see the appropriate section of the emission control devices and systems may be attached.) A loose connection between spark plug boot and ignition wire connector in the boot may cause parts of this manual. !Warning! Use the specified spark plug and make proper adjustments and repairs...
... correct idle speed, the cutting tool should not move. However if you cannot set the correct idle speed, have your STIHL dealer check your owner's manual. Please refer to adjust idle speed, see the appropriate section of the emission control devices and systems may be attached.) A loose connection between spark plug boot and ignition wire connector in the boot may cause parts of this manual. !Warning! Use the specified spark plug and make proper adjustments and repairs...
Instruction Manual
Page 14
... any part of fire and hearing loss. USING THE CUTTING TOOLS For an illustration of this manual. With a properly mounted guard, the built-in a dry, high or locked location out of reach of children. English / USA !Warning! Never test the ignition system with ignition wire boot removed from spark plug or with mowing line longer than a few days, always empty the fuel tank. Store clearing saw if the screen is damaged...
... any part of fire and hearing loss. USING THE CUTTING TOOLS For an illustration of this manual. With a properly mounted guard, the built-in a dry, high or locked location out of reach of children. English / USA !Warning! Never test the ignition system with ignition wire boot removed from spark plug or with mowing line longer than a few days, always empty the fuel tank. Store clearing saw if the screen is damaged...
Instruction Manual
Page 15
... in order to keep the line at the proper length (see "Parts and Controls" chapter of the lawn. English / USA A damaged clutch may cause a cutting attachment to rotate at high speed toward the operator or bystanders. They are easily replaced. !Warning! Three rectangular wear limit marks are no plants along the edge of this manual). STIHL "AutoCut" mowing head Nylon cutting cord advances automatically when tapped...
... in order to keep the line at the proper length (see "Parts and Controls" chapter of the lawn. English / USA A damaged clutch may cause a cutting attachment to rotate at high speed toward the operator or bystanders. They are easily replaced. !Warning! Three rectangular wear limit marks are no plants along the edge of this manual). STIHL "AutoCut" mowing head Nylon cutting cord advances automatically when tapped...
Instruction Manual
Page 24
... this reason STIHL recommends that you use premium unleaded fuel. 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 the mid-grade gasoline in position. If the octane rating of 50:1. Removing the cutting tool : Block the output shaft. : Unscrew the nut clockwise...
... this reason STIHL recommends that you use premium unleaded fuel. 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 the mid-grade gasoline in position. If the octane rating of 50:1. Removing the cutting tool : Block the output shaft. : Unscrew the nut clockwise...
Instruction Manual
Page 28
... slide control moves to the run position # and the engine returns to idle speed. see chapter "Winter Operation". even if bulb is filled with your right hand until completely dry and then refueled: : Press fuel pump bulb at least 5 times - Do not pull out the starter rope all the way - it a brisk strong pull. the cutting tool must rest securely on the underside of the engine and the deflector. Change...
... slide control moves to the run position # and the engine returns to idle speed. see chapter "Winter Operation". even if bulb is filled with your right hand until completely dry and then refueled: : Press fuel pump bulb at least 5 times - Do not pull out the starter rope all the way - it a brisk strong pull. the cutting tool must rest securely on the underside of the engine and the deflector. Change...
Instruction Manual
Page 29
... be run at high revs (full throttle off the spark plug. : Open the throttle fully. 398BA018 KN : Pull the starter rope several times to run for a while at regular intervals and retighten as necessary. 28 FS 500, FS 550 After finishing work Wait for the first three tank fillings. English / USA Operating Instructions : Turn the choke knob away from g. : Set the slide control, interlock lever and throttle trigger to the starting throttle position. : Start the engine by flow of cooling air. Throttle cable adjustment : Check...
... be run at high revs (full throttle off the spark plug. : Open the throttle fully. 398BA018 KN : Pull the starter rope several times to run for a while at regular intervals and retighten as necessary. 28 FS 500, FS 550 After finishing work Wait for the first three tank fillings. English / USA Operating Instructions : Turn the choke knob away from g. : Set the slide control, interlock lever and throttle trigger to the starting throttle position. : Start the engine by flow of cooling air. Throttle cable adjustment : Check...
Instruction Manual
Page 31
... is not satisfactory when operating at high altitude, at sea level or after every correction to Using this Manual" 30 FS 500, FS 550 lean setting. : Turn low speed screw (L) clockwise as far as stop - Rule of the idle speed screw (LA) after changing the cutting tool. 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...
... is not satisfactory when operating at high altitude, at sea level or after every correction to Using this Manual" 30 FS 500, FS 550 lean setting. : Turn low speed screw (L) clockwise as far as stop - Rule of the idle speed screw (LA) after changing the cutting tool. 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...
Instruction Manual
Page 33
... badly eroded. 32 FS 500, FS 550 operating at idling speed, first check the spark plug. : Remove spark plug - see "Specifications". : Use only resistor type spark plugs of the spark plug. If engine is above 70°F (+20°C): : Pull out the plug, turn it around and refit it so that the openings face outward. 398BA021 KN 000BA002 KN Wrong fuel mix (too much oil in the gasoline), a dirty air filter and unfavorable running conditions, e.g. Change the air intake back to...
... badly eroded. 32 FS 500, FS 550 operating at idling speed, first check the spark plug. : Remove spark plug - see "Specifications". : Use only resistor type spark plugs of the spark plug. If engine is above 70°F (+20°C): : Pull out the plug, turn it around and refit it so that the openings face outward. 398BA021 KN 000BA002 KN Wrong fuel mix (too much oil in the gasoline), a dirty air filter and unfavorable running conditions, e.g. Change the air intake back to...
Instruction Manual
Page 36
... the screws. : Install the rope rotor - it in accordance with housing - two or three strokes of the file are usually enough. 398BA026 KN ** see "Special Accessories" FS 500, FS 550 ** see "Replacing a Broken Starter Rope". : Tension the rewind spring. : Fit the starter cover. Fit the replacement spring with local environmental requirements. : Run engine until carburetor is dry - bottom plate must face up. pay special attention to sharpen dull grass cutting blades and brush...
... the screws. : Install the rope rotor - it in accordance with housing - two or three strokes of the file are usually enough. 398BA026 KN ** see "Special Accessories" FS 500, FS 550 ** see "Replacing a Broken Starter Rope". : Tension the rewind spring. : Fit the starter cover. Fit the replacement spring with local environmental requirements. : Run engine until carburetor is dry - bottom plate must face up. pay special attention to sharpen dull grass cutting blades and brush...
Instruction Manual
Page 38
...Safety labels Replace 1) STIHL recommends a STIHL servicing dealer * see "Guide to Using this Manual" FS 500, FS 550 before starting work after each refueling stop weekly monthly every 12 months if problem if damaged as required English / USA X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 37 cutting tool must not turn X X Readjust idle Spark plug Readjust electrode gap Replace after 100 hours of operation Inspect X Cooling inlets Clean Spark arresting screen* in fuel tank Check Replace Fuel tank Clean Carburetor Check idle adjustment - Maintenance Chart...
...Safety labels Replace 1) STIHL recommends a STIHL servicing dealer * see "Guide to Using this Manual" FS 500, FS 550 before starting work after each refueling stop weekly monthly every 12 months if problem if damaged as required English / USA X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X 37 cutting tool must not turn X X Readjust idle Spark plug Readjust electrode gap Replace after 100 hours of operation Inspect X Cooling inlets Clean Spark arresting screen* in fuel tank Check Replace Fuel tank Clean Carburetor Check idle adjustment - Maintenance Chart...
Instruction Manual
Page 40
... operator. 16. Fuel Pump Provides additional fuel feed for Carburetor Preheating Prevents carburetor icing. 11. Muffler (with the cutting tool. English / USA Definitions 1. Carrying Strip The device to connect the clearing saw to the ignition lead. 14. Carburetor Box Cover Covers the air filter element. 12. Spark Plug Boot with both hands during starting throttle, run and stop the engine. 4. Carburetor Adjusting Screws For tuning the carburetor. 18. FS 500, FS 550 39 Slide Control For starting , switches the engine's ignition off to start . 9. Hexagon Head Screw...
... operator. 16. Fuel Pump Provides additional fuel feed for Carburetor Preheating Prevents carburetor icing. 11. Muffler (with the cutting tool. English / USA Definitions 1. Carrying Strip The device to connect the clearing saw to the ignition lead. 14. Carburetor Box Cover Covers the air filter element. 12. Spark Plug Boot with both hands during starting throttle, run and stop the engine. 4. Carburetor Adjusting Screws For tuning the carburetor. 18. FS 500, FS 550 39 Slide Control For starting , switches the engine's ignition off to start . 9. Hexagon Head Screw...
Instruction Manual
Page 43
... days. You are pleased to a STIHL service center as soon as the carburetor and the ignition system. Manufacturer's Warranty Coverage: In the U.S., 1997 and later model year small off-road equipment engines are responsible for your small off -road equipment engine to explain the Emission Control System Warranty on your owner's manual. Any replacement part or service that your engine is free from the date of sale...
... days. You are pleased to a STIHL service center as soon as the carburetor and the ignition system. Manufacturer's Warranty Coverage: In the U.S., 1997 and later model year small off-road equipment engines are responsible for your small off -road equipment engine to explain the Emission Control System Warranty on your owner's manual. Any replacement part or service that your engine is free from the date of sale...
Instruction Manual
Page 44
... the warranty period. Maintenance Requirements The maintenance instructions in writing by STIHL Incorporated, and : replacement of parts and other engine components caused by STIHL Incorporated at no cost to the owner. Emission test may be provided without charge to the owner. Limitations This Emission Control Systems Warranty shall not cover any of the following list specifically defines the emission-related warranted parts: Carburetor Choke (Cold start enrichment system) Intake manifold Air filter Spark plug...
... the warranty period. Maintenance Requirements The maintenance instructions in writing by STIHL Incorporated, and : replacement of parts and other engine components caused by STIHL Incorporated at no cost to the owner. Emission test may be provided without charge to the owner. Limitations This Emission Control Systems Warranty shall not cover any of the following list specifically defines the emission-related warranted parts: Carburetor Choke (Cold start enrichment system) Intake manifold Air filter Spark plug...