Description
The STIHL KM 56 RC-E Petrol KombiEngine is the versatile power unit at the centre of the STIHL KombiSystem. Instead of storing and maintaining a separate engine for every garden tool, you can connect compatible KombiTool attachments to one petrol engine and change between jobs quickly.
It is particularly well suited to homeowners and keen gardeners who want to trim grass, edge lawns, maintain hedges, prune branches, clear leaves or sweep outdoor areas using one compact power unit.
Best for: medium-sized gardens, seasonal maintenance and users who want dependable petrol power with easier starting. For more frequent or professional work, compare the STIHL KM 94 RC-E and STIHL KM 131 R. For quieter cordless operation, consider the STIHL KMA 80 R cordless KombiMotor.
Why choose the STIHL KM 56 RC-E?
Easy starting with STIHL ErgoStart
STIHL ErgoStart reduces the speed and force needed when pulling the starter cord. A smooth, controlled pull is normally sufficient, making the KM 56 RC-E easier to start than a conventional petrol tool.
A manual fuel pump helps move fuel into the carburettor before starting, reducing the number of starting strokes required after the machine has been stored.
Efficient STIHL 2-MIX petrol engine
The 27.2 cc STIHL 2-MIX engine produces 0.8 kW of power and is designed to use fuel efficiently while meeting current emissions requirements. It uses a 1:50 petrol and two-stroke oil mixture or suitable ready-mixed fuel such as STIHL MotoMix.
Change KombiTools quickly
The quick-release coupling allows compatible STIHL KombiTools to be connected and removed without using separate tools. This makes it practical to move from grass trimming to hedge cutting, pruning or clearing leaves during the same working session.
Compact storage and transport
The detachable shaft separates at the coupling, allowing the power unit and attachment to be stored more compactly. It is also easier to transport than several complete petrol-powered machines.
Controlled handling in confined areas
The loop handle provides good manoeuvrability around borders, trees, paths and other obstacles. Its barrier bar helps maintain separation between the operator and compatible cutting attachments.
Compatible jobs and STIHL KombiTool attachments
The KM 56 RC-E can power a wide range of compatible STIHL KombiTools. Attachments are sold separately, allowing you to build a system around the jobs you actually need to complete.
- Grass trimming: use the STIHL FS-KM strimmer attachment or compatible STIHL FSB-KM bent-shaft strimmer attachment.
- Long-reach hedge cutting: use the STIHL HL-KM 145° hedge trimmer attachment.
- Tree and branch pruning: use the STIHL HT-KM pole pruner attachment.
- Leaf and debris clearance: use the STIHL BG-KM blower attachment.
- Controlled weed and grass removal: consider the STIHL RG-KM rotary cutting attachment.
Browse the complete STIHL KombiSystem range for additional edging, sweeping, cultivating, cutting and cleaning attachments.
Attachment compatibility can vary according to the KombiEngine, handle arrangement and individual KombiTool. Check the relevant attachment page before ordering or contact Masseys for compatibility advice.
Who is the STIHL KM 56 RC-E best for?
The KM 56 RC-E is a strong choice when you:
- Have a domestic or medium-sized garden.
- Want one petrol engine for several garden-maintenance jobs.
- Prefer petrol power but want an easier starting system.
- Need a tool that separates for storage or transport.
- Expect to use the machine regularly during the gardening season.
- Want access to STIHL dealer advice, servicing and warranty support.
For daily professional landscaping or prolonged heavy-duty work, the higher-powered KM 94 RC-E or KM 131 R may be more appropriate. For lower noise, no fuel mixing and reduced routine engine maintenance, consider a cordless STIHL KombiMotor.
Technical specifications
| Manufacturer | STIHL |
|---|---|
| Model | KM 56 RC-E |
| Product type | Petrol KombiEngine power unit |
| Engine | STIHL 2-MIX two-stroke petrol engine |
| Displacement | 27.2 cm³ |
| Power output | 0.80 kW |
| Engine power | 1.10 hp |
| Weight | 4.2 kg without fuel or attachment |
| CO₂ value | 853 g/kWh |
| Starting system | STIHL ErgoStart with manual fuel pump |
| Handle | Loop handle with barrier bar |
| Attachment system | Tool-free quick-release coupling |
| Fuel | 1:50 petrol and two-stroke oil mixture or suitable premixed fuel |
| Manufacturer part number | 4144 200 0016 |
| Attachments included | No – KombiTools are sold separately |
What is included?
- STIHL KM 56 RC-E petrol KombiEngine power unit
- Loop handle and barrier bar
- Shoulder harness
- Product documentation
No cutting, trimming, pruning, sweeping or blowing attachment is included unless specifically stated as part of a promotional bundle.
Compare STIHL KombiSystem power units
| Model | Power source | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|
| KM 56 RC-E | Petrol | Domestic gardens and regular seasonal maintenance |
| KM 94 RC-E | Petrol | More frequent use, larger gardens and property maintenance |
| KM 131 R | Petrol | Demanding professional and landscaping work |
| KMA 80 R | 36 V cordless | Domestic users wanting quieter, battery-powered operation |
Read the Masseys STIHL KombiSystem buying guide for additional help choosing an engine and attachments.
Frequently asked questions
Does the STIHL KM 56 RC-E include an attachment?
No. The KM 56 RC-E is the petrol power unit. Strimmer, hedge trimmer, pole pruner, blower and other KombiTool attachments are purchased separately.
Is the KM 56 RC-E suitable for home use?
Yes. It is designed primarily for domestic garden and property maintenance and is especially suitable for homeowners who want one engine for several different garden jobs.
How much does the STIHL KM 56 RC-E weigh?
It weighs 4.2 kg without fuel or a KombiTool attachment. The total operating weight will depend on the attachment fitted and the amount of fuel in the machine.
What fuel does the KM 56 RC-E use?
Its STIHL 2-MIX engine uses a 1:50 mixture of petrol and suitable two-stroke engine oil. Ready-mixed STIHL MotoMix can also be used.
Which attachments fit the KM 56 RC-E?
It accepts a wide range of compatible STIHL KombiTools, including selected strimmer, brushcutter, hedge trimmer, pole pruner, blower, edger and cleaning attachments. Check the individual attachment listing because compatibility can vary.
What is the difference between the KM 56 RC-E and KM 94 RC-E?
The KM 56 RC-E is primarily intended for domestic garden maintenance. The KM 94 RC-E is designed for more regular work and users who need additional control and performance across a wider range of demanding tasks.
What warranty is available?
The product normally includes a two-year domestic STIHL warranty when purchased through an approved dealer. STIHL may allow the domestic warranty to be extended to three years when the machine and five litres of STIHL MotoMix are purchased together and registered in accordance with the promotion’s terms.
Why buy from Masseys?
Masseys is a STIHL Approved Dealer based in Swadlincote, Derbyshire. Our team can help you choose the correct KombiEngine and compatible attachments and provide ongoing workshop and warranty support.
- Advice from an established STIHL dealer
- Compatibility guidance before purchase
- Collection from our Swadlincote store
- UK delivery options where available
- Workshop, servicing and warranty support
Need help building the right KombiSystem? Contact Masseys and tell us which garden jobs you need to complete.
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