If you drive a car or ride a motorcycle, you know the importance of fuel types and ratios to the engine. So, why should your gardening equipment be any different?
Like any engine, your mower and whipper snipper power house needs taking care of, and that includes knowing how to mix the right ratios of 2-stroke fuel.
The petrol-powered engine of your mower (or any other petrol-powered gardening tool) requires a mixture of petrol and engine oil. According to STIHL, the quality of petrol and oil is extremely important to the performance and the life of the engine in your tool. We can definitely tell you that unsuitable fuels or mix ratios that do not comply can seriously damage the engine, as we have seen on more than one occasion here at the Sunshine Coast Mowers workshop in Mooloolaba.
To mix the right formula for your petrol-powered gardening tool, you’ll need 2-Stroke oil, an empty and clean fuel can and fresh unleaded fuel.
We recommend the following mix ratios:
for STIHL 1 : 50 two-stroke engine oil:
1 : 50 => 1 part oil + 50 parts petrol
For other high-quality two-stroke engine oil with the TC classification:
1 : 25 => 1 part oil + 25 parts petrol
It’s important to remember that petrol has a shelf life as low as 30 days, so always mix with fresh regular unleaded purchased that day, or within the week or purchase.
Here is a step by step breakdown on how to properly mix two stroke fuel for your gardening equipment.
Step 1: Determine the proper mixing ratio for your unit.
This ratio indicates how much fresh, regular unleaded gasoline (containing no more than 10% ethanol) to mix with how much oil.
Your equipment may vary, so always check your manual for the correct ratio and detailed instructions.
Step 2: Mix fuel in the gas can.
Never in the fuel tank.
Step 3: Pour the mixed fuel into the tank.
You’re all set. Use the same fuel mix ratio and repeat the process next time you need to fuel up.
For further advice, seek out one of our trained professionals at Sunshine Coast Mowers in Mooloolaba or Calounrda on the Sunshine Coast.