How to Mix 2-Cycle/2-Stroke Engine Oil for Hand-held Equipment

Use our 2-Cycle/2-Stroke Ratio Chart to mix the proper Gasoline-Oil Blend

Many string trimmers, chainsaws, polesaws, brushcutters and leaf blowers run with a 2-stroke engine. Two-stroke (or 2-cycle) engines require a mixture of fuel and oil be added to the fuel tank. This mixture results in both engine combustion and lubrication. Operating a 2-Stroke engine on gasoline alone will result in engine failure.

What is the gas-to-oil mix ratio for a two-cycle engine hand-held equipment?

First, you will need to identify when your equipment was manufactured. The year of manufacture is usually found near the model number.

For two-cycle handheld equipment manufactured prior to 2003: 

Use a 32:1 gasoline to oil ratio. One gallon of gasoline combined with 4 oz of two-cycle engine oil. If you are in the state of California, use a 2-cycle oil mix ratio of 40:1.

For two-cycle handheld equipment manufactured after 2002: 

Use a 40:1 two-cycle oil mix ratio. One gallon of gasoline combined with 3.2 oz of two-cycle engine oil.

Unsure of the age of your equipment?

Use the 40:1 mixture. All of our handheld two-cycle units can operate on a 40:1 two-cycle oil mix ratio.

Refer to the chart below to make sure you're using the correct 2-cycle/2-stroke fuel and oil mixture:

Mixing the 2-cycle/2-Stroke oil and fuel mixture

Pour the 2-Cycle oil  to an empty gasoline can before adding one gallon of fresh gasoline into the can. No additional agitation is necessary. If the mixture may be stored for more than 30 days, include a fuel stabilizer to the gasoline before mixing to help increase its shelf life.

Label the gas can containing the 2-cycle oil mixture, to prevent accidentally using it in other equipment, such as your lawn mower.

Note: Never use gasoline with an ethanol content higher than 10%. Ethanol attracts moisture when exposed to air. After absorbing less than an ounce of water, the 2-cycle gasoline and oil mixture will start to separate and if used, result in damage to your engine's carburetor.