Stihl weed trimmer starter cord won't retract

here is a link. You can look on line by typing: parts list for a fs/38 stihl weed trimmer into browser. Took about 5 seconds to find answer.

https://www.diyspareparts.com/parts/stihl/diagrams/fs38-z-2-mix/

here's a nice vid on the FS55 which may help a little: How to Replace Starter Rope in Stihl FS 55 Trimmer Hunker

Here's another vid of a gas powered weed wacker.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdtbsjb9saQ

Best wishes.. I hope this is at least a little helpful.

:-)

Go to you tube. On top line repair starter rope on --------

http://www.stihlusa.com/WebContent/CMSFileLibrary/instructionmanuals/FS-45-46-Weed-Trimmer-Instruction-Manual.pdf

STIHL FS 45 Google Search

Stihl FS 45 Trimmer Parts

http://www.stihlusa.com/WebContent/CMSFileLibrary/instructionmanuals/FS-45-46-Weed-Trimmer-Instruction-Manual.pdf

https://www.google.com/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&rlz=1C1GGGE_enUS385US385&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=stihl+model+fs+46+parts+diagram

Danny by the pull cord on the back are two wings that come out when you pull the starter. They are on springs and fly out to grab the wheel. Spray these with lube oil and then let them rest for 10 mins then try.

With the plug removed the starter should pull very easily. When trying start did the cutter head try to spin? If yes clutch springs may need replacement

One of 2 things come 2 mind, if the spring is still in tact it could be that the retract line might be slightly to long and forces the spring to over travel and lock up against itself. A simple test would be to pull the pull start to only 80%. If at 80% it retracts normally then shorten the pull string by a few centimeters . alternatively the spring may be over tensioned by a turn or two. to release pull the string out with the pull starter off the machine to about halfway, hold down the recoil to release the tension off the string and pull the string out towards you through the slot provided on the face of the recoil into a loop. Gently let the recoil slip one full turn at a time until there is just enough tension to pull the handle all the way back. if its too loose just revers the process one turn at a time. its not complicated, to do but can be tricky,
if DIY is not your thing, refer to someone better qualified,

If you String Trimmer wont crank, take out the plug and then try to pull the cord. If you can get the motor to spin freely after the plug is out, then you have one of two issue. Either deposit on the cylinder which is allowing to much compression to build up, Simple fix (buy some Seafoam from your local auto parts store. Remove the exaust and pour some seafoam into the cylinder. Let it sit over night and then clean with 2 cycle fuel, either blow out with an air compressor or let it air dry. Then put the plug, and exhaust back together and that should help. If that doesnt work then you need to see if your carb is leaking into the cylinder, causing hydo-lock, your only option is to rebuild the carb, or buy a new carb.)

Could be several things including a broken return spring. If you are not experienced with these springs please take it to a reputable shop to avoid any personal injury.