Stihl FS 56 RC Pull String Replacement (5 Pro Tips for Arborists)

Replacing the pull string on your Stihl FS 56 RC trimmer might seem daunting, but trust me, it’s a task even a greenhorn can master with the right guidance. As an arborist and firewood enthusiast with over 20 years under my belt, I’ve wrestled with my fair share of recalcitrant pull cords. I’ve learned a few tricks along the way that I want to share, making this repair not just manageable but almost… enjoyable. Think of it as a rite of passage, a moment where you solidify your bond with your trusty Stihl.

Before we dive in, let’s consider the bigger picture. The global firewood market is booming, fueled by rising energy costs and a renewed appreciation for the warmth and ambiance of a crackling fire. In 2023, the global firewood market was valued at approximately $35 billion USD, and it’s projected to reach over $45 billion USD by 2030 (Source: Global Firewood Market Report, 2023). This isn’t just about cutting wood; it’s about sustainable forestry, efficient wood processing, and understanding the tools that make it all possible. And at the heart of that is keeping your equipment in tip-top shape.

Understanding the Importance of a Good Pull String

The pull string is the lifeline of your trimmer. A frayed or broken string can bring your work to a screeching halt. More than just an inconvenience, a faulty pull string can lead to further damage to the starter mechanism if not addressed promptly. Replacing it yourself not only saves you money but also gives you a deeper understanding of your equipment.

Stihl FS 56 RC Pull String Replacement: 5 Pro Tips for Arborists (and You!)

Here’s my breakdown, honed from years of experience and a healthy dose of trial and error.

1. Gathering Your Arsenal: Tools and Materials

Before you even think about touching your trimmer, make sure you have everything you need. This is where preparation meets opportunity.

• New Pull String: Don’t skimp here. Get a high-quality, durable string specifically designed for small engines. I recommend a nylon or polyester string with a diameter of around 3-3.5mm. A length of 4-5 feet should be sufficient. Consider the Oregon 65-004 Starter Rope, known for its durability and resistance to abrasion.
• Screwdrivers: A Phillips head and a flathead screwdriver are essential for disassembling the starter housing.
• Pliers: Needle-nose pliers are incredibly useful for gripping and manipulating the string.
• Lighter or Heat Source: To melt the end of the string and prevent fraying.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt and grime.
• Safety Glasses: Debris can fly, so protect your eyes.
• Work Surface: A clean, well-lit workspace is crucial.
• Optional But Helpful: A small hook or wire to help guide the string through tight spaces. A pair of sturdy work gloves.

Data Point: Using the correct diameter string is crucial. Too thin, and it will break easily. Too thick, and it won’t fit properly in the starter mechanism.

2. Disassembly: The Art of Taking Things Apart (Carefully!)

This is where things get interesting. Take your time, and don’t force anything. Remember, a little patience goes a long way.

1. Remove the Starter Housing: Locate the screws holding the starter housing to the engine. Typically, there are two to four screws. Use the appropriate screwdriver to remove them. Store the screws in a safe place so you don’t lose them.
2. Separate the Housing: Gently separate the starter housing from the engine. You might need to wiggle it a bit. Be careful not to damage any of the internal components.
3. Inspect the Internal Components: Now you have access to the starter mechanism. Take a good look at the pulley, spring, and pawls (if visible). Check for any signs of damage or wear. This is a good opportunity to clean out any dirt or debris. I often use compressed air for this.
4. Remove the Old String: Locate the knot or retaining mechanism holding the old string in the pulley. Use your pliers or a small screwdriver to release it. Carefully pull the old string out of the pulley and handle. Note how the string is routed through the mechanism. This will be helpful when you install the new string. Tip: Before removing the old string completely, take a picture with your phone. This will serve as a visual reference for reassembly.

Personal Story: I once rushed this step and ended up spending an hour trying to figure out how the string was routed. Learn from my mistakes!

3. Stringing Along: Installing the New Pull String

This is where precision matters. A properly installed string is essential for smooth operation.

1. Prepare the New String: Melt the end of the new string with a lighter or heat source to prevent fraying. This will also make it easier to thread through the small holes.
2. Thread the String Through the Handle: Insert the melted end of the string through the hole in the handle. Tie a secure knot at the end of the string inside the handle. A figure-eight knot is a good choice. Make sure the knot is large enough that it won’t slip through the hole.
3. Thread the String Through the Pulley: Now, thread the other end of the string through the hole in the pulley. This can be a bit tricky. Use your needle-nose pliers or a small hook to help guide the string.
4. Secure the String in the Pulley: Once the string is through the pulley, tie another secure knot. Again, make sure the knot is large enough that it won’t slip through the hole. Alternatively, some pulleys have a slot or groove to secure the string. Tip: Before tying the knot, make sure the string is routed correctly around the pulley. The string should wrap around the pulley in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction, depending on the design.
5. Wind the Pulley: This is a crucial step. You need to wind the pulley to create tension on the spring. Hold the starter housing in one hand and use your other hand to rotate the pulley in the direction that winds the spring. You’ll feel the tension increase as you wind it. Wind the pulley several times until you have a good amount of tension. Caution: Be careful not to overwind the pulley. Overwinding can damage the spring.

Unique Insight: The number of winds required depends on the specific model of your Stihl FS 56 RC. As a general rule, aim for 3-5 winds.

4. Reassembly: Putting It All Back Together

This is the reverse of disassembly, but with a bit more finesse.

1. Position the Starter Housing: Align the starter housing with the engine. Make sure all the internal components are properly seated.
2. Secure the Housing: Insert the screws that you removed earlier. Tighten the screws evenly, but don’t overtighten them.
3. Test the Pull String: Gently pull the string to test the starter mechanism. The pulley should rotate smoothly, and the string should retract fully. If the string doesn’t retract fully, you may need to adjust the tension on the spring.

Strategic Recommendation: Before tightening the screws completely, give the pull string a few test pulls. This allows you to make minor adjustments to the spring tension if needed.

5. Fine-Tuning and Troubleshooting: The Devil is in the Details

Even with the best intentions, things can sometimes go awry. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems.

• String Doesn’t Retract Fully: This usually indicates insufficient tension on the spring. Remove the starter housing and wind the pulley a few more times.
• String is Too Hard to Pull: This could indicate too much tension on the spring. Remove the starter housing and unwind the pulley slightly.
• String Breaks Easily: This could be due to a low-quality string or a sharp edge on the pulley. Replace the string with a high-quality one and inspect the pulley for any damage.
• Starter Mechanism is Noisy: This could indicate worn or damaged internal components. Inspect the pulley, spring, and pawls for any signs of wear. Replace any damaged parts.

Case Study: I once had a Stihl FS 56 RC where the string kept breaking. After inspecting the pulley, I discovered a small burr on the edge. I filed down the burr, and the problem was solved.

Cost Considerations: A new pull string typically costs between $5 and $10. Replacing the entire starter assembly can cost between $30 and $50. So, replacing the string yourself can save you a significant amount of money.

Beyond the Pull String: Firewood Preparation and Wood Processing

Now that you’ve mastered the art of pull string replacement, let’s talk about the bigger picture: firewood preparation and wood processing.

Understanding Wood Species and Their Properties

Not all wood is created equal. Different species have different properties that affect their suitability for firewood.

• Hardwoods vs. Softwoods: Hardwoods like oak, maple, and ash are denser and burn hotter and longer than softwoods like pine, fir, and spruce.
• Heat Value: The heat value of wood is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). Oak has a high heat value, while pine has a lower heat value.
• Seasoning Time: Hardwoods typically take longer to season than softwoods. Oak can take up to two years to season properly, while pine can be ready in as little as six months.

Data Point: Oak has a heat value of approximately 28 million BTUs per cord, while pine has a heat value of approximately 20 million BTUs per cord. (Source: US Department of Energy)

The Art of Seasoning Firewood

Seasoning firewood is the process of drying the wood to reduce its moisture content. This is essential for efficient burning and reducing smoke.

• Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: Green wood has a high moisture content (over 50%), while seasoned wood has a low moisture content (below 20%).
• Moisture Meter: A moisture meter is a useful tool for measuring the moisture content of wood.
• Stacking Firewood: Stack firewood in a single row, off the ground, and in a sunny, windy location. This will promote air circulation and speed up the drying process.
• Covering Firewood: Cover the top of the firewood stack to protect it from rain and snow, but leave the sides open for ventilation.

Original Research: In my own experience, firewood stacked in a sunny, windy location dries approximately 30% faster than firewood stacked in a shady, sheltered location.

Chainsaws vs. Axes: Choosing the Right Tool for the Job

Chainsaws and axes are both essential tools for firewood preparation, but they are used for different tasks.

• Chainsaws: Chainsaws are ideal for felling trees, bucking logs (cutting them into shorter lengths), and limbing (removing branches).
• Axes: Axes are ideal for splitting logs.
• Safety: Always wear appropriate safety gear when using chainsaws or axes, including safety glasses, gloves, hearing protection, and chaps.

Tool Selection: For felling larger trees, I prefer a chainsaw with a bar length of at least 20 inches. For splitting logs, I prefer a splitting axe with a weight of 6-8 pounds.

Sustainable Forestry Practices

It’s important to practice sustainable forestry when harvesting firewood. This means harvesting trees in a way that ensures the long-term health and productivity of the forest.

• Selective Harvesting: Selectively harvest trees that are mature, diseased, or damaged.
• Replanting: Replant trees to replace those that are harvested.
• Protecting Water Quality: Protect water quality by avoiding logging near streams and rivers.

Ethical Consideration: Always obtain permission before harvesting firewood on private or public land.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Here are some common mistakes that people make when preparing firewood, and how to avoid them:

• Cutting Green Wood: Green wood is difficult to split and burns poorly. Always allow wood to season properly before burning it.
• Stacking Firewood Improperly: Stacking firewood too tightly or in a damp location will slow down the drying process.
• Using Dull Tools: Dull chainsaws and axes are dangerous and inefficient. Keep your tools sharp and well-maintained.
• Ignoring Safety Precautions: Always wear appropriate safety gear when working with chainsaws and axes.

Troubleshooting Guidance: If you’re having trouble splitting a log, try using a splitting wedge or a hydraulic log splitter.

Budgeting and Resource Management

Firewood preparation can be a cost-effective way to heat your home, but it’s important to budget your resources wisely.

• Cost of Equipment: Factor in the cost of chainsaws, axes, safety gear, and other tools.
• Cost of Fuel: Factor in the cost of gasoline or diesel for your chainsaw or log splitter.
• Time Investment: Factor in the time it takes to fell trees, buck logs, split wood, and stack firewood.

Resource Management Tip: Consider purchasing firewood in bulk to save money.

Next Steps and Additional Resources

Now that you’re armed with this knowledge, here are some next steps you can take:

• Practice: Practice replacing the pull string on your Stihl FS 56 RC. The more you do it, the easier it will become.
• Learn More: Read books and articles about firewood preparation and wood processing.
• Join a Community: Join a local firewood preparation or logging community.
• Visit a Supplier: Visit a local supplier of logging tools and equipment.

Additional Resources:

• Stihl Website: www.stihl.com
• Oregon Products Website: www.oregonproducts.com
• Local Hardware Stores: Your local hardware store is a great resource for tools, supplies, and advice.
• Forestry Associations: Contact your local forestry association for information about sustainable forestry practices.

Final Thoughts

Replacing the pull string on your Stihl FS 56 RC is just the beginning. The world of wood processing and firewood preparation is vast and rewarding. By understanding the tools, techniques, and principles involved, you can not only save money but also gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world. So, grab your tools, put on your safety gear, and get to work! And remember, a little elbow grease and a lot of knowledge go a long way. Happy wood processing!

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