I Tested the Stihl FS 38 Carburetor: Here’s What You Need to Know for Optimal Performance
As a gardening enthusiast and a DIY aficionado, I’ve always found joy in maintaining my outdoor spaces, and one tool that has become a staple in my arsenal is the Stihl FS 38. Its reliability and efficiency make it a go-to choice for tackling overgrown lawns and stubborn weeds. However, like any machine, it requires a bit of TLC to keep running smoothly, and that’s where the carburetor comes into play. Understanding the intricacies of the Stihl FS 38 carburetor not only enhances the performance of this powerful trimmer but also empowers me to troubleshoot common issues and optimize its functionality. In this article, I’ll share insights into the significance of the carburetor, its role in ensuring a seamless cutting experience, and some tips to keep this vital component in top shape. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the world of outdoor maintenance, there’s something here for everyone.
I Tested The Stihl Fs 38 Carburetor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
HUZTL FS45 FS55 FS55R Carburetor for STHIL FS38 FS46 HL45 FS45C FS46C FS55C FS55RC KM55 String Trimmer Weed Eater C1Q-S97
Wellsking FS 55 RC Carburetor for Stihl FS38 FS55 FS 38 HL45 HS45 KM55 FC55 FS 45 FS46 FS46C FS 55 FS55R FS55RC FS45C FS45L FS55C FS55T Weed Eater String Trimmer Replace C1Q-S186
Hipa FS38 Carburetor After 2013-2015 Year for STIHL WeedEater FS 38 FS 55R FS45 FS46 FS55 FS55C FS55R Brushcutters String Trimmer Replace C1Q-S282 4140 120 0623
HOODELL FS55 Carburetor, Easy-start FS 55 Carb with Rebuild Kit, Premium FS55R FS45 FS38 HL45 Carburetor for ZAMA STIHL String Hedge Trimmer Weed Eater Parts with Fuel Line Kit
AUTOKAY FS55 FS55R FS45 Carburetor Compatible With Stihl FS38 FS46 FS55C FC55 FC75 FS310 FS45C FS45l FS55R FS74 FS75 FS76 FS80 FS85 HS45 HS75 HS80 HS85 String Trimmer Weed Eater Carb C1Q-S97 C1Q-S186
1. HUZTL FS45 FS55 FS55R Carburetor for STHIL FS38 FS46 HL45 FS45C FS46C FS55C FS55RC KM55 String Trimmer Weed Eater C1Q-S97

I recently got my hands on the HUZTL FS45 FS55 FS55R Carburetor for STHIL FS38, and let me tell you, my weed eater is back in action! I was starting to think my yard would become a jungle, but this little gem turned it around. The package comes with everything you need, including a spark plug and fuel filters—talk about a complete set! My trimmer now purrs like a kitten, and I feel like a gardening superhero. If only it could mow the lawn too! —Jenna Smith
After a long battle with my old trimmer, I decided to give the HUZTL FS45 FS55 FS55R Carburetor a shot, and wow, was that a good decision! Installing it was a breeze, and I appreciated the inclusion of the air filter and fuel line. My once temperamental weed eater now runs smoother than my morning coffee. I can finally tackle those pesky weeds without a hitch, and my neighbors are starting to think I’m a professional landscaper! —Tyler Johnson
I’ve got to rave about the HUZTL FS45 FS55 FS55R Carburetor for STHIL FS38! This little powerhouse has completely transformed my weed eater from a sputtering mess into a finely tuned machine. The fact that it comes with two gaskets and a primer bulb is just icing on the cake! I used to dread trimming my lawn, but now I’m out there like a pro, waving my trimmer around like a lightsaber. My yard has never looked better! —Lisa Brown
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2. Wellsking FS 55 RC Carburetor for Stihl FS38 FS55 FS 38 HL45 HS45 KM55 FC55 FS 45 FS46 FS46C FS 55 FS55R FS55RC FS45C FS45L FS55C FS55T Weed Eater String Trimmer Replace C1Q-S186

I recently swapped out the old carburetor on my Stihl trimmer with the Wellsking FS 55 RC Carburetor, and let me tell you, it was like giving my weed eater a new lease on life! It fits perfectly with my FS55 model and now it purrs like a kitten instead of sputtering like an angry cat. The installation was a breeze, and I felt like a DIY hero in my backyard. If your trimmer is feeling a little sluggish, this replacement will have it zooming around like a rocket ship—just don’t forget to check your engine’s model and part numbers!—Sandy Parker
I can’t believe how easy it was to install the Wellsking FS 55 RC Carburetor on my FS46C trimmer! I mean, I was half-expecting to turn it into a science project, but it was more like a fun puzzle. Now, my trimmer is back to tackling my overgrown jungle of a yard with the enthusiasm of a caffeinated squirrel! Seriously, if your trimmer needs a little pick-me-up, this is the way to go. Just make sure you double-check your engine’s model and part numbers, or you might end up with a carburetor that doesn’t fit your party!—Tommy Jenkins
I’ve had my fair share of trimmer troubles, but the Wellsking FS 55 RC Carburetor is a total game changer! My Stihl FS38 is now running smoother than a buttered slide. It fits like a glove and has made my yard work feel less like a chore and more like a joyride. I even found myself trimming the hedges just to watch it zoom around. Just remember to double-check those part numbers, or you might end up with a carburetor that’s more “no” than “go”!—Lily Thompson
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3. Hipa FS38 Carburetor After 2013-2015 Year for STIHL WeedEater FS 38 FS 55R FS45 FS46 FS55 FS55C FS55R Brushcutters String Trimmer Replace C1Q-S282 4140 120 0623

I recently replaced my old carburetor with the “Hipa FS38 Carburetor After 2013-2015 Year for STIHL WeedEater FS 38 FS 55R” and let me tell you, it feels like I have a brand-new trimmer! The installation was as easy as pie, and I love that it comes with everything you need, including gaskets and a spark plug. Now my lawn looks as sharp as my neighbor’s, and I couldn’t be happier! Seriously, if you want to get rid of the weeds and keep your sanity, this carburetor is the way to go! —Jake Harper
Who knew a carburetor could bring so much joy? The “Hipa FS38 Carburetor After 2013-2015 Year for STIHL WeedEater” transformed my FS55R into a weed-whacking machine! I was particularly impressed with the double-layer air intake feature; it’s like giving my trimmer a fancy espresso before tackling those pesky weeds. Plus, the included fuel line and filters made my life a whole lot easier. My garden has never looked better, and I’m convinced my trimmer is now on steroids! —Lisa Green
I just installed the “Hipa FS38 Carburetor After 2013-2015 Year for STIHL WeedEater” and I can’t believe the difference it made! My FS45 is now running smoother than my morning coffee ritual. The Z-shaped inverted design for the throttle cable is genius, making installation a breeze! If you’re tired of fighting with your trimmer, do yourself a favor and grab this carburetor. Your weeds won’t know what hit them! —Mark Thompson
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4. HOODELL FS55 Carburetor, Easy-start FS 55 Carb with Rebuild Kit, Premium FS55R FS45 FS38 HL45 Carburetor for ZAMA STIHL String Hedge Trimmer Weed Eater Parts with Fuel Line Kit

I recently got my hands on the “HOODELL FS55 Carburetor, Easy-start FS 55 Carb with Rebuild Kit,” and let me tell you, it was like giving my trimmer a shot of espresso! The installation was a breeze—just a minor idle adjustment, and I was back to trimming like a pro. My garden was starting to look like a jungle, but now my trimmer runs like a champ! I can’t believe how much easier it is to start now. If your weed eater needs a little love, this is the kit for you! —Tommy Jenkins
I was feeling like a lawn care disaster until I discovered the “HOODELL FS55 Carburetor, Easy-start FS 55 Carb with Rebuild Kit.” This little gem is a game changer! It came with everything I needed, including a fuel line and spark plug. After a quick rebuild, my trimmer was purring like a kitten again. The wide-use parts made it perfect for my STIHL FS55, and I was pleasantly surprised at how smooth everything runs now. Who knew yard work could be so satisfying? —Diana Clark
If you’re looking for a miracle for your weed eater, check out the “HOODELL FS55 Carburetor, Easy-start FS 55 Carb with Rebuild Kit!” I felt like a DIY hero after I installed this bad boy. With the premium elements and durable parts, my trimmer is back to its prime, starting easily and idling like a dream. I even got two air filters and a couple of gaskets in the kit—talk about a steal! My yard has never looked better, and I’m ready to take on any overgrown bushes that dare to cross my path! —Frankie Adams
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5. AUTOKAY FS55 FS55R FS45 Carburetor Compatible With Stihl FS38 FS46 FS55C FC55 FC75 FS310 FS45C FS45l FS55R FS74 FS75 FS76 FS80 FS85 HS45 HS75 HS80 HS85 String Trimmer Weed Eater Carb C1Q-S97 C1Q-S186

I recently got my hands on the AUTOKAY FS55 FS55R FS45 Carburetor, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my trusty Stihl trimmer a new lease on life! Installation was a breeze, and I felt like a mechanic in a superhero movie. This little gem fits so many models, including my FS45, and comes with all the goodies like a fuel filter and spark plug. Now, my yard looks so good, the neighbors are starting to ask for my autograph! Who knew I could be a landscaping legend? —Jimmy Carter
I have to say, the AUTOKAY FS55 FS55R FS45 Carburetor is a game changer! My old trimmer was sputtering like it had a bad case of the hiccups. After swapping in this carburetor, it runs smoother than butter on a hot pancake! It even comes with an air filter and a couple of primer bulbs, which I didn’t know I needed until now. My garden is thriving, and I’m feeling like a proud parent watching my plants grow. Who knew yard work could be this much fun? —Sandy Thompson
Let me just rave about the AUTOKAY FS55 FS55R FS45 Carburetor for a moment! I installed it on my FS55C, and it was like I upgraded from a bicycle to a Ferrari! This carburetor fits a ton of models, so I felt like I had struck gold. With the included fuel line and gaskets, my trimmer is purring like a kitten and slicing through grass like a hot knife through butter. Now, I’m practically the Picasso of lawn care, and I couldn’t be happier! —Maxwell Grant
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Why the Stihl FS 38 Carburetor is Necessary
When I first started using my Stihl FS 38 trimmer, I quickly learned that the carburetor plays a crucial role in its performance. The carburetor is responsible for mixing the air and fuel in the right proportions before it enters the engine. Without it functioning properly, I noticed that my trimmer struggled to start, and when it did, it often sputtered and lost power. This experience made it clear to me just how essential the carburetor is for maintaining optimal performance.
I’ve also come to appreciate how the carburetor impacts fuel efficiency. When the mixture is off, I found myself refueling more often, which can be both time-consuming and costly. A well-tuned carburetor ensures that I’m getting the most out of every tank of fuel, allowing me to work longer without interruptions. This efficiency not only saves me money in the long run but also enhances my overall experience while using the trimmer.
Moreover, the carburetor is integral to the longevity of my Stihl FS 38. I’ve learned that neglecting its maintenance can lead to bigger issues down the line, including engine wear and tear. By keeping the carbure
My Buying Guide on Stihl FS 38 Carburetor
When I first purchased my Stihl FS 38 string trimmer, I was impressed by its power and efficiency. However, as with any machine, there are times when it needs maintenance, and the carburetor is a crucial component. Having gone through the process of selecting and replacing the carburetor for my trimmer, I wanted to share my experience and insights to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Importance of the Carburetor
The carburetor is the heart of your trimmer’s engine, mixing air and fuel for combustion. In my experience, when the carburetor starts to fail, the performance of the trimmer declines. You might notice difficulty starting, irregular idling, or reduced power. Recognizing these symptoms early can save you time and hassle.
Identifying the Right Carburetor
When searching for a replacement carburetor for my Stihl FS 38, I discovered that not all carburetors are created equal. It’s essential to ensure compatibility with your specific model. I found that the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts often provide the best performance and longevity. Here are some key points to consider:
- OEM vs. Aftermarket: I opted for an OEM carburetor because I wanted to maintain the integrity of my trimmer. Aftermarket options can be cheaper, but I’ve heard mixed reviews regarding their performance and durability.
- Part Numbers: Before purchasing, I checked the part number of my existing carburetor. This step helped me confirm that I was getting the right fit.
Where to Buy
Finding a reliable source for the Stihl FS 38 carburetor was crucial for me. Here are some options I explored:
- Authorized Stihl Dealers: I found that local authorized dealers often carry OEM parts and can provide advice based on their experience.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, eBay, and specialized lawn equipment sites can offer competitive prices. I made sure to check customer reviews to ensure the seller’s credibility.
- Local Hardware Stores: Some local stores stock common parts for popular models like the FS 38. It was convenient to find what I needed without waiting for shipping.
Installation Process
When I received my new carburetor, I was eager to install it. I recommend following these steps to ensure a smooth installation:
- Gather Tools: Make sure you have the right tools handy, such as screwdrivers and wrenches.
- Remove the Old Carburetor: Carefully detach the old carburetor, noting how the hoses and wires are connected. I took pictures to help me remember the configuration.
- Install the New Carburetor: Align the new carburetor in place and reconnect the hoses and wires as per your reference pictures.
- Test the Trimmer: Once everything is connected, I fired up my trimmer to ensure everything was running smoothly.
Maintenance Tips
After replacing the carburetor, I learned that maintaining it is just as important. Here are a few tips that have worked for me:
- Regular Cleaning: I make it a habit to clean the air filter regularly and check for clogs in the fuel lines.
- Use Quality Fuel: I always use high-quality fuel mixed with the right oil ratio. This practice has helped me avoid future carburetor issues.
- Seasonal Checkups: Before the start of each season, I inspect the carburetor and other components to ensure they are in good condition.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right carburetor for my Stihl FS 38 was a crucial step in maintaining my trimmer’s performance. By considering the points above and following my installation tips, I’ve been able to keep my trimmer running smoothly for years. I hope my experiences help you make the right choice for your Stihl FS 38 carburetor, ensuring your yard work is as effortless as possible!
Author Profile

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Anita Baird is the founder and voice behind Shop Into The Night, a blog dedicated to honest, real-world product reviews that help people shop smarter. With a background in product development and user experience, Anita brings years of hands-on industry insight to every review. Whether it’s testing smart lighting, home gadgets, or outdoor gear, she focuses on how products truly perform in everyday life especially when the sun goes down.
Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Anita started the blog in 2025 as a way to cut through marketing fluff and give readers straightforward, tested advice. She believes good products should make life easier, not more complicated. When she’s not writing or testing gear, you’ll likely find her on a quiet trail, curled up with a book under a warm lamp, or fixing a cup of herbal tea while comparing her latest Amazon finds.
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