Chain Saw Gas Oil Mix Ratio – Is 50: 1 For All. Chainsaw gas mixture
Chainsaw gas mixture
This article will give you some information about different fuel mixtures as well as why there are so many different ratios available. The STIHL MS 250 is a very powerful piece of machinery. If it is used and maintained properly, it will last you a long time.
STIHL ms 250 fuel mixture
The STIHL MS 250 fuel mixture is a 50:1 ratio of fuel to oil mix. For every 1 gallon of gasoline, you need 2.6 fluid ounces of two-cycle engine oil. STIHL recommends using a high quality 50:1 two-cycle engine oil or their own brand, which is specially formulated for their products. We recommend the STIHL brand because it’s designed to keep the engine from smoking and running too hot. It has anti-corrosive and anti-foaming properties that help to protect the internal components of your best STIHL chainsaw.
The fuel mixture for this powerful machine is 50:1 gas to oil. This means that for every 1 gallon of gas, you will need 2.6 fluid ounces of two cycle engine oil. This can be done by mixing 3.2 ounces of oil with 1 gallon of unleaded gasoline, or 2.5 ounces of oil to 1 quart of gasoline. You can also use a pre-mixed fuel and oil mixture if you are not comfortable mixing your own fuels.
The STIHL MS 250 is a great choice for homeowners who want to get the job done without breaking their budget. It has a great balance of power and weight, allowing it to tackle any number of tasks from clearing overgrown brush to felling small trees. Like many chainsaws on the market today, it also comes with a fuel tank that holds both gasoline and oil for easy mixing.
Our recommendation for your STIHL ms 250 mix is 50:1
We recommend you to use our recommended fuel mixture of 50:1 for your STIHL Ms 250. It is important to use a good quality 2 stroke oil as well as a good quality petrol. Most of the STIHL products come with a warranty, however it is important that you follow the instructions and use the appropriate fuel mixture to make sure you don’t void your warranty. If you are unsure of what to mix with your STIHL ms250 then you should go through the manual to find out what is the right ratio.
Choosing the right gas and oil mix
When it comes to mixing your STIHL MS250 gas and oil, you need to be careful to follow the 50:1 ratio for a best performance of your chainsaw. The best fuel mixture for a STIHL chainsaw is 50 parts 91 octane or higher gasoline and 2 parts high quality two stroke engine oil mixed together. If you want to know more about the different types of oils and fuels, keep reading. STIHL recommends use of its own brand of two stroke engine oil for its chainsaws.
Most gas stations only sell E10 fuels and that is why it is highly recommended that you store gasoline in an airtight container so that you can always have fresh fuel. If you’re using the STIHL MS 250 chainsaw, you should be aware of the ideal gas and oil mixture for its engine. The correct ratio is 50 parts gas to 1 part oil—in other words, for every gallon of gas, add 2.6 ounces of oil. You’ll need a clean, empty container to combine the fuel, as well as a funnel. Fill the container with half a gallon of clean gasoline. Then, using the funnel, add approximately 2.
How to mix the gas and oil
The correct fuel mixture for a STIHL MS 250 chainsaw is a 50-to-1 ratio of gasoline to two-cycle engine oil. The recommended brand of oil for this unit is STIHL HP Ultra, STIHL’s highest quality two-cycle engine oil available. The engine oil can be purchased in gallon containers marked with a “50” on the label. This indicates that the proper amount of oil for one gallon of gas has been mixed into the container. A gallon of this engine oil costs about 15 as of August 2015. STIHL recommends using regular 87 octane unleaded gasoline, and that the fuel be no more than 30 days old and not have ethanol added to it.
The saw will require just over a pint of fuel to completely fill up the tank. No special tools are required to mix the gasoline and oil together; simply pour both in at the same time, put on the cap and shake well before use. If you need additional information regarding how to mix gasoline and oil properly for your STIHL MS 250 chainsaw, contact your local STIHL dealer or search their website.
You’re gonna need to mix the oil and gas. Mixing the oil and gas for your STIHL chainsaw is an important part of keeping it running at peak efficiency. Whether you use this saw for chopping wood for home heating, clearing brush on your property, or cutting trees down for commercial purposes, it’s important that you keep the gas and oil mixture at the proper ratio so that the saw runs smoothly.
Luckily, mixing the gas and oil is easy; all you need is to know how much of each one to use. When mixing up fuel for a STIHL ms250 chainsaw, you want a 50:1 ratio of gasoline to 2-stroke engine oil. In other words, you’ll use 2.6 fluid ounces of engine oil per 1 gallon of gas. To be precise, that’s 1 part STIHL two-stroke engine oil (part number 0000 007 1062) with 50 parts mid-grade unleaded gasoline (89 octane). If you’re using a STIHL premixed fuel (part number 0000 350 0540), then all you have to do is pour it into the tank without mixing anything.
The STIHL MS 250 is a mid-range chainsaw that offers a step up in power from the homeowner models, but it is still designed for easy use. The MS 250 features a 2-stroke engine with the STIHL Quickstop inertia chain brake system to stop the chain automatically if the operator’s hand slips from the front handle. It is an excellent choice for cutting firewood, for felling small trees and for storm cleanup.
If you are using your STIHL MS 250 to cut firewood, you need to ensure that you have mixed the proper ratio of gasoline to oil before filling your fuel tank. If you are using regular, high octane gasoline, mix at 50:1 (20mls oil per 1 litre fuel). If you are using ethanol free fuel, mix at 40:1 (25mls oil per 1 litre fuel).
STIHL gas ratio
STIHL ms 250 fuel mixture: Our Recommendation for ideal mixture The STIHL ms 250 gas ratio chart is the most important tool you need to keep your chainsaw working efficiently. In this article we will go through the steps of filling up your chainsaw and using the right mix of gasoline and oil.
We will also go over a few important tips to make the most of your STIHL ms 250 fuel ratio. The first step in filling up your chainsaw is to mix the gasoline with oil to form a solution that can be used to lubricate and protect the engine from damage caused by dirt, dust, and other particles from entering into the bearings and gears.
When mixing the oil, it is best not to use any more than two ounces of oil per gallon of gasoline. If you are using a gasoline/oil mixture in your chainsaw, then you should use one ounce of oil per gallon of gasoline. For example if your saw has a 1:25 ratio – meaning that it uses one gallon of gasoline for every 25 gallons of fuel.
The 50:1 ratio includes 1 gallon of high quality 89 octane or higher unleaded gasoline to 2.6 fluid ounces of STIHL Premium two-cycle engine oil. It’s important to note that if you use lower quality fuels, like E10 (gasoline containing 10% ethanol) or “regular” 87 octane fuels, it is recommended by STIHL to use only their specially formulated JASO FD.
Conclusion
The fuel mixture has proven to be an excellent idea for some users and the noise issues should not be too much of a concern for the majority of users, if not all. With clear instructions on how to adjust the carburetor and a little know how in regards to working with small parts, any user can comfortably get this appliance up and running in no time at all.
Chain Saw Gas Oil Mix Ratio – Is 50:1 For All?
The chainsaw is one of the most used cutting tools in woodworking. So when you use it, you should know how much gas and oil should be mixed together. There are few mixing ratios that you can minimize fuel consumption and increase performance well. So let’s see in detail about chainsaw gas mix ratios with the correct proportion.
Most chainsaws need a 50:1 fuel/oil mix ratio (2.6oz oil per gallon) for the 2-stroke engines. Some chainsaws require a 40:1 fuel/gas ratio (3.2oz oil per gallon). In order to reduce the inside friction and heat, older chain saws use a 30:1 fuel oil ratio.
The gas mixing ratio depends on the type of chainsaw and cc. When you mix oil with gas, you should have fresh fuel (gas) which is not older than 06 weeks. So let’s see, how to mix the oil with fuel in chainsaws properly with its effect. So let’s keep reading on.
Chainsaw Gas Mix Ratio
What Is 50 To 1 Gas Mix Ratio?
When your chainsaw’s manufacturer recommends a 50:1, fuel-to-oil mix ratio, you need 50 parts of gasoline need to mix with one part of oil.
If you mix one liter of fuel at a 50:1 ratio, you have to add 20 milliliters of oil. It is easy to calculate the 50:1 fuel-to-oil ratio.
When you move to other gas mix ratios such as 40:1, 32:1 and 25:1, the below conversations will help.
- 1 gallon = 128 ounces, So 1 gallon needs 2.6 ounces of oil
- 1 liter = 1000 milliliters, So 1 liter needs 20 milliliters of oil
Gas to oil 50:1
Chainsaw Gas Mix Ratio Table
Chainsaw engines are 2-stroke engines. So we should use additional lubricants with fuel in order to control heat and friction inside. So mostly, the gas mix ratio for the chainsaws is 50:1. You can follow the below table when you mix oil with gas. Chainsaw fuels
When we mix oil with fuel, we can see, many types of oil in the market. So let’s see, how to choose the suitable oil which is highly compatible with the chainsaw engine.
- Simple mineral oil – Derives from fossil oils
- Synthetic oil – Mix mineral oils and additives such as detergent and stabilizers to burn better
- When you use gasoline, it should have a minimum of 89% of octane and no more than 10% ethanol content. If your octane rating is below 89% may increase the engine temperatures.
- When the ethanol content is more than 10% will cause running problems and major damage in the engine.
- If you use various ethanol content fuels, you should adjust the carburetor because it affects the engine speed.
- Shake well after you mix oil with fuel
Synthetic oil is really good for chainsaws. Because it produces lower deposits and emissions due to lower ash content, sometimes, mineral oils can contain non-lubricants and solvents and additives that allow easier gasoline mixture. But it causes a higher amount of emissions, and sometimes those can harm the environment. These best 2-stroke oils will run your engine smoothly.
Can You Use Only Gasoline In Chain Saw?
Do not use only gasoline in chainsaws
You can’t use only gasoline in chainsaws because the chainsaw engine is a 2-cycle engine. We called this is a 2-stroke engine. When only gasoline is combusting inside lot of heat is generated. And there will be high friction. Due to this, engine heat will go up and inside parts, rubbers, bushes, and rings can be melted easily due to heat.
So do not let destroy the engine without using only gasoline. By accident, if you fill the chainsaw in a gas station, don’t forget to mix the oil (2T).
Can you Fill Chainsaw Directly from Gas Stations?
Gasoline comes with ethanol. Ethanol is an alcohol, and it attracts water, so it pulls water into your fuel system, which is bad for your chainsaw’s engine.
Secondly, olefin chemicals can find in your regular station gas. That chemical produces a gummy kind of residue and varnish kind of stuff in your carburetor and damages your carburetor.
With my experience, I would like to recommend you to use ethanol and olefin-free gasoline, which is good for your chainsaw’s life.
What Happens If I Mix Too Much 2-Stroke Oil?
Proper Gas-to-Oil mixture color
How to Mix 2-Stroke Engine Oil 40:1 Ratio ( A Guide by Hyundai Power Products)
When you add too much oil to the fuel mixture for chainsaws, You can see smoky exhaust leaking out of the muffler and sometimes loss of power. So those problems can fix easily by replacing fuel in the tank.So always mix the fuel and oil according to the recommended ratio.
Additionally, when you add too much 2-stroke oil in your chainsaw, carbon, and oil will be deposited. So it clogs the whole system, and air can’t move in-out. So the engine will overheat rapidly.
And also, because of too much oil you will get a huge carbon build-up right on the piston and exhaust port, and it’s eventually going to break off, and it’s going to get stuck between the piston and cylinder, it is causing to piston and cylinder’s long run score up. So most suitable for using a manufacturer guide and use a suitable mixing ratio like 50:1, 40:1, or 32:1 as your manufacturer guide.
Tom Mackency
Hi, I am Tom Mackency. It has been 10 years that I have been working as a professional woodworker since 2013. I am really enjoying my carrier by creating many kinds of projects in my workshop. But mostly I like for home improvement projects. Home improvement and DIY projects are the most interesting things for me. than that, the coolest things are power tools. Those are very precious and efficient than a decade ago. So I try to introduce so many things about power tools, woodworking, DIY projects, home improvement and many more interesting topics here.
Do All Chainsaws Take Mixed Gas? A Comprehensive Guide 2023
You know that chainsaws need mixed gas, but “do all chainsaws take mixed gas” is what you are looking for. The answer may surprise you, but the fact is that not all chainsaws do need mixed gas. Only gas-operated chainsaws need mixed gas, while electric (corded and cordless) chainsaws don’t ask you for gas mixtures!
Most of the gas-powered chainsaws you operate are equipped with a 2-stroke engine which needs a mixture of fuel and oil to work efficiently. The gasoline with high octane number provides the needed power to run the gas chainsaw. Likewise, oil lubricates the crankshaft and piston to let the chainsaw run at optimum temperature.
In this blog post, I will clarify “do all chainsaws take mixed gas or not” and how you can mix fuel, oil, and many other things. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dig deeper and discover every fact you are eager to know!
Do All Chainsaws Take Mixed Gas?
Not all chainsaws take mixed gas; only gas-powered chainsaws need mixed gas as they run-on gas, while oil is needed for lubrication. On the other side, both corded and cordless chainsaws don’t need a gas mixture as they run on electricity and need only bar oil to lubricate the chain and bar.
“mixed gas” describes the mixture of gas and oil used in the chainsaws. You operate three types of chainsaws: the electric chainsaw, cordless or battery-powered chainsaw, and gas-powered chainsaw. So, as you have been asking, do all chainsaws take mixed gas? Not all of these chainsaws need mixed gas.
The gas-powered chainsaws need mixed gas as they run-on gas. The oil is used to lubricate the chain while the gas provides the needed to run the chainsaw. In comparison, electricity is the power source for electric and battery-operated chainsaws. Therefore, you don’t need to prepare a gas mixture for them; they don’t require gas.
But, let me tell you one thing here bar oil is required for lubricating the chain in every type of chainsaw, regardless of the fact which is the power source for that chainsaw. So, if you are confused about whether electric chainsaws need oil, check out my other article and get a clear picture!
How Does The Engine Type Affect The Type Of Fuel Mixture?
Now, let’s understand how the engine type affects the type of fuel mixture:
i. 2-Stroke Chainsaw
Many of us are familiar with 4-stroke engines and know they don’t require mixed gas. But chainsaws are pretty different from them. Most chainsaws have 2-stroke engines and don’t have a separate oil lubrication system. Therefore, you have to add oil manually to the gas.
Caution: In case you fail to lubricate the chainsaw, you keep your chainsaw at risk of irreparable damage.
ii. 4-Stroke Chainsaw
Most chainsaws have a 2-stroke engine, and only a few use a 4-stroke engine like STIHL 4-MIX. The chainsaw runs the same way as 4-stroke engines, but you have to prepare the mixed gas even using the 4-stroke engine. So whether you are operating a 4-stroke or 2-stroke chainsaw, you must prepare the mixed gas.
Which Is The Right Oil To Gas Ratio For My Chainsaw?
You may increase the number of years your chainsaw will last by properly mixing the fuel. Let me make one thing clear here the oil-to-fuel ratios vary greatly depending on the type of chainsaw you have been operating:
| Old Chainsaw Models | 31:1 |
| Modern Chainsaws | 40:1 |
| Other Chainsaws | 50:1 |
You must have been thinking, “What does that gas-oil mix ratio mean.” Well, the 40:1 ratio means you must add 3.2 ounces of oil for every gallon of gasoline. Likewise, the 50:1 gas mixture ratio means adding 2.6 ounces of oil.
The best action is to consult your user manual because manufacturers clearly explain the best fuel mixture ratio needed for your chainsaw model. You can also go for the premixed fuel ratios after buying, which there would be no need for any measurements. Though it will be expensive compared to mixing chainsaw gas and oil by yourself, this will be a better choice, especially if you are in a hurry.
You must add a few more drops of the lubricant than the needed amount. Your chainsaw would smoke, but it will also protect the chainsaw engine.
The Right Fuel And Oil Type
Remember that the gas mixture’s quality depends on the components’ quality. So, you can consider the chainsaw a bit picky in this regard. Let’s look at what you should know to keep your chainsaw operating while preparing the chainsaw gas mixture:
i. The Oil
When you use the right oil type, you ensure the chainsaw runs smoothly and cuts efficiently. Therefore, selecting the right type of 2-cycle motor oil is crucial. This oil type is specifically designed for the two-stroke engine. The oil is not as heavy as 2-cycle oils are. Also, the oil burns so efficiently.
ii. Ethanol Percentage
Today’s gas contains ethanol which can damage your chainsaw’s tiny engine. The E number is used to show the amount of ethanol present in the chainsaw fuel. E10 means there is 90% gas and 10% ethanol. E10, E15, and E85 are the most commonly used fuel types.
The chainsaw manufacturers will not tell you that only E10 is good for you. Even though; it is not the best choice for your tool. Only ethanol-free fuel is good for your chainsaw.
iii. Octane Rating
The chainsaws need fuel with an octane rating of 89 or higher. Using fuel with an octane rating higher than 91 is not suggested. But you must go for it if your chainsaw has been modified accordingly.
Although it is low cost, choosing a fuel of lower octane grade is not advised. The low-octane fuel can significantly reduce your chainsaw’s performance and damage the engine. The peak pressure inside the cylinder differed when using the low octane rating fuel, ultimately damaging the chainsaw’s engine.
Fuel Mixture: What Professionals Suggest?
If you need to know the correct oil-to-fuel ratio for your chainsaw, I recommend you check the user’s manual. Before that, let me tell you that a 50:1 fuel mix is the most commonly recommended ratio for the gas mixture. It means you must use 1 part of oil oz with 50 parts of the fuel or mix 2.5 oz of bar oil in a gallon of gasoline. A lean mixing ratio (40:1) is advised for engines larger than 75 CC. It is recommended to facilitate the lubrication of huge engine parts.
Let’s look over different fuel mixture ratios and discover which would be a better choice for your chainsaw:
The Higher Fuel Mixture Ratio
When you change the mixing ratio, it affects the performance of your chainsaw significantly. It happens so because it turns into a different setting. The higher mixing ratio means you are providing more fuel to your tool.
It would be a better option when you need to run the chainsaw engine at a higher speed. In these conditions, the mixing ratio can be 60:1 or 100:1. But never use these ratios for engines larger than 75cc.
Additionally, long-term use of a rich fuel can significantly affect the service life of various chainsaw components. Remember that high fuel will raise the chainsaw engine’s temperature.
The Lower Fuel Mixture Ratio
The lean mix gas ratio is for the lean settings and is suitable for older chainsaw engines. These cylindrical walls and pistons were not strong enough to withstand the higher temperature and speeds. Also, with a lean fuel mix, the engine gets enough fuel for the lubrication. But, the lean ratio (20:1) can significantly reduce the cutting power of chainsaws.
Now, suppose you are thinking about why this happens so. In that case, the buildup of the excess bar oil around the chainsaw spark plug electrodes affects the plug performance, eventually demolishing the chainsaw cutting efficiency. Therefore, experts always recommend taking care of your tool and maintaining it well; otherwise, it will not provide enough cutting power.
What Will Happen If I Don’t Mix The Gas With The Oil?
One thing that hasn’t changed is that they all need mixed gas, even though the chainsaws we use now are far more efficient than we used a few years ago. Now, you must think that gas will provide the needed power; what is the purpose of oil? So, let me make it clear to you:
- Bar oil is needed for the maintenance of the engine
- The oil lets the chainsaw engine operate at lower temperatures
- It is needed for the lubrication of the crankshaft and to ensure the maximum performance of your tool
- The bar oil protects the piston from sticking and keeps it running smoothly
It is worth mentioning that running on pure gas (without bar oil) severely damages your chainsaw. Below are the damages your chainsaw can encounter if you forget to lubricate it:
Failure Of The Piston And Engine
The metallic piston expands due to the high heat content produced due to the lack of lubrication. Consequently, the chainsaw engine starts getting damaged as the piston cannot move smoothly. Also, be aware that this entire process will not take much time, and your chainsaw will stall in a few seconds.
As a result of such incidents, the engine is destroyed and useless. Unfortunately, nothing can be done to repair the engine many times. When compared to the expense of repairing and replacing the damaged engine parts, buying a new chainsaw always sounds like a cheap option.
Chainsaw Engine Will Run At Highest Temperature
The high-speed piston inside the engine causes a lot of friction, and the same thing is applied to the crankshaft. As a result of these two activities, a huge amount of heat is created. The oil added to the fuel mixture lubricates the moving parts, which lowers the engine’s operating temperature.
Running your engine on unmixed gas is not advised, as it can destroy your chainsaw quickly. Always follow the maintenance instructions listed in the user manual.
Mixing The Chainsaw Gas: A Step By Step Guide
Mixing the fuel and oil seems to be a challenge for most of the newbies. If you have also been going through the same situation, worry not. Below is the step-by-step guide on “how to mix gas for chainsaw” follow the steps provided below:
Step 1: Selection Of The Right Chainsaw Oil Type
Before you start mixing the fuel and oil, it is necessary to ensure that you have selected the right type of oil for your chainsaw. There are two different types of oil (low smoke) and high performance (HP), both of which are artificial. Let’s have a look over these two to learn about them in detail:
i. High-Performance (HP) Chainsaw Bar Oil:
High-performance lubricants always burn cleanly and efficiently, even if you are using low-quality fuel. These lubricants are the best choice for small to medium-sized water-cooled engines.
ii. Low Smoke (LS) Chainsaw Bar Oil:
The low smoke (LS) oil lowers the smoke emission, improves the chainsaw components’ life span, and maintains the engine’s temperature. Choose any of the above-mention lubricants depending on your priority. If you want your chainsaw to show an efficient performance, you must go with high-performance oil, and if you are looking for an eco-friendly option, then low-smoke oil is the best choice for you.
The viscosity of the oil is another parameter that you cannot ignore. So, if you live in a warm environment, you must choose highly viscous bar oil (10W30 or 10W40). But, if you operate the chainsaw in chilly weather, choose thin oil (which has a low viscosity of 5W30). If you need to learn more about the bar oil’s viscosity, I have written another article about chainsaw bar oil’s weight oil; check it out.
Step 2: Selection Of The Fuel Type
Always choose high-quality gas, and don’t rely on cheap fuel with a low octane rating. Your ethanol-free fuel must have an octane rating of at least 89 and be lead-free. By this, you can lower the engine’s temperature and prevent internal component damage.
So, for now, you have selected the chainsaw bar oil and will choose the fuel for your tool. There are two different types of fuel you can choose from:
Both fuels are equally good for the chainsaw engine, but the standard lead-free fuel is preferable. Also, ensure that the fuel does not have ethanol. Remember that good quality fuel will improve the life of your tool. If the fuel contains ethanol, the need for a carburetor and maintenance of fuel lines increases.
Step 3: Always Use The Clean Gas Container
When you mix the fuel and oil, don’t forget to check and ensure that the container is clean. The dirty container could be a reason for the contamination of the fuel mixture. The dirt accumulated in the container can eventually become the reason for a clogged carburetor and make starting the chainsaw a big challenge for the operator.
Step 4: Preparation Of The Fuel Oil Mixture
So, you have selected the chainsaw bar oil and fuel type per your needs, and now you need to mix them both. But, before mixing them, the fuel-to-oil mix ratio is crucial. For instance, if the manufacturer recommends 40:1, you must mix 3.2 Oz of oil in 1 gallon of fuel. Likewise, for 50:1, add 2.5 Oz of bar oil in 1 gallon of fuel.
| No Of Gasoline Gallons | Ounces Of Chainsaw Bar Oil |
| 1 Gallon Of Fuel | 3.2 Oz |
| 2 Gallons Of Fuel | 6.4 Oz |
| 3 Gallons Of Fuel | 9.6 Oz |
| 4 Gallons Of Fuel | 12.8 Oz |
| 5 Gallons Of Fuel | 16 Oz |
| No Of Gasoline Gallons | Ounces Of Chainsaw Bar Oil |
| 1 Gallon Of Fuel | 2.6 Oz |
| 2 Gallons Of Fuel | 5.12 Oz |
| 3 Gallons Of Fuel | 7.68 Oz |
| 4 Gallons Of Fuel | 10.24 Oz |
| 5 Gallons Of Fuel | 12.8 Oz |
Step 5: Adding The Mixture Into The Engine
The fuel mixture is ready, and you can add it to the chainsaw fuel tank. Add the fuel mixture to the chainsaw gas tank using the funnel. Once the oil cap gets full, seal it up, and if you find any oil droplets around, clean them. The chainsaw is all set and ready to be operated.
If you are not planning to operate the chainsaw soon, don’t forget to store it properly. If you intend to store it for over a month, remove the fuel or add a fuel stabilizer. Otherwise, you may face issues while starting the chainsaw, as fuel gets stale after 30 days.
Putting The Raw Gas Into The Chainsaw: The Possible Outcomes
The premixed fuel is crucial for the optimum performance of the chainsaw. The lubricant present in the fuel mixture keeps the crankshaft and piston lubricated, reducing the friction level and keeping the chainsaw cool. Therefore, running the chainsaw without lubricant will seize the piston and put your tool at higher risk.
Let’s go through what could happen in case you forget to lubricate your tool:
The Chainsaw Piston Seizes
When you don’t lubricate the chainsaw, the fuel burns at high temperatures, because of which the piston seizes up. Actually, at a higher temperature, the pistons expand and, as a result, cannot move freely inside the cylinder as they used to.
At this stage, the movement of the cylinder causes a lot of friction which seizes up the piston. Also, the crankshaft does not move in such situations. When the crankshaft stops moving, the entire system shuts down eventually.
The Temperature Of Chainsaw Engine Gets Higher
The oil keeps the piston within the cylinder lubricated. The piston makes Rapid up-and-down motion, and the crankshaft rotates at the same rates as both parts move incredibly at high speed. A lot of friction produces, which heats the engine parts in return.
The oil reduces friction and keeps the chainsaw engine components cool. The fuel will ignite and drive the piston and crankcase if you have not added the oil in a gas mixture, but the entire system will heat up, resulting in the piston’s failure.
Ruined chainsaw Engine
You will run the chainsaw engine if you think of running it on gas only. Also, if you keep running the chainsaw without bar oil, it will not let the piston and crankshaft move.
In such situations, you can remove and replace the piston and cylinder. Also, there is a chance that these two parts heat up and burn out the other parts of the chainsaw. Remember that the repair cost will be high, and you may prefer to buy a new chainsaw instead of repairing the damaged tool.
What Are The Benefits Of The Premixed Fuel?
Undoubtedly, it is important to combine gas and fresh oil in the proper proportion to keep your machinery running smoothly and safely. Some manufacturers have premium, premixed fuel that lets your chainsaw run smoothly. The premixed fuel has its advantages which have been enlisted below:
i. Save Your Time
Premixed fuel unquestionably saves your precious time. It is not necessary to measure the correct gasoline-to-oil ratio. It is available for purchase online.
ii. A Satisfactory Performance
Premixed fuel with high-quality fuel and additives keeps your chainsaw’s two-stroke engine lubricated, boosting its cutting efficiency.
iii. Durable
A sealed, unopened container has a three-year shelf life, but an open container lasts for two-year. It is recommended for homeowners as they occasionally use chainsaws.
Do All Chainsaws Take Mixed Gas: Frequently Asked Questions
Let’s take a look at the following frequently asked questions related to do all chainsaws take mixed gas.
What type of gas should a use for my chainsaw?
Always use unleaded gasoline with higher octane (89 or higher). The lower octane can cause various issues, including piston seizures, high temperature of chainsaw engines, and engine damage.
Will It Be Right If I Add The Oil Later In The Fuel Tank?
You might be curious about what would happen if you accidentally added gas to the chainsaw’s fuel tank without mixing oil. Worry not; empty the gas tank. Experts advise adding one teaspoon of water to the tank, shaking it, and pouring the gas.
After that, clean the chainsaw carburetor, and the fuel lines should be changed. Then, continue your work after adding the mixed fuel.
What mix oil to use! What ratio should I run in different saws!
Will The Chainsaws Take Regular Gas?
Regular gas is used in chainsaws but is always combined with engine oil. Most gas chainsaws have two-stroke engines, which need a combination of gasoline and engine oil. The oil keeps the different chainsaw parts lubricated and lets your tool operate efficiently.
But, without oil, the temperature of the chainsaw rises, and you may end up damaging the chainsaw badly.
Do Chainsaws Take Regular Gas?
Yes, the chainsaws take regular gas but don’t forget to mix the lubricant with that. Most chainsaws have a 2-stroke engine; running that efficient gas mixture is needed.
Will using 87 Octane In My Gas Chainsaw be safe?
The chainsaws engines have been engineered to run on 89 Octane or higher. So, if you are willing to use 87 Octane, I would not recommend that; it would be enough for your tool.
Final Thoughts: Do All Chainsaws Take Mixed Gas
Do all chainsaws take mixed gas is what you need to know. The gas-powered chainsaws need a gas mixture as they get the needed power from gas while the oil lubricates the crankshaft and piston of the chainsaw.
Well, the electric chainsaws (corded and cordless) run on electricity. Therefore, you don’t need to feed them a gas mixture, but they do need bar oil. Always use high-quality gasoline for the gas chainsaw and run your tool without oil, as it can ruin the chainsaw in seconds.
What Type of Oil for a Chainsaw?
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Chainsaw oils are essential to keeping your chainsaw running well. Understanding the different types of oils can help you choose the right one.
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Just like your car’s engine depends on oil to keep it running smoothly, your gas-powered chainsaw engine needs oil to operate at its best. Different chainsaws require different oils, and using the wrong oil or not enough oil can cause major problems.
Knowing the available chainsaw oil options, learning how to choose the right one and determining the right fuel/oil ratio can help ensure your chainsaw runs smoothly every time.
Why Is Chainsaw Oil Important?
According to Nancy Egelhoff of Egelhoff Lawnmower Service, Inc., oil keeps a gas-powered chainsaw engine’s parts moving smoothly. “If you don’t have oil, you could destroy the engine,” she says. “If there’s no oil in the cylinder and piston of the engine, it will heat up so badly that it will score the cylinder and piston, and you will ruin the saw.”
Egelhoff says the damage might not be immediate. Some customers have seen damage occur as much as six months after they’ve forgotten to put oil in their chainsaw.
Common Issues if Chainsaw Oil Is Bad
Chainsaw engine oil can go bad. Two-cycle oil is good for up to five years when sealed, and many manufacturers list the oil’s shelf life on the container. Once opened, that oil will only have a shelf life of two years.
When you open a container, record the date on the container so you can throw out the oil if it’s not used within two years. Exposing oil to drastic temperature changes and moisture can also make it go bad.
- Deterioration of engine parts, including the carburetor, gasket and fuel line.
- Overheating, stalling or shutting down.
- Operation and performance problems including power loss.
- Vapor lock and problems restarting.
Choosing Chainsaw Oil
When shopping for chainsaw engine oil, you may notice that some brands cost more than others. While this oil is all basically the same, Egelhoff highlights the importance of buying a product you can trust. If you see a real deal on engine oil that’s much less expensive than name-brand oil, it could be a lower quality product.
“If it’s an off-brand, you don’t know where it’s made, and the manufacturer might not back their product,” she says.
When choosing chainsaw engine oil, you’ll need to know if you have a two-cycle or four-cycle engine.
Four-cycle engine
With a four-cycle engine, you’ll put oil and gas into separate reservoirs. Four-stroke oil goes in four-cycle engines. It contains special additives and base oils that support the stages of the four-stroke engine (the intake, compression, power and exhaust stroke).
Two-cycle engine and the gas-to-oil ratio
For a two-cycle engine, you must mix gas and oil together in a specific ratio. Old chainsaws, manufactured prior to 2003, require a 32:1 ratio. Chainsaws manufactured after 2002 usually require a 40:1 or 50:1 ratio. Check the two-cycle engine housing to see if it specifies the appropriate ratio. If you can’t find it there, refer to the owner’s manual.
Vince Christofora, owner of Woodstock Hardware in Woodstock, New York offers this advice. “One thing we do for our customers who buy a chainsaw that requires an oil/gas mix is we have them buy a gas can and we write the formula right on the can with a big black Sharpie. Then, the next time they need to make the mixture, they can dump in the right amount of oil and take the can to the gas station and pump in the right amount of gas.”
Here’s what can go wrong if you don’t have the right gas-to-oil ratio:
- Not enough oil in the gas mixture results in not enough lubrication inside the engine. The chainsaw will not run properly and you will damage the engine.
- Too much oil in the gas mixture can produce a smoky exhaust, oil leaking out of the muffler and even loss of power. This can cause the chainsaw to shut down.
- If it is an emergency and you do not know the proper gas-to-oil ratio, you are better off mixing too much oil than not enough.
To simplify things and avoid the whole gas-to-oil ratio issue, Egelhoff says many of her customers buy STIHL MotoMix, a premixed fuel/oil product.
“There are several things that make this a brilliant product,” she says. “There’s no ethanol, and that’s the worst thing for small engines since it deteriorates lines, loses its spark very quickly and can separate out so you’re introducing both water and gas into the engine.” STIHL MotoMix has a two-year shelf life.
How To Check Chainsaw Engine Oil
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If your chainsaw has a two-cycle engine and you’ve properly mixed the gas and oil, checking your oil is as simple as verifying you have plenty of the gas mixture in the tank.
“Some chainsaws have a translucent tank so you can easily see the level of the gas mixture in the fuel tank,” Christofora says. “For those that do not, add some fuel and then check the fuel level by looking in the tank opening. If you are doing a small job a half a tank of fuel will be more than enough. If you have a big job or long day ahead of you, you may want to fill the tank right to the top.”
If your chainsaw has a four-cycle engine, you’ll need check the oil with the dipstick:
- Put your chainsaw down on a level surface.
- Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean and reinsert it.
- Pull out the dipstick again and look to see where it’s completely covered in oil. This indicates your oil level.
How To Change Chainsaw Engine Oil
The exact steps to take when changing your chainsaw fuel/oil will depend on the model, but the following steps outline the general process:
- If the chainsaw won’t be used for more than 30 days, drain the fuel tank. You can drain the old fuel/oil mixture into a gas can. (Remember, the oil is mixed with gas and this mixture needs to be stored in a gas-appropriate container.) You can then dispose of the mixture at most local hazardous waste centers.
- Once the fuel tank is drained, tighten the gas cap and let the chainsaw run until it stops.
- The next time you use the chainsaw, prepare a fresh gas/oil mixture.
- Add that mixture to the fuel tank and tighten the fuel cap.
If you’re working with a four-cycle engine, you will need to change the oil because it’s separate from the gas:
- Place a container, like an oil pan or an old plastic storage container, underneath the oil tank and open the oil tank cap.
- Wait for all the oil to drain into the container.
- Refill with fresh oil and close the cap.
- Wipe up any spilled oil.
It’s always wise to refer to your owner’s manual for details and directions specific to your chainsaw.
Bar-and-Chain Oil Basics
Besides chainsaw engine oil, you’ll also need to keep your chainsaw supplied with bar-and-chain oil. This helps keep the chain lubricated, makes it easier to cut and helps keep your chainsaw from wearing out quickly.
Bar-and-chain oil types
Bar-and-chain oil comes in two types: summer and winter. Egelhoff explains that summer and winter oils have different viscosity. Winter oil is thinner, allowing it to run smoothly even in cold temperatures and when stored for awhile. Summer oil is thicker, heavier and formulated to work in hot conditions.
How to check bar-and-chain oil
A chainsaw uses bar-and-chain oil as it runs, and you’ll need to add about one tank of this each time you go through a tank of fuel. It’s easiest to keep up with your bar-and.chain oil by filling the reservoir every time you fill up the fuel tank. Many chainsaws have a bar-and-chain oil reservoir with a level gauge that lets you see how much oil is in the reservoir.
Note: Biodegradable, biobased, chainsaw oils (bar-and-chain and engine oils) have become popular in recent years because of the environmental impact of petroleum-based oil products. Consider these more earth-friendly products when buying oil for your chainsaw.
Paige is a copywriter and content writer who lives in Western Massachusetts. Her work has appeared in American Veterinarian, Business Insider, and more. Paige is skilled in writing about detailed topics, and she enjoys writing content that improves readers’ lives.
