How to Start Your Grass Trimmer

Preparing to use your grass trimmer means familiarising yourself with the operating instructions, checking your work area for hazards, and wearing suitable protective equipment.

Ensure your trimmer is in perfect working order, and make sure no one is within a 15 m radius of your work area before starting.

This start-up sequence also applies to models such as FS 111 and FS 131.

Place the grass trimmer on level ground with the cutting guard and engine supports resting evenly. Ensure the cutting tool is clear of any obstacles.

• Press the manual fuel pump bulb at least five times to reduce the number of starter pulls.
• Set the choke lever:
  • Cold engine: top position (closed)
  • Warm engine: middle position (open halfway)
• With your left hand, press down firmly on the machine to stabilise it. Pull the starter cord firmly until the engine fires.
• Once started, press the throttle briefly to disengage the choke and allow idling.

If the engine stalls, set the choke to the warm position and restart.

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This process also applies to the FS 40 and FS 50 models.

• Place the trimmer on the ground with the guard and engine resting evenly.
• Press the manual fuel pump bulb five times.
• Set the choke lever depending on engine temperature.
• Stabilise the machine with your left hand and pull the starter cord until the engine fires.
• If equipped with ErgoStart, use a smooth, steady pull.
• Press the throttle once to disengage the choke and begin idling.

If the trimmer fails to start, set the choke to warm and try again.

This start-up sequence also applies to FS 55 models.

• Move the stop switch to the “I” position.
• Hold the throttle trigger lockout and squeeze the throttle trigger until it clicks into place.
• Set the choke lever:
  • Cold engine: top position (closed)
  • Warm engine: middle position (open halfway)
• Press the manual fuel pump bulb five times to prime.
• Hold the trimmer firmly and pull the starter cord until it fires.
• Open the choke and continue pulling until the engine runs smoothly.
• Once the engine starts, press the throttle to allow the tool to idle safely.

If the trimmer still won’t start, recheck your setup against the operating manual or contact your STIHL dealer.

You can download official STIHL operating instructions for your trimmer at any time. For expert support, visit your nearest STIHL Approved Dealer for hands-on advice and maintenance services.

• Always read and follow the operating instructions for your model.
• Ensure safe footing and a clear 15 m safety radius.
• Prime with the fuel pump bulb at least five times before starting.
• Use the correct choke setting depending on engine temperature.
• Stabilise the tool securely on the ground before pulling the starter cord.
• Contact GUSTHARTS if issues persist after correct start-up.