Ever wondered what the difference is between using a two-stroke machine and a four-stroke machine? There are many misconceptions about what the differences actually are and what type is best for you.
Two-stroke engines require the fuel and oil (for lubrication) to be mixed together. This means that there will be no oil inlet on the machine and only one type of fuel is needed. In general, 2-stroke engines tend to be lighter, louder and less expensive.
Four-stroke engines don’t need to have their fuel and oil mixed together, therefore you don’t need to be concerned with adding the correct fuel to oil ratio. Four-stroke engines are generally more expensive, more complex, and more powerful.
Mixing your 2-stroke machine
One of the many misconceptions of two-stroke machines is that it is different engines that require different ratios of oil and petrol. This is incorrect. The ratios depend on the quality of oil that you have chosen to use.
It is recommended to use high quality petrol and oil to extend the running life of the engine.
If you use unsuitable fuels or mix ratios which do not comply with the specifications suggested then this can cause serious damage to the engine.
Here at Just Lawnmowers we recommend using Stihl 2-stroke oil because it’s of excellent quality and comes at a ratio of 50:1 (20ml of oil per 1 litre of fuel). If you purchase a 2-stroke mixing bottle the ratios are clearly set up on the bottle to avoid any unfortunate mistakes of mixing the wrong ratios.
We also recommend getting your petrol from a reputable petrol station to ensure it’s of the highest quality. Petrol from supermarket stations often comes with added additives which weaken the quality.
If you are using a different brand of two-stroke oil, the standard ratio mix is usually 25:1 (40ml of oil per 1 litre of fuel). However it is important that you check this on the back of the oil to make sure that you know and understand the correct ratio to use.
Petrol has a limited shelf life of as little as 30 days so make sure to always use fresh, regular unleaded fuel. You can invest in a fuel stabiliser and add this to your fuel as soon as you purchase it to extend the shelf life up to 12 months. Once it is added to your fuel you can make your two-stroke mix as normal.
After you have poured the designated amounts of petrol and oil into the mixing bottle, shake well before use. Take extra caution when opening the cap as pressure may have built up inside the bottle.
Looking After Your Two-Stroke Machine
If you have a 2-stroke machine, the most important thing to remember is to not leave old fuel inside. The fuel can start to deteriorate in just 6-8 weeks. If old fuel is left within the tank, then it will eventually evaporate and leave behind a varnish residue which will then need thoroughly cleaning before you can add a new oil/fuel mix.
With machines such as hedge trimmers and strimmers which don’t get used all year round, it is best to completely drain them of any fluid before you store the machine.
It is also very important to grease your machines. The gear head on a strimmer will definitely need greasing as it spins at roughly 10,000 RPM, which will eventually wear down the metal unless it is fully lubricated and looked after.
The gearbox on a hedge trimmer is particularly important, as moisture and sap from the leaves will store itself in their causing rust problems in the future. After cutting, use Stihl Superclean Spray which has protein in it to get rid of any left over sap residue and also help towards greasing the machine.
If you’re uncertain about anything, or would like further details, then call our highly experienced sales team now on 01263 820202 for helpful, friendly advice.
Very useful little article for me, as I’ve never had a two-stroke engine before. Thanks!