I can tell you... I WORK FOR STIHL. AND IT WAS THE EPA THAT REQUIRED 50:1. THE SAWS DO NOT RUN SAFELY ON THIS MIX. THEYVE GOTTEN BETTER! BUT STILL NOT AS DURABLE AS 40:1 RUNS. THATS WHAT WE RUN. IVE ADVISED PROS TO SWITCH TO 40, AND THEY STARTED COMING IN FOR REPAIRS ALOT LESS FREQUENTLY. IN ANTIQUES I RUN 32:1. JUST TO BE SAFE. IT DOES NOT AFFECT POWER IN THR SLIGHTEST BITS ITS ALL IN YOUR HEAD. THATS ACCORDING TO OUR DYNO. YES WE HAVE A SMALL ENGINE DYNO AND I RAN AN MS440 ON THE DYNO IN THREE RUNS. ALL USING SAME AVIGAS AND ECHO REDARMOR OIL. IT RAN THE SAME ON 50, AS 40. ON 32 IT SHOWED A 0.06HP DROP AND NO TORQUE LOSS. Thats my 2 cents. I agree with ironhorse and love listening to old timers like him and others. I also do not like stihl oil mix because its dirty. I chose echo redarmor because its mafe by spectrum oil. Same as sta-mix and a few others. They make really good oil in my opinion.
No problem. I have also read that castor based oil mix combusts almost as well as gasoline does. So therefore the oil would add to the combustability of the mix. Echo redarmor is castor based which would make sense. However... i am not a chemist im a professional wrench spinner so i have no way to really verify castor oil is combustible outside of my dyno results. Lol
What I learned about castor based oil is from motocross bikes! If we were racing a moto it was a great oil that added power because the motor was running at top rpm’s all the time! And it burned clean! In an enduro where the rpm’s were much lower it would coke up! It was dirty! Sooo a saw that’s running at peak rpm’s all the time would be fine? Close?
Love the cats! And yep, I use 40:1 full synthetic with 95 gas here in New Zealand, with a little warm up time, a clean air filter and sharp chain, you're away laughing.
Back when I logged in eastern MN the local saw shops were promoting 50:1 which I also ran at the time. However when the EPA saws with the limiting caps were introduced plus ethanol blended fuel some of the guys running these new saws would have them burn up if they happened to be in a hard pull when they ran out of fuel. I learned how to pop off those limiting caps and reset the carbs...also started blending 40:1 fuel and never had any problems.
I run 50:1 Stihl oil mixed with 87 pump gas in my ms261 & ms462. 462 doesn't have much time on it but my 261 has been used constantly for 3 years with zero issues mixed at 50:1 with stihl premium oil. Only 2 things I do that I truly feel is more important what oil you use is, buy the freshest gas possible, use it within 2 weeks! Lastly run the saw HARD! (Under load in the cut) dont idle it much and avoid small starts all the time. 261 has approximately 650-700 hours on it, check the original plug. Clean and tan brown. Exhaust port has zero carbon or sute. Freshest gas and use them like there meant to be used. Just sharing my personal experience. Great video, appreciate your insight into the wasp nest of mix oil's
@@MrBaptiste003 just the regular Stihl oil with regular gas. Burned 350 litres this year with zero issues. It’s a topic that is far overthought I find. If it works, leave it be.
@@MrBaptiste003I've had several saws in my lifetime, small climbing saws up to husky 2100s. I bought a little ms250 about 15 years ago. I have put nothing but stihl ultra in it since I got it. I have ran the hell out of that saw,mostly hardwoods, oak hickory, with some pine and soft maple, sweet gum etc. I've cleaned the screen once, checked it today, clean as new. Usually I run non ethanol high octane 91 gas, I think that's the key, I mix it a little heavy, probably about 45 to 1
I use ONLY Castrol POWER1 RACING 2T mixed 50:1 (2%) and runs perfectly for many years. No smoke, no carbon deposits, no power loss, perfect throttle response, clean spark plug... Highly recommended for any 2T engine.
@@JTRUTH2025 But I wouldn't do that because of losing power because of too much oil. Smokes alot. I recommend you 2% Castrol Power1 RACING 2T. Goes between 1% and 2%. I always mix that. No smoke, perfect throttle response, ultimate protection...
Great information Iron Horse. Can not wait for the next video. I will be going to the 40:1 mix soon, was running the 50:1, inspect my spark plugs as well. Hello to all in the community as well, got a solid 8” of snow overnight and now it’s rain. As we say in Michigan; if you don’t like the weather, wait 5 minutes and it will change. 😎👍
Manufacturers build productes just good enough to pass inspection , they do not want to produce something that's going to last . Thank God people such as this man as well as others think outside the box . Good video sir, I learn alot from you and trust your words . Thanks.
I totally agree with Harv on 40:1. The only thing I disagree with is running outboard engine oil ( marine or boat engines). It is formulated for water cooled engines and not air cooled engines that run hotter. I know my Husqvarna owners manual specifically states not to use outboard engine oil and to use an oil formulated for air cooled engines.
After much thought I started using a 42.5:1 ratio vs. 50:1 when I discovered that 50:1 is a mandated ratio. It’s pretty easy to mix 1 gallon of gas and with 3oz. oil measured in the Ratio-Rite cup.
I have used 50:1 for many years and never had any problems with an engine, for years I used whatever the dealer recommended which used to be Oregon (a red oil) or Husqvarna (a green oil) both served my saw engines well and taking a cylinder off to check a piston one rainy day I found it very clean no marks and a nice light film of oil. Now im a lot older and (like Harvey, suffer with my joints) so my saws are toys not making a living from them so they dont get used much. So these days I only use Aspen fuel which I can leave in the saws for years at a time and its still fine, this to me is more cost effective but for others I know it will not be practical. I still use 50:1 but do got back to 40:1 if I put a new piston in a saw. So many oils on the market these day and they all work but stick with a top known brand and you wont go wrong as with 40:1 youll never go wrong with that unless something else happens like an air leak. I am very happy with using Aspen fuel and if you try it in a confined place like workshop youll know why. Petrol is not like it used to be guys neither is 2 stroke oil, find what suits you and enjoy the chips flying. Stay safe people out there
I’ve been cutting professionally (part-time) since 2014- Stihl saws and Amsoil, 100:1 mix ratio. Saws run great, no carbon, no scoring, clean mufflers, zero problems. Great channel!
@@imashbuttons1734 Yes, 100:1 on Amsoil Saber. I use a brushcutter that I bought in 1998, still runs strong even though the muffler rotted off. 100:1, keep the valve clearance adjusted, etc.
@@Chris-ry5vu yeah on Stihl trimmers they have valve covers on top and you have to get in there every so many hours and keep it in adjustment. Don’t feel stupid, I never knew they were there until it started running poorly and realized it needed some attention.
Ironhorse I love this channel. Keep up the great videos. You are one of four channels I watch while I drink my coffee in the morning. May God bless you.
That Lucas semi synthetic 2 stroke oil is good stuff...i run it in all my 2 stroke engines...from saws and trimmers and even my 2 stroke polaris at 40:1 in them all... Buy it by the gallon Amazon
Great video! I have ran Klotz super techniplate for over three years now and haven’t had any issues. I trusted it to race dirt bikes so I carried it over to the saws and love it!
thanks for video. and the tips!... 40-1 is what I grew up with, my step dad was a faller on Vancouver Island...never wrecked any tools over the years...
Harvey I agree with you on some of your oil recommendations as I run Bel Ray H1-R which is a fantastic oil. My opinion is that you should not run outboard motor oil in a chainsaw because that oil is designed for much cooler running temps as the outboards are water cooled. Thanks for the video on oils/mixes!
Use to race dirt bikes and fine tuned those two strokes. Oddly enough, you can foul a plug gooey black without any oil in the fuel at all. Saw many new race bikes that would leak black goo out of the pipe and the owner would say "I need to cut back on oil." To no avail. IT IS NOT AMOUNT OF OIL IN THE FUEL MIX, it is the air to fuel ratio. I used to run 20:1 mix and adjusted the jetting to where the plug burned a light tan and tailpipe not oily but a light dry gray. Actually, less oil makes for richer condition(blacker plug and muffler) as the thinner mix allows more fuel in relation to amount of air. Have been explaining this for 40 years. Kind of like people saying "those two strokes have a powerband put in the engine" 40 years on that one also.
I run the Lucas Semi Synthetic at 50:1. It is cheap, and seems to do the job very well. It also has some cleaning properties. I tested it against Stihl Hp and hp ultra. The saw performed better with the Lucas.
I was running a synthetic oil in my saw, when I switched to Lucas I noticed right away how much better it ran. I really like the Lucas oil, good stuff.
Here's my experience with 15 + year running a well tuned 026, and using Stihl full synthetic at 50:1... I had the occasion to pull the cylinder while replacement of the carb... and what did I see in the cylinder, cross hatch machining marks from manufacturing, and very little carbon. I don't use it every day, only 5 to 6 full cords per year and land maintenance. I'm no pro, nor expert. I don't think I'm an exception, it just works for me.
life in the woods I’m with you. I’m running AMSOIL saber at 50:1 in all my power equipment. 20 plus years on my string trimmer, blower and my Stihl saw. Have not yet had to re-ring any of it. My new ms462 and ms271 I’ll do the same with after break in. Non-ethanol fuel and premium oil works for me.
Ireland here, always ran 40:1 in all of our saws (firewood, not logging) My neighbor has done the same, has an old partner saw from the 1970s, still going good.
Thanks for putting out professional videos with great knowledge! I run 80:1 Amsoil Saber with ethanol free fuel in the six 2 strokes I own from a Stihl FS55 trimmer to a KTM 300 dirt bike. No issues with my MS250, MS391, or MS462 including running wide open for long duration ripping slabs of hardwood. I’m not a pro user, but have used my equipment often for many years with Amsoil. I do all my own engine work when needed and have no issue with premature wear. Just my experience. I know guys who run Amsoil 100:1 with no issues. I run 80:1 out of convenience due to oil bottle/gas can size. Oil conversations are the same as talking politics or religion. Every individual person believes they are right with little to no facts to back it up. Many comments of people calling me crazy for running 80:1 to follow. 🤣
I use Stihl HP Ultra (fully synthetic) 50:1 in everything - my husqy saws, stihl saws, weedwacker, brushcutter etc.. burns clean and keeps the cylinder cleaner too.
We always ran redline in the shifter karts KX125 in mine. 2 bottles to 5 gallons 25:1 spinning constantly at 14k more oil was needed. Don't use redline for anything that will sit very long, it doesn't have any rust inhibitors. Or at least 20 years ago. Yammalube was a very good oil also.
It seems 50:1 cost the same as 40:1. So oil companies make more money this way. I've noticed that saws ran on 50:1 have clean pistons but dry and worn out bearings
Right on , I agree 100%, I gave up running the saw brand oil when I had a rod bearing fail . Same as you said 40:1 and I’ve been using maxima formula k2 , so far so good , I usually burn 5 gallons of mixed gas a week
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
I cut timber and run my saws hard , I’ve been using this mix for a few years with no failures . I could see carbon build up being a problem if your saw idled a lot or you do a lot of slow speed operation . Just my opinion on what works for me
Funny Im 70 and my father bought a new super xl homelite in 64. a 58 CC saw without the automatic oiler. It has the wick fuel system. I quit running because of the points. and set on concrete and the bottom of the fuel tank is now corroded and leaks. We always mixed 1/2 pint of outboard motor oil with each gallon of gas. I took that saw all apart this week. The cyl still has the chrome and is in excellent shape. the piston is still usable also. Now i have been using a $10 XL12. 7 digit serial number saw from the sixties for three years. and made another hodge podge saw from the best parts of several junk ones. It has a 58 CC cyl and Piston. Now I use the walmart Super tech 2 cycle oil. Still 1/2 pint oil to the gallon. and both of those saws run great. And I use them i Cut for hours at a time. and i also have a Husky rancher 55 I bought new in 2000. same gas no problen with the engine. the oiler sucks and the plastic is broken. Now the saws ive taken apart the the cyl and piston where scored. They where dirty. The air could not circulate and crap was built up on the cooling fins and everyplace else. like between the gas tank and crankcase. Folks spill gas and oil when refilling and sawdust collects on that. We have always used compressed air and blew our saws out as regular intervals. I think the excessive heat is what kills more saws than the oil and gas mix. But what do I know ive only been using a chain saw since I was thirteen. I hate those high RPM plastic saws.
I run the same thing in all of my two cycle stuff - 80ml of Stihl Ultra, one ounce of Stabil, one gallon of PNE gas. It runs fine in all of my equipment. I have tried 40:1 but it is two messy on the exhaust side. I do break in new saws at about 40:1 but ween them off after several tanks. I generally run my saws a little rich for safety reasons. I run only fully synthetic oil in all my two and four cycle engines.
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
Love your knowledge and information your opinions are based off real world situations and use of the saws thanks for your contributions to the chain saw hobby.
Amsoil said you can run there oil @ 300:1... I run mine like they say a @ 100:1 and have had no problems for years and saw runs fast and no issues, plus the fact that it never fouls or chokes the muffler. Scary first time I did it I used and old saw to make sure he wan't blowing smoke up my @$$. All I know is it works Amazing...
Right on Harvey. I use the Lucas 40:1 also. A ported saw turning high RPM’s needs lubrication. I recommend to my customers the Lucas and tell them to use the 40:1, but I like your videos. Keep’em coming.
You should run 3 ounce per gallon of Amsoil Dominator . It's simple ...and it's a great oil i've used on all my 2 stroke race bikes 80/125/200/250/300cc , all my chain saws, snowmobiles, etc . 3 ounce per gallon comes out to about 42:1 and it's simple . Get a ratio rite cup
I've ran amsoil saber at 80:1 for years without issues and the piston has always been clean and no marks on cylinder wall. I started running it at 50:1 but it was to much oil, it was full of carbon after 10 tanks. They say you can run 100:1 but ill stick with 80:1. $1400 saw or pennies for oil.
I have ran the same oil for close to 20 years mixing at 90:1. That saw is still running like a top! I believe in the product, it’s proven itself to me.
@@jolkraeremeark6949 In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
Right On Harvey Paul. You ever see those pro-motocross or hard endure guys with oil "Spooge" from their exhaust? I run 40:1 on everything from My KX500 to my Weedwhacker no problems. I am a fuelwood cutter so I'm not "Logger" hard on my saws, and single track in the mountains of nor-cal. Tons of skidder trails and forest service roads to plunk along on the KX. The Older I get the faster I was! ha ha ha… Thank you for all the good info on building a strong, reliable work saw. My Kid once made me a cardboard sign and put it on the garage door... If it 'Aint Broke, Pop will Fix it 'Till it is"... (great.. go play in the street...) Thanks again H.P. (Harvy Paul = H.P.) Coincidence? Ha ha.. Rob \o/ Mt. Shasta Ca,
I run 40:1 in all my 2 strokes, including my $15,000 ISDE Six days KTM 300. Theres like 2 or 3 different oils I will run, but most of them are pretty good nowadays. Once in a while I run something with some castor oil in it just for the smell lol
Surprised the comments are not shut off. saws schmaws, and 2 strokes in my life. My goto oil is penz premium semi syth outboard by the gallons. The oldest outboardsmight run 32:1 with a copious amount of pharmacy castor well shaken in to turn heads. My lawnboy lawnmower seized at 40:1 new oil and remained at 16 or 20:1 the general shop jug at 40:1. The newest tanaka bigboy blower with it's CARB emissions and warranty took the 50:1 challenge but now takes standard 40:1 penz semi syth premium outboard blend. here now vermont there are a few stations that sell non alcohol gas but the factor of rich lean extremes of going from one to another it's usually mid grade 89 I might run the non eth in the motorcycle but with each switch the idle rpm meant finding that hidden knob and making corrections so there now I can go back to the video and stand corrected It's wonderfull being old "let dimentia become my comfort zone"
I use klotz techniplate at 32:1and it burns perfect never had any issues , I have a 385 I bought new in 2002 I've used that oil at that ratio and I've never had to rebuild it yet .
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
Awesome video Harvey, good info on the mix oil. For a man that sees the internals of all the engines you work on, I trust your opinion. Keep cranking out these great videos! Love them. ❤️
I got a Stihl MS391 and got suckered into buying the multi pack of Stihl 2stroke oil and my brand new chainsaw was running like a wore out old junker, so after watching your video I started using Lucas and Motul and it runs great now. Thanks
1.8 oz klotz blendzall to 1 gal of fuel has been my ratio for years , u r correct about oils over years , clean as a whistle and 20year old clean running .i also use a min of hi test or lately with fuel prices actually running renagade race fuel .
I run 32/1 in my 85' Honda 250R. The sticker on the goose neck says 20/1. That being said I run Golden Spectro or Klotz Supertechniplate in it which as you pointed out is much better than what was available in the day. In my Dolmar and Echo saws I run 40/1 Echo Red Armour. Your a wise man Harvey.
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
Here comes the crazy statement.... I run my saws at 90 to 1 using amsoil Saber. Been doing it for 3 or 4 years now. Not one issue, no smoke, no fouled plus, no clogged screens. Just as your saying modern oils are better than the past oils, I believe Saber is superior to all other oils and that's why they guarantee no failure to to 100 to 1. And they have tested to 200 to 1 without issue, though they don't recommend going that low.
Same here, Saber at about 80-100 to 1 for over 5 years in everything I own. Not a single issue. I also noticed the fuel seems to last longer in storage. You may have to retune as your not burning all that oil. Your basic 2 stroke will run on straight gas but it won't run on straight oil. I have had good results with everything I've used amsoil in - bikes, snowmobiles (interceptor), chainsaws, weedeaters, log splitters (who carries straight gas all the time) leaf blowers, and hedge trimmers. No issues. To be fair I don't cut much in the heat.
@arborcidal maniac amsoil Saber is around 50 cents in oil cost to add to a gallon of gas... How much is your klotz oil per gallon? I suspect at least triple in cost. My point is, even if your oil is superior... I'm gonna save so much money that I can easily replace equipment as needed (not that, that had even happened once as of yet).
@arborcidal maniac you can buy Saber online by the gallon for around $48. That gallon can mix up to 100 gallons of fuel bringing the cost to under 50 cents per gallon of mix. You can buy it online just like anyone else... So what's available locally doesn't matter. I love Saber.... It just so happens to be a third of what your using. If you're happy spending triple, you go right ahead. I'll save a buck with each and every gallon I use. I have saved more than enough to replace any piece of equipment I use mix in. But I doubt that will ever be an issue. Good luck to you
High quality oil makes a difference. Lots of good mix oil knowledge in the 2cycle motorcycle world. 50:1 is 2.56oz per gal, 40:1 is 3.2oz per gal, 1 tablespoon is 0.52 oz. Most caps on the small bottles of mix oil (2.6oz bottles) is about 1-2 tbs, so 1 bottle plus a cap in 1 gal of gas. "How Harve adjust carbs" awesome idea. Have fun with the snow we're supposed to be getting it later tonight/tomorrow (up in NH).
@@aaronmorgan488 I respectfully disagree. I am talking purely about the mathematical ratios, not whether a specific oil is suitable for running at that ratio. Straight 30w dinosaur motor oil: 2.6 oz in 1 gallon of fuel is a ratio of 50:1. But that will pretty much be not suitable to actually run in the saw at that ratio. I was simply pointing out how little it takes to go from 50:1 to 40:1. If a mix oil told me to use 5.2 oz in 1 gallon of fuel to get a 50:1 ratio, the only thing I can conclude is the mix oil has twice as many solvents in it than needed.
I fried the top end on my Husky 350 a few years ago while using big box department store oil. Put on new cylinder and piston did more big box oil and had a repeat of fried piston and rings. I would love to play with that old Mac and feel it running!
I ran 38:1 in my older 40:1 huskys. In the chromed plated bores and the nikasil it’s still 38:1/40:1 full synthetic oil. In my castiron sleeved two strokes it’s a mix of Castor, synthetic oil.
I run 32:1, like you run 40:1. I will probably start running less oil as I did think I was a little heavy and this video supports those thoughts. I have run between 20:1 to 50:1, used to recommend 32:1 to folks, like the home lites run, but again leaning your way. (Your video, you have the experience edge), Thanks for your comments (shared knowledge) and keep in mind folks, us rebuilder types do it different than an operator. (Break in period) When in doubt, r.f.m.. read the f,ing manual. Ah ha, hey, consider your variables and make a solid decision, 32:1, 40:1, you'll be ok, I like your comments on deburring, radiused skirt edges, and oil film coating. Thankyou sir. I believe McCullough recommends 40:1 if you use their oil, ah ha, folks give me oil so I use what I have with caution, folks leaving Alaska here, sometimes can not take the oils with them, product restriction, so I end up with a gallon of Ski-doo 2 stroke oil or what have you. Maybe a good mix is 32:1 break in and 40:1 ordinarily time. But Don't run it without oil!, by accident, 100% gas by mistake!, I keep a date and mix info tag on my gas cans. Thanks guys, I appreciate you all. Iron horse, Hello to your Beautiful family too. John.
40:1 is fine! I get the saw where it has a good idle and leave the hi jet a little rich for 1tank of gas! I use 3 heating and cooling cycles before I put it in the wood!
That’s how I mix mine for my saws and my jiffy ice auger. Now that would be funny. Porting a jiffy ice auger lol. We’re getting 5-9 inches of snow tomorrow up here in Maine. Probably the same storm.
Hi Harvey!!😀😀 I didn't realize that Lucas made 2 cycall mix oil. I'm definitely going to see if it's available were I'm at. I'm a firm believer in Lucas products. I've been running Stihl mix oil for many many years. Have never had any oil related problems at 50 to 1 so far. Hot saw 101 tore down a almost new husky that ran on husky mix oil and showed us just what you said about it. He also didn't recommend it. But he felt that the Stihl mix oil was much better. He dosen't run either one either. Can't remember what exactly he does run. Take care my friend!! TTYL!!😀😀
I use 92 octane gas and run Wal Mart oil & 50:1 but most of my tools are Echo lawn & garden so I go thru the gas pretty quick and it doesn't sit around in the tool. I Use a Stihl 042 for about 12 years w/ no problems.
I always run at 50:1 as it's easier than mixing in the bottles and just use the 100ml shots and find if I run at 40:1 they smoke and bog down as mix isn't neat enough. Plus Stihl recommend 50:1
I just buy pre mixed for the saw. Low emission eco friendly that smells like pancakes when it's burnt. It's a tiny bit more expensive but totally worth it.
Great vid and it’s going to save some pistons I run more oil again as Oil’s cheap engines aren’t! so 25-1 full synthetic! not the low smoke bs but the husqvarna hp full synthetic is brilliant and on par with the best in the world period! and 98 octane premium non ethanol only! It works up here in qld Australia it’s often hot! and the timber is hard! and although not working with as many now days back in the workshop servicing and repairing all brands I’d developed an opinion and myself being a husqvarna and Stihl small engine mechanic I’d seen a dead piston or 2 and it’s usually it’s running dealer recommendation’s
VP C12 fuel mixed 40:1 with Honda HP2 oil in my 03 CR250 dirt bike and proper jetting has been great for my bike. Engine is still running great for the 17 years it's been ringa ding dinging me along desert trail riding, Forest trail riding, jumping, motocross track riding, and a few good long trips riding the Glamis sand dunes/sand drag racing. I guess you get what you pay for, VP fuel isn't cheap and either is the Honda oil but I can say I have had my bike sense 2003 and had to rebuild the top end few times and bottom end of my engine 1 time. It is ready for a complete top and bottom end rebuild now. But that's a lot of miles and hours of riding over 17 years now I can get the bike to fire up in a few kicks and run without a issue all day long riding.
40:1 is fine! I get the saw where it has a good idle and leave the hi jet a little rich for 1tank of gas! I use 3 heating and cooling cycles before I put it in the wood!
40:1 yes! Been running that for a number of years myself in my built and stock saws. Your confirmation is good to hear. All that time running Yamalube with no problem results. D rating, it's sticky sticky stuff and pricey. The only thing I don't like abut that oil is that it doesn't change the gas color enough to make me not have to wonder sometimes after a layoff if I added it or not.
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
Just stumbled across this. Nice! I'm running 2 Shindaiwa chainsaws, using echo oil (can't get Shindaiwa oil here, not sure it matters to be fair), but run it at 40:1 . The saws are approx 6 years old and run perfectly. In fact I had one of them into our local saw shop (discussing chains) and the guy said: how old is this saw, it seems new? He was surprised at how old it was... I hear what you are saying about warm running time - I try to run 'em for at least an hour when I get one out for work, and not do a hot shutdown after serious cutting, i.e let it idle for a bit and check exhaust temp (wafting my hand nearby the exhsust, yeah a bit imprecise) before switching off.
I appreciate that you at least offered your opinion. Many avoid the issue altogether. Also some of the tips on how to judge the gas mix is helpful. Wet behind the ears and new subscriber on board.
Mixing oil and gas is a matter of oil quality.But most important,depend what oil you buy you should mix it accordingly what the bottle says.If your 2 stroke oil is of high quality you can mix differendly then your owners manual may say.I use in all my 2 stroke engines be it chain saws or dirt bikes you name it,..OPTI 2 oil mixed 100 to one since the early 70s and never ever had a problem.But I know it is a matter of trust,just like religion.Lolololol
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
I just started mechanicing (mechanicing?) turning wrenches for a new landscape co. and they were using outboard oil at 50:1. It blew up a bunch of blowers I think because of less air flow. I got them to switch to redline full synthetic.
I would never put any NMMA or TCW3 outboard oil in an air cooled 2 stroke, those grades are to low for saws. Most outboards run 5500 - 6500 rpm and are water cooled. They run significantly cooler, and the temps don't spike as fast as saws reving at 9000 - 14000 rpm, due to the thermostatically controlled cooling system in those outboards. Also in the older, small, air cooled 2 stroke outboards I have always run my saw oil for most of the same reasons. Some of the newer synthetic outboard oils MIGHT be ok, but I'm not going to try it.
@@davidoakley3256 In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
There's a really good channel called Project Farm that the guy compares oils batteries cleaners anything from A to Z to find out which is best. I think that old Marvels mystery oil was one of the best additives to run in your engine or fuel tank.
Thanks for the info Harvey, know it a delicate topic with some guys but like you said do what you like it’s your saw/2 stroke. Great video and discussion.👍✊
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
I did notice the Ipone was leaving some black residue on the piston crown and exhaust port. I have switched to Opti2 oil. I have not used enough yet to see results.
Great video, I have always used 40:1 in all my 2 stroke equipment especially saws and weed eaters, I run 50:1 in blowers only because they don't run high enough rpm to clear themselves out very well
You should be called iron balls bringing up a topic like that lol jk. People get upset about it. I run 40:1. when my dad used to log in bc that's all they ran. So I'm fine with it. Haven't had a saw blow up ever, a few ran over but that's it lol. Anyway my 390 cylinder is in the machine shop. When I post my cut videos I'll let you know. Thanks again!
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
Go 40:1.. and the guy that said he runs 50:1 in ported saws is crazy. The person who ported your saw should’ve told you to run 32:1-40:1 depending on size of saw. It not the p&c that needs the extra oil it’s your bearings and since your saw has added stress from the port job your bearings and crank need that extra oil more than ever. Go watch people like Tree Monkey and see what they say
Dont have to be just amsoil I do the stihl hp ultra motomix(I add like .4 oz of hp ultra to the half gallon motomix(ethonal free) so yes like 40-45-1 anywhere there is comfortable for me
I can tell you... I WORK FOR STIHL. AND IT WAS THE EPA THAT REQUIRED 50:1. THE SAWS DO NOT RUN SAFELY ON THIS MIX. THEYVE GOTTEN BETTER! BUT STILL NOT AS DURABLE AS 40:1 RUNS. THATS WHAT WE RUN. IVE ADVISED PROS TO SWITCH TO 40, AND THEY STARTED COMING IN FOR REPAIRS ALOT LESS FREQUENTLY. IN ANTIQUES I RUN 32:1. JUST TO BE SAFE. IT DOES NOT AFFECT POWER IN THR SLIGHTEST BITS ITS ALL IN YOUR HEAD. THATS ACCORDING TO OUR DYNO. YES WE HAVE A SMALL ENGINE DYNO AND I RAN AN MS440 ON THE DYNO IN THREE RUNS. ALL USING SAME AVIGAS AND ECHO REDARMOR OIL. IT RAN THE SAME ON 50, AS 40. ON 32 IT SHOWED A 0.06HP DROP AND NO TORQUE LOSS. Thats my 2 cents. I agree with ironhorse and love listening to old timers like him and others. I also do not like stihl oil mix because its dirty. I chose echo redarmor because its mafe by spectrum oil. Same as sta-mix and a few others. They make really good oil in my opinion.
Perfect! Thanks Kelly!
No problem. I have also read that castor based oil mix combusts almost as well as gasoline does. So therefore the oil would add to the combustability of the mix. Echo redarmor is castor based which would make sense. However... i am not a chemist im a professional wrench spinner so i have no way to really verify castor oil is combustible outside of my dyno results. Lol
What I learned about castor based oil is from motocross bikes! If we were racing a moto it was a great oil that added power because the motor was running at top rpm’s all the time! And it burned clean! In an enduro where the rpm’s were much lower it would coke up! It was dirty! Sooo a saw that’s running at peak rpm’s all the time would be fine? Close?
Sounds about right yeah! I run the crap out of it and it burns pretty clean but like u said its always ran wide open
I had to take classes from echo in order to work on echo at my shop. Redarmor is castor based. Maybe it hasnt always been. But it is castor based.
Love the cats! And yep, I use 40:1 full synthetic with 95 gas here in New Zealand, with a little warm up time, a clean air filter and sharp chain, you're away laughing.
Thanks for your opinion sir most of us here really appreciate it!!!! God bless!!
You started out with saying that oil mix is a sticky subject, I thought it was a slippery slope. Nice video.
Quit.
I like how the cat is guarding the pioneer chainsaw on the bench.
Good show!
I use Amsoil Saber Oil at 50:1 with 90 octane E-free fuel. I use the Saber Oil because it doesn't give me a headache/migraine.
Awesome! I've been using it for years, great stuff. I mix mine at 100:1.
Back when I logged in eastern MN the local saw shops were promoting 50:1 which I also ran at the time. However when the EPA saws with the limiting caps were introduced plus ethanol blended fuel some of the guys running these new saws would have them burn up if they happened to be in a hard pull when they ran out of fuel. I learned how to pop off those limiting caps and reset the carbs...also started blending 40:1 fuel and never had any problems.
Master, can you pour 33: 1 husqvarna ls + into the saw 372xp 357xp and scythe 545rx? Will the piston rings get stuck with carbon?
@@Sensei948 go ahead if you don't like your saws... they'll run hotter and dirtier
But that's transphobic and causes climate change 😮 plus...check your white privilege 😮
Of course they promoted 50:1. They won't last as long
I run 50:1 Stihl oil mixed with 87 pump gas in my ms261 & ms462. 462 doesn't have much time on it but my 261 has been used constantly for 3 years with zero issues mixed at 50:1 with stihl premium oil. Only 2 things I do that I truly feel is more important what oil you use is, buy the freshest gas possible, use it within 2 weeks! Lastly run the saw HARD! (Under load in the cut) dont idle it much and avoid small starts all the time. 261 has approximately 650-700 hours on it, check the original plug. Clean and tan brown. Exhaust port has zero carbon or sute. Freshest gas and use them like there meant to be used. Just sharing my personal experience. Great video, appreciate your insight into the wasp nest of mix oil's
Do you used sthil hp super or sthil hp ultra ?
@@MrBaptiste003 just the regular Stihl oil with regular gas. Burned 350 litres this year with zero issues. It’s a topic that is far overthought I find. If it works, leave it be.
@@MrBaptiste003I've had several saws in my lifetime, small climbing saws up to husky 2100s. I bought a little ms250 about 15 years ago. I have put nothing but stihl ultra in it since I got it. I have ran the hell out of that saw,mostly hardwoods, oak hickory, with some pine and soft maple, sweet gum etc. I've cleaned the screen once, checked it today, clean as new. Usually I run non ethanol high octane 91 gas, I think that's the key, I mix it a little heavy, probably about 45 to 1
I use ONLY Castrol POWER1 RACING 2T mixed 50:1 (2%) and runs perfectly for many years. No smoke, no carbon deposits, no power loss, perfect throttle response, clean spark plug...
Highly recommended for any 2T engine.
How do you mix that for 40:1 for like a weed eater or chainsaw?? Sounds like a better but cheaper way to go...
@@JTRUTH2025 Use your logic... For 4L of mixture use 0,1L of oil (100ml) and 3,9l of fuel.
@@JTRUTH2025 But I wouldn't do that because of losing power because of too much oil. Smokes alot. I recommend you 2% Castrol Power1 RACING 2T.
Goes between 1% and 2%. I always mix that. No smoke, perfect throttle response, ultimate protection...
@@REDLINERUNNER Thank You!!
Great information Iron Horse. Can not wait for the next video. I will be going to the 40:1 mix soon, was running the 50:1, inspect my spark plugs as well. Hello to all in the community as well, got a solid 8” of snow overnight and now it’s rain. As we say in Michigan; if you don’t like the weather, wait 5 minutes and it will change. 😎👍
Master, can you pour 33: 1 husqvarna ls + into the saw 372xp 357xp and scythe 545rx? Will the piston rings get stuck with carbon?
Manufacturers build productes just good enough to pass inspection , they do not want to produce something that's going to last . Thank God people such as this man as well as others think outside the box . Good video sir, I learn alot from you and trust your words . Thanks.
I totally agree with Harv on 40:1. The only thing I disagree with is running outboard engine oil ( marine or boat engines). It is formulated for water cooled engines and not air cooled engines that run hotter. I know my Husqvarna owners manual specifically states not to use outboard engine oil and to use an oil formulated for air cooled engines.
After much thought I started using a 42.5:1 ratio vs. 50:1 when I discovered that 50:1 is a mandated ratio. It’s pretty easy to mix 1 gallon of gas and with 3oz. oil measured in the Ratio-Rite cup.
Marine oil is very ashy , Deff not i good idea running it in my mind
I have used 50:1 for many years and never had any problems with an engine, for years I used whatever the dealer recommended which used to be Oregon (a red oil) or Husqvarna (a green oil) both served my saw engines well and taking a cylinder off to check a piston one rainy day I found it very clean no marks and a nice light film of oil. Now im a lot older and (like Harvey, suffer with my joints) so my saws are toys not making a living from them so they dont get used much. So these days I only use Aspen fuel which I can leave in the saws for years at a time and its still fine, this to me is more cost effective but for others I know it will not be practical. I still use 50:1 but do got back to 40:1 if I put a new piston in a saw. So many oils on the market these day and they all work but stick with a top known brand and you wont go wrong as with 40:1 youll never go wrong with that unless something else happens like an air leak. I am very happy with using Aspen fuel and if you try it in a confined place like workshop youll know why. Petrol is not like it used to be guys neither is 2 stroke oil, find what suits you and enjoy the chips flying. Stay safe people out there
I’ve been cutting professionally (part-time) since 2014- Stihl saws and Amsoil, 100:1 mix ratio. Saws run great, no carbon, no scoring, clean mufflers, zero problems. Great channel!
100:1 really?
@@imashbuttons1734 seen a lot of people saying 100:1 but no matter how good the oil is i really don't like the idea of running that lean
@@imashbuttons1734 Yes, 100:1 on Amsoil Saber. I use a brushcutter that I bought in 1998, still runs strong even though the muffler rotted off. 100:1, keep the valve clearance adjusted, etc.
@@mrsoars valve clearance on a 2stroke? Interesting
@@Chris-ry5vu yeah on Stihl trimmers they have valve covers on top and you have to get in there every so many hours and keep it in adjustment. Don’t feel stupid, I never knew they were there until it started running poorly and realized it needed some attention.
Great to get tips from a man that knows what works as opposed to those on forums that think they know what they are talking about .
Ironhorse I love this channel. Keep up the great videos. You are one of four channels I watch while I drink my coffee in the morning. May God bless you.
That Lucas semi synthetic 2 stroke oil is good stuff...i run it in all my 2 stroke engines...from saws and trimmers and even my 2 stroke polaris at 40:1 in them all... Buy it by the gallon Amazon
Great video! I have ran Klotz super techniplate for over three years now and haven’t had any issues. I trusted it to race dirt bikes so I carried it over to the saws and love it!
thanks for video. and the tips!... 40-1 is what I grew up with, my step dad was a faller on Vancouver Island...never wrecked any tools over the years...
Master, can you pour 33: 1 husqvarna ls + into the saw 372xp 357xp and scythe 545rx? Will the piston rings get stuck with carbon?
Harvey I agree with you on some of your oil recommendations as I run Bel Ray H1-R which is a fantastic oil. My opinion is that you should not run outboard motor oil in a chainsaw because that oil is designed for much cooler running temps as the outboards are water cooled. Thanks for the video on oils/mixes!
Tom Malone you’re correct buddy
Right on, use oil that you're suppose to. You wouldn't use chainsaw oil in your outboard, then why would you use outboard oil in your saw?
Use to race dirt bikes and fine tuned those two strokes. Oddly enough, you can foul a plug gooey black without any oil in the fuel at all. Saw many new race bikes that would leak black goo out of the pipe and the owner would say "I need to cut back on oil." To no avail. IT IS NOT AMOUNT OF OIL IN THE FUEL MIX, it is the air to fuel ratio. I used to run 20:1 mix and adjusted the jetting to where the plug burned a light tan and tailpipe not oily but a light dry gray. Actually, less oil makes for richer condition(blacker plug and muffler) as the thinner mix allows more fuel in relation to amount of air. Have been explaining this for 40 years. Kind of like people saying "those two strokes have a powerband put in the engine" 40 years on that one also.
I run the Lucas Semi Synthetic at 50:1. It is cheap, and seems to do the job very well. It also has some cleaning properties. I tested it against Stihl Hp and hp ultra. The saw performed better with the Lucas.
I was running a synthetic oil in my saw, when I switched to Lucas I noticed right away how much better it ran. I really like the Lucas oil, good stuff.
Great information. Never knew oil was different. I trust your knowledge on this. I learn more every video. Thanks for all the great content.
Here's my experience with 15 + year running a well tuned 026, and using Stihl full synthetic at 50:1...
I had the occasion to pull the cylinder while replacement of the carb... and what did I see in the cylinder, cross hatch machining marks from manufacturing, and very little carbon.
I don't use it every day, only 5 to 6 full cords per year and land maintenance. I'm no pro, nor expert. I don't think I'm an exception, it just works for me.
life in the woods I’m with you. I’m running AMSOIL saber at 50:1 in all my power equipment. 20 plus years on my string trimmer, blower and my Stihl saw. Have not yet had to re-ring any of it. My new ms462 and ms271 I’ll do the same with after break in. Non-ethanol fuel and premium oil works for me.
KLOTZ RACING OIL is awesome. I ran it for years in my rm250 and my husky saws
Ireland here, always ran 40:1 in all of our saws (firewood, not logging) My neighbor has done the same, has an old partner saw from the 1970s, still going good.
Thanks for putting out professional videos with great knowledge! I run 80:1 Amsoil Saber with ethanol free fuel in the six 2 strokes I own from a Stihl FS55 trimmer to a KTM 300 dirt bike. No issues with my MS250, MS391, or MS462 including running wide open for long duration ripping slabs of hardwood. I’m not a pro user, but have used my equipment often for many years with Amsoil. I do all my own engine work when needed and have no issue with premature wear. Just my experience. I know guys who run Amsoil 100:1 with no issues. I run 80:1 out of convenience due to oil bottle/gas can size. Oil conversations are the same as talking politics or religion. Every individual person believes they are right with little to no facts to back it up. Many comments of people calling me crazy for running 80:1 to follow. 🤣
I use Stihl HP Ultra (fully synthetic) 50:1 in everything - my husqy saws, stihl saws, weedwacker, brushcutter etc.. burns clean and keeps the cylinder cleaner too.
I run my saws the very same and I have no problems. That stihl ultra is some stuff and it has a nice smell when burning.
We always ran redline in the shifter karts KX125 in mine. 2 bottles to 5 gallons 25:1 spinning constantly at 14k more oil was needed. Don't use redline for anything that will sit very long, it doesn't have any rust inhibitors. Or at least 20 years ago. Yammalube was a very good oil also.
😊😊😊😊👍👍👍👍👍👍
I did my shoveling so i could watch this again while I was getting warmed up .
Would really like to see how you tune your saws for longevity Harvey.
It seems 50:1 cost the same as 40:1. So oil companies make more money this way. I've noticed that saws ran on 50:1 have clean pistons but dry and worn out bearings
Right on , I agree 100%, I gave up running the saw brand oil when I had a rod bearing fail .
Same as you said 40:1 and I’ve been using maxima formula k2 , so far so good , I usually burn 5 gallons of mixed gas a week
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
I cut timber and run my saws hard , I’ve been using this mix for a few years with no failures .
I could see carbon build up being a problem if your saw idled a lot or you do a lot of slow speed operation . Just my opinion on what works for me
@@MrYahoo74 So 33: 1 will not shorten the life of the saw from 50: 1?
33:1 is more oil per gallon of fuel than 50:1
@@MrYahoo74 which is better? but deposits? coal?
Funny Im 70 and my father bought a new super xl homelite in 64. a 58 CC saw without the automatic oiler. It has the wick fuel system. I quit running because of the points. and set on concrete and the bottom of the fuel tank is now corroded and leaks. We always mixed 1/2 pint of outboard motor oil with each gallon of gas. I took that saw all apart this week. The cyl still has the chrome and is in excellent shape. the piston is still usable also. Now i have been using a $10 XL12. 7 digit serial number saw from the sixties for three years. and made another hodge podge saw from the best parts of several junk ones. It has a 58 CC cyl and Piston. Now I use the walmart Super tech 2 cycle oil. Still 1/2 pint oil to the gallon. and both of those saws run great. And I use them i Cut for hours at a time. and i also have a Husky rancher 55 I bought new in 2000. same gas no problen with the engine. the oiler sucks and the plastic is broken. Now the saws ive taken apart the the cyl and piston where scored. They where dirty. The air could not circulate and crap was built up on the cooling fins and everyplace else. like between the gas tank and crankcase. Folks spill gas and oil when refilling and sawdust collects on that. We have always used compressed air and blew our saws out as regular intervals. I think the excessive heat is what kills more saws than the oil and gas mix. But what do I know ive only been using a chain saw since I was thirteen. I hate those high RPM plastic saws.
I run the same thing in all of my two cycle stuff - 80ml of Stihl Ultra, one ounce of Stabil, one gallon of PNE gas. It runs fine in all of my equipment. I have tried 40:1 but it is two messy on the exhaust side. I do break in new saws at about 40:1 but ween them off after several tanks. I generally run my saws a little rich for safety reasons. I run only fully synthetic oil in all my two and four cycle engines.
I swapped to maxima bout 3 years ago and i really like it. Keep up the vids 👍
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
Love your knowledge and information your opinions are based off real world situations and use of the saws thanks for your contributions to the chain saw hobby.
Amsoil said you can run there oil @ 300:1... I run mine like they say a @ 100:1 and have had no problems for years and saw runs fast and no issues, plus the fact that it never fouls or chokes the muffler. Scary first time I did it I used and old saw to make sure he wan't blowing smoke up my @$$. All I know is it works Amazing...
Right on Harvey. I use the Lucas 40:1 also. A ported saw turning high RPM’s needs lubrication. I recommend to my customers the Lucas and tell them to use the 40:1, but I like your videos. Keep’em coming.
You should run 3 ounce per gallon of Amsoil Dominator . It's simple ...and it's a great oil i've used on all my 2 stroke race bikes 80/125/200/250/300cc , all my chain saws, snowmobiles, etc . 3 ounce per gallon comes out to about 42:1 and it's simple . Get a ratio rite cup
I've ran amsoil saber at 80:1 for years without issues and the piston has always been clean and no marks on cylinder wall. I started running it at 50:1 but it was to much oil, it was full of carbon after 10 tanks. They say you can run 100:1 but ill stick with 80:1. $1400 saw or pennies for oil.
I have ran the same oil for close to 20 years mixing at 90:1. That saw is still running like a top! I believe in the product, it’s proven itself to me.
@@myronhorvathsk a lot of people apparently... I've settled on the echo red armor it seems like echo really did their homework on this one
I ran 50:1 husqvarna oil in my 372xp torq since new for 3yrs on my sawmill. And it built carbon.
I'm with Ironhorse on this one🖒
So, you're going to run 40:1? Won't you end up with more buildup, Skinny Pedal Down?
@@jolkraeremeark6949
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
Right On Harvey Paul. You ever see those pro-motocross or hard endure guys with oil "Spooge" from their exhaust?
I run 40:1 on everything from My KX500 to my Weedwhacker no problems. I am a fuelwood cutter so I'm not "Logger" hard on my saws, and single track in the mountains of nor-cal. Tons of skidder trails and forest service roads to plunk along on the KX.
The Older I get the faster I was! ha ha ha…
Thank you for all the good info on building a strong, reliable work saw.
My Kid once made me a cardboard sign and put it on the garage door...
If it 'Aint Broke, Pop will Fix it 'Till it is"... (great.. go play in the street...)
Thanks again H.P. (Harvy Paul = H.P.) Coincidence? Ha ha..
Rob \o/ Mt. Shasta Ca,
Rob Croft I know a guy who races quads, has placed in top three n many races... all he ever runs is 40/1
Spooge is too much fuel.
I run 40:1 in all my 2 strokes, including my $15,000 ISDE Six days KTM 300. Theres like 2 or 3 different oils I will run, but most of them are pretty good nowadays. Once in a while I run something with some castor oil in it just for the smell lol
iPone is another great smelling one👌🤙
@@Mackenzie.Grant95 i read that on a forum recently. the scoot city is strawberry scented??
Surprised the comments are not shut off. saws schmaws, and 2 strokes in my life. My goto oil is penz premium semi syth outboard by the gallons. The oldest outboardsmight run 32:1 with a copious amount of pharmacy castor well shaken in to turn heads. My lawnboy lawnmower seized at 40:1 new oil and remained at 16 or 20:1 the general shop jug at 40:1. The newest tanaka bigboy blower with it's CARB emissions and warranty took the 50:1 challenge but now takes standard 40:1 penz semi syth premium outboard blend.
here now vermont there are a few stations that sell non alcohol gas but the factor of rich lean extremes of going from one to another it's usually mid grade 89
I might run the non eth in the motorcycle but with each switch the idle rpm meant finding that hidden knob and making corrections
so there now I can go back to the video and stand corrected
It's wonderfull being old "let dimentia become my comfort zone"
I use klotz techniplate at 32:1and it burns perfect never had any issues , I have a 385 I bought new in 2002 I've used that oil at that ratio and I've never had to rebuild it yet .
Larry Warner I havnt had many failures while useing that oil.
@@ericharris893 I've used it for close to 20 years , snowmobiles , saws, weedeaters
Thanks for the video. Very helpful. That's what I've been running in all my saws but it's good to hear somebody else say the same.
I run 40:1 klotz in my Stihl 661 and 462 and 362 runs good and no problems whatsoever
I run Lucas or amsoil dominator in my dirt bike and Lucas or powerpunch in a saw
The amsoil makes a good film.
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
Awesome video Harvey, good info on the mix oil. For a man that sees the internals of all the engines you work on, I trust your opinion. Keep cranking out these great videos! Love them. ❤️
Used belray mc1 plus in my dirt bikes. Good stuff.
Lucas Semisynthetic 32/1 on my 1987 Yamaha ysr50 for 4200 miles now and it’s clean as a whistle. 😎. Runs strong and only smokes when engine is cold.
Low flash point.
I got a Stihl MS391 and got suckered into buying the multi pack of Stihl 2stroke oil and my brand new chainsaw was running like a wore out old junker, so after watching your video I started using Lucas and Motul and it runs great now. Thanks
1.8 oz klotz blendzall to 1 gal of fuel has been my ratio for years , u r correct about oils over years , clean as a whistle and 20year old clean running .i also use a min of hi test or lately with fuel prices actually running renagade race fuel .
My grandfather had the old chainsaws they smoked like crazy ,took your breath away
We had a lawn boy mower as a kid that did that. The whole side yard was a haze of smoke like a civil war battlefield. And you reeked of oil. Haha
I've 2 stihl, I use :
32:1 Sp98 + HP super in my 2016 ms 362 (without M-tronic)
50:1 sp98 + HP super in my 2022 ms 261 cm
Castors 927 blend, if nothing else it smells great....
I run 32/1 in my 85' Honda 250R. The sticker on the goose neck says 20/1. That being said I run Golden Spectro or Klotz Supertechniplate in it which as you pointed out is much better than what was available in the day. In my Dolmar and Echo saws I run 40/1 Echo Red Armour. Your a wise man Harvey.
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
@@Sensei948 bullshit
250r. 50:1 with klotz runs excellent
Here comes the crazy statement.... I run my saws at 90 to 1 using amsoil Saber. Been doing it for 3 or 4 years now. Not one issue, no smoke, no fouled plus, no clogged screens. Just as your saying modern oils are better than the past oils, I believe Saber is superior to all other oils and that's why they guarantee no failure to to 100 to 1. And they have tested to 200 to 1 without issue, though they don't recommend going that low.
I also use saber at 100to1. Have been for 40 years. No problems at all.
Wow, never heard of that one. Going to check in on that.
Same here, Saber at about 80-100 to 1 for over 5 years in everything I own. Not a single issue. I also noticed the fuel seems to last longer in storage. You may have to retune as your not burning all that oil. Your basic 2 stroke will run on straight gas but it won't run on straight oil. I have had good results with everything I've used amsoil in - bikes, snowmobiles (interceptor), chainsaws, weedeaters, log splitters (who carries straight gas all the time) leaf blowers, and hedge trimmers. No issues. To be fair I don't cut much in the heat.
@arborcidal maniac amsoil Saber is around 50 cents in oil cost to add to a gallon of gas... How much is your klotz oil per gallon? I suspect at least triple in cost. My point is, even if your oil is superior... I'm gonna save so much money that I can easily replace equipment as needed (not that, that had even happened once as of yet).
@arborcidal maniac you can buy Saber online by the gallon for around $48. That gallon can mix up to 100 gallons of fuel bringing the cost to under 50 cents per gallon of mix. You can buy it online just like anyone else... So what's available locally doesn't matter. I love Saber.... It just so happens to be a third of what your using. If you're happy spending triple, you go right ahead. I'll save a buck with each and every gallon I use. I have saved more than enough to replace any piece of equipment I use mix in. But I doubt that will ever be an issue. Good luck to you
Thanks Harv for all the teaching. I have had questions about my own observstions. Your providing answers! Thankyou
McCulloch's were good saws back in the day. The make great wall hangers today.
Master, can you pour 33: 1 husqvarna ls + into the saw 372xp 357xp and scythe 545rx? Will the piston rings get stuck with carbon?
High quality oil makes a difference. Lots of good mix oil knowledge in the 2cycle motorcycle world. 50:1 is 2.56oz per gal, 40:1 is 3.2oz per gal, 1 tablespoon is 0.52 oz. Most caps on the small bottles of mix oil (2.6oz bottles) is about 1-2 tbs, so 1 bottle plus a cap in 1 gal of gas.
"How Harve adjust carbs" awesome idea. Have fun with the snow we're supposed to be getting it later tonight/tomorrow (up in NH).
Mike Remski diff brands mix at diff numbers not all are the same make sure u check on the back of the bottle
@@aaronmorgan488 I respectfully disagree. I am talking purely about the mathematical ratios, not whether a specific oil is suitable for running at that ratio. Straight 30w dinosaur motor oil: 2.6 oz in 1 gallon of fuel is a ratio of 50:1. But that will pretty much be not suitable to actually run in the saw at that ratio. I was simply pointing out how little it takes to go from 50:1 to 40:1. If a mix oil told me to use 5.2 oz in 1 gallon of fuel to get a 50:1 ratio, the only thing I can conclude is the mix oil has twice as many solvents in it than needed.
I fried the top end on my Husky 350 a few years ago while using big box department store oil. Put on new cylinder and piston did more big box oil and had a repeat of fried piston and rings. I would love to play with that old Mac and feel it running!
I ran 38:1 in my older 40:1 huskys. In the chromed plated bores and the nikasil it’s still 38:1/40:1 full synthetic oil. In my castiron sleeved two strokes it’s a mix of Castor, synthetic oil.
i agree. i buy maxium castor bean oil from my local atv shop. love the smell n works well
I run 32:1, like you run 40:1. I will probably start running less oil as I did think I was a little heavy and this video supports those thoughts.
I have run between 20:1 to 50:1, used to recommend 32:1 to folks, like the home lites run, but again leaning your way. (Your video, you have the experience edge), Thanks for your comments (shared knowledge) and keep in mind folks, us rebuilder types do it different than an operator. (Break in period)
When in doubt, r.f.m.. read the f,ing manual. Ah ha, hey, consider your variables and make a solid decision, 32:1, 40:1, you'll be ok, I like your comments on deburring, radiused skirt edges, and oil film coating. Thankyou sir. I believe McCullough recommends 40:1 if you use their oil, ah ha, folks give me oil so I use what I have with caution, folks leaving Alaska here, sometimes can not take the oils with them, product restriction, so I end up with a gallon of Ski-doo 2 stroke oil or what have you. Maybe a good mix is 32:1 break in and 40:1 ordinarily time.
But Don't run it without oil!, by accident, 100% gas by mistake!, I keep a date and mix info tag on my gas cans. Thanks guys, I appreciate you all. Iron horse, Hello to your Beautiful family too.
John.
Awesome comment John!
Ironhorse have you ever ran a stihl 880 magnum
40:1 is fine! I get the saw where it has a good idle and leave the hi jet a little rich for 1tank of gas! I use 3 heating and cooling cycles before I put it in the wood!
Thanks for the insite on oil mix. Love to see the carb tune vid!
That’s how I mix mine for my saws and my jiffy ice auger. Now that would be funny. Porting a jiffy ice auger lol. We’re getting 5-9 inches of snow tomorrow up here in Maine. Probably the same storm.
Retired Welder mine are ported
Aaron Morgan your augers are ported?? That’s awesome!!!
Hi Harvey!!😀😀
I didn't realize that Lucas made 2 cycall mix oil. I'm definitely going to see if it's available were I'm at. I'm a firm believer in Lucas products. I've been running Stihl mix oil for many many years. Have never had any oil related problems at 50 to 1 so far.
Hot saw 101 tore down a almost new husky that ran on husky mix oil and showed us just what you said about it. He also didn't recommend it. But he felt that the Stihl mix oil was much better. He dosen't run either one either. Can't remember what exactly he does run.
Take care my friend!! TTYL!!😀😀
I use 92 octane gas and run Wal Mart oil & 50:1 but most of my tools are Echo lawn & garden so I go thru the gas pretty quick and it doesn't sit around in the tool. I Use a Stihl 042 for about 12 years w/ no problems.
Perfect! I love the smell of Motul in VP racing fuel.
We had 2 stroke snowmobiles in the 70's and it was 20 to 1. We'd mix a quart of oil in a 5 gallon can of gas.
I always run at 50:1 as it's easier than mixing in the bottles and just use the 100ml shots and find if I run at 40:1 they smoke and bog down as mix isn't neat enough. Plus Stihl recommend 50:1
I just buy pre mixed for the saw. Low emission eco friendly that smells like pancakes when it's burnt. It's a tiny bit more expensive but totally worth it.
I wouldn't trust it if it smells like hot cakes haha.
Is it gluten free?
Opti has been good to me in the last 20 years of using it.
opti 2 is the best
Great vid and it’s going to save some pistons I run more oil again as Oil’s cheap engines aren’t! so 25-1 full synthetic! not the low smoke bs but the husqvarna hp full synthetic is brilliant and on par with the best in the world period! and 98 octane premium non ethanol only! It works up here in qld Australia it’s often hot! and the timber is hard! and although not working with as many now days back in the workshop servicing and repairing all brands I’d developed an opinion and myself being a husqvarna and Stihl small engine mechanic I’d seen a dead piston or 2 and it’s usually it’s running dealer recommendation’s
VP C12 fuel mixed 40:1 with Honda HP2 oil in my 03 CR250 dirt bike and proper jetting has been great for my bike. Engine is still running great for the 17 years it's been ringa ding dinging me along desert trail riding, Forest trail riding, jumping, motocross track riding, and a few good long trips riding the Glamis sand dunes/sand drag racing. I guess you get what you pay for, VP fuel isn't cheap and either is the Honda oil but I can say I have had my bike sense 2003 and had to rebuild the top end few times and bottom end of my engine 1 time. It is ready for a complete top and bottom end rebuild now. But that's a lot of miles and hours of riding over 17 years now I can get the bike to fire up in a few kicks and run without a issue all day long riding.
40:1 is fine! I get the saw where it has a good idle and leave the hi jet a little rich for 1tank of gas! I use 3 heating and cooling cycles before I put it in the wood!
That is a neat looking Stihl! I want one like it!
40:1 yes! Been running that for a number of years myself in my built and stock saws. Your confirmation is good to hear. All that time running Yamalube with no problem results. D rating, it's sticky sticky stuff and pricey. The only thing I don't like abut that oil is that it doesn't change the gas color enough to make me not have to wonder sometimes after a layoff if I added it or not.
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
Use good oil at 40:1 like the man said.
Just stumbled across this. Nice! I'm running 2 Shindaiwa chainsaws, using echo oil (can't get Shindaiwa oil here, not sure it matters to be fair), but run it at 40:1 . The saws are approx 6 years old and run perfectly. In fact I had one of them into our local saw shop (discussing chains) and the guy said: how old is this saw, it seems new? He was surprised at how old it was...
I hear what you are saying about warm running time - I try to run 'em for at least an hour when I get one out for work, and not do a hot shutdown after serious cutting, i.e let it idle for a bit and check exhaust temp (wafting my hand nearby the exhsust, yeah a bit imprecise) before switching off.
Good on Harvey for taking on the eternal question....
Good morning ! Hope everyone has a great day today, stay safe !
I appreciate that you at least offered your opinion. Many avoid the issue altogether. Also some of the tips on how to judge the gas mix is helpful. Wet behind the ears and new subscriber on board.
Read the plug 👌🏼absolutely right on that
Mixing oil and gas is a matter of oil quality.But most important,depend what oil you buy you should mix it accordingly what the bottle says.If your 2 stroke oil is of high quality you can mix differendly then your owners manual may say.I use in all my 2 stroke engines be it chain saws or dirt bikes you name it,..OPTI 2 oil mixed 100 to one since the early 70s and never ever had a problem.But I know it is a matter of trust,just like religion.Lolololol
Good info,I run 32:1 in my Banshee & TRX250R
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
I just started mechanicing (mechanicing?) turning wrenches for a new landscape co. and they were using outboard oil at 50:1. It blew up a bunch of blowers I think because of less air flow. I got them to switch to redline full synthetic.
I would never put any NMMA or TCW3 outboard oil in an air cooled 2 stroke, those grades are to low for saws. Most outboards run 5500 - 6500 rpm and are water cooled. They run significantly cooler, and the temps don't spike as fast as saws reving at 9000 - 14000 rpm, due to the thermostatically controlled cooling system in those outboards. Also in the older, small, air cooled 2 stroke outboards I have always run my saw oil for most of the same reasons. Some of the newer synthetic outboard oils MIGHT be ok, but I'm not going to try it.
@@davidoakley3256
Ive looked at and studied and used he outboard oils that state sutiable for chainsaws. Ive seen no issues
@@wollywolly2734 that good, and you can run whatever you want in your saws, it won't cost me anything when your fixing them.
@@davidoakley3256
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
Thanks Harvey, I was running 35 to 1 and will now adjust. thanks so much. Jon
Master, can you pour 33: 1 husqvarna ls + into the saw 372xp 357xp and scythe 545rx? Will the piston rings get stuck with carbon?
There's a really good channel called Project Farm that the guy compares oils batteries cleaners anything from A to Z to find out which is best. I think that old Marvels mystery oil was one of the best additives to run in your engine or fuel tank.
Thanks for the info Harvey, know it a delicate topic with some guys but like you said do what you like it’s your saw/2 stroke. Great video and discussion.👍✊
I run Ipone snowmobile oil at 45:1 and add a shot of Startron stabilizer in with Shell premium grade fuel. Runs great.
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
I did notice the Ipone was leaving some black residue on the piston crown and exhaust port. I have switched to Opti2 oil. I have not used enough yet to see results.
Great video, I have always used 40:1 in all my 2 stroke equipment especially saws and weed eaters, I run 50:1 in blowers only because they don't run high enough rpm to clear themselves out very well
I just brought a new stihl trimmer 2 weeks ago. What you think I should put in it ?
Schaeffer’s two stroke oil.
I watched a lot of your videos I like your teaching question when you say mixing the oil with the gas 40 to one I don't understand
You should be called iron balls bringing up a topic like that lol jk. People get upset about it. I run 40:1. when my dad used to log in bc that's all they ran. So I'm fine with it. Haven't had a saw blow up ever, a few ran over but that's it lol. Anyway my 390 cylinder is in the machine shop. When I post my cut videos I'll let you know. Thanks again!
In Stihl manuals, there were reportedly cases of cuts and jamming of the rings and the piston at 33: 1. Is there a risk of reduced machine life or carbon failure?
Instablaster...
I learned to run a chainsaw on Mac similiar to that model yes very heavy
I use the premixed Husqvarna fuel in my saw.
cant go wrong with that
I switched to Motul 800 2t Off Road. Going to listen to you and switch to 40:1.
ShawnsTreeServiceX-Press 50:1 is fine I run 50:1 in all my high comp ported saws never a issue
Go 40:1.. and the guy that said he runs 50:1 in ported saws is crazy. The person who ported your saw should’ve told you to run 32:1-40:1 depending on size of saw. It not the p&c that needs the extra oil it’s your bearings and since your saw has added stress from the port job your bearings and crank need that extra oil more than ever. Go watch people like Tree Monkey and see what they say
Amsoil Saber at 45:1 cleanest oil out there.
Dont have to be just amsoil I do the stihl hp ultra motomix(I add like .4 oz of hp ultra to the half gallon motomix(ethonal free) so yes like 40-45-1 anywhere there is comfortable for me
@@jeremywarner1752 Im using Klotz super techniplate,love it so far.. smells deadly too.
Harvey thanks for the video! I run Lucas oil also! I remember my dad running 30 weight oil when I was a kid.
I learned something today! Appreciate you sharing your knowledge. Going to look for your tuning video! Grate informative content. Aloha!