STIHL FSE 31, 41 Instruction Manual

Guide to Using this Manual

Pictograms: All 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 continually improves its products. Design, engineering, and appearance may be modified periodically. Some changes may not be covered in this manual.

Safety Precautions and Working Techniques

Special safety precautions must be observed when working with this power tool due to the high speed of its cutting attachment and its electric power source.

It is important to read and understand the User Manual before commissioning and keep it in a safe place for future reference. Non-compliance may cause serious or fatal injury.

Observe national safety regulations issued by employers' liability insurance associations, social security institutions, occupational safety and health authorities, or other organizations.

If you are new to using this machine, have an experienced user demonstrate safe handling or attend a specialist course.

Minors should not use the machine, except for trainees over 16 working under supervision.

Keep children, animals, and onlookers away from the machine.

When the machine is not in use, shut it off to prevent endangering others. Secure it against unauthorized use and disconnect the plug from the power supply.

The user is responsible for accidents or risks involving third parties or their property.

Do not lend the machine to persons unfamiliar with its handling; always include the User Manual.

Individuals with limited physical, sensory, or mental ability may only operate the power tool under supervision or after appropriate instruction.

National or local regulations may restrict the use of noise-emitting power tools to certain times.

Before each use, check that your power tool is in good condition, paying 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 the plug from the wall outlet before performing any work on the machine (cleaning, maintenance, replacing parts).

The deflector cannot protect the operator from all ejected objects (stones, glass, wire, etc.). Ejected objects may ricochet and strike the operator.

Do not use a high-pressure washer to clean the power tool; a solid water jet may damage parts.

Do not spray the power tool with water.

Physical fitness: Operate the power tool only when rested and in good physical and mental condition. Consult a doctor before operating if you have a condition that could be aggravated by strenuous work. Do not operate if you have consumed alcohol, medication, or drugs that impair responsiveness.

Accessories and replacement parts: Only use cutting attachments and accessories explicitly approved by STIHL or technically identical. Consult a STIHL dealer for questions. Use only high-quality parts and accessories to avoid accidents and damage.

STIHL recommends genuine STIHL tools and accessories, designed to match the product and meet performance requirements. Never modify the power tool, as this increases the risk of personal injury. STIHL excludes liability for injury or damage caused by unauthorized attachments.

Applications: Use the power tool for cutting grass, overgrowth, and similar materials, depending on the fitted cutting attachment. Do not use for any other purpose due to increased risk of accidents and damage. The product must not be modified.

Clothing and equipment: Wear proper protective clothing and equipment.

Clothing and Equipment

Clothing must be robust but allow complete freedom of movement. Wear close-fitting clothing, like a boiler suit, not a loose work jacket.

Do not wear clothing that could become trapped in wood, brush, or moving parts. Do not wear a scarf, necktie, or jewelry. Tie up long hair above your shoulders.

Wear sturdy shoes with non-slip soles.

WARNING: To reduce the risk of eye injuries, wear close-fitting safety glasses in accordance with European Standard EN 166. Ensure a snug fit.

Wear face protection that fits well. Face protection alone is insufficient to protect the eyes.

Wear "personal" sound protection, e.g., ear defenders.

Wear sturdy protective gloves made of a resistant material (e.g., leather).

STIHL offers a comprehensive range of personal protective equipment.

Transporting the machine: Always switch off the tool and unplug it from the power supply. When transporting by vehicle, properly secure the power tool to prevent tipping over and damage.

Before Starting Work

Check the machine:

• Ensure the machine is properly assembled and in good condition.
• The trigger switch must move freely and return to idle when released.
• Use only approved cutting attachments, deflectors, and handles. All parts must be assembled properly and securely. Never use metal cutting attachments to reduce injury risk.
• Check that the cutting attachment is properly and securely mounted and in good condition.
• Check safety devices (e.g., deflector) for damage or wear. Always replace damaged parts. Never operate with a damaged deflector.
• Keep handles dry, clean, and free from dirt for safe control.
• Adjust the handle to suit your height and reach.

Do not operate the power tool if it is not properly assembled or in good condition, or if any components are damaged or not properly mounted.

Never attempt to modify controls or safety devices.

Before switching on, ensure the cutting attachment is not touching the ground or any other object.

Avoid contact with the cutting attachment – risk of injury! Note that the cutting attachment continues to run briefly after switching off (flywheel effect).

Electrical connection:

• Ensure voltage and frequency of the machine match the power supply.
• Examine the connecting cord, power plug, and extension cord for damage. Damaged or non-compliant cords must not be used.
• Always connect to a properly installed wall outlet.
• Check insulation of power cord, extension cord, plug, and coupling for good condition.
• Never touch the power plug, cord, or connections with wet hands.
• Any extension cords used must comply with specifications for the application.

Positioning cords correctly:

• Check minimum wire cross-section (wire gauge) as per "Connecting to Power Supply".
• To reduce stumbling risk, position and mark the connecting cord so it cannot be damaged or endanger others.
• Use only extension cords approved for outdoor use, properly labeled, and with the correct wire gauge.
• The plug and coupling of the extension cord must be waterproof and never immersed in water.
• Avoid chafing on edges, pointed, or sharp objects.
• Do not trap or squeeze the cord in or under doors or windows.
• If cords are twisted, unplug and straighten them.

While Working

Never touch the rotating cutting attachment.

Always completely unroll the connecting cord from the cable reel to avoid fire risk due to overheating.

Holding and guiding the machine:

• Hold the tool firmly with both hands on the handles, ensuring a firm and secure footing.
• Always hold the tool on the right-hand side of your body.
• Left hand on the loop handle, right hand on the control handle, even if left-handed.

If the power cord is damaged, immediately disconnect the plug from the wall outlet to avoid electric shock.

Avoid damage to the power supply cord: do not drive over, pinch, or tug it.

Never jerk the connecting cord to disconnect it from the wall outlet; grasp the plug, not the cord.

The power cord and plug must never be touched with wet hands.

Never spray water on the unit – risk of short circuit! The drive motor is not waterproof. To reduce the risk of short circuit or electrocution, never work in the rain or in wet/damp locations. Do not leave the power tool outdoors in the rain.

In case of imminent danger or emergency, switch off the motor immediately by releasing the trigger switch and starting lockout.

Your power tool is designed for one-person operation. Do not allow other persons in the work area.

Work area safety: There is a risk of accident from ejected objects within a wide area. Ensure no one is within a 15 m (50 ft) radius. Maintain this distance from objects (vehicles, window panes) to prevent property damage. Danger cannot be ruled out even beyond 15 m.

Work site check: Check for rocks, metal objects, etc., that could be caught and ejected up to 15 m, posing an injury risk. Such objects can also damage the cutting attachment and property (parked vehicles, windows).

Never work without protection suitable for the machine and cutting tool – risk of injury from ejected objects!

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 to avoid stumbling.

Watch out for obstacles like tree stumps and roots – risk of tripping or stumbling!

Only work while standing on the ground, never on a ladder, work platform, or unstable surface.

Be alert when wearing hearing protection, as it restricts your ability to hear warnings (shouts, alarms).

Take breaks when tired or fatigued – risk of accidents!

Work calmly and carefully in daylight conditions with good visibility. Proceed with caution and do not endanger others.

Be particularly careful on difficult, densely grown terrain.

Cutting tool checks: Check the cutting tool regularly and immediately if its behavior changes:

• Switch off the tool, hold it firmly, press the cutting attachment into the ground to stop it, and disconnect the plug.
• Check condition and tightness of connections; look for fine cracks.
• Immediately replace defective cutting tools, even with minor hairline cracks.
• Clean grass and plant residue from the cutting attachment mounting and deflector at regular intervals.

Always switch off and unplug before replacing the cutting attachment to prevent unintentional motor start.

Do not use or attempt to repair damaged or cracked cutting attachments by welding, straightening, or modifying their shape.

Particles or pieces may come off at high speed, posing a severe injury risk to the operator or bystanders!

If a rotating cutting attachment touches a rock or hard object, sparks may ignite combustible materials. Dried plants and brushwood are also combustible, especially in hot, dry weather. If there is a risk of fire, do not use cutting attachments near combustible materials, dried-out plants, or brushwood. Consult the responsible forestry office about fire hazards.

Only use the deflector with a properly mounted blade that restricts the mowing line to the permissible length.

To reduce injury risk, avoid contact with the blade.

To reduce injury risk, always switch off and unplug before manually adjusting the mowing line.

Using mowing lines that are too long reduces engine speed, causing overheating and motor damage.

To reduce injury risk, never use wire instead of nylon cutting line.

If the power tool is subjected to unusual stress (e.g., heavy impact or fall), check its condition before continuing. Ensure safety devices are working. Do not operate if damaged. Contact a dealer if in doubt.

Before leaving the power tool unattended, switch it off and disconnect the plug.

Vibrations: This power tool minimizes vibrations. Seek medical advice for suspected circulatory problems in the hands (e.g., tingling sensation).

Maintenance and Repairs

Only perform maintenance and service work described in this manual. All other repairs must be done by a servicing dealer.

STIHL recommends servicing and repair work exclusively by authorized STIHL servicing dealers, who receive regular training and technical information.

When repairing, use only replacement parts approved by STIHL or technically identical. Use high-quality parts to avoid accidents and damage.

STIHL recommends original STIHL replacement parts. Original STIHL parts can be identified by the STIHL part number, the STIHL logo, and the STIHL parts symbol [STIHL parts symbol].

Maintenance Chart: Perform operations described in the "Maintenance Chart" regularly. If unable to perform, use a servicing dealer.

Minimize Wear and Avoid Damage:

• Observing instructions reduces wear and damage.
• Operate, maintain, and store the power tool with due care and attention as described.
• The user is responsible for damage caused by non-observance of safety, operating, and maintenance instructions. This includes:
• Alterations or modifications not approved by STIHL.
• Using unapproved, unsuitable, or poor-quality tools/accessories.
• Using the product for unintended purposes.
• Using the product for sports or competitive events.
• Consequential damage from continuing to use the product with defective components.
• If maintenance operations are not carried out as specified, the user assumes responsibility for resulting damage, including:
• Motor damage due to neglect or deficient maintenance (e.g., not cleaning cooling air inlets).
• Damage due to incorrect electrical connection (voltage, inadequate cords).
• Corrosion or consequential damage from improper storage.
• Damage from using poor quality replacement parts.

Parts Subject to Wear and Tear: Some parts are subject to normal wear and tear and require timely replacement, including:

• Cutting Attachment
• Deflector

Main Parts

Diagram showing the main parts of the STIHL FSE 31/41 electric trimmer. Key components are labeled:

• 1 Control handle
• 2 Switch
• 3 Strain relief (cord retainer)
• 4 Power cord
• 5 Lock button for assist handle
• 6 Lock button for control handle (FSE 41 only)
• 7 Assist handle
• 8 Shaft
• 9 Locking lever for motor housing
• 10 Cooling inlets
• 11 Motor housing
• 12 Deflector
• 13 Line limiter blade
• 14 Bumper (FSE 41 only)
• 15 Mowing head
• # Serial number

Specifications

FSE 31, 230 V version:

• Voltage: 230 V
• Frequency: 50 Hz
• Rated current: 1.1 A
• Power rating: 245 W
• Rated speed under load: 10,100 rpm
• Fuse: min. 10 A
• Insulation: II, [electrical hazard]

FSE 41, 230 V, 240 V version:

• Voltage: 230 V, 240 V
• Frequency: 50 Hz
• Rated current: 1.7 A
• Power rating: 400 W
• Rated speed under load: 9,900 rpm
• Fuse: min. 10 A
• Insulation: II, [electrical hazard]

FSE 41, 120 V version:

• Voltage: 120 V
• Frequency: 60 Hz
• Rated current: 3.8 A
• Power rating: 400 W
• Rated speed under load: 9,900 rpm
• Fuse: min. 10 A
• Insulation: II, [electrical hazard]

Sound pressure level Lp to EN 50636-2-91:

• FSE 31: 82 dB(A)
• FSE 41: 87 dB(A)

Sound power level Lw to EN 50636-2-91:

• FSE 31: 92 dB(A)
• FSE 41: 96 dB(A)

Vibration level ahv to EN 50636-2-91:

• Handle, left: FSE 31: 1.2 m/s², FSE 41: 2.2 m/s²
• Handle, right: FSE 31: 1.8 m/s², FSE 41: 1.3 m/s²

K-factor for sound pressure/power level: 2.0 dB(A). K-factor for vibration level: 2.0 m/s² (Directive 2006/42/EC).

REACH: EC regulation for Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemical substances. For information, see www.stihl.com/reach.

Noise and Vibration Data: Determined based on rated maximum speed. For details on Vibration Directive 2002/44/EC, visit www.stihl.com/vib.

Maintenance and Repairs

Users may only perform maintenance and service work described in this manual. Other repairs must be carried out by a servicing dealer.

STIHL recommends servicing and repair work exclusively by authorized STIHL servicing dealers.

When repairing, use only STIHL-approved or technically identical replacement parts. Use high-quality parts to avoid accidents and damage.

STIHL recommends original STIHL replacement parts.

Disposal

Observe country-specific waste disposal rules and regulations.

STIHL products must not be thrown in the garbage can. Take the product, accessories, and packaging to an approved disposal site for environmentally friendly recycling. Contact your STIHL servicing dealer for the latest information on waste disposal.

[waste disposal symbol]

EC Declaration of Conformity

ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, D-71336 Waiblingen, Germany, declares that the Electric trimmer, Make: STIHL, Series: FSE 31, FSE 41 (Serial identification number: 4815) conforms to relevant provisions of Directives 2011/65/EU, 2006/42/EC, 2014/30/EU, and 2000/14/EC. Manufactured in compliance with standards EN 55014-1, EN 55014-2, EN 60335-1, EN 50636-2-91, EN 61000-3-2, EN 61000-3-3.

Measured and guaranteed sound power levels determined according to Directive 2000/14/EC, Annex VI, using ISO 11094 standard.

Participating notified body: VDE Prüf- u. Zertifizierungsinstitut, Merianstraße 28, 63069 Offenbach, Deutschland.

Measured sound power level FSE 31: 92 dB(A)

Guaranteed sound power level FSE 31: 94 dB(A)

Technical documents deposited at: ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG. Year of construction, country of manufacture, and machine number are shown on the machine. Done at Waiblingen, 15.07.2021.

[CE mark]

UKCA Declaration of Conformity

ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG, D-71336 Waiblingen, Germany, declares that the Electric trimmer, Make: STIHL, Series: FSE 31, FSE 41 (Serial identification number: 4815) conforms to UK regulations: Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations 2012, Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008, and Noise Emission in the Environment by Equipment for Use Outdoors Regulations 2001. Manufactured in compliance with standards EN 55014-1, EN 55014-2, EN 60335-1, EN 50636-2-91, EN 61000-3-2, EN 61000-3-3.

Measured and guaranteed sound power levels determined according to UK regulation Noise Emission in the Environment by Equipment for Use Outdoors Regulations 2001, Schedule 9, using ISO 11094 standard.

Participating notified body: Intertek Testing & Certification Ltd, Academy Place, 1 – 9 Brook Street, Brentwood, Essex, CM14 5NQ, United Kingdom.

Measured sound power level FSE 31: 92 dB(A)

Guaranteed sound power level FSE 31: 94 dB(A)

Technical documents deposited at: ANDREAS STIHL AG & Co. KG. Year of construction, country of manufacture, and machine number are shown on the machine. Done at Waiblingen, 15.07.2021.

[UKCA mark]