Stihl FS 38 Brush Cutter Instruction Manual
Stihl FS 38 Brush Cutter
Stihl FS 38 Brush Cutter Instructions
Here we offer the Stihl FS 38 Brush Cutter manual completely free and in English. We have cataloged this manual in the Brush Cutters section on Manualverse, and it has been rated by 1 users with an average rating of 5. If you have any specific questions about Stihl FS 38 Brush Cutter, we suggest checking the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section of this manual.
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Stihl FS 38 Brush Cutter Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Single cylinder two-stroke engine |
| Displacement | 27.2 cc (1.66 cu.in) |
| Bore | 34 mm (1.34 in) |
| Stroke | 30 mm (1.18 in) |
| Engine Power (ISO 8893) | 0.65 kW (0.90 bhp) at 8,300 rpm |
| Idle Speed | 2,800 rpm |
| Cut-off Speed (rated) | 9,500 rpm |
| Max. Output Shaft Speed | 10,400 rpm |
| Ignition System | Electronic magneto ignition |
| Spark Plug (resistor type) | Bosch WSR 6 F, NGK BPMR 7 A |
| Electrode Gap | 0.5 mm (0.02 in) |
| Fuel System | All position diaphragm carburetor with integral fuel pump |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 0.33 l (11.2 fl.oz) |
| Weight (dry, without attachment) | 4.2 kg (9.3 lbs) |
| EPA/CEPA Emission Category | A = 300 hours, B = 125 hours, C = 50 hours |
| CARB Emission Period | Extended = 300 hours, Intermediate = 125 hours, Moderate = 50 hours |
Stihl FS 38 Brush Cutter Details
The Stihl FS 38 is a lightweight and versatile brush cutter designed for trimming grass and similar materials around the home. Its user manual emphasizes strict adherence to safety precautions, highlighting that improper use can cause serious or fatal injury. Operators must be in good physical and mental condition, free from impairing substances, and not fatigued. Proper protective apparel is crucial, including goggles or protective glasses (complying with ANSI Z87 "+"), sound barriers, heavy-duty work gloves, and sturdy, snug-fitting clothing with long pants and non-slip boots. Loose clothing, scarves, jewelry, or long hair should be secured to prevent entanglement.
The FS 38 is a one-person machine, and bystanders, especially children and animals, must be kept at least 15 meters (50 feet) away from the work area. Never use metal blades on this trimmer; only mowing heads with nylon lines or flexible polymer blades are authorized. The unit should never be modified, and only STIHL-approved attachments should be used. Before each use, a thorough check of the power tool's condition, including the throttle trigger, stop switch, cutting attachment, and deflector, is mandatory. The fuel system must be free of leaks.
Fueling should always be done outdoors in a well-ventilated area, with the engine off and cooled. The FS 38 uses a 50:1 mixture of unleaded gasoline (minimum 89 octane, max 10% ethanol) and STIHL two-stroke engine oil. Fuel should be mixed in an approved container, and the mixture ages, so only mix enough for a few days, not exceeding 30 days of storage. The manual fuel pump should be pressed at least five times before starting, even if already filled with fuel.
Starting the engine involves moving the stop switch to 'I', engaging the starting throttle, and using the choke lever (depending on engine temperature). The starter grip should be pulled briskly but not snapped back. Crucially, the cutting attachment must not rotate when the engine is idling. If it does, the idle speed needs adjustment or professional service. During operation, maintain a firm, two-handed grip and ensure good footing, especially on uneven terrain. Avoid operating the cutting attachment above waist height.
Maintenance routines are critical for the FS 38's longevity and safe operation. The air filter, if a noticeable loss of power occurs, should be cleaned or replaced; it should not be washed. The carburetor comes with a standard factory setting, but adjustments for idle speed might be necessary if the engine stops or the cutting attachment rotates at idle. Spark plugs need checking and potentially replacing after approximately 100 operating hours or if badly eroded. The muffler's spark arresting screen should also be maintained by a dealer to prevent fire risks.
Regular inspections are paramount. The cutting attachment must be checked frequently for tightness, cracks, wear, or damage, and replaced immediately if any issues are found. Ignoring wear limits on cutting heads can lead to shattering and serious injury. For storage longer than a few days, the fuel tank should be drained, and the engine run dry to prevent carburetor diaphragms from sticking. The machine should be cleaned thoroughly and stored in a dry, secure location away from children and unauthorized persons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can't find the answer you need? Here are some frequently asked questions about the Stihl FS 38 Brush Cutter, and we answer them below.