Free Stihl Trimmer thrown away because it won't start 

Posters can do what ever they want, if they want to show you how to fix your lawn mower in pasties and a G string and do a pole dance first that's their option, your getting free information about fixing something your probably too cheap to take it to a shop, now some are complaining about the free information and giving advise on how to produce a video... this was a good video , others not, but its what you get out of it that matters at least appreciate the effort someone took to hopefully help someone with free information . like the old saying goes when you gripe about the farmer don't talk with your mouth full.. Good Video H/G

Pay attention RU-vidrs that have your own channel . THIS is how you make an instruction video . Excellent visuals , lucid step by step instructions and no pointless rambling . This guy should teach people how to make a proper video . EXCELLENT !

Remember, if you do burn the residue off of the spark arrester screen, let it cool down at ambient temperature before brushing. Don’t be tempted to quench it in water, which might cause it to become brittle and break over time. This is a really good video from someone who has spent a lot of time working on this stuff.

It's amazing the things that people throw out these days. Stihl equipment is not cheap. This is a great video showing that repairs can be done without being taken to a repair shop. Good stuff

My string trimmer wouldn't start but I didn't throw it away. I just swing it faster when I use it.

I learned 3 things here I never learned from any other video. I am glad I watched the whole video.

That was an excellent troubleshooting video mate - clear, simple commentary, logical process and flow, and great camera work and editing. Thanks so much for sharing!

I found your RU-vid videos a few weeks ago and have been watching, enjoying and learning. I've learned so much about 2-stroke engines from your channel. From watching your videos, I felt confident to order a new carburetor and repair my Stihl FS75 trimmer I purchased 30 years ago. It would only run on full choke, and now it runs great. Thanks for the help and making such good educational videos.

I have purchased two Stihl gasoline powered chain saws. After about a year of use, each became very difficult or impossible to start. My efforts in replacing and very carefully maintaining parts, I had to resort to paying local Stihl dealers and their Stihl trained mechanics to solve start and running issues. After I paid very high service charges (much more than I paid for saws), there was little or no improvement brought about by the highly skilled and high charging mechanics. SKIHL is now a cuss word to me!!!

Almost brand new

This is an excellent video! I happen to own one of these devices, and while I would never toss this out without thoroughly checking it out, I would turn to an internet search if the manual was poorly written and lacking coherent information, and this person should produce them ALL! I am both an experienced technician, and creator of training content for a combined period of over 25 years. This is how it’s done well!

I found one about 5 years ago at the dumpster site, took it home and did the same thing, although I didn’t check the spark Arrester, it’s a runner 👍 Awesome video nice step by step instructions 👍 keep up the good work 🇺🇸

Coincidentally I have the exact same model, took it to a shop and all they wanted to do was sell me a newer model And you’ve pretty much diagnosed every issue I’ve had with it, now I can go thru and fix it up like you have done, very well done with your vid Clear concise and straight to every issue

I've had an FS45 for about 20 years. Great machine.

Fantastic video, thank you! So educational! I knew it would be a carb problem, but didn't know the details of what issues to look for with these carbs. The diagnostic tips about how to check the rubber parts were superb. Also, thank you for the tip to just replace the primer bulb. Also, the tips on the idle and mixture carb adjustments were super helpful.

A pleasure to watch you,simply cos you know what you are talking about ! Unlike lots of other RU-vidrs.

After viewing your tutorial it dawned on me that in the 1960s I worked my summers pushing a Lawnboy 2 stroke mowers for a small crew..... the boss was always pulling the muffler assembly off of the underside to clean the exhaust ports. 5 minutes now and then and they ran great once they could breath properly.

Great find! I’ve never had a Stihl curb pick. You even got the trimmer head. Down here, that’s rare. Love the videos, keep them coming.

Great detail. Superior to every other video I have viewed on small engine service techniques.

This is Great- Working on 20+ year old Mantis tiller & it's VERY similar (possibly related to Stihl?) to the system & engine you just fixed. I'm basically doing exactly what you have thoroughly & thoughtfully explained in this video. Thank you very much, I appreciate your help!

Home garage, I have the exact same model. Mine is much older. Thanks to your tips, I was able to replace the carb. I could not find the correct carb kit. Saved me from putting this on the curb.

Sorry I put this strimmer near the trash can by mistake......can I have it back now please???

Thank you. I have this exact trimmer. Thanks to you I got it running great again.

I have had quite a few over the years from tip or been dumped, amazing that as soon as they give trouble people throw them away, many have been easy fixes

Interesting stuff my man! Many thanks. I'll be checking out my old strimmer next week.

In addition to the clear and concise information delivered with a pleasing voice, this video contains something I appreciate just as much: A CLEAN work space. Far too many of these RU-vid experts show vids on crowded work benches or garage floors surrounded by mowers, bikes and/or just plain junk. While it may not matter to all, I find that a clean work space allows the viewer to focus entirely on what is being demonstrated. Well done. One of the most precise videos on a repair that I've seen. I too own a Stihl 55. Keeping it running is an art. One other thing that impressed me .. . being able to adjust the fuel mixture. Old timer mechanics usually did this by "ear" or feel over time. This too is a skill learned over time and practice.

Oh happy day! I have a very similar Stihl trimmer in my garage that hasn’t started for a couple years. Now I know what to look for. Thanks!

I have the same model trimmer that gradually ran worse and worse until it finally wouldn’t run at all… But now I have a bunch of things I can try out to see if I could bring it back to life! Thanks for the great video!

Funny I stumbled on this video, I found this exact same model weed eater in a dumpster at my old work, was missing the head and the air filter cover. Had it running a week later and have used it since 😂

I learned from Skilled Trades/Construction workers a long time ago that you won't believe what people throw away!

Thanks for the tuition. I had my FS 45 for ten years and often had starting problems. Once running, very good. I made up fuel at each use, as they do not like stale two stroke, though the B&S stabiliser does extend fuel life. Also with the 1 to 7 start sequence, if you try to jump any, put it away, it won't run today. With stopping, I had to continually adjust mixture screws to keep it running. Eight years back, fed up with it, cleaned it up, got it running good, and traded it in on a Honda UMS425U 4 stroke (still running well). I expected a $20 trade, surprised to get $80.

Thank you for this - I was having a similar problem, and tweaking the knobs + burning & brushing the spark arrester screen, it pretty much fixed it!

Great info, very informative, I've been working on small engines for 40 years, I would have checked the fuel. Filter first, great video 😎

Great tutorial. Thank you. I bought an identical unit new in late 2014. The salesman demonstrated how to start it: x amount, and no more(!) of prods on the prime button and she will run. Yeah, right. Over the next 6 years, I almost had multiple cardiac arrests at times trying to get the bloomin' thing started and I reckon I had just as good a workout trying to start it as Chuck Norris on his Total Gym (R). Mind you, it always gives excellent service when finally running. Then, in late 2020, I had nothing much to do and so pulled the covers off plus a bit more simply to give it a good clean using a water hose and compressed air. No dismantling of carby and other intricate bits. Put it all back together again, making sure the ignition wiring was routed correctly! A good sign I'd done a fair job: no spare parts left over. When next I went to start it- per verbal instructions now over 6 years old, whoa, what a surprise: it started .... oh on about the third attempt. And since that time, I've used my FS 45 about a dozen times and it always starts by about the 5th attempt max. I believe there was something in the assembly of the wiring from factory that hexed it. In the aviation industry, temperamental instrumentation or navigational equipment could often be rectified by removing and reinstalling the related system's 'black box(s).' It was called 'reracking.'

Wow what a lucky find! 👍 I am by no means mechanically inclined when it comes to small engines but my granddad used to work on them. I wish I'd been more interested and attentive to learn about them way back when because paying a repair service can get expensive. Thanks for a most EXCELLENT demonstration! 👍😊 I have a 30+ year old Homelite Trimmer with a blade I'd like to get running again. I was in an accident and haven't used it in many years but would definitely like to try to use it again if I could get it to run. I certainly won't buy a new one with my physical limitations though since it might be a waste of money but fixing it might be an option. Thanks again! 👍

Great pickup! My best has been a Craftsman generator that was low on oil and would not start. Added about 3 oz of oil and started on the second pull with the gas that was in it! Works fine!

That’s a great find HG. Great job as always my friend. 👍🙏👍🙏👍🙏

WOW! That was a good find HG. It looks brand new. ✔👍

Amazing.. Looks new.... I remember years ago my neighbors gave me a lawn mower because they purchased a new Honda Mower.. This was years ago. The mower they gave me was basically new it was a Toro with Honda engine. The only issue I found was a clogged carburetor.. Cleaned it & waxed it. Looked new.. I gave it away when I hired a lawn care company to take care of my lawn.. Good video

One of the Best Ever videos on the whole of RU-vid about this and easy to follow step by step

I gave one to a neighbor 10+ years ago and he gave to his son in law. I was told by retailer "I need to run it more". I cut my grass every 2 weeks in the summer. Went back to battery units and have not gone back.

Some people have more money than brains. I would keep this trimmer since it’s in such great shape.

I picked up the exact trimmer in a clean up hear in Australia that had a buggered head. Fitted a universal head and has served me three years so far

Ironically, I picked up the exact same model off the curb a couple years ago. I have a straight shaft Stihl with the Kombi system that runs like a top. But this one wouldn't start. My dad is very handy with small engines and was able to diagnose the problem. Mine had a deteriorated fuel line. Got it running last season, and though it never ran as well as my straight shaft model, I was able to use it all last summer. Had to kind of feather the throttle to keep it running, but it did the job. This season, however, I've been unable to get it to start. So I need to troubleshoot again. This video is very helpful in showing me things to check.

My boss gave me one of those exact trimmers and they said the same, that it wouldn't run. I tuned it and it ran like a champ

I own an electric cordless trimmer & I’m sitting here watching this great video

I scored an old stihl machine which had had a failed starter recoil unit. After doing all you described I eventually found that the new recoil unit was actually the wrong unit which turned the motor in the wrong direction. I even had to show the unit to the stihl shop to show the because they did not realise that this was possible . Both units still had the stihl part numbers on so they were able to confirm that it was an original part. Always learning!!!

Thank you sir! Used your advice and knowledge and my trimmer is back in business, much appreciated!!!

I think you can retire your Weedeater Featherlite trimmer or use it for a backup.

I started using VP fuel in a can and have not had a running, idling, starting problem since. This was after throwing 2 weed trimmers out of the yard and trashing.

I’ve been looking for an FS45 carb video for sooooo long, thank you so much definitely subscribing

A methodical approach is the best way to address issues, steady as she goes.

That trimmer looks nice I ran a stihl fs 56 rc at one of my uncles house I like it but I prefer my echo in terms of reliability longevity and ease of serviceability and value

I love getting free tools from the garbge. Every time I use my circ saw I feel like a bad ass

Excellent - the "mystery" of the diaphragm cleared. Never thought you can replace it.

My dad has an fs45 that im about to work on, you just gave me the first things to check cause he ran into the same problem with it, years ago and now its just sat since then

You got really lucky getting a Stihl for free! You managed to point out the 2 biggest problems I see with them all the time (carb issues, muffler screen clogged) for bonus you could of pointed out the fuel lines (especially on the duel green line ones like you had there) they get stiff and develop leaks really fast in my experience.

I'm so tired of temperamental carbs, fuel mix, 2 stroke starting procedures, and seasonal care and feeding. I switched to a Makita battery powered trimmer. Charge battery, pull trigger, cut weeds, no bs. Come at me. I wouldn't curb a Stihl FS45 for free though, that must have been a really pissed rich guy, lol.

I love people who arent mechanically incline. I benefit greatly. Always easy to fix the equipment

Big thanks to you Home Garage, my 8yr old, like new Troy-Built weed whacker I almost gave up on until I found your video and now it’s running like a top. Big thumbs up.

Thanks for showing the adjustments!! Great video, do you have a video on how to adjust a new carburetor? What is a good starting point for the screws to be?

Sell straight shaft all day long.great video as always.

'Lots' of power in both of our Stihl FSA 57 rechargeables, we have 3 batteries and 2 charging stations, always charging another battery at the same time as running one down. 'Lots' of run time in the AK 30 battery. We also have a Stihl 2-cycle one but the electric rechargeables are way better. Our 2-cycle Stihl will not start also, so we bought a FSA 57 Stihl cordless rechargeable then bought a second one because I absolutely love it better than the 2-cycle one. If you get a FSA 57, for changing the cutting head, make sure you get one with the threaded shaft, not one with a plain shaft & snap ring.

Clear and concise, thank you.

Great video. One word of caution, Stihl recommends using brake parts cleaner spray instead of carb cleaner on these carbs. The carb cleaner is too harsh and can damage the internal check valves.

it always hurts me when people throw away things that could be fixed pretty easily

What a great video! So clear and easy to understand and great videos, really well filmed.

Bought one of these brand new in 2011. Have only opened the air box to clean the filter maybe twice. Starts on the third pull after priming every time, even after sitting through a minnesota winter. My secret? A steady diet of 91 octane non oxygenated fuel, mixed 32:1 with Amsoil Saber. Smokes at wide open throttle, but runs just as strong today as it did brand new ten years ago. What a great homeowner trimmer, lightweight and has a ton of power. Seems like it will run forever. I pulled out my spark arrestor screen, for slightly increased performance and lack of something to clog.

Great find and i would keep it. The problem that i see is its way to expensive to drop it off and a repair shop but in there defense they have overhead and cant do it on the cheap. When i was a kid every town had a guy that was the small engine mechanic and it was very affordable. its still hard to believe someone would put a trimmer like that on the curb.

Great find, great fix, great frame-rate artifacts at about 7:48.

I have the model up from this unit (same motor) that’s starting to give me problems. I now know how to service it. Nice video.

I just worked on my 16yr old FS45. Just needed new fuel.line. it wasn't sealing around the tank anymore. Its a great trimmer, very low maintenance over the last 16yrs. Effortless cutting too.

I bought one a while back and I knew it had good compression and what I found was someone messed with it and didn't put the fuel feed hole in the home made gasket. need gasket problem fixed. These are not that complicated.

Looks a lot like the one stolen out of my garage

I've watched it with much interest. You convinced me. I'll go and buy a new one right now!

Great find my 91 R has been great for 5 years now running like new use synthetic oil.

Dang. That’s a deal to find that free. Good brand of weed eater.

Love the videos my friend. I know stihl makes some decent products, he was telling me that Lesotho all of the stihl equipment he has has broken and had tp be repaired or replaced..he was telling me that the echo string trimmers are amazing. I told him I defiantly agree. Echo makes quality products. No my question, do you have aa go to mower, trimmer and blower when maintaining your lawn, or do you use what you fix for that week, to test it and make sure it’s worthy .

Nice fill in of info on an FS35 we revived a while back. We found out a new OEM carb was so cheap we just replaced it, but your other info is helpful. Didn't know about the screen in the exhaust, and your simple fix. Unfortunately, apparently Stihl has recently gone to a non-adjustable carb, dealer only repair. There is a nearby gas station that has no-ethanol gas, helps with diaphragm carbs. However, given the small quantities we use on the buzzy engines, we are using the Stihl stabilized pre-mix, works pretty well. Thanks!

Great video, thanks for sharing and educating others on the service, very well explained, video was excellent, good work.

That's awesome it's brand new what a score

That's just a shame someone threw it away and it's literally fixable

Thanks alot man, im starting a lawncare business and today i found a FS 38 STIHL trimmer while walking my dog with a free sign hanging on it! nothing broken on its just dirty. found it just before dark so ill be giving it a go and "diagnostics" once the suns up. i hope its something simple thats wrong with it if anything! maybe it'll work fine and the owner just bought something nicer! how amazing would that be. this model is still in stores and modern where i live. it currently goes for $220CAD New, which is about $275USD. i feel so blessed to find something i needed to buy! was ment to be

Very cool rolling-shutter affect at 7:48! Great video, very informative. A free Stihl is a pretty nifty find! That's practically like finding a C-note lying on the ground!

Bro you know so much about small engines... Pass it to someone in need

Ahhh throw it away get a shindaiwa or echo. Lol I really like them.

My son worked at a John deere dealership and we went together and bought the same trimmer in straight shaft it's an awesome trimmer

Thanks for the well made video. Ill probably never buy another string trimmer due to moving to batteries but if I ever see a stihl on the side of the road I wouldn't mind seeing if i can get it running and sell it.

2 little tips I have for you as a stihl certified mechanic. 1) all the screws on Stihl carbs should be one and half turns out from all the way in. 2) Never squeeze the throttle when starting your stihl products

It's just me but I would have brought it back to the person I got it from the just charged him for Parts...but then, that's me..Money aways came hard to me and I always feel bad for people who have had the same problems.

Thanks for the vid. I’ve one the same that won’t run, off to have a fiddle

Thank you so much for this video. I have an FS 46 that is in good shape, but after about five years of no use, it won't start. I'll just follow these simple instructions and we'll see what happens.🙂🙂

🤣🤣🤣🤣 looks brand new!!

I just had a sf90 in.. all it needed was the highside adjustment.. good one mate

Been getting frustrated in this 95 degree heat trying to get my fs110 to start. Thanks for giving me a roadmap to figure out why. Will update when I figure out why

My son and I both bought a Troy Bilt string edger. Didn't take long to wind up on the curb.

Nice job, I added to my list of reference videos because I think you do a real good job with the carb.

I picked up a stihl trimmer from the trash at work. Put a aftermarket carb and gas cap on it and it runs. Then the same guy that threw it away gave me a tree chainsaw pruner for free and it runs! I was like hell yeah I’ll take it. Now I’m going to sell both with a total of $27 invested plus a bottle of oil.

Definitely keep it. I had the same trimmer and swapped the curved shaft for a straight shaft. I was lucky and my friend had a burned up fs 80 and with a little modification worked great. Gave this trimmer to my aunt and she still uses it today and that's been years ago.

I see you prefer a straight shaft. I'm a tall guy but prefer a curved shaft because of spinal arthritis. Love your videos sir, I've learned alot over the past 2 years. You are very thorough and the videos are always top notch and done very well. Thanks for sharing all your knowledge with us.