Free Stihl Trimmer thrown away because it won't start

Links to products I have in my tool bag.
Compression tester. amzn.to/2NMgeze
Spark Checker. amzn.to/3bnXjmA
Tygon Fuel Line. amzn.to/3oX5JbA
Carb Adjustment tools. amzn.to/3k7cgxe
Primer Bulb. amzn.to/3bwLLxj
Fuel Filter. amzn.to/3dCKasx
Metering Diaphragm. amzn.to/31Qy5sx
Above are affiliate links which means we receive a percentage of the revenue made from purchasing products via those links.
Thanks for watching. This trimmer was found on the curb for free because it wouldn't start. The story is pretty much the same though, Carburetor problems.

[@MrJmaviles]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Wow, I'm giving you a standing clap right now. That was so well said that I'm going to have to pin this comment to the top. I really appreciate your insight.

[@donlarsenjr2332]

@@HomeGaragechannel So...... Is the next video featuring pasties and a G string? Asking for a friend.

[@jims1942]

True, it is a great video, one the best I've seen, very well done and straight to the point! ... *No pointless jabbering and stupid LOUD music* like most posters seem to want to include. "Just the facts man, just the facts". :)

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@jims1942 thanks man, just don't watch my early vids okay

[@1brotherlove829]

I just took mine to the shop and they said they can't get the parts, so I go outside and sit down in my truck and looked up the part in less than 30 seconds on my smartphone, found it on Amazon ordered it for delivery in two days, This shop will never get my buisness again.

[@siriosstar4789]

Pay attention KZbinrs 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 !

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I appreciate that!

[@ElectricAlien577]

Exactly. I hate that everyone on youtube seems to have two minutes of rambling at the beginning of every video, then a bunch of other nonsense I dont need to hear about throughout. I dont need anything other than the relevant information.

[@randomthingsarebest1473]

But nothing was wrong with this whipper snipper he took a carby of for no reason and what did he show us nothing but bs

[@mlb6d9]

That's it - some people word their titles to get others to click on it, then ramble on about themselves halfway through the video. Attention starved.

[@siriosstar4789]

@Bob's how-to's & Stuff LOL 😂🤣😆

[@hogsandsooners]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you make a good point

[@WeRunBC]

Thank you

[@Bluuplanet]

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

[@donvoll2580]

Good one Thanks

[@2KCamaroZ28SS]

😂

[@Williamson_Eric]

On a funny scale of 1~19 I give that 13.6

[@georgedennison3338]

Reminds me of the old joke about a city yokel buying a chain saw after he moved to the country. Sales person guaranteed it would cut 3 cord of wood a day. A week or so later, the guy comes back to return the saw. "You said it would cut 3 cord. No matter how hard I work, I can't cut more than 1 - 1 1/2 cord, and that nearly killed me." The shocked sales person grabs the saw, and says come with me, as they head out back to the 'test drive log'. Said sales person fires up the saw, and the customer jumps bad 3 feet yelling, "What's that noise, what's that noise?" I heard this joke when I was a kid, in the '60's, so I worked hard to try to make it non-bigoted for YT, so don't anyone give me a hard time about 'city yokels'. LOL If you're over 50, you can certainly imagine any number of ways I could have I originally heard it. It's not difficult to tell anyone over 50, there's such a thing as systemic bigotry; when we were young, it was impossible to avoid it. It was open, and everywhere. I think back to some children's rhymes from grade school, and can't believe what was common place. It embarrasses me, 60 years later. GeoD

[@theunknownshadow6926]

Best comment on youtube.

[@roberthartzell7104]

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 🇺🇸

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Robert Harzell for sharing your experience. I appreciate it.

[@stevewoodward7850]

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

[@beauvaughan9771]

Is it actually yours or are you trying to get a free trimmer

[@TazurrT]

@@beauvaughan9771 lol

[@stevewoodward7850]

@@beauvaughan9771 lm joking...you obviously dont get the British humour...l still want it back though if you'd like to post it to the UK😂

[@stevewoodward7850]

@@woodentrainseriesofficial9511 it was a joke......

[@SqualidsargeStudios]

Pffff XD

[@deannawilkinson5485]

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!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Deanna Wilkinson I appreciate that

[@supaorigamisensei]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice work, the diagnostic part is the hard part, and they were hoping to scare you into a purchase.

[@jameslovitt994]

I have an FS45 I bought my wife about 10 years ago, it's an excellent little Residential trimmer. Repair it and enjoy it a little longer.

[@brandonbell5357]

Should have bought it new not from you're neighbor

[@paynectygardener2033]

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!!!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

wow, you've had a really tough experience owning these saws. have you switched to a different brand yet?

[@shall667]

I found your KZbin 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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Great to hear, and thanks for the kind words.

[@HunterSmith641]

WAIT, AN FS75? I love those things, my grandpa has one that he has modified and it is one of the best weedeaters I have ever run.

[@ApprenticeGM]

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!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

No problem I appreciate the comment.

[@TheDesertwalker]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thank you TheDesertwalker

[@whisperingoutdoors]

I learned one thing from this video, some people just must have too much money lol that weed eater did look brand new!

[@robinparker1576]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thanks for watching!

[@aaronclareyloveshr6918]

@robinparker1576..... Exactly!.. I knew someone in the tree lopping business & he wholeheartedly endorsed the Stihl brand & used many equipments.. Reliability & quality.

[@kiltedwolf2]

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 KZbin 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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you kiltedwolf2 for the comment I appreciate it greatly.

[@yant8777]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thank you Yan T

[@chipsterb4946]

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!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Good luck!

[@twobeards6714]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes you are absolutely correct about the engine needing a clear exhaust path

[@andreasmakarewitsch1978]

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.'

[@LouiseMannigel]

I've never heard of the ignition wiring being a possible issue! Very interesting! My shop, another mechanic and I've been racking our brains and trying everything to get my FS55 to start, for about six years. I think it's worth looking into what you suggest!

[@andreasmakarewitsch1978]

@@LouiseMannigel Hi @louisem. And a Happy New Year to you , Home Garage and visitors. Re your FS55, everything's an open book and I'm happy to report, that ever since my 'look-n-see' tampering two years ago, my FS45 continues to have no issues when being started. If I can't get it going by the third pull- definitely by the fifth- I'm doing it wrong. As slack as it is, even after I've left the unit outside in the wet weather for weeks at a time- an aberration of care, I admit but it's not permanent!- it still starts reliably as described. Good luck. AM, Melbourne, Australia.

[@AGuyFromWV]

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 😂

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice haul

[@McScott76]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

good luck to you, and it would seem the carb might need servicing and tune.

[@RAMPHD]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes and it's very inexpensive

[@RAMPHD]

@@HomeGaragechannel over my head. My 18 year old Husqvarna has this issue. And hard starting I’m told by techs. Switched to pre-mix with my new one.

[@raynus1160]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

from what I can tell, yes it is.

[@Jim-ie6uf]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Jim S. I appreciate it.

[@bobbyk6585]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Bobby K

[@williamsnow1531]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

my thoughts exactly

[@ZeldaNumber17]

When they are $70 for a new one doesn’t make any sense to spend more than an hour on one.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@ZeldaNumber17 what trimmers are you thinking of that's $70?

[@youngkim3683]

@@HomeGaragechannel 0

[@amyswisher5468]

THAT MODEL COMES WITH A JUNK CARB.

[@jdaniels1313]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Jim Daniels

[@h2w25]

My neighbor just threw out his Stihl! I grabbed it and had it fixed for $40! It’s unbelievable!!!!

[@BaconTomatoCheese]

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!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

no problem

[@jimwind7589]

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.

[@LasVegas68]

Jim I'm a die hard combustible engine guy but I got so tired dicking around with those gas trimmers. I went electric a year ago and haven't regretted it one bit.

[@samuelvelez1643]

Almost brand new

[@HomeGaragechannel]

It's as close as I've ever come to a new Stihl.

[@flinch622]

Ethanol induced failure: this is why I don't push corn thru small engines. Ethanol doesn't store well, and absorbs bunches of moisture which causes all kinds of problems on top of the alcholol ripping natural moisture from rubber bits & pieces.

[@kentuckybeardsman]

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

[@sabrinasolutions5887]

Could tell me how you tuned it please???

[@kentuckybeardsman]

@@sabrinasolutions5887 there should be 2 small flat head screws on the carborater. One is a high and one is a low speed needle. Google the factory settings for your model of weed eater and just set them to that. It will have you screw them all the way in then turn them back so many turns out. It's alot simpler than this sounds. Lol. Again just Google the carb screw settings for the model you have and bam it shall run like a champ. You may have to tighten the high screw a smidge more than recommended to run better but that's all

[@sabrinasolutions5887]

Thanks a lot😄

[@bassinbillRC5300]

@@sabrinasolutions5887 you have to buy special tool for the Ryobi and Toro weed eaters called a Pac-Man screwdriver.

[@kentuckybeardsman]

@Franklin Clinton messing them up is the best way to learn my Friend 🤙🏻🤙🏻

[@TheAlienworkshop34]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I hope you get it working again

[@gregkiely4839]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks for the information

[@grekiely6245]

Thanks. Been told I should not do it, but, in Aust, I run 98 RON (about 92 PON). It does appear to last longer.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@grekiely6245 whatever works best in your area. Thank you Gre Kiely

[@stanp3217]

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!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Man I think you topped my find. nice work.

[@andybecker2693]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I would definitely consider it

[@Shrek_Has_Covid19]

W E E D E A T E R

[@royjohnson465]

'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.

[@jimamerica7419]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I'm glad to have help and you did a good job getting it working to.

[@bvnseven]

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

[@robertsurratt4062]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I'll have to keep vp fuel in mind then

[@robertsurratt4062]

I would like to add from my original post that the video is great and informative. The fuel l use in my trimmer and blower has been a game changer for me and the optimum performance of my yard equipment. I certainly rely on good informative and tech tips like this. Keep up the great work!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@robertsurratt4062 thank you Robert Surratt

[@luvs2race370]

You can also just find a station that sells non-ethanol recreation fuel. Much cheaper and gives the same results.

[@charlesparker924]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice work Charles Parker.

[@IvanHernandez-hd2si]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thanks for sharing

[@DanielEvans-ye7cp]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes you're correct

[@jameshedrick6839]

I found one on the side of the road going to work last week. They said it runs but wouldn't rev up. Looked at it on my break and found the spark arrestor screen was clogged with carbon. Took my torch and burnt the carbon out and it's still running like new

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@jameshedrick6839 excellent work

[@warrenfloyd1484]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thank you!

[@allenwilson9656]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice choice. Thank you Allen Wilson.

[@germancarfan]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

yes, very little patience nowadays

[@freeflight4ever]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Great point!

[@DT-abcd]

Hey brake cleaner is used on almost everything. That's mot rocket science

[@djratino]

May explain why I saw it used in a shop in Amherst, Va. I thought they were just trying to save money. Now I know better. They actually make a carburetor cleaner for small engines sold at Lowe's. I use that one.

[@alfredmorency8296]

It's funny that brake cleaner is better to use some carb parts because it's easier on rubber and plastic than carb cleaner, but it should never be used on brake shoes or pads, it can destroy them.

[@markamark123]

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

[@mayorb3366]

LOL, me too! I decided to ditch small gas engines a few decades ago. My shoulder couldn't take it anymore. Went to corded electric and now cordless. Pulling starter cords is a young man's sport!

[@philipnorris5481]

I don’t even have a garden and I watched the whole thing 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@royjohnson465]

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.

[@nunya3163]

Every Stihl product that I have ever seen (with California emissions) has been a royal pain in the ass to start. In fact, when I "lost" my Stihl chainsaw out the back of my truck, my Dad (who had given it to me), said it was the best thing I could have done with it.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Nun Ya

[@tlojewelrylove]

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! 👍

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you TLO Jewelry

[@Megellin]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks I'll have to mention that in a future video.

[@larsvegas1505]

Also those are problems with all small gas engines.. so u prob dont need to tell anyone unless theyve never held a wrench before..Also u always need to use either aspen 2t.. or stihl gas for these.. and never try to tune a engine that is not warm.. u can add fuel to a cold engine.. but that makes it run worse when its on working temp... so better just warm it up a bit.. try working it a bit and then ajust...

[@larsvegas1505]

ALso if hed had just put stihl 2t gas in, flushed it a bit (by pulling) it wouldve probably just started up and when started just give it a bit of gass for 20 minutes (start working with it) and after that time the muffler screen would be burned clean beacuse uve used good fuel with higher octane and better oil... that wouldve saved him a hour of talking about shit he doesnt know anything about on video.

[@wordreet]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

excellent hopefully it works out for you.

[@peterclancy3653]

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!!!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thank you for sharing

[@sjeverett75]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Nice work! thank you sjeverett75

[@stevenchandler4218]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Steven Chandler

[@electroddxful]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thank you RayFpv, I appreciate it.

[@niels3030]

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!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you and non problem

[@Curtis.Carpenter]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Nice find!

[@JohannZ100]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I know how you feel

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@Lá Salette absolutely agree with you

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@Lá Salette I would also go with the echo saw too. Very good product.

[@JohannZ100]

@Lá Salette yes they do

[@JohannZ100]

@Lá Salette that is the best decision someone would make trade the junk for the good

[@kingpest13]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I understand the feeling

[@colesteffens5402]

Last year I came across 2 of that exact trimmer I sold both for $70 each. I would have kept one of them, however like you said in the video, “too bad it’s not a straight shaft”. I only use straight shafts. Good find man!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

so very true. should fetch a good sale though. thank you Cole Steffens

[@colesteffens5402]

@@HomeGaragechannel also, I had a hard time trying to tune those trimmers. I’d have them running just fine and then the next day I’d have to adjust the carb again. I use a stihl fs56 rc straight shaft trimmer and have never had to adjust it

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@colesteffens5402 thanks for the heads up. I''ll have to watch for this one to do the same thing.

[@baddad5781]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Bad Dad I appreciate it., I'm still growing my methods when filming and I'm sure it will continue to change as the years go by.

[@brandonbell5357]

You prefer a curve shaft that's what she said

[@hunter1953]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I know right. I just figured I got extremely lucky. Thank you hunter1953

[@scottsteinforth6883]

@@HomeGaragechannel I had my neighbor put a Home Lite trimmer on the curb & It need a new fuel line which was an easy fix & asked him if he wanted it back...Now I'm replacing a Carb on a Stihl 55 RC, so I watched your video and I think the diaphragm in the carb has expired-dried up ? As you showed. Thanks again !!

[@scottsteinforth6883]

Stihl distributor said that Carb on the FS 55 RC "Carb" is Obsolete, and it's been replaced with BG 86 or 4140 120 0619 Part #

[@alexandercosta1777]

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 .

[@HomeGaragechannel]

actually I use the same mower, blower and trimmer every time I mow my yard. A honda mower with a plastic deck, a Kawasaki hand held blower, and a weedeater brand curved shaft featherlite

[@bigshotcj1966]

Redmax is the go to for trimmers and blowers, industrial strength equipment trusted by professional landscapers everywhere.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@bigshotcj1966 do you use a redmax?

[@bigshotcj1966]

@@HomeGaragechannel professional landscaper of 12 years, I use redmax whip, blower and edger, have had the same whip for 8 years with only a carb kit and plug changed

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@bigshotcj1966 wow that's a really good machine

[@ericpigg2689]

It happens more than you think. I picked up a FS 70 straight shaft trimmer and a BG 86c blower from the same house this week. Both ran fine on new fuel.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

wow nice finds!

[@ericjohnson3332]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice work. Thanks or the information

[@woodenpints]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Good for you switching over to battery. Actually it was a rather modest neighborhood bordering a graveyard, I'm not going to guess what kind of money they were making but I don't they would be considered anywhere near rich.

[@cody_janssen831]

Battery equipment is nice if your doing a well maintained yard but other then that I’d rather have gas

[@2KCamaroZ28SS]

Looks a lot like the one stolen out of my garage

[@n3wmgmt118]

But now it's happy with his new owner :)

[@DougHinVA]

so what ?

[@charlessmith833]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks you for the heads up

[@kevinstenger4334]

I’ve always heard what fantastic chainsaws Stihl makes so about 10 years ago I replaced my blower and trimmer with Stihl professional models. I have hated both of them! I recently bought a Milwaukee 18V trimmer and love it. I’ll soon be selling my FS90R trimmer and the brush blade for it. I’ll keep the blower only because I like the vacuum setup for doing fall leaves.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Kevin Stenger for sharing your experience.

[@timfee8020]

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?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Unfortunately I do not have a video on just Adjusting a carb as they are unique. I think 1.5 turns from bottom is a good starting point tho.

[@Blue-bf8lv]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I know right

[@Hear-MeoutTwo2]

@BlueNuke 2::: I don't believe they are really throwing the item away, they are giving up control of it. Many people know pickers are going to come throw the neighborhood and pick up the item. Many times owners have seen me picking up items and come out to guide me to other items that I might want.

[@HighTimes42071]

Laziness

[@RalphHightower]

I use E0 gas (with engine oil added of course). After use, I pour what's left in the tank back to the carrier and run it until it runs out of gas. Starts on the second or third pull season to season.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

fantastic work! thank you Ralph Hightower.

[@geoffthemusical]

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!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Excellent work!

[@jaluna06]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

you're right about that. Thank you Rebel3s Garage.

[@Tota1Everything]

Yeah and good chainsaws too

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@Tota1Everything absolutely

[@covertdestroyer]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Thanks Tyler McLamb

[@covertdestroyer]

@@HomeGaragechannel no problem. I just have quite a few people come in and their stihl product is just flooded. I ask them to show me how they start it and they always squeeze the throttle. One time you do squeeze the throttle to start it is when it is flooded😂😂 throw it on no choke and squeeze the throttle and pull and until it starts.

[@Mike_5]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I appreciate that

[@Mike_5]

@@HomeGaragechannel Your welcome Buddy it really is good!

[@jamespettway1771]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

good luck and please update us.

[@DaddyBeanDaddyBean]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Oh yes, that was pretty neat looking.

[@nigeljoiner]

Who tosses a stihl?

[@HomeGaragechannel]

beats me.

[@CodySmithhi]

Not me

[@patrickboyd6486]

Hi from Australia I have pickup three Stihl two FS38 and one FS45 two had blocked spark arrester and one carby trouble all work fine. The things people throw out.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I know right!

[@shawndubay4050]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice work Shawn Dubay

[@shawndubay4050]

@@HomeGaragechannel thank you. If you still have this trimmer it is worth the work to get the parts and convert it over to a straight shaft machine. It has a caged gorilla for an engine and will go through just about everything.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I do have a parts trimmer, I might have to consider doing the conversion on this one too. thank you Shawn Dubay

[@shawndubay4050]

@@HomeGaragechannel your welcome.

[@kiltedwolf2]

@@HomeGaragechannel Have you thought about going to a shop and seeing if you could purchase a straight shaft from a disabled or tossed aside trimmer. These shafts are interchangeable.

[@moosey2011]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

that's a good idea.

[@cayrick]

If you own a weed wacker you become an expert mechanic quickly or you do what the previous owner of that machine did out of frustration.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@cayrick I believe that

[@ChrisWilson-rx3yp]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Chris Wilson

[@straightto8]

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.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

no problem and thank you for your time fjcaron

[@SamWolfandCo.fossickandfind]

Interestingly enough I have exactly the same model I found in a dumpster without the pull start line and no bump line feeder which I bought and replaced from the local STIHL dealership that was 2 years ago but initially after replacing these parts it did have an issue not starting which is probably why the cord was missing on further research I learnt the fuel mix had to be exact as this would cause it to not start or just fire up and die. This particular model was current 2 -3 years ago and almost new when I pulled it out of the dumpster since then I've used several times and no dramas as long as the fuel mix is right and it is primed correctly it runs like a dream. The new price here in Australia is around $245 - $260's give take. And they don't start if the fuel mix isn't manufacturers specification and there also a carby issue which can be sorted with a new carby. All knowledge comes at the cost of experience. I got a cheap almost new Line trimmer for the cost of the pull start line and a new bump line feeder BARGAIN!!👍👍👍😎💨🏴‍☠☮☮☺☺👌

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Tim Arnott for the information

[@NOAH_HINMAN]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Noah Hinman

[@lawnmowergod3693]

Good

[@amyswisher5468]

DESERVES TO BE IN TRASH PERIOD

[@cayrick]

I couldn't get lucky in a whorehouse with a fist full of 50's. Congrats to you.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@cayrick thanks man

[@IvanOchoa461]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I don't know their reasoning but they obviously didn't want to deal with it anymore

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@TeflonBilly you are absolutely correct about that

[@DUBMANS]

Its the cost to repair. Some people are not mechanically smart. They take it to a small engine shop. Pay a diagnostic fee 35 or 40 dollars where I worked. Then get a call on what needs to be done then say fix it or not. I've seen somebody bring in something similar and went through the repair. Paid for it and the price they paid could of bought a new one.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@DUBMANS yes you are right about the costs, unbelievable sometimes.

[@Eleanor8965]

Until two days ago this was my mentality. I have never messed with carb'd motors and so fixing them is typically not worth my time.... until i figured out how easy it is. Now i have an old weedeater outside that im going to try to revive just as an experiment.

[@anthonyxuereb792]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thanks Anthony Xuereb

[@glennrosa234]

Great vidieo learned a bunch of studf especially liked the "arrester screen clean" i know alot of times that screen was really cloged & your comment " you cant get full throttle" is key! Thanx Bro keep on Doin what you do ✌

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@Squarehead45]

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.

[@DexBunny]

@@thatguy6214 bad day?

[@mattd8411]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I hear ya

[@bindayirwin1523]

Took my Sthil trimmer and the 2stroke fuel to the garden centre, plonked it on the counter and told the guy he could have it. (felt good) Walked out with a Honda trimmer..Starts first time..Everytime..Clean it like jewelery after each use, still looks brand new after 5 years.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

Nice! did you treat the stihl the same way?

[@bindayirwin1523]

@@HomeGaragechannel yeah, it looked spotless , but it just wouldn't start !!!! I also have a Masport President 600 lawn mower that is my pride and joy, and over 12 years old, runs like a Rolex.

[@stomp0442]

I've fixed my stihl a few times. The first time the fuel line dry rotted and needed a new one, the second repair a new carburetor was needed, not bad because the new carburetor cost about $20. Easy peasy.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Chad H.

[@JohnUk65]

🤣🤣🤣🤣 looks brand new!!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

That's what I thought too.

[@lurkerrekrul]

In this area, we have bulk trash pickup twice a year, where the city will haul away almost anything you put on the curb. Probably 80-90% of it IS trash, but people throw out an amazing amount of perfectly good stuff. Last pickup, I brought home two perfectly fine 40" Samsung LED TVs as well as a bike and other assorted stuff. I've seen shrinkwrapped DVDs, a portable DVD player in the box with all the accessories, computers, furniture, tools, etc. My lawn mower came from the trash, and if I needed a new one, we saw at least 7-8 this last time. My friend took a couple of them and they started right away. Last year I grabbed a small electric chainsaw, which came in handy because I had a huge limb land in my yard from the neighbor's tree. This year, we found two more, although the chains were hanging off and my friend took them, but hasn't gotten around to fixing them up and testing them.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

it's amazing what people will push to the curb. thanks lurkerrekrul

[@lurkerrekrul]

@@HomeGaragechannel We see some gas powered trimmers each year, but they're often missing something. I know nothing about fixing or maintaining them, so my friend takes them and gives them to his brother. I don't have a lot to trim, so I'm happy with my electric ones (also from the trash). The things we see the most of are those two-wheeled seed/fertilizer spreaders and hose reels/caddies. Oh and inkjet printers, tons of printers. We've also found battery operated tools, sometimes with the battery and charger, corded tools (I got a couple nice drills), hand tools. Also, plenty of vacuums that usually work fine once you unclog the hose. Shopvacs, tarps, bundles of shingles, plastic shelves, leaf blowers, appliances, etc. It's like a city-wide flea market where everything's free. :)

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@lurkerrekrul I love trash days cause it's nothing but a free for all of fixable stuff

[@SteamCrane]

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!

[@HomeGaragechannel]

no problem SteamCrane

[@patmason7276]

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

[@HomeGaragechannel]

You've got a great trimmer.

[@djratino]

My Stihl hedge clipper had the same carburetor. Mine would run about 5 minutes and keep cutting off. I put a kit in mine, and have no problems since. My throttle would stick on mine when it was new. I used some rubbing compound in the butterfly and worked it. Flushed it out and tried it again. That cured that problem. Still would cut off if the machine was sideways. Changed out to a fiber tailed fuel filter. That cured my problem. Still runs today.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice thanks for sharing your experience

[@johnclyne6350]

I had a Stihl consumer grade string trimmer with a straight shaft. I bought brand new from a local dealer. I had it for 8 years. It worked flawlessly for 5 years & then it started having starting issues? I had the carburetor rebuilt three years in a row. Every time I had it rebuilt it ran great for the season & next spring the same problem would reappear? I told a coworker I was going to use it as a tomato stake in my garden. He took it off my hands for $35. He found that it ran rich & whenever I primed the carburetor it would flood the carburetor. I didn’t know that? I learned my lesson. Consumer grade equipment is garbage. I buy everything commercial grade after that. When any piece of Stihl equipment gets to ten years it needs to be rebuilt. I.E. carburetors replaced & miscellaneous hardware replaced. I currently own a 110 Stihl Combi tool.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

nice kombi, that's interesting that it start to go bad all of a sudden.

[@johnclyne6350]

Ethanol fuel can do that

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@johnclyne6350 you're absolutely right.

[@dennisnarayan4914]

Awesome! You fixed a stihl trimmer which was thrown away just with a few minor checks! Here in Fiji 🇫🇯 that se thing costs about $499 fjd plus just a carburetor costs around $150.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

thank you Dennis Narayan

[@dennisnarayan4914]

You're welcome sir. I have an FS 38... replaced its carburetor (Chinese one) works fairly well.. but boggs down due to excess fuel in the cylinder and exhaust... carb H &L adjuster doesn't do much difference 😏

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@dennisnarayan4914 that's interesting, even if you turn them closed all the way?

[@dennisnarayan4914]

@@HomeGaragechannel yes.. it switches off the engine... I guess investing in a genuine spare part is better

[@HomeGaragechannel]

@@dennisnarayan4914 possibly as it seems like you got a bad one.

[@rickvance8964]

I have one of these... it goes through phases where it won't start. I have been at the point of putting it out by the curb a couple of times. When it starts it's great, just doesn't always want to start. Looking into a battery powered one.

[@HomeGaragechannel]

I feel your pain. Thank you Rick Vance.