What kind of gas does a small engine take?
Small engines use regular unleaded gasoline, often with high-quality two-stroke engine oil added. Ethanol blends up to 10% (E10) are generally safe for small engines. However, ethanol can be corrosive over time, damaging parts. Non-ethanol gas helps equipment run efficiently. Higher octane fuels don’t benefit small engines. An 89 octane rating is best for small engines.
Is non-ethanol gas better for small engines?
It’s best to use ethanol-free gas in small engines. If you do decide to use ethanol, don’t use a fuel that is more than 10% ethanol (E10), and be sure to add fuel treatment to prevent the fuel from separating.
What kind of gasoline do you put in a lawn mower?
Most four-stroke engines use fresh unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher. Two-stroke lawnmowers use the same type of gasoline, but with the addition of high-quality two-stroke engine oil. Ethanol-free gas is the better option for numerous reasons, including the fact that it helps your equipment run more efficiently.
Do small engines require premium fuel?
It’s best to use ethanol-free gas in small engines. If you do decide to use ethanol, don’t use a fuel that is more than 10% ethanol (E10), and be sure to add fuel treatment to prevent the fuel from separating.
Can you mix gas and oil in a 4 cycle?
Two-stroke (two-cycle) engines require you to mix the oil with the gas in exact amounts so the oil acts as a lubricant for the crankcase, while four-stroke engines take oil and gas separately.
Fuel requirements for a small engine
- Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol (gasohol) or up to 15% MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) is acceptable.
- An 89 octane rating is all that is needed in most 2-cycle engines.
- If the manual recommends a higher octane, then use it; otherwise, it’s a waste of money.
Do not modify engines for alternative fuels
Mixing oil with gasoline or modifying your 4-Cycle small engine to run on alternative fuels will damage the engine and will not be covered under warranty.