A handy tool to have for testing these carbs is an air pump with pressure gauge. Connect to the fuel inlet, pump to .5 bar and it should hold pressure. If it doesn't, the cover gaskets are leaking, or the inlet needle is not seating. If it holds pressure, pump the primer bulb till pressure gauge reads 0 and keep pumping till it pulls a vacuum. It should hold a slight vacuum for at least one second. If it doesn't, the primers check valve is defective, and carb should be replaced. If it holds vacuum, connect the air pump to the primers output nipple and pump primer till gauge reads .5 bar. If primer won't build pressure, again its a defective check valve and carb should be replaced. This is known as the 3-step test. The problem with the cheap knock-off carbs is that these motors will often use many different versions of a carb for a given model. In the case of the FS55, I think they used about 12 different versions of that carb, with the carb being changed each time a slight change is made to the motor design. Its best to try to get the right version of the carb for your motor. Theres a black number stamped on the carb that begins with letter S, such as S34, S55, S62, etc., which indicates which version you have. I recommend using the orginal Sthl carb for best results. Great video, by the way. Brian / Stihl tech
I think your approach is spot on. In my experience most people are quick to jettison a carburetor when basic repair would do the job. Your approach is excellent. Btw, you have a good "speaking " voice for videos. No "ahs" or "umms". You're missing your calling. . VOICE over work.
I would have remove the carb the first time and either put it in my ultrasonic or put it in a small pot with dawn dish soap and boiled it for a while. Then installed a complete repair kit in the carb. Put back on the trimmer only to see it still won't run. Then lay on the ground and kick my feet in a temper tantrum. etc.
I had one that wouldn't prime. I went to my local repair shop and purchased a purge valve for $2, and I was back in business. I was trying hard to keep the original Zama carb.
I always put a complete re-build kit in when I have it apart the first time after using my ultra sonic cleaner or flush all passages with carb spray. I had a customer that wanted his riding mower cleaned after I tuned it up and changed the oil, but he did not want to pay the extra hour to do it, so now I always ask if they want to pay for the additional cleaning. Thanks for the great video's.
For only $10 and one-day shipping, I would have definitely gone with the replacement carb like you did. Best part is, it worked perfectly the first start!
Those trimmers are great. I have a Stihl fs55r trimmer. I had the same problem with the primer bulb, where it didn't prime. This was because my primer bulb base was bad. Its the black plastic part. My local dealer wanted 30 dollars Canadian for just the plastic piece. So i decided to go with a brand new oem carb from stihl. Best part was, it was only 65 Canadian. With the Canadian dollar being so low. It would be like 30 bucks for a new oem carb in america. and it solved all my issues. the trimmer runs like new now.
Thank you for cleaning.Many year ago i used to go to a Sears repair shop,and they washed all the units before they would service it for $ 5 and was a must.
I've done both. I have a friend trimmer that is the same brand as this one. I ordered a carb kit with extras for his trimmer. I paid $13 for everything. I didn't ask him and I doing for free.
Thanks. I had new carb installed last year and I couldnt start trimmer this year. I followed your tip with fuel and it started. Then I cleaned fuel pump button and everything started working.👍
I found one of these on the side of the road last week. Sprayed some cleaner in it and it started up first pull but the carb primer will not inflate. New carb kit arrived yesterday. Maybe I'll get to it today. It has the edge attachment but I am going to covert it to a trimmer with one of the many trimmers I have laying around.
I'm the type of person who would have bought a real stihl carb. I don't mind using the generic Amazon carbs, but I spent so much on my stihl tools that o only use their parts. Great videos! I have that exact trimmer.
The STIHL ZAMA carb on mine was made in China also. Maybe the OEM cars are tested, and have better quality control. I find the cheap aftermarket ones to be hit or miss. Allot of defective ones are sent out.
On the first prime, I seen it was because of the small for the top of the diaphragm. Fuel flows through there. I'm sure if you poked a hole there, it would have worked. That old carb may still be good
Like you said, check with the customer about OEM parts then make the appropriate repair. I use mostly off brands for myself and at ten dollars it's cheaper to replace than play with it. I usually check my used supply first as I save them and I will rebuild some for these situations. I also sell them on occasion, if I have enough in stock, this pays for rebuild kits. I haven't had any complaints so far.
I bought a Lawnstar blower recently, and had all sorts of carb problems from the very 1st day, took it back and they put a new carb on it, and bingo, its a different machine now! 🙂 👍🏻 🙏🏻
The problem is the diaphragm it hasn't god the hole for the primer bulb on the side like the old one so there is no chance of getting fuel in it. Had the same problem on an FS 45 even though the seller of the rebuild kit mentioned it in the description
hi there ... great video.. Just wanted to comment that it would be handy to have kinks to the replacement carb ... and also - perhaps ... when replacing parts inside the carb for example - have details of how the parts refit. Overal -I liked the video. Very informative and you have a great manner to your approach. Thanks for the video. Very helpful.
Mine is a outdoor left in the elements tool, so it gets wet and rained on and baked, it was free. And I've used it for 10 years and I've cleaned it every so often so you wouldn't know it was kept outside lol. It has alot of blow by on start up, cause I don't use it often. But then it clears up after half a second.
Good one mate.. I use copy carburettors and have no problem at all.. can be a pickle to tune sometimes.. ta for the video. I would of got a new carburettor after the first clean..
@@HomeGaragechannel Check the metering diaphragm,there is a small hole,in the center of the diaphragm at the top of the old one.The new diaphragm has no hole.
I don't know if I am just lucky but my identical power attachment wouldn't start and I was sure I needed to buy a new carb...which is what was recommended. I was curious to figure out if my gas was too rich with oil and I put a little strait gas... still didn't start. Then the next day for some reason I thought just one more try. it started and ran perfectly. I'm thinking that somehow the strait gas cleaned the carb jets and presto....
Dette er på mange måter forbilledlig utført. En instruktiv, klargjørende og meget god video. Tusen takk! :) This is in many ways exemplary. An instructive, clarifying and very good video. Thank you very much! :)
The reason it wasn't purging was because of the diaphragm you used didn't have the purge hole on it. Should've double checked it before going with a new carb.
you mean the choke lever? this type of carb turns off the choke when any throttle is given. there must be a problem with the throttle that won't allow the choke to work properly
What cleaner did you use prior to diagnosing the problem. I agree with cleaning prior ... A clean machine slows for seeing leaks and other potential issues easier.
I would have installed a new OEM carb kit (if available). A lot of newer equipment doesn't sell carb kits any more. Your only choice is a new carb. That is the result of USA environmental standards (i.e. California). I'm not sure if this impacts on Sthil at all but I had a generator that needed a carb kit and this is when I found out this info.
Well done video. Given the unmaintained look of the unit, I would have assumed that the carburetor was shot, poor and old fuel having done its damage, and at $10, bought a new carb right away. I am really curious, though, as to what is a “knock-off”. My Stihl trimmer has an OEM carburetor made in China. Would like to know what is the actual difference between Stihl’s made-in-China carb and the made-in-China “knock-offs” beyond what the marketing folks would want us to think.
Just brands become over glorified as they earnt their name so people will trust in, plenty of cheap products that are just as good just without the known name!
If it’s from China it doesn’t mean it’s low quality. Stihl has their carbs made in a chinese factory that actually does good products. You think Stihl would risk that? Now, non-oem made in China tends to be low quality with lack of precision when being made meaning wrong jet sizes etc. but overall it’s ok. ZAMA is a good brand
Those Stihl trimmers, the FS 38, 45, and 55, spit a lot of oil out of the muffler. I add just the right amount of oil. So when I'm done with the machine there's little spots of oil on the machine. It gets on the pull cord, fuel tank, and even the front cover. It's a pain, and I have to clean it constantly. The stuff on the fuel tank definitely was not from exhaust. That was like spilled gas.
I noticed the replacement diaphragm was different from the old one. Check the alignment of the fuel hole on diaphragm.. could that have been the reason for it not working after the service??
Great video! I have the FS55R and am ready to trash it. I have done everything to get it to start and nothing works; have done the following: Replaced plug, coil, carburetor, cleaned spark arrestor, and more. Even starting fluid put in the carb or plug hole will not get even a hint of starting. My spark tester does show a spark but I thought it may have been weak so I put in a new coil and still nothing. Any thoughts before I scrap it?
@@HomeGaragechannel I finally figured it out! Compression is very good as it take a good effort to pull the starter cord. One think I learned was not to trust a lighted spark tester since a weak spark can indicate it is OK. Took it apart again, regapped the new coil although it appeared fine and still no spark by having the plug out, grounded on the engine fins. Could see a very faint spark at best. Put the new one back in and regapped it and still nothing. Now I had to assume the coil may be OK but why no spark. Came in and watched a few more videos for tips. This one here fixed the problem and would never have known. See it here instead of me trying to explain it. th-cam.com/video/xF34qz4J-Pw/w-d-xo.html All I can say is what a terrible design for spark delivery. You help is greatly appreciated. Mike Greene, RI
One of the best videos I have seen when fixing a tool, great explain and did it slow enough to comprehend the lesson. Is the KM55r is the same motor as this one or is it different? Love this video
I would have installed the correct metering diaphragm. The metering diaphragm installed does not match the primer base, hence why the carburetor would not prime after service. Well put together video though, easy to follow and helpful.
Have you tried adjusting the carb? Most come from the factory with a preset so they usually need some adjustments to get them to work right.
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I would give it some gas after the filter into the carb and if that doesnt help the situation, go look at the exhaust and there should be a spark arrestor which basically cloggs up with carbon and soot, take that out (just a simple 15mm socket i think) and see how it is.
Your air compressor is very valuable for cleaning equipment. Blow the crap out of it and you can get most of the dirt off. No prime could also be a line with crack in it. I use aftermarket carburetors all the time. However, I do everything I can to save the original Zama carb.
If I was ordering parts within Australia & I was in a hurry I would order just the pumping diaphragm locally & I've had to spend $30 AUD on a brand new OEM type carburettor for a Stihl hedge trimmer after a local eBay seller dudded me with a crappy aftermarket carburettor. I've had no problems with using $16 AUD carburettors which come directly from China if I am prepared to wait for it. BTW ,the switch can be pulled apart & cleaned as it gets jammed up full of crap,I've had to do that on a Stihl leaf blower !
Hi Home Garage. My neighbor brought me an FS 55R and said that it was bogging down after about 15 minutes of use. I cleaned off any carbon on the spark arrestor. Fuel filter and air filter are clean. If this doesn't work, rebuild or replace carb? I was trying to take to paths of least resistance first. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
nice work, I would also try replacing the spark plug, as it's cheap, or switching it, with on you have, as a test, but as for the carb, take it off, look at the screen, and the metering diaphragm, and then decide if a replacement is best. For me, I would have made note, of where the L and H screws, were adjusted to, write them down, and then start tuning.
@@HomeGaragechannel Hi HG. Took the carb off, checked the metering diaphragm (not crispy) , and screen (fuel passed through). Still bogged. I popped off the limitor cap on the high speed and adjusted it at full throttle. Put it through its paces on some tough weeds. No bogging. I told my friend, if it happens again, I'll change the carb. Fingers crossed. Thanks for your help and for listening.
I would have checked the fuel lines and filter to make sure they weren’t plugged. I would have taken the carburetor apart again and after I rebuilt it, I would test it in a small bowl of fuel. I find it very strange that the primmer system wasn’t working. It must have been an issue with the one way valve. Buying a new one would be my last resort, as I think buying a new one is sometimes just being lazy.
A non priming unit is either fuel blockage, check failure, or vacuum leak. Since it setup a long time, dump fuel into container and try blowing low pressure backwards through the pickup tube to the tank: carb cleaner, dust off, brake clean... as long as it can evaporate/won't leave lines filled. Then ask yourself why you went cheap and re-used a carb gasket in the first place - if that wasn't a problem, it will be [maybe soon].
New carburettor is a great time saver. Also eliminates a second fix, if the old one fails again. Mine seems to quit after five minutes warm up, with new carby fitted. Something loose at the coil end perhaps.
cheaper to replace carby when you add up all the parts you get with it some include spark plug gaskets new fuel lines and filter. You would pay half of the cost for a carby kit
Not sure I would have known enough to remove the plastic to get to the trigger. Bending it was the best decision for this machine. It's almost ready for the parts bin anyway. Thanks for sharing.
By the time you get just the gasket set for a Zama and clean the carb it would cost much more than a new one. So for 10.00 and a quick turn around time...that's a no brainer, But what do you do when the carb is popping off the filter cover...just like a back fire from a vehicle
@@HomeGaragechannel Yes I have pulled the exhaust and burning the carbon off. Even running it with the exhaust off, the trimmer still sucks. Told the owner he needs a new carb. he said to go for the aftermarket one for this FS55
Thank you for your video help's a lot. I would have got a NEW cab there cheap as it is than to waste hours resolving the issue. Time cost money today. Great video
I would have tried cleaning it with carburetor cleaner spray and if that didn't work then I'd buy a new one IF the replacement was as cheap as you say, cuz even the Chinese ones for my weed eater feather lights are about 50 bucks
What’s orange cleaner? I’ve just recently started a lawn care company and people give me “broken” or not running equipment. I have multiple trimmers and a STIHL BR340 (back pack blower) that gives me trouble. The blower starts almost every time. But needs something because sometimes it doesn’t want to start. Anyway, all my equipment is around 5-10 years old and the previous owners left the equipment outside or didn’t take good care of it. Is there something that I can clean the entire machine with including the engine?
Buy OEM,because everything else is garbage, also I have one I ported intake,polished,added 1/2 hp more,breathes better,runs cooler,has a midrange power band,Awesome product made better!!
I would have cleaned it and used whatever original parts I could so that the only thing that costs me is my own time. Carb cleaner is available in a spray can and in many cases you can just leave it in a bowl. I never needed an ultrasonic cleaner to do it. Then again I’m old fashioned :)
A handy tool to have for testing these carbs is an air pump with pressure gauge. Connect to the fuel inlet, pump to .5 bar and it should hold pressure. If it doesn't, the cover gaskets are leaking, or the inlet needle is not seating. If it holds pressure, pump the primer bulb till pressure gauge reads 0 and keep pumping till it pulls a vacuum. It should hold a slight vacuum for at least one second. If it doesn't, the primers check valve is defective, and carb should be replaced. If it holds vacuum, connect the air pump to the primers output nipple and pump primer till gauge reads .5 bar. If primer won't build pressure, again its a defective check valve and carb should be replaced. This is known as the 3-step test.
The problem with the cheap knock-off carbs is that these motors will often use many different versions of a carb for a given model. In the case of the FS55, I think they used about 12 different versions of that carb, with the carb being changed each time a slight change is made to the motor design. Its best to try to get the right version of the carb for your motor. Theres a black number stamped on the carb that begins with letter S, such as S34, S55, S62, etc., which indicates which version you have. I recommend using the orginal Sthl carb for best results. Great video, by the way. Brian / Stihl tech
Lots of great information. i have to get get a pressure tester. thanks for the comment i appreciate it.
I think your approach is spot on. In my experience most people are quick to jettison a carburetor when basic repair would do the job. Your approach is excellent. Btw, you have a good "speaking " voice for videos. No "ahs" or "umms". You're missing your calling. . VOICE over work.
I appreciate it, I do write a script, and spend time working on the voiceovers. thank you again.
I would have remove the carb the first time and either put it in my ultrasonic or put it in a small pot with dawn dish soap and boiled it for a while. Then installed a complete repair kit in the carb. Put back on the trimmer only to see it still won't run. Then lay on the ground and kick my feet in a temper tantrum. etc.
Nice technique. Thank you for the comment I appreciate it.
I had one that wouldn't prime. I went to my local repair shop and purchased a purge valve for $2, and I was back in business. I was trying hard to keep the original Zama carb.
I always put a complete re-build kit in when I have it apart the first time after using my ultra sonic cleaner or flush all passages with carb spray. I had a customer that wanted his riding mower cleaned after I tuned it up and changed the oil, but he did not want to pay the extra hour to do it, so now I always ask if they want to pay for the additional cleaning. Thanks for the great video's.
Thank you for the excellent comment. I appreciate it
I would have attempted one cleaning, at least before buying a new carburetor.
Love your videos, man!
I appreciate your audience Gilbert Cruz. Thank you.
Phenomenal channel my friend. I do small engine repair for work and find your videos really relaxing and interesting to watch.
Thank you Will D for the comment I appreciate it
I would definitely try my best and clean it, buying new part for me is almost always a last resort. Keep it up 😁👍
Thanks for the comment I appreciate it and I will
For only $10 and one-day shipping, I would have definitely gone with the replacement carb like you did. Best part is, it worked perfectly the first start!
Yes you are completely correct. Thanks for the comment I appreciate it
Those trimmers are great. I have a Stihl fs55r trimmer. I had the same problem with the primer bulb, where it didn't prime. This was because my primer bulb base was bad. Its the black plastic part. My local dealer wanted 30 dollars Canadian for just the plastic piece. So i decided to go with a brand new oem carb from stihl. Best part was, it was only 65 Canadian. With the Canadian dollar being so low. It would be like 30 bucks for a new oem carb in america. and it solved all my issues.
the trimmer runs like new now.
excellent work. Thanks for the comment I appreciate it.
This is a brilliant video. Followed the instructions to add small amount of fuel directly to the throat and it worked! Thank you.
no problem and thanks for the comment I appreciate it
Thank you for cleaning.Many year ago i used to go to a Sears repair shop,and they washed all the units before they would service it for $ 5 and was a must.
Thank you Anthony Triolo
I've done both. I have a friend trimmer that is the same brand as this one. I ordered a carb kit with extras for his trimmer. I paid $13 for everything. I didn't ask him and I doing for free.
nice and I'm sure, they appreciated that it didn't cost them a small fortune to fix.
Thanks. I had new carb installed last year and I couldnt start trimmer this year. I followed your tip with fuel and it started. Then I cleaned fuel pump button and everything started working.👍
no problem and nice work!
I found one of these on the side of the road last week. Sprayed some cleaner in it and it started up first pull but the carb primer will not inflate. New carb kit arrived yesterday. Maybe I'll get to it today.
It has the edge attachment but I am going to covert it to a trimmer with one of the many trimmers I have laying around.
very nice, thank you Hear Meout.
I'm the type of person who would have bought a real stihl carb. I don't mind using the generic Amazon carbs, but I spent so much on my stihl tools that o only use their parts. Great videos! I have that exact trimmer.
I understand your feelings. Thanks for the comment I appreciate it.
The STIHL ZAMA carb on mine was made in China also. Maybe the OEM cars are tested, and have better quality control. I find the cheap aftermarket ones to be hit or miss. Allot of defective ones are sent out.
On the first prime, I seen it was because of the small for the top of the diaphragm. Fuel flows through there. I'm sure if you poked a hole there, it would have worked. That old carb may still be good
Like you said, check with the customer about OEM parts then make the appropriate repair.
I use mostly off brands for myself and at ten dollars it's cheaper to replace than play with it.
I usually check my used supply first as I save them and I will rebuild some for these situations.
I also sell them on occasion, if I have enough in stock, this pays for rebuild kits.
I haven't had any complaints so far.
Excellent answer. Thanks for the comment I appreciate it.
Thanks for cleaning ... I’m one of those viewers.
No problem and thanks for the comment I appreciate it
Lol me to
I bought a Lawnstar blower recently, and had all sorts of carb problems from the very 1st day, took it back and they put a new carb on it, and bingo, its a different machine now! 🙂 👍🏻 🙏🏻
Thanks for sharing
The problem is the diaphragm it hasn't god the hole for the primer bulb on the side like the old one so there is no chance of getting fuel in it. Had the same problem on an FS 45 even though the seller of the rebuild kit mentioned it in the description
Thank you for simple explanations that are complimented by the GREAT CAMERA WORK!!
Thank you
@@HomeGaragechannel I appreciate your time and all the effort you put into the videos.
@@budgunter8950 no problem
hi there ... great video.. Just wanted to comment that it would be handy to have kinks to the replacement carb ... and also - perhaps ... when replacing parts inside the carb for example - have details of how the parts refit. Overal -I liked the video. Very informative and you have a great manner to your approach. Thanks for the video. Very helpful.
Thanks for the comment I appreciate it. I'll try to do as you ask.
After watching the vid I'd buy a new carb. Thx 4 the vid. It really helped. Back to that stinking W E.
no problem and good luck. I'm sure the replacement carb will work out.
Mine is a outdoor left in the elements tool, so it gets wet and rained on and baked, it was free. And I've used it for 10 years and I've cleaned it every so often so you wouldn't know it was kept outside lol. It has alot of blow by on start up, cause I don't use it often. But then it clears up after half a second.
wow nice
your yard looks great and nice this is a cool trimmer and its my favorite brand
Thanks 👍
no problem!
Good one mate.. I use copy carburettors and have no problem at all.. can be a pickle to tune sometimes.. ta for the video. I would of got a new carburettor after the first clean..
Excellent information. I don't mind copy carbs either.
@@HomeGaragechannel Check the metering diaphragm,there is a small hole,in the center of the diaphragm at the top of the old one.The new diaphragm has no hole.
Nice catch. You're definitely correct about that.
Yeah
I don't know if I am just lucky but my identical power attachment wouldn't start and I was sure I needed to buy a new carb...which is what was recommended. I was curious to figure out if my gas was too rich with oil and I put a little strait gas... still didn't start. Then the next day for some reason I thought just one more try. it started and ran perfectly. I'm thinking that somehow the strait gas cleaned the carb jets and presto....
Possible but my take is it might have been flooded then by the next day it had somewhat cleared itself.
@@HomeGaragechannel I do find this machine easy to flood but this was a lot more stubborn than usual.
Have you ever had a machine you just can't fix? I like stihl but find Honda last a lot longer. Love your vidoes 👌
Thank you and absolutely, Sometimes it's not worth fixing a broken machine even if its a Honda or a stihl.
Would you agree that after i do all the cleaning and the bulb doesn't fill with fuel I need a new carburetor?
Yes I completely agree
Dette er på mange måter forbilledlig utført. En instruktiv, klargjørende og meget god video. Tusen takk! :)
This is in many ways exemplary. An instructive, clarifying and very good video. Thank you very much! :)
thank you I appreciate the comment.
I didn't know the carbs were so cheap. Man what an easy fix just get another carb!
I definitely go for the cheap carbs anymore...so much easier than cleaning & rebuilding. As I'm sure you know, sometimes they still don't run right.
Yes I know all too well. Thanks for the comment I appreciate it
You did the obvious right thing, in my book. Easy plug and play fix.
thank you John 6:44
The reason it wasn't purging was because of the diaphragm you used didn't have the purge hole on it. Should've double checked it before going with a new carb.
tks man
The cold/warm start button won't stay in place??
you mean the choke lever? this type of carb turns off the choke when any throttle is given. there must be a problem with the throttle that won't allow the choke to work properly
What cleaner did you use prior to diagnosing the problem. I agree with cleaning prior ... A clean machine slows for seeing leaks and other potential issues easier.
I think it was orange cleaner
I would have installed a new OEM carb kit (if available). A lot of newer equipment doesn't sell carb kits any more. Your only choice is a new carb. That is the result of USA environmental standards (i.e. California). I'm not sure if this impacts on Sthil at all but I had a generator that needed a carb kit and this is when I found out this info.
I believe you are absolutely correct. And yes, if it's in your budge always buy an OEM carb. Thank you William Pickering.
How come my still weedeater fs100r win I start it it stocks me like real hard to u have to let go of it
Try replacing the spark plug and if that doesn't work you have to replace the ignition module.
A big thank you to you for showing me how to fix my trimmer I follow your instructions in this video and Voila. It worked.
excellent, thanks for the comment.
Well done video. Given the unmaintained look of the unit, I would have assumed that the carburetor was shot, poor and old fuel having done its damage, and at $10, bought a new carb right away. I am really curious, though, as to what is a “knock-off”. My Stihl trimmer has an OEM carburetor made in China. Would like to know what is the actual difference between Stihl’s made-in-China carb and the made-in-China “knock-offs” beyond what the marketing folks would want us to think.
I don't really have any ideas either about the difference but all I know is I have a lot of success with cheap carbs so I'll keep using them
Just brands become over glorified as they earnt their name so people will trust in, plenty of cheap products that are just as good just without the known name!
If it’s from China it doesn’t mean it’s low quality. Stihl has their carbs made in a chinese factory that actually does good products. You think Stihl would risk that? Now, non-oem made in China tends to be low quality with lack of precision when being made meaning wrong jet sizes etc. but overall it’s ok.
ZAMA is a good brand
The knock off would have a red carburator choke knob,the sthil will have a orange carburator choke knob
Those Stihl trimmers, the FS 38, 45, and 55, spit a lot of oil out of the muffler. I add just the right amount of oil. So when I'm done with the machine there's little spots of oil on the machine. It gets on the pull cord, fuel tank, and even the front cover. It's a pain, and I have to clean it constantly. The stuff on the fuel tank definitely was not from exhaust. That was like spilled gas.
is your spark arrestor screen still in place?
@@HomeGaragechannel yes. I asked my dad how all of that oil got threw the screen. I checked the screen last year and it was clean.
I noticed the replacement diaphragm was different from the old one. Check the alignment of the fuel hole on diaphragm.. could that have been the reason for it not working after the service??
thank you Kenwyn Applewhite.
Really enjoy your videos!! You do a GREAT job of explaining in detail each step of the process!! Thank you!
Thank you Tom S for the comment I appreciate it
Thank you very much for this. Ive replaced the few bits bar the carb. Gave it a look today but i need a new one id say. Keep up the good work
no problem and I will!
Could you make a video on why gas might be leaking out of the carb when I put gas in the tank or when I prime it I have a Sthil FS55R
oh that's easy, the carb has an internal problem, no need for a video, when it happens to me, I just replace the carb.
Since the "knock off " carburetors are so inexpensive I probably just replace the carb . Thanks ffg or the video I've got the identical trimmer
you're welcome James Johnson for the comment I appreciate it.
Thanks for a very informative video on the FS55. It helped me troubleshoot and fix mine
You're welcome!
Thank you for the hard work and keep up the good videos
Thank you Luciano Raygoza for the comment I appreciate it
Great video! I have the FS55R and am ready to trash it. I have done everything to get it to start and nothing works; have done the following:
Replaced plug, coil, carburetor, cleaned spark arrestor, and more. Even starting fluid put in the carb or plug hole will not get even a hint of starting. My spark tester does show a spark but I thought it may have been weak so I put in a new coil and still nothing. Any thoughts before I scrap it?
sure, have you done a compression test on it? and I would try the ultimate spark test, which is to use your finger. you'll know if you have spark.
@@HomeGaragechannel I finally figured it out! Compression is very good as it take a good effort to pull the starter cord. One think I learned was not to trust a lighted spark tester since a weak spark can indicate it is OK. Took it apart again, regapped the new coil although it appeared fine and still no spark by having the plug out, grounded on the engine fins. Could see a very faint spark at best. Put the new one back in and regapped it and still nothing. Now I had to assume the coil may be OK but why no spark. Came in and watched a few more videos for tips. This one here fixed the problem and would never have known. See it here instead of me trying to explain it. th-cam.com/video/xF34qz4J-Pw/w-d-xo.html
All I can say is what a terrible design for spark delivery. You help is greatly appreciated.
Mike
Greene, RI
One of the best videos I have seen when fixing a tool, great explain and did it slow enough to comprehend the lesson. Is the KM55r is the same motor as this one or is it different? Love this video
thank you Geronimo Pascuale.
Hello home garage just wondering whats the link for the carburetor
www.amazon.com/dp/B079DQFXWB/ref=cm_sw_r_em_apa_i_XZuXEbHZE1DEQ
what happens if the gas pass the screen with out pushing the roket arm?
is the spring sill under the rocker arm? if it is then just replace the carb
@@HomeGaragechannel yes it is...ok thanks...do you think that is the reason it wont rev up?
I would have installed the correct metering diaphragm. The metering diaphragm installed does not match the primer base, hence why the carburetor would not prime after service. Well put together video though, easy to follow and helpful.
thank you Thaxmanwvu
I was working on this same Stihl for two couples of days ,I replaced carburetor , but still hard start , what will I do next??????
Have you tried adjusting the carb? Most come from the factory with a preset so they usually need some adjustments to get them to work right.
I would give it some gas after the filter into the carb and if that doesnt help the situation, go look at the exhaust and there should be a spark arrestor which basically cloggs up with carbon and soot, take that out (just a simple 15mm socket i think) and see how it is.
Your air compressor is very valuable for cleaning equipment. Blow the crap out of it and you can get most of the dirt off. No prime could also be a line with crack in it. I use aftermarket carburetors all the time. However, I do everything I can to save the original Zama carb.
thank you Mike Spain
I need that little diaphragm gasket but I can’t dont the specific one 😓 can you help me?
To be honest I would just order a cheap replacement carb instead. No shame. Its just easier.
Home Garage the whole carb lol or just that gasket?
What do you use in the spray bottle to clean the engine with please
it's an orange based cleaner we get from the dollar store but you can find it at any big store.
i just did one i rebuild the carb just fine but also ordered a carb so now i have a back up for next time
thats very advantageous of you, nice. thanks for the comment I appreciate it
If I was ordering parts within Australia & I was in a hurry I would order just the pumping diaphragm locally & I've had to spend $30 AUD on a brand new OEM type carburettor for a Stihl hedge trimmer after a local eBay seller dudded me with a crappy aftermarket carburettor.
I've had no problems with using $16 AUD carburettors which come directly from China if I am prepared to wait for it.
BTW ,the switch can be pulled apart & cleaned as it gets jammed up full of crap,I've had to do that on a Stihl leaf blower !
Thank you for the comment I appreciate it. Excellent answer.
Hi Home Garage. My neighbor brought me an FS 55R and said that it was bogging down after about 15 minutes of use. I cleaned off any carbon on the spark arrestor. Fuel filter and air filter are clean. If this doesn't work, rebuild or replace carb? I was trying to take to paths of least resistance first. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
nice work, I would also try replacing the spark plug, as it's cheap, or switching it, with on you have, as a test, but as for the carb, take it off, look at the screen, and the metering diaphragm, and then decide if a replacement is best. For me, I would have made note, of where the L and H screws, were adjusted to, write them down, and then start tuning.
@@HomeGaragechannel ok. Thank you for your prompt response. I will keep you posted. I learned so much from you. Passing it on to help people out.
passing it on, is what I like to do as well.
@@HomeGaragechannel Hi HG. Took the carb off, checked the metering diaphragm (not crispy) , and screen (fuel passed through). Still bogged. I popped off the limitor cap on the high speed and adjusted it at full throttle. Put it through its paces on some tough weeds. No bogging. I told my friend, if it happens again, I'll change the carb. Fingers crossed. Thanks for your help and for listening.
I would have checked the fuel lines and filter to make sure they weren’t plugged. I would have taken the carburetor apart again and after I rebuilt it, I would test it in a small bowl of fuel. I find it very strange that the primmer system wasn’t working. It must have been an issue with the one way valve. Buying a new one would be my last resort, as I think buying a new one is sometimes just being lazy.
Thank you for the comment I appreciate it
Home Garage You’re welcome, keep up the good work 👍
Can you add a link where to purchase the new carb
sorry but the link won't last since the listings disappear after time. Just search "fs 55rc carb" on Amazon and you should find it.
What did you use to clean before disassemble?
it was either orange cleaner or simple green.
Home Garage thanks 🤙btw, new carburetor!
How much would one of these go for in this type of condition used
maybe 80-100. thats jut my guess
About 110
I enjoyed your video, but i have trouble starting my trimmer when hot, have you any sugestions
hot start problems can be very difficult to fix, I would suggest a carb adjustment, but it can't be done by a novice.
Just a great video . Thanks for upload
Thank you ringside judge for the comment I appreciate it
A non priming unit is either fuel blockage, check failure, or vacuum leak. Since it setup a long time, dump fuel into container and try blowing low pressure backwards through the pickup tube to the tank: carb cleaner, dust off, brake clean... as long as it can evaporate/won't leave lines filled. Then ask yourself why you went cheap and re-used a carb gasket in the first place - if that wasn't a problem, it will be [maybe soon].
thank you Flinch for the tips
My carburetor puts fuel in the motor while im priming the lines is that normal
Is it a grass trimmer? If so no.
the video I needed for my FS55. thanks a lot dude, straight to the point with all the infos. Cheers from France ! :D
Hello France!. thank you Polo Stone
@@HomeGaragechannel Quick update : finally got the spare parts needed. works like clockwork, got it running on the first try ! thank you again :)
Great video! Clear and easy to understand. Thanks!
You're welcome!
New carburettor is a great time saver. Also eliminates a second fix, if the old one fails again. Mine seems to quit after five minutes warm up, with new carby fitted. Something loose at the coil end perhaps.
possibly or you might need to adjust the carb
OK so I replaced the primer bulb in mine mine is dirty I also replaced the filter it’ll run by when I get going it stops. Any ideas
Sure, the Carb needs to be adjusted or replaced.
Excellent close up shots , thanks .
Glad you enjoyed it
Can the weed eater work ONLY on gasoline or it must use mixture?
this one uses Oil and gasoline mix.
Do you know why the carb will pull fuel through the return port ?
typically the fuel lines are backwards.
Dosnt make any difference its as if the intake port is blocked but iv tried cleaning it with compressed air and still no difference
@@HomeGaragechannel the fuel is getting pumped to the inlet port but not going any further
carb issue
cheaper to replace carby when you add up all the parts you get with it some include spark plug gaskets new fuel lines and filter. You would pay half of the cost for a carby kit
You are absolutely correct
The Stihl Trimmer Was Running For Two Seconds But It Dies After One Pull On The Rope 2:38
Thank you for the comment I appreciate it. Yes it was just a test run. It only ran on the little bit of gas I put in it.
great video... would like to ask what did you use to clean the unit?
for the body I used LA awesome cleaner and for the Oily parts, I used stale gasoline
I would of taken it apart again and gave it a carburetor bath. Great video. 👍👍👍👍👍
If I get an ultrasonic cleaner I would try again. Thanks for the comment I appreciate it
@@HomeGaragechannel I just pick one up last week from habor freight works good.
Not sure I would have known enough to remove the plastic to get to the trigger. Bending it was the best decision for this machine. It's almost ready for the parts bin anyway. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you D Butler for the comment I appreciate it
By the time you get just the gasket set for a Zama and clean the carb it would cost much more than a new one. So for 10.00 and a quick turn around time...that's a no brainer, But what do you do when the carb is popping off the filter cover...just like a back fire from a vehicle
wow, I've never had that happen to me, I would probably look to see if the exhaust is blocked.
@@HomeGaragechannel Yes I have pulled the exhaust and burning the carbon off. Even running it with the exhaust off, the trimmer still sucks. Told the owner he needs a new carb. he said to go for the aftermarket one for this FS55
Where can I buy the cheap carburetor please mine is no longer good
On Amzn
Mine is a fs 55t. Is that the same engine and carb?
not sure, I've never compared the 2 of them
I was about to order a brand new weed eater video is very useful
Thank you go Fred gamer.
Thank you for your video help's a lot. I would have got a NEW cab there cheap as it is than to waste hours resolving the issue. Time cost money today. Great video
thanks and yes getting a new carb would be a great use of time
I would have tried cleaning it with carburetor cleaner spray and if that didn't work then I'd buy a new one IF the replacement was as cheap as you say, cuz even the Chinese ones for my weed eater feather lights are about 50 bucks
Thank you for the comment I appreciate it. Luckily this one was cheap.
What do you clean it with?
Some orange cleaner. Thanks for the comment I appreciate it
What’s orange cleaner? I’ve just recently started a lawn care company and people give me “broken” or not running equipment. I have multiple trimmers and a STIHL BR340 (back pack blower) that gives me trouble. The blower starts almost every time. But needs something because sometimes it doesn’t want to start. Anyway, all my equipment is around 5-10 years old and the previous owners left the equipment outside or didn’t take good care of it. Is there something that I can clean the entire machine with including the engine?
@@chrisp9765 its can be found at home depot or lowes. It really doesn't matter which cleaner you use.
Why put on the old air filter with a new carb?
choice Neo.
Just a new Chineseum carb, my luck with the is about 80% , 2and 4 cycle. Not so much for Stihl carb clones
Yes I understand your reservation about using them. If I can I try to get oem carbs.
Buy OEM,because everything else is garbage, also I have one I ported intake,polished,added 1/2 hp more,breathes better,runs cooler,has a midrange power band,Awesome product made better!!
thank you 1966sgb
Thank u so much for helping me to fixing old dad mower
no problem and thank you for watching
I would order a new carburetor and continue working with the old carburetor until the replacement arrives.
Thank you for the comment I appreciate it
I ordered a new one and went inside and cracked a beer.
Have same problem on mine Fs55rc Took mine apart cleaned it up put back worked for little bit took apart again ordered new carb and kill switch
nice work, hopefully you can get working again.
New carburetor!
Thank you for the comment I appreciate it
Wow that cleaner works good. What kind of cleaner are you using?
I believe its an orange based cleaner.
Carbs are so cheap nowadays. No carb adjustment?
Not this time
What's the difference between a Stihl FS45 and a Stihl fs55rc?
not sure, I'd have to do some research on them both and come up with and answer.
Ok
new metering diaphragm didn't have extra hole where draws fuel look closely new and old you will see
Also noticed this
@@kipper19701 I Noticed Also
great video, good details and explanations of each part step by step. youve earned my sub sir.
Thanks for the sub!
I would have cleaned it and used whatever original parts I could so that the only thing that costs me is my own time. Carb cleaner is available in a spray can and in many cases you can just leave it in a bowl. I never needed an ultrasonic cleaner to do it. Then again I’m old fashioned :)
I appreciate old fashioned. Thank you Chris Storer.