Fixing A Stihl FS81 Trimmer That Starts But Won't Stay Running.

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Thanks for watching. This trimmer was given to me, but it's because it was used a dog chew toy. The problem is that it starts, but it won't stay running.

This video is meant as entertainment, always practice safety.

[mrpearl]

I usually try to save the original . There is something about saving old equipment that is so satisfying. Of course I'd keep this one but that's me 🙂

[apatterson]

I would try to save the original carb. After all, it IS a Stihl! Not many mention the stiffness of the flaps, just make sure they are flush. Thanks for the tip. That trimmer is in rough shape, but it will get the job done! Have a great day!

[billylawerance]

Great video! So glad you used it I wanted to see it in action. I always try to keep everything original if I can.

[willhisle]

im a new subscriber and i just finally wanna say thank you for all of your helpful videos its made me want to get into small engine work and its been going great for something not very hard its a great profit flipping these small engines

[aegan]

The spark screens on these old ones are super fine mesh. About twice as fine as modern Stihl equipment. Very restrictive even when they’re not clogged. Better for the machine to remove it entirely. Retains less heat and offers a little more peak power. I have an fs86 which is the same family as your 81. Had to re do the piston rings and carb kit, now I’m waiting on a replacement gas tank. Not broken, but same as your gas cap, the O-ring is bad. Rather than replace that and have the tank crack soon since it’s very old I decided that replacement was the best option. If you plan to use yours for years to come, I’d reccomend getting a Stihl shoulder strap to save your arms while using it

[thenewman]

That right there is some old gold. Engine runs well. When you get another Stihl, you can replace the busted parts.

[AIainMConnachie]

Best videos of this kind on YouTube

Have a giveaway identical to that in good shape considering its age.
Great for clearing brush and saplings.

[frankaferdhadley]

I was given a fs 88 an I really like it it's a older trimmer but works real well

[butler]

Because the unit is an expensive one and over all it seems to be in good condition I would try to keep the carb original. I would do that with any expensive model regardless of brand. Beyond that if it is going to be just used as a trimmer I would use an aftermarket carb. to get it up and running. This is one of those trimmers that should be like a collectors model. Thanks for the video.

[johnclarke]

I put some tB 1184 on grommets to keep them from leaking. Clean tank area around the grommet and grommet with break cleaner, first. A thin coat is all that is needed. Allow to cure overnight before inserting the new fuel line. Anytime I replace a fuel line it gets a new fuel filter. If I take down a carb it gets a new oem rebuild kit - Walbro or Zama and not a cheap Chinese set.

[lewiemcneely]

I'd save the carb because we have a dealer about 1/2 mile away for kits but parts are outragos high. Another carb for the 440 is $145 plus and I still wouldn't be able to adjust the high speed like I'd like to so I just use what I have. I used the tri-cornered blade for grass and briers but a carbide saw blade for bigger stuff. And yes, it takes a while for those to get wound up but they sure do a fine job. I used a shoulder strap on mine because it gets really interesting trying to hold it up by the handlebars in a thicket. Thanks and Blessings!

[paulburns]

Hello Home garage yesterday is my birthday I will fix everything that you said in your video

[haneyoakie]

Excellent classic piece of equipment. Good save!

[hanlin]

Really enjoy watching your video. Thx for all the information.

[RussellBooth]

I would rekit the carburetor & what solution do you use to rejuvenate the gaskets ?

I have heard of people using brake fluid to rejuvenate them !

[Ethan_the_Railfan]

I like the blocky look to the engine housing. It looks classic

[robertmailhos]

Make sure to check out the brush blade for stress crack's that style of carb is the same as my br 400 sthil blower

[sluger]

have the same one and love everything about it

[adinko]

What is the rejuvinating solution for the diafrag.

[fourbyfourer]

I always save the original carb on everything I restore. I hate when people take the easy route and install a cheap chinese knock off and throw the OEM away. Great job on the repair. 👍👍