Yes Stihl made it difficult on this model AMP to get the primer bulb in, good that it's running now.
I've never had a shortage of snippers from tip shops for $5. or free at the side of the road so I've never had to buy a cutting head.
I think all the FS36 Trimmers I've had ,the oldest were from the nineties ,I did see an early one online that sounds like your one.
This is what is on my FS36 AutoCut 11‑2 (4004 710 2192) not sure if this fit's the earlier model without comparing one.
Officially listed for FS36: The FS36 owner’s manual and dealer listings show the AutoCut 11‑2 (4004 710 2192) as the correct mowing head for that model and similar-era units.
Right size and weight: It is a light, semi‑automatic dual‑line head designed for small trimmers, so it suits the FS36’s power and curved shaft without overloading it. It works best with 2.0–2.4 mm line.
When it’s “about the best” For normal lawn edges, grass, and light weeds, the AutoCut 11‑2 gives a clean cut, easy bump‑feed, and uses the standard guard/limiter blade on your FS36, which makes it the most balanced, low‑hassle option.
Only if you do mostly heavy, rough stuff where plastic blades are preferable would a PolyCut head be “better”; for general use, AutoCut 11‑2 is the sensible main head to run on your FS36.
The earlier model FS36 to mine could be a different cutter head as I did see another type it was the last image below.
It's usually best to use what Stihl recommends as it won't overload the trimmer.
