2-stroke or 4-stroke engine? - Tips on the right lawnmower oil
Modern lawnmower models usually have a 4-stroke engine. This is where the gasoline is burned, while the oil remains in the engine to lubricate various components. Lawn mowers with a 2-stroke engine are rarely found. With these Types gasoline and oil burn together, with the engine oil being added to the gasoline via a separate tank. With 2-stroke engines it is sometimes necessary to fill the engine oil directly into the petrol tank.
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The decision on the right engine oil therefore depends on which engine drives your lawnmower. You can refill any commercially available 2-stroke oil in a 2-stroke engine. For 4-stroke lawnmowers, you should ideally use special lawnmower oil with the classification SAE 30.
Topping up the oil in the lawnmower - this is how it works
Check the oil level when the engine is cold for the most accurate reading. Since fresh oil does not have to be refilled each time you mow the lawn, determine the actual requirement in advance. Too little engine oil is just as disadvantageous for your petrol mower as too high an oil level. How to do it right:
- Look for the sealing cap for the oil filling on the crankcase
- Pull out the dipstick and wipe it with a cloth
- Reinsert the dipstick and pull it out to read the oil level
- Using a funnel, top up with fresh oil to just below the maximum mark
Various lawnmower models do not have an integrated oil dipstick. In this case, turn the cap on and take a look inside the tank. A fill-up line shows you how much engine oil to add. It is important to note that the oil level is never below the minimum mark or above the maximum mark.
If you have a 2-stroke lawnmower with a single tank for the gasoline-oil mixture, the operating instructions will provide more detailed information on the correct mixing ratio. There are separate fuel pumps available at gas stations with the option of adjusting the mixture, filling up in a gasoline can and filling it into the lawnmower at home.
Tips
Often the gardener is worried about the question how often an oil change on the lawnmower is required. As a rule of thumb, it has proven itself in practice to change the oil at intervals of 25 operating hours. If you drive in a new lawnmower, the first oil change is already on the program after 5 hours of operation.
