STIHL FS 55 Trimmer head Wont come off

[begolf00]

I've tried blocking the output shaft with the stop pin but the trimmer head just wont come off. I don't think the pin is going in all the way either.

I watched a video on you tube and the guys pin goes in and when he turns it clockwise, the pin pops in a bit more thus blocking the shaft.

That is not happening for me and I've tried for quite awhile to get it off but no luck so far.

Any thoughts. Any help would be appreciated, as its my dads and he would probably just blame me and say that I broke it haha.

[Darryl G]

Not familiar with the FS55 but usually you have to put the blocking pin in while turning the head slowly until it lines up with the hole and then push it in the rest of the way. If it weren't working the head would just spin around freely...if it is in the head would stop turning until you apply enough force to loosen it. Are you sure you're turning it the right way...usually on a stright shaft trimmer it's a reverse thread...lefty tighty, righty loosey, so yeah clockwise should loosen it.

[begolf00]

Well the head does spin around freely. So the pin is not in all the way. I guess thats my problem. The problem is I've not been able to get the pin in that inner hole.

When I put the trimmer head on I think I put it on too tight. As it wont spin freely unless I take my hand and turn it. Hence why I need to take it off. I could take a really short video of it and maybe that would help.

[Darryl G]

Sometimes some "crud" will get in that hole and obstruct it. Spin the head around slowly and it will usually drop in...it's just a matter of getting them lined up.

Also, usually there's a colloar that spins around also...you might be able to grip that with a pair of Channel Lock or Vice Grip pliers...just don't mash or distort it. I don't think you can really put a head on too tight though. Maybe someone who has your particular model will chime in?

[begolf00]

Thanks for the help, I'll def take a some pictures or a video tonight and post it.

I have tried cleaning the hole but no luck yet.

[The Lawn Ranger CT.]

I came across that problem a few yrs back, use the tappered end of a chain-saw file (if you have one). The tappered end should work its way past the crud, spin the head around until you feel it work in.

[knox gsl]

I would just use the file like stated above. All Stihl heads come off the same way. If that doesn't work remove the gear box and hold the pinion gear and remove that way.

[begolf00]

I'll give the suggestions a whirl and report back tomorrow.

Thanks for everyone's help.