STIHL KM 131 R Petrol KombiEngine

Description

Is the STIHL KM 131 R right for your work?

The STIHL KM 131 R Petrol KombiEngine is a professional multi-tool power unit designed for demanding landscaping, grounds maintenance, estate management and property-care work.

Its 36.3cm³ STIHL 4-MIX engine produces 1.4kW / 1.9hp, providing the power needed to operate a broad range of compatible KombiTools for trimming, brushcutting, hedge maintenance, pruning, blowing, edging, sweeping and soil cultivation.

The KM 131 R sits at the high-performance end of the petrol STIHL KombiSystem engine and attachment range. It is most appropriate for professional contractors, grounds teams, estate owners and demanding users who expect to use heavier attachments or work for prolonged periods.

• Best suited to: professional landscaping, grounds maintenance, estate work and intensive property care
• Engine: 36.3cm³ STIHL 4-MIX
• Power output: 1.4kW / 1.9hp
• Weight: approximately 4.4kg without fuel or KombiTool
• Handle: loop handle with barrier bar
• Attachment system: quick-release STIHL KombiSystem coupling
• Manufacturer part number: 41802000588

Important: This listing is for the KM 131 R engine or power unit. A cutting, pruning, blowing, sweeping or cultivating attachment is not included and must be selected separately.

Masseys recommendation: Choose the KM 131 R when maximum petrol performance and the ability to operate demanding KombiTools are priorities. For lighter and less intensive work, compare the STIHL KM 94 RC-E. For quieter professional work in schools, housing estates and other noise-sensitive locations, consider the STIHL KMA 120 R cordless KombiMotor.

New to the system? Read our STIHL KombiSystem buying guide before choosing an engine and attachments.

What is included?

• 1 × STIHL KM 131 R petrol KombiEngine power unit
• Loop handle with barrier bar
• Quick-release KombiTool coupling
• Multifunction control handle
• Product documentation

No KombiTool working attachment is included unless one is specifically identified as part of a separate promotional package.

You will also need:

• A compatible STIHL KombiTool attachment
• STIHL MotoMix or a correct 50:1 petrol and two-stroke engine-oil mixture
• The personal protective equipment required for the selected attachment

What jobs can the KM 131 R perform?

The KM 131 R forms the petrol power unit at the centre of a professional multi-tool system. Select an approved KombiTool according to the work you need to complete.

Grass trimming and lawn maintenance

Fit the STIHL FS-KM grass-trimmer attachment for mowing grass, trimming lawn edges and working around trees, fences, walls and other obstacles.

Long grass and heavier growth

The STIHL MB-KM brushcutter attachment uses a metal grass-cutting blade and is better suited to long, tough grass and rougher growth where a line head is not the preferred cutting attachment.

Tall hedge maintenance

Use the STIHL HL-KM adjustable long-reach hedge trimmer to maintain tall hedges, wide hedge tops and low-growing shrubs. Its adjustable cutting head allows the working angle to be matched to the hedge.

Overhead branch pruning

The STIHL HT-KM pole-pruner attachment converts the KombiEngine into a high-reach pruning saw for appropriate branches in orchards, gardens and managed grounds.

Leaf and debris clearing

Fit the STIHL BG-KM blower attachment to clear leaves, grass clippings, loose litter and light debris from paths, yards, driveways and landscaped areas.

Lawn and path edging

The STIHL FCS-KM lawn-edger attachment creates defined edges beside paths, driveways, borders and landscaped beds.

Soil cultivation

The STIHL BF-KM cultivator attachment is designed for loosening previously worked soil, aerating beds and incorporating compost or soil improver into planting areas.

Sweeping outdoor surfaces

Fit the STIHL KB-KM bristle brush for sweeping dirt, leaves, litter and stubborn debris from paths, patios, driveways and yard surfaces.

Low-spin weed removal

The STIHL RG-KM rotary cutting head is designed for controlled removal of weeds and grass from gravel, asphalt, paved areas, kerbs and similar surfaces.

Compatibility can vary between attachments, power-unit generations and optional accessories. Check the individual KombiTool listing or contact Masseys before ordering if you are matching the KM 131 R to an older attachment.

Key features of the STIHL KM 131 R

36.3cm³ STIHL 4-MIX engine

The KM 131 R is powered by a 36.3cm³ STIHL 4-MIX engine producing 1.4kW / 1.9hp.

The 4-MIX design uses a four-stroke combustion cycle but runs on a 50:1 petrol and two-stroke oil mixture. It does not use straight petrol and does not have a separate engine-oil sump like a conventional four-stroke lawn-mower engine.

STIHL MotoMix ready-mixed fuel can also be used, avoiding the need to mix petrol and oil manually.

Automatic decompression

The automatic decompression system reduces compression pressure during starting. This lowers the pulling force required on the starter cord compared with an engine without decompression assistance.

Manual fuel pump

The manual fuel pump helps draw fuel into the carburettor before starting. It is particularly useful after the machine has been stored or when the fuel system has emptied.

Long-life air filter

The easily accessible long-life air filter is designed to increase servicing intervals under suitable operating conditions. Regular inspection and cleaning remain necessary, particularly during dusty mowing, cultivating or sweeping work.

STIHL anti-vibration system

Buffer and spring elements reduce the transmission of engine vibration to the handle area. This supports more comfortable handling during extended professional work.

Loop handle with barrier bar

The loop handle provides manoeuvrability when working around trees, posts, fences, borders and other obstacles. The barrier bar helps maintain separation between the operator and a fitted blade or mowing head.

Single-handed multifunction control handle

The main controls are grouped on the handle, allowing the operator to control the engine without repeatedly changing hand position.

Spring-return stop button

After the engine has been switched off, the stop control returns automatically to its operating position. This means the engine is ready for the normal starting sequence when work resumes.

Quick-release KombiTool coupling

The coupling allows approved KombiTools to be fitted and removed without specialist tools. This makes it practical to move between trimming, hedge cutting, pruning, blowing, edging and cleaning work using the same engine.

Split-shaft design

Removing the KombiTool reduces the stored length of the equipment, making the power unit and attachments easier to organise and transport than several complete petrol machines.

STIHL KM 131 R technical specifications

Specifications checked against current STIHL GB information in July 2026. Total operating weight depends on the attachment fitted, the amount of fuel in the machine and any harness or accessory used.

STIHL KM 94 RC-E or KM 131 R?

Choose the KM 94 RC-E when:

• Lower weight is a priority
• You want STIHL ErgoStart
• You want ECOSPEED part-throttle control
• Your work is regular but not consistently high-load
• You do not require the additional output of the KM 131 R

Choose the KM 131 R when:

• You need the higher 1.4kW output
• You regularly use demanding attachments
• The machine will be used for professional landscaping or grounds maintenance
• Long, heavy working sessions are expected
• Maximum petrol capability is more important than minimum engine weight

View the STIHL KM 94 RC-E petrol KombiEngine for the lighter alternative.

Petrol or cordless KombiEngine?

Choose the KM 131 R petrol KombiEngine when:

• You need high petrol output for demanding attachments
• You work for long periods away from charging facilities
• Rapid refuelling is more practical than charging batteries
• You already operate professional petrol KombiTools
• Noise restrictions are not the principal consideration

Consider a cordless KombiMotor when:

• You work near homes, schools, hospitals or offices
• Lower noise is important
• You want push-button starting
• You prefer no exhaust fumes during operation
• You already own compatible STIHL professional batteries

The STIHL KMA 120 R professional cordless KombiMotor is the closest Masseys alternative for users who want professional capability without a petrol engine.

Fuel requirements

The KM 131 R must not be filled with straight petrol.

Use either:

• Fresh suitable petrol mixed with approved two-stroke engine oil at the correct 50:1 ratio
• Ready-mixed STIHL MotoMix fuel

Although the 4-MIX engine follows a four-stroke combustion cycle, lubrication is supplied through the premixed fuel. There is no separate engine-oil reservoir to fill.

Do not use old, contaminated or incorrectly mixed fuel. Incorrect fuel can cause poor running, excessive deposits or serious engine damage.

Useful KombiSystem accessories

A STIHL KombiSystem carry bag helps protect and organise a loop-handle engine and frequently used attachment during transport.

For work with the HL-KM hedge trimmer or HT-KM pole pruner, a suitable harness can improve support during prolonged use. View the STIHL RTS Super Harness.

The STIHL carbon shaft extension provides additional reach for specifically approved hedge-trimmer and pole-pruner applications. It must not be fitted to attachments for which it is not approved.

Masseys expert verdict

The KM 131 R is the petrol KombiEngine to choose when workload and attachment performance matter more than selecting the lightest or least expensive engine.

Its 1.4kW output gives it a clear performance advantage over the KM 56 RC-E and KM 94 RC-E. This is most useful with attachments that place the engine under sustained load, including brushcutting, cultivation, sweeping and professional clearing work.

That additional output is unnecessary for every customer. A homeowner carrying out occasional grass trimming and hedge maintenance may find a KM 56 RC-E, KM 94 RC-E or KMA 80 R easier to justify.

For contractors, grounds teams and estate users who want one petrol power unit capable of performing several demanding jobs, the KM 131 R is the strongest conventional petrol option in the Masseys KombiSystem range.

Why buy the STIHL KM 131 R from Masseys?

Masseys is an authorised STIHL dealer based in Woodville, Swadlincote. Our machinery team can help you build a complete KombiSystem package rather than purchasing an unsuitable or incompatible combination.

• Genuine STIHL KM 131 R power unit
• Machine assembly and pre-delivery inspection where appropriate
• Advice on compatible KombiTool attachments
• Help comparing petrol and cordless KombiEngines
• Fuel, accessories and protective equipment available
• Local showroom at 129 Swadlincote Road, Woodville, Swadlincote, DE11 8DA
• Access to our garden machinery servicing and repair department

Browse the complete STIHL machinery range available from Masseys.

Frequently asked questions

Does the STIHL KM 131 R include an attachment?

No. The KM 131 R is the petrol engine or power unit. A compatible KombiTool for trimming, hedge cutting, pruning, blowing, edging, sweeping or cultivating must be purchased separately.

What fuel does the KM 131 R use?

Use STIHL MotoMix or a fresh 50:1 mixture of suitable petrol and approved two-stroke engine oil. Never use straight petrol.

Is the STIHL KM 131 R a four-stroke engine?

The STIHL 4-MIX engine follows a four-stroke combustion cycle, but it is lubricated by a 50:1 petrol and oil fuel mixture. It does not have a separate oil sump like a conventional four-stroke lawn-mower engine.

How powerful is the STIHL KM 131 R?

Its 36.3cm³ engine produces 1.40kW, equivalent to approximately 1.90hp.

How much does the KM 131 R weigh?

The power unit weighs approximately 4.4kg without fuel or a KombiTool attachment. The complete working weight depends on the attachment and amount of fuel fitted.

What does the R mean on the KM 131 R?

The KM 131 R uses a loop-handle configuration with a barrier bar. This arrangement provides manoeuvrability around trees, fences, borders and other obstacles.

Which attachments fit the KM 131 R?

The KM 131 R accepts a broad range of compatible STIHL KombiTools, including selected strimmer, brushcutter, hedge-trimmer, pole-pruner, blower, edger, cultivator, brush and rotary cutting attachments. Check the specific KombiTool listing before ordering.

Can the KM 131 R be separated for storage?

Yes. The working attachment is removed at the quick-release coupling, making the power unit and KombiTools easier to transport and store separately.

What is the difference between the KM 94 RC-E and KM 131 R?

The KM 94 RC-E is lighter and has STIHL ErgoStart and ECOSPEED. The KM 131 R has a larger 36.3cm³ 4-MIX engine and substantially higher 1.4kW output for more demanding professional work.

Should I choose the KM 131 R or KMA 120 R?

Choose the KM 131 R when petrol refuelling, high output and operation away from charging facilities are priorities. Choose the KMA 120 R for professional cordless operation, lower noise and work in noise-sensitive locations.

Can domestic customers extend the warranty?

Eligible domestic customers may be able to extend the standard domestic warranty from two to three years when purchasing five litres of STIHL MotoMix with the machine and completing registration under STIHL’s current promotion. Commercial and professional warranty terms differ, so confirm the applicable cover with Masseys before purchase.

Safe use

Read the KM 131 R instruction manual and the separate manual supplied with each KombiTool before use.

• Confirm that the selected attachment is approved for the KM 131 R
• Switch off the engine before fitting, removing or inspecting an attachment
• Check that the coupling and clamping screw are secure
• Use the correct guard and cutting attachment for the work
• Wear the eye, hearing, footwear, clothing and other protection required for the fitted KombiTool
• Inspect the working area for stones, wire, cables, people, animals and other hazards
• Use an appropriate harness where recommended
• Allow the engine and exhaust components to cool before storage or refuelling
• Refuel away from ignition sources and never while the engine is running
• Never use straight petrol