Gasoline-powered chainsaws offer plenty of power, but they also come with some limitations and drawbacks that might deter some buyers. They’re larger, and louder and may emit gasoline fumes which may be difficult to breathe in certain environments.
Properly mixing fuel and oil for a chainsaw is essential to its long life and efficiency. Here’s how:
Two-Stroke Oil
Chainsaws require the correct fuel mixture to run optimally. Without it, your chainsaw may perform poorly, produce excessive smoke, or even break down over time. It is best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to guarantee your chainsaw runs safely and smoothly.
The initial step in maintaining your chainsaw is getting the correct type of oil. A 2-cycle oil will ensure it runs optimally and prevent it from overheating or seizing up, while also shielding its engine from corrosion and rust. You must use high-quality oil that’s specifically tailored to your brand of chainsaw.
Different oils for two-cycle engines exist. While some are pricier than others, they all provide various advantages. These oils contain additives to improve oil quality, reduce emissions and keep your engine clean.
Fully synthetic oils are the ideal choice for those seeking maximum protection and performance. Furthermore, these types of oils last longer than other types of oils.
Another advantage of fully synthetic oil is its increased resistance to oxidation. This is especially important for your chainsaw since it spends a lot of time outdoors in cold temperatures.
It’s essential to select a fully synthetic oil with excellent lubricating properties for your chainsaw, as this will keep it running smoothly and extend the life of both the chain and bar.
Two-stroke oil can be easily found at local hardware stores and online retailers. Many come in various blends, sizes, and prices so it will be easy for you to identify the one that works best for your chainsaw.
Once you’ve extracted the oil, fill your chainsaw’s tank with unleaded gasoline and add the correct amount of two-stroke oil based on the ratio recommended by its manufacturer.
Once you’ve added the correct amounts of oil and gas, place your chainsaw back into its container and gently shake it for a few seconds to mix them. Be careful not to pour oil directly into the gas tank as this could damage your chainsaw.
Unleaded Gasoline
Unleaded gasoline is a commonly used fuel in chainsaws. It’s mixed with oil to lubricate the engine and prevent fouling while keeping it cool to prevent overheating.
It is recommended that you use fuel with an octane rating of 89 or higher, which is the standard for most chainsaws. Lower-grade fuel will reduce performance and cause issues with the fuel system.
Chainsaws require a higher octane rating than others, so it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s manual before purchasing fuel. Some brands such as Stihl and Husqvarna recommend using fuel with at least an octane of 91 or 92 depending on the model.
You have two choices for fuel for your chainsaw: mix your own or purchase pre-mixed gasoline and oil. To make the first mix, start by purchasing unleaded gasoline that meets the manufacturer’s specifications.
Next, add the correct amount of two-stroke oil to your fuel, typically 2.5 oz per gallon based on either your user manual or original chainsaw fuel cap.
Once you’ve mixed the fuel and oil, be sure to follow all safety instructions provided in your chainsaw’s manual. This includes never refueling while the saw is running or hot and moving at least 10 feet away from the fuel tank when finished.
Some gas chains also contain additives to keep their engine parts clean and fresh. Unfortunately, these additives may interfere with the proper operation of your chainsaw and void its warranty.
For most chainsaws, a mixture of oil and fuel is preferable to just pure gasoline; this ensures the engine runs optimally with proper lubrication. Oil helps lubricate moving parts in the engine which makes it easier to move pistons while also lowering temperature levels.
Modern chainsaws typically use a gas-to-oil ratio of 50:1, though some require 40:1. Depending on your machine’s engine type, you may need to adjust this setting periodically to keep your chainsaw working optimally. If unsure about which ratio works best for your setup, consult its operator’s manual or search online for information on its website.
Containers
Chainsaws can be a great addition to any yard, but their fuel tanks get dirty quickly. Not only is this an inconvenience, but also poses a safety hazard due to dust accumulation inside your tank over time.
To maximize the longevity of your chainsaw fuel, it is essential to regularly empty its tank and use only premium-grade gasoline. The most efficient way to accomplish this is by using a gas tank cleaner specifically designed for this purpose.
Water can be used, or you could use a special solution designed for breaking down accumulated sludge. If you want to expedite the process even more, add some BBs to the cleaning solution.
You can save yourself some time by purchasing premixed chainsaw fuel. These formulas contain ingredients that enhance your two-stroke engine’s performance and keep it lubricated.
However, you should avoid purchasing commercially available chainsaw fuel that contains too much ethanol. Ethanol attracts moisture, which can accelerate the oxidation and degradation of your chainsaw fuel.
Chainsaw fuel must be mixed in a container approved by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or Factory Manual (FM), which you can find at most home improvement stores.
For optimal storage and transportability, the container should be made of heavy-duty plastic with an easy-to-open lid that’s secure enough to prevent leaks. Furthermore, it must be sturdy enough to withstand temperature changes as well as expansion and contraction.
To ensure optimal performance from your chainsaw, ensure the container is large enough to store the proper ratio of fuel and oil for your model. Follow manufacturer recommendations or consult a guide that details how much of each to add for the best results. Generally, opt for either a 40:1 or 50:1 mixture when mixing fuel and oil.
Mixing
Maintaining your chainsaw’s efficiency requires mixing gas with the correct ratio of oil. Doing this ensures the engine runs smoothly, avoiding overheating which could damage both the chainsaw and its parts.
Make sure you use the correct mixture of gasoline and oil by checking your chainsaw’s manual for specific instructions. Most chains require either 40:1 or 50:1, though other combinations exist as well.
Chainsaws often feature a brake that activates when the chain experiences kickback. This mini-brake is usually located near the clutch and will shut down the saw when it detects an abnormality.
Chainsaw owners must use an approved container when mixing gas for their saws. Not using a milk jug or other container designed for gasoline storage can lead to dangerous issues with your chainsaw.
Fuel containers that must be securely sealed and clearly labeled with the manufacturer’s name must be adhered to this requirement for safety reasons, to prevent fuel from escaping.
If you plan to store the fuel for more than a month, drain the contents into an appropriate container and add a fuel stabilizer. This can extend its shelf life and minimize any potential damage to your chainsaw’s engine.
When mixing gas for your chainsaw, the age of the fuel in your tank is another important factor to take into account. Old fuel can corrode the engine and lead to issues.
Therefore, it’s essential to mix fuel for your chainsaw as soon as possible before it goes bad. Otherwise, the fuel could sit in your tank for months and begin corroding the engine.
Fortunately, you can avoid this issue by keeping your mixed fuel in a clean and properly sealed container. It’s wise to put the lid on your can and shake it before use; additionally, never allow it to sit unused in your garage or basement for more than one month.