FSE 52 - Grass trimmer STIHL - Free user manual and instructions

USER MANUAL FSE 52 STIHL

This instruction manual is protected by copyright. All rights reserved, especially the rights to reproduce, translate and process with electronic systems. Contents Dear Customer, Thank you for choosing a quality engineered STIHL product. It has been built using modern production techniques and comprehensive quality assurance. Every effort has been made to ensure your satisfaction and trouble-free use of the product. Please contact your dealer or our sales company if you have any queries concerning this product. Your Dr. Nikolas Stihl Guide to Using this Manual 22 Safety Precautions and Working Techniques 22 Using the Unit 27 Approved Combinations of Cutting Attachment and Deflector 28 Mounting the Deflector 28 Mounting the Loop Handle 29 Adjusting the Handles 29 Adjusting Angle of Shaft 30 Converting Unit to Power Edger 31 Connecting to Power Supply 31 Switching On 32 Switching Off 32 Adjusting Nylon Line 32 Replacing Spool with Nylon Line 33 Storing the Machine 34 Maintenance and Care 35 Minimize Wear and Avoid Damage 36 Main Parts 37 Specifications 38 Maintenance and Repairs 38 Disposal 39 EC Declaration of Conformity 39FSE 52 English

Pictograms All the pictograms attached to the machine are shown and explained in this manual. Symbols in text WARNING Warning where there is a risk of an accident or personal injury or serious damage to property. NOTICE Caution where there is a risk of damaging the machine or its individual components. Engineering improvements STIHL's philosophy is to continually improve all of its products. For this reason we may modify the design, engineering and appearance of our products periodically. Therefore, some changes, modifications and improvements may not be covered in this manual. Observe all applicable local safety regulations, standards and ordinances. If you have not used this model before: Have your dealer or other experienced user show you how to operate your machine or attend a special course in its operation. Minors should never be allowed to use this product. Keep bystanders, especially children, and animals away from the work area. When the machine is not in use, store it so that it does not endanger others. Secure it against unauthorized use, disconnect the plug from the power supply. The user is responsible for avoiding injury to third parties or damage to their property. Do not lend or rent your unit without the instruction manual. Be sure that anyone using it understands the information contained in this manual. Persons who are not able to operate the power tool safely due to limited physical, sensory or mental ability may work with it only under supervision or after being instructed appropriately by a responsible person. The use of noise emitting power tools may be restricted to certain times by national or local regulations. Before each use, check that your power tool is in good condition. Pay special attention to the power cord, mains plug and safety devices. Do not use the power cord to pull or carry the power tool. Disconnect plug from wall outlet before performing any work on the machine, e.g. cleaning, maintenance, replacing parts. The deflector on this power tool cannot protect the operator from all objects thrown by the cutting attachment (stones, glass, wire, etc.). Such objects may ricochet and then hit the operator. Do not use a pressure washer to clean the unit. The solid jet of water may damage parts of the unit. Do not spray the power tool with water. Physical Condition To operate this power tool you must be rested, in good physical condition and mental health. Guide to Using this Manual Safety Precautions and Working Techniques Some special safety pre- cautions must be observed when working with this power tool because of the very high speed of its cutting attachment and the fact that it is powered by electricity. It is important that you read the instruction man- ual before first use and keep it in a safe place for future reference. Non- observance of the instruction manual may result in serious or even fatal injury.FSE 52 English

If you have any condition that might be aggravated by strenuous work, check with your doctor before operating a power tool. Do not operate the power tool if you are under the influence of any substance (drugs, alcohol) which might impair vision, dexterity or judgment. Accessories and Spare Parts Only use cutting attachments and accessories that are explicitly approved for this power tool by STIHL or are technically identical. If you have any questions in this respect, consult a servicing dealer. Use only high quality tools and accessories in order to avoid the risk of accidents and damage to the unit. STIHL recommends the use of genuine STIHL tools and accessories. They are specifically designed to match the product and meet your performance requirements. Never attempt to modify your machine in any way since this may increase the risk of personal injury. STIHL excludes all liability for personal injury and damage to property caused while using unauthorized attachments. Applications Depending on the cutting attachment fitted, use your trimmer only for cutting grass, wild growth and similar materials. Do not use the machine for any other purpose because of the increased risk of accidents and damage to the machine. Never attempt to modify the product in any way since this may result in accidents or damage to the product. Clothing and Equipment Wear proper protective clothing and equipment. Avoid clothing that could get caught on branches or brush or moving parts of the machine. Do not wear a scarf, necktie or jewelry. Tie up and confine long hair (e.g. with a hair net, cap, hard hat, etc.). WARNING Wear a face shield and make sure it is a good fit. A face shield alone does not provide adequate eye protection. Hearing protection is recommended, e.g. earplugs or ear muffs. STIHL offers a comprehensive range of personal protective clothing and equipment. Transporting the Power Tool Always switch off the power tool and unplug it from the power supply. Transporting by vehicle: Properly secure the power tool to prevent turnover and damage. Before Starting Work Inspect the power tool. Check that your power tool is properly assembled and in good condition – refer to appropriate chapters in the instruction manual. – Trigger switch lockout and trigger switch must move freely and return to the idle position when they are released. – Use only an approved combination of cutting attachment and deflector. All parts must be assembled properly and securely. To reduce the risk of injury, never use metal cutting attachments. – Check that the cutting attachment is properly and securely mounted and in good condition. Clothing must be sturdy but allow complete free- dom of movement. Wear snug-fitting clothing, an overall and jacket combi- nation, do not wear a work coat. Wear sturdy shoes with non-slip soles. To reduce the risk of eye injuries, wear snug-fitting safety glasses in accord- ance with European Standard EN 166. Make sure the safety glasses are a good fit. Wear robust work gloves made of durable material (e.g. leather).FSE 52 English

– Check protective devices (e.g. deflector for cutting attachment) for damage or wear. Always replace damaged parts. Never operate the unit with a damaged deflector. – Keep the handles dry and clean – free from oil and dirt – for safe control of the power tool. – Adjust handle to suit your height and reach. – Check correct operation of handle adjustment – see "Adjusting the Handles" and "Adjusting Angle of Control Handle". To reduce the risk of accidents, do not operate the unit if it is not properly assembled and in good condition. Do not operate your power tool if any of its components are damaged or not properly mounted. Never attempt to modify the controls or the safety devices in any way. Before switching on your power tool, make sure the cutting attachment is not touching the ground or any other object. Electrical Connection Reduce the risk of electric shock: – Voltage and frequency of the power tool (see rating plate) and the voltage and frequency of your power supply must be the same. – Check the connecting cord, plug and extension cord for damage. Never use damaged cords, couplings and plugs or connecting cords that do not comply with regulations. – Always connect the power tool to a properly installed wall outlet. – Check that the insulation of the power cord, extension cord, plug and coupling is in good condition. – Never touch the mains plug, connecting cord, extension cord or electrical connections with wet hands. – Make sure the extension cord used complies with the regulations for the intended application. Position the connecting and extension cords correctly: – Check minimum cross section of wires (wire gauge) – see "Connecting to Power Supply". – To reduce the risk of stumbling, position and mark the connecting cord so that it cannot be damaged or endanger others. – Using unsuitable extension cords can be dangerous. Use only extension cords approved for outdoor use which are labeled as such and have the appropriate wire gauge. – The plug and coupling of the extension cord must be splash- proof and must never be immersed in water. – Do not chafe on edges, pointed or sharp objects – Do not squeeze through gaps in doors or windows – If cords are twisted – unplug the power tool and straighten them out – Never touch the rotating cutting attachment – Always unwind the extension cord completely from the cable drum to reduce the risk of fire from overheating. Holding and Controlling the Power Tool Always hold the unit firmly with both hands on the handles. Make sure you always have good balance and secure footing. Right-handers Left hand on the loop handle and right hand on the control handle. To reduce the risk of injury, avoid contact with the cutting attachment. Note that the cutting attachment continues to run for a short period after the power tool is switched off – flywheel effect. 9935BA001 KNFSE 52 English

Left-handers Right hand on the loop handle and left hand on the control handle. During Operation Avoid damage to the power supply cord. Do not drive over it, pinch or tug it. Never jerk the connecting cord to disconnect it from the wall outlet. To unplug, grasp the plug, not the cord. Be sure your hands are dry before touching the plug or power cord. Never spray water on the unit – risk of short circuit! Do not leave the power tool outdoors in the rain. In case of imminent danger or in an emergency, switch off the motor immediately – release the trigger switch lockout and trigger switch. Your power tool is designed to be operated by one person only. Do not allow other persons in the work area. The cutting attachment may catch and fling objects a great distance and cause injury - therefore, do not allow any other persons within a radius of 15 meters of your own position. To reduce the risk of damage to property, also maintain this distance from other objects (vehicles, windows). Even maintaining a distance of 15 meters or more cannot exclude the potential danger. To reduce the risk of injury from thrown objects, never operate the power tool without the proper deflector for the type of cutting attachment being used. Do not cut wet grass. Take care in slippery conditions on slopes and uneven ground. Keep the connecting cord behind the power tool at all times – do not walk backwards – risk of stumbling. Watch out for obstacles: Roots and tree stumps which could cause you to trip or stumble. Always stand on the ground while working, never on a ladder, work platform or any other insecure support. Be particularly alert and cautious when wearing hearing protection because your ability to hear warnings (shouts, alarms, etc.) is restricted. To reduce the risk of accidents, take a break in good time to avoid tiredness or exhaustion. Work calmly and carefully – in daylight conditions and only when visibility is good. Stay alert so as not to endanger others. Special care must be taken when working in difficult, over-grown terrain. Check the cutting attachment at regular short intervals during operation or immediately if there is a noticeable change in cutting behavior: – Switch off the power tool, hold it firmly and press the cutting attachment into the ground to bring it to a standstill, and disconnect the plug from the power supply. – Check condition and tightness, look for cracks. If the power supply cord is damaged, immediately disconnect the plug from the wall outlet to avoid the risk of electric shock. The drive motor is not waterproof. To reduce the risk of a short circuit or electrocution, never work with the power tool in the rain or in wet or very damp locations. 9935BA022 KN Inspect the work area: Stones, pieces of metal or other solid objects may be thrown more than 15 meters and cause per- sonal injury or damage the cutting attachment and property (e.g. parked vehicles, windows). 15m (50ft)FSE 52 English

– Replace damaged cutting attachments immediately, even if they have only superficial cracks. – Clean grass and plant residue off the cutting attachment mounting at regular intervals – remove any build up of material from the cutting attachment and deflector. Always switch off the power tool and unplug it from the power supply before replacing the cutting attachment This avoids the risk of injury from the motor starting unintentionally. Do not continue using or attempt to repair damaged or cracked cutting attachments by welding, straightening or modifying the shape (out of balance). This may cause parts of the cutting attachment to come off and hit the operator or bystanders at high speed and result in serious or fatal injuries. Use only the deflector with properly mounted line limiting blade to ensure the mowing lines are automatically trimmed to the approved length. To reduce the risk of injury, avoid contact with the blade. To reduce the risk of injury, always switch off the power tool and unplug it from the power supply before manually adjusting the nylon line. Using the unit with over-long nylon cutting lines reduces the motor's operating speed. This results in overheating and damage to the motor. To reduce the risk of injury, never use wire in place of the nylon cutting line. If your power tool is subjected to unusually high loads for which it was not designed (e.g. heavy impact or a fall), always check that it is in good condition before continuing work – see also "Before Starting Work". Make sure the safety devices are working properly. Do not continue operating your power tool if it is damaged. In case of doubt, consult your servicing dealer. Before leaving the power tool unattended: Switch it off and disconnect the plug from the power supply. Vibrations Prolonged use of the power tool may result in vibration-induced circulation problems in the hands (whitefinger disease). No general recommendation can be given for the length of usage because it depends on several factors. The period of usage is prolonged by: – Hand protection (wearing warm gloves) – Work breaks The period of usage is shortened by: – Any personal tendency to suffer from poor circulation (symptoms: frequently cold fingers, tingling sensations). – Low outside temperatures. – The force with which the handles are held (a tight grip restricts circulation). Continual and regular users should monitor closely the condition of their hands and fingers. If any of the above symptoms appear (e.g. tingling sensation in fingers), seek medical advice. Maintenance and Repairs Always switch off the machine and disconnect the plug from the power supply before carrying out any maintenance work This avoids the risk of injury from the motor starting unintentionally. Service the machine regularly. Do not attempt any maintenance or repair work not described in the instruction manual. Have all other work performed by a servicing dealer. STIHL recommends that you have servicing and repair work carried out exclusively by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer. STIHL dealers are regularly given the opportunity to attend training courses and are supplied with the necessary technical information. Only use high-quality replacement parts in order to avoid the risk of accidents and damage to the unit. If you have any questions in this respect, consult a servicing dealer. STIHL recommends the use of genuine STIHL replacement parts. They are specifically designed to match your model and meet your performance requirements. Never attempt to modify your power tool in any way since this will increase the risk of personal injury. Regularly check that the insulation of the power cord and plug is in good condition and shows no sign of ageing (brittleness).FSE 52 English

Electrical components, e.g. power cord, may only be repaired or replaced by a qualified electrician. Clean plastic surfaces with a cloth. Do not use aggressive detergents. They may damage the plastic. Do not spray the power tool with water. Check tightness of mounting screws on safety devices and the cutting attachment and retighten if necessary. Clean the cooling slots if necessary. Store the machine is a safe and dry place. Mowing N Hold the power tool with both hands – one hand on the control handle – one hand on the loop handle. N Stand upright – hold the power tool in a relaxed position. N Make sure the cutting attachment is not touching the ground or any other objects. N Swing the trimmer back and forth in an arc. N The cutting height is determined by the distance of the mowing line from the lawn surface. N Avoid contact with fences, walls, rocks, etc. since it will result in a higher rate of wear. Mowing under Obstacles The angle of the shaft and mowing head can be adjusted for easier mowing under hedges and bushes, see “Adjusting Angle of Shaft”. Working with Bump Guard N Extend the bump guard (1) fully. The bump guard (1) – limits the cutting range of the mowing line – reduces the risk of the rotating mowing line causing damage (e.g. tree bark) – maintains the correct ground clearance when edging. WARNING The mowing head may continue to rotate briefly after you switch off your power tool – wait for the mowing head to come to a standstill before adjusting the bump guard – do not adjust it with your foot. Using the Unit 9935BA002 KN

Edging The unit can be quickly converted to a power edger (see "Converting Unit to Power Edger"). N Use the unit as shown. N Guide the mowing line along the edge of the lawn – the bump guard maintains the required ground clearance. Disposal Do not throw cuttings in the garbage can – they can be composted! Cutting Attachment The trimmer comes from the factory with the AutoCut 2-2 mowing head already fitted. For safety reasons no other cutting attachments may be mounted to the trimmer. Deflector The trimmer is supplied with a deflector. Only this deflector may be mounted to the trimmer – no other deflectors are permitted. For further information see "Mounting the Deflector". N Push the deflector (1) into the groove (arrows) in the motor housing (2) as far as stop – the holes in the deflector and motor housing must line up. 9935BA004 KN Approved Combinations of Cutting Attachment and Deflector Mounting the Deflector

N Use T20 screwdriver to fit and tighten down the screws (3) firmly. A flathead screwdriver may also be used to install and tighten down the screws. N Hold the loop handle (1) so that its pores face the lock button (2). N Ease the ends of the loop handle (1) slightly apart and push it onto the control handle (3) until it snaps into position. N Insert the screw (4) through the holes. N Screw on the star knob (5) and tighten it down firmly. Adjusting the Loop Handle N Loosen the star knob (4). N Swing the loop handle (5) in the direction of the arrow and engage it in the required position. N Tighten down the star knob (4) firmly. 0000-GXX-1614-A0

Mounting the Loop Handle

Adjusting the Handles

Adjusting Length of Shaft N Press in the lock button (1). N Pull or push the control handle (2) on the shaft (3) and engage it in the required position. Transport Position The shaft can be set to its shortest length for easy transportation. Adjusting Angle of Control Handle N Press in the lock button (1). N Rotate the control handle (2) through 90° on the shaft (3) and engage it in position: 0° or 90° N Press in the lock button (1). N Adjust angle of the shaft (2) and engage it one of 4 positions: A, B, C or D.

Adjusting Angle of Shaft

N Rotate the control handle (1) through 90° on the shaft and engage it in position, see "Adjusting the Handles". N Swing the motor housing (2) 45° and engage it in position, see “Adjusting Angle of Shaft”. N Extend the bump guard. Do not apply pressure to bump guard while edging. The voltage and frequency of the machine (see rating plate) must match the voltage and frequency of the power connection. The minimum fuse protection of the power connection must comply with the specifications – see "Specifications". The machine must be connected to the power supply via an earth-leakage circuit breaker to disconnect the power supply if the differential current to earth exceeds 30 mA. The power connection must correspond to IEC 60364 and relevant national regulations. Extension cord The design of the extension cord must at least fulfill the same features as the connecting cord on the machine. Observe the design marking (type designation) on the connecting cord. The cores in the cord must have the following minimum cross-section depending on the mains voltage and cord length. N Insert the plug (1) into the extension cord coupling (2). Strain Relief The strain relief (cord retainer) protects the connecting cord against damage. N Make a loop in the extension cord. N Pass the loop (3) through the opening (4). N Slip the loop (3) over the hook (5) and pull it tight. N Connect the extension cord plug to a properly installed wall outlet. Converting Unit to Power Edger

Connecting to Power Supply Cord length Minimum cross- section 220 V – 240 V: Up to 20 m 1.5 mm

N Make sure you have a secure and balanced footing. N Hold the power tool with both hands – one hand on the control handle – one hand on the loop handle. N Stand upright – hold the power tool in a relaxed position. N Make sure the cutting attachment is not touching the ground or any other objects. N Press down the trigger switch lockout (1) and hold it in that position. N Depress the trigger switch (2). N Release the trigger switch lockout and the trigger switch. WARNING Note that the cutting attachment continues to run for a short period after you let go of the trigger switch lockout and trigger switch – flywheel effect. During longer work breaks – disconnect the plug from the wall outlet. When the power tool is not in use, store it in such a way that it does not endanger others. Secure it against unauthorized use. N Hold the rotating mowing head above the ground – tap it on the ground once – about 3 cm fresh line is advanced. The blade (1) on the deflector (2) trims surplus line to the correct length – avoid tapping the mowing head more than once at a time. Line feed operates only if both lines still have a minimum length of 2.5 cm. If the nylon lines are shorter than 2.5 cm, readjust them manually – see "Manual Adjustment of Nylon Line". Manual Adjustment of Nylon Line N Switch off the machine. N Disconnect the plug from the wall outlet. N Turn the trimmer on its back. Switching On

N Push home the button (1) on the spool as far as stop. N Pull the ends of the nylon line (2) out of the spool. If the spool is empty, see "Replacing Spool with Nylon Line". STIHL AutoCut 2-2 Always check the mowing head for signs of wear before replacing the spool with nylon line. WARNING If there are signs of serious wear, replace the complete mowing head. Contact your servicing dealer. Preparations N Switch off the machine. N Disconnect the plug from the wall outlet. N Turn the trimmer on its back. Removing remaining nylon line In normal operation, the supply of nylon line in the head is used up completely. Removing the spool N Hold the housing (1) steady. N Press in the tabs (2) and remove the cover (3). N Pull the spool (4) out of the housing. Install a new prewound spool. N Use 1.6-mm diameter nylon line. N Thread the ends of the lines through the openings (5) in the housing (1). N Place the spool (4) in the housing. N Press home the cover (3) until both tabs (2) engage with an audible click

Replacing Spool with Nylon Line

For periods of 3 months or longer N Thoroughly clean the machine, especially the cooling air inlets. N Take out the spool, clean it and check it for damage. The resilience and service life of the nylon line can be increased by storing it in a container filled with water. N Store the machine in a dry, high or locked location – out of the reach of children and other unauthorized persons. Storing the MachineFSE 52 English

Maintenance and Care The following intervals apply to normal operating conditions only. If your daily working time is longer or operating conditions are difficult (very dusty work area, etc.), shorten the specified intervals accordingly. before starting work after finishing work or daily weekly monthly if problem if damaged if required Complete machine Visual inspection (condition) X Clean X Power cord Check X Have replaced by dealer

Trigger switch, trigger switch lockput Check operation X Have replaced by dealer

Cooling inlets Clean X All accessible screws and nuts Retighten X Cutting attachment (mowing head) Visual inspection X Replace X Check tightness X Safety labels Replace X

Observing the instructions in this manual helps reduce the risk of unnecessary wear and damage to the power tool. The power tool must be operated, maintained and stored with the due care and attention described in this instruction manual. The user is responsible for all damage caused by non-observance of the safety precautions, operating and maintenance instructions in this manual. This includes in particular: – Alterations or modifications to the product not approved by STIHL. – Using tools or accessories which are neither approved or suitable for the product or are of a poor quality. – Using the product for purposes for which it was not designed. – Using the product for sports or competitive events. – Consequential damage caused by continuing to use the product with defective components. Maintenance Work All the operations described in the "Maintenance Chart" must be performed on a regular basis. If these maintenance operations cannot be performed by the owner, they should be performed by a servicing dealer. STIHL recommends that you have servicing and repair work carried out exclusively by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer. STIHL dealers are regularly given the opportunity to attend training courses and are supplied with the necessary technical information. If these maintenance operations are not carried out as specified, the user assumes responsibility for any damage that may occur. Among other things, this includes: – Damage to the motor due to neglect or deficient maintenance (e.g. not cleaning cooling air inlets). – Damage due to incorrect electrical connection (voltage, inadequately rated connecting cords). – Corrosion and other consequential damage resulting from improper storage. – Damage to the product resulting from the use of poor quality replacement parts. Parts Subject to Wear and Tear Some parts of the power tool are subject to normal wear and tear even during regular operation in accordance with instructions and, depending on the type and duration of use, have to be replaced in good time. Among other parts, this includes: – Cutting attachment – Deflector – Carbon brushes Minimize Wear and Avoid DamageFSE 52 English

Motor Length Weight Noise and Vibration Data Noise and vibration data are determined on the basis of the rated maximum speed. For further details on compliance with Vibration Directive 2002/44/EC visit www.stihl.com/vib. Sound pressure level L

to EN 50636-2-91 The K-factor in accordance with Directive 2006/42/EC is 2.0 dB(A) for the sound pressure level and sound power level; the K-factor in accordance with Directive 2006/42/EC is 2.0 m/s

for the vibration level. REACH REACH is an EC regulation and stands for the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemical substances. For information on compliance with the REACH regulation (EC) No. 1907/2006 see www.stihl.com/reach. Users of this machine may only carry out the maintenance and service work described in this user manual. All other repairs must be carried out by a servicing dealer. STIHL recommends that you have servicing and repair work carried out exclusively by an authorized STIHL servicing dealer. STIHL dealers are regularly given the opportunity to attend training courses and are supplied with the necessary technical information. When repairing the machine, only use replacement parts which have been approved by STIHL for this power tool or are technically identical. Only use high- quality replacement parts in order to avoid the risk of accidents and damage to the machine. STIHL recommends the use of original STIHL replacement parts. Original STIHL parts can be identified by the STIHL part number, the { logo and the STIHL parts symbol K (the symbol may appear alone on small parts). Specifications Voltage: 220 - 240 V Frequency: 50 / 60 Hz Rated current: 2.3 A Engine power: 500 W Rated speed under load: 6000 rpm Fuse: min. 10 A Insulation: II, E 1140 mm to 1310 mm (depending on selected shaft length) complete with cutting attachment and deflector FSE 52

Maintenance and RepairsFSE 52 English