09/03/2026
🔧 TIP OF THE DAY: 2-STROKE FUEL MIXING ⛽️
If your 2-stroke engine requires mixed gas (40:1, 50:1, etc.):
ALWAYS USE THE RATIO SPECIFIED IN THE OWNER’S MANUAL.
• 50:1 in a machine that calls for 40:1 = less oil than specified. This can reduce lubrication and increase the risk of overheating and piston/cylinder scoring.
• 40:1 in a machine that calls for 50:1 = more oil than specified. It can cause increased smoke, spark-plug fouling and carbon deposits, and may affect how the engine runs.
MIXING CHART — 1 U.S. GALLON ⛽️
• 50:1 → 2.6 oz 2-cycle oil
• 40:1 → 3.2 oz 2-cycle oil
Use quality 2-cycle oil and fresh fuel. Ethanol-free fuel is a good choice when available. Remember — mixed fuel doesn’t last forever.
📸 Pictured: Piston and cylinder from a 2-stroke engine that called for 40:1. The damage is consistent with severe overheating/scoring. Insufficient lubrication can be one cause, but piston damage can also result from lean running, overheating, dirt ingestion, fuel problems, or other engine issues.
🔧 Bottom line: Don’t guess at your fuel ratio. Check the owner’s manual and mix it correctly.
