Click here for MotoMix fuel ➜ amzn.to/2Po5VwB Click here for TruFuel ➜ amzn.to/2UvuGL2 Click here for Husqvarna Fuel ➜ amzn.to/2UoG0IV Check out these other informative videos: How To Winterize A Lawn Mower, Generator, Etc. ➜ ruclips.net/video/qccdo2UMMsE/видео.html How To Winterize a Chainsaw, Weedeater, Blower or Trimmer ➜ ruclips.net/video/FEmT8qUoD0E/видео.html How To Winterize/Maintain The Battery on a Riding Mower ➜ ruclips.net/video/CJmlFxcyw44/видео.html How To Rebuild A Carburetor On A ChainSaw, WeedEater, Etc. ➜ ruclips.net/video/7-VpdJEJRRw/видео.html Make sure to check out the Saloon here too… Click here for my website ➜ www.stevessmallenginesaloon.com/ Click here for my Parts and Tools Store ➜ www.amazon.com/shop/stevessmallenginesaloon Follow me on Facebook ➜ facebook.com/stevessmallenginesaloon Follow me on Instagram ➜ instagram.com/stevessmallenginesaloon/ Follow me on Twitter ➜ twitter.com/SteveSaloon
Steve's Small Engine Saloon... Sir, you normally provide a wealth of information to your viewers. But, I just retired after making gasoline for 40+ years (going all the way back to leaded gasoline) and can say unequivocally that gasoline does indeed contain some of the bad and worse things on the chart...BUT definitely NOT in the quantities stated. Paraffines are nothing more than wax and are abundant in diesel fuel. Benzene/Aromatics in gasoline is typically measured in PPMs (Parts Per Million). My refinery (720k/barrels a day) strips as much benzene out as possible because it is feed stock for ethylene (plastics production). I could keep going item by item. The information supplied by the product supplier is twisting math to sell their product. A similar tests were done in our Lab for Distillation, VP (vapor pressure), End Point, and Knock-Engine Thresholds. We found these products were nothing more than "Blend-off Stock" in a can...!!! I'm not trying to insult you, Steve, but to enlighten you to the "numbers game" that is used in sales plus a little insight into prime fuels manufacturing...
Has Echo Canada sent you anything about their red armor line of oil and fuel? I've heard nothing but good things about it and it's supposed to actually clean and revitalize your small engine as it works. So maybe you could let us know what you think about this reported magic in a bottle?
I apologize in advance Steve. The reason, I'm calling BS on this one! I'm mid 70's and live in Canada. My lawn mower, weed whacker, chain saws and leaf blowers run on either straight regular gas or gas/oil 50:1. In the fall I just make sure everything is filled and left in the cold. Spring time I fire everything up and I'm off and running. I have a gas golf cart in Arizona that I do the same. Fill it up and leave it. Gets pretty damn hot down there in the summer. Hot or cold. I don't have a problem . Some of the stuff I have is over 10 years old. I don't use fuel stabilizers.
@@elmermohninger6193 I do the same thing except in February I drain the gas tank, add fresh new fuel, let it run for 15 minutes, and then change the oil.
I'm a mechanical engineer and I can't understand why they don't redesign these components so that they are compatible with gas station fuel. Well, that's not totally true. I do understand. They want to sell replacement equipment when it fails or specialty fuels and mixes to keep it from failing.
Good point Shane Martin. The Corporate Muckie-Mucks hate us "Shade-tree", experienced, and Professional Mechanics! They depend on the "don't fix, replace" individuals, and people that don't read their Operator's Manual that is INCLUDED... Duhhh!
We could use different materials ethanol resistant, but you guys bitch about fuel price, how much you think it will cost a carb that dont rust and a carb kit that dont worn out in ethanol? People have what they are willing to pay.
I work at Lowe's, and nearly all outdoor power equipment returned, is for starting issues or won't stay running. All due to "mostly, but not always" user error. Not knowing how to mix fuel properly, store for long periods, general maintenance... Videos like these could help so many people, especially the average homeowner who isn't too small engine savy.
I’ve known about this for some time from working at a small engine repair shop and even though I moved on I still try to help my customers at Home Depot know the difference between them! Thank you for even showing me a few things I didn’t know! 👍🏾
For everyone out there, please listen until the end of the video! Steve recommends storing your engines with this fuel not running it all the time. If this type of fuel was cheaper it would be great to run all the time though. Great video, thank you Steve!
In Belgium we always use it, but it's Aspen, it's way too harmful for health. We trim hedges all day long with hand held hedge trimmers and being in the smoke from regular gas all day is just horrible
I agree and make sure you are using ethanol-free during the season, especially if you are not using it for several weeks, keep that small engine in pristine condition
he should have said that right upfront then, he implied pump gas was so bad thru the video, I turned it off before the end, as I wasn;t buying it. very long video just to recommend a winterization plan. especially as chainsaws don;t get winterized up North where I live, they get used.
I think it might be the formulation of gas in various parts of the country. I have used non ethanol gas, both 91 and 87 octane without issues for over 15 years. I have more than 6 engines from 5 to 20 hp, air and water cooled. It works in the upper mid west. Prices for the canned fuels are insane.
Yeah I'm right there with you even with my chainsaws the same thing I do say though that good old fashioned seafoam in all my equipment to start out the year is just a standard procedure I've done for 30 years and I see no reason to stop doing it cuz I never have issues because of fuel and gumming up stuff like that you know
You're right about the price, it should have gold dust in it for that price. I go through a lot of gas in small engines in a years time. My nephew bought a 5 gallon container of the pre-mixed fuel and I almost passed out when he told me what it costs! As Fran008 stated, "it's cheaper to replace the diaphram and fuel lines every year! I am left to wonder why older gasoline engines and two cycles engines didn't have this problem? My dad spent 3 decades in the tree and firewood business, using multiple chain saws and a log splinter and never ran anything but pump gas through them and never had any problem. It seems like our technology is going backwards!
I don't care how much it costs. I don't make my living with my small engine machines but I want them to start and run when I need them. Not take them apart/rebuild/clean them.
If you actually watch to the end of the video you'll realize that Steve mentions to use this refined fuel for WINTERIZING equipment. Not for necessarily everyday use. The ignorance of some people! Keep it up Steve!
I use engineered fuel in my saws always now, including storage. Switched to premium gas a few times - saw runs like crap every single time I switch over - the old surging rrr RRR rrrr. Switch back to engineered fuel - saw runs like brand new with lots of power. I use it bc I need the power. I do use mixed gas in the weedwacker and lawnmowers & those seem to tolerate it (I run a small amount of engineered fuel thru my carbs after I run my engines dry of regular gas to sit in the carbs for the winter). But my chainsaws definitely don't. I live in a state that likes ethanol in their gas. Ironically, most ethanol-free gas stations are in states that grow corn... which are the biggest lobbyists for ethanol gas... everywhere else. :)
I took your advice about a year and a half ago. I always had a chain saw in the shop for fuel line and carb issues but not any more. Now that's all I run in the trimmer and all 4 chain saws. I also store my sawmill mowers and water pumps with it. Best advice ever. Thanks Steve for all you do
It also can make a difference if you live in an area where you winterize yard equipment for 3 months, or if you winterize for 6-7 months. Great video Steve, thanks!
This is the most UNDERRATED subject known to man, Small engines needing carb overhauls as fast as you can look at them is all because of pump gas, Ethanol is pure garbage, less gas mileage and water in your float bowl, I have a vintage style go kart with a new motor that I refuse to run on corn juice!
I’ve got a STIHL fs90r trimmer….have had it since 2010, I started using moto mix after I learned about it and this is eleventh season of just taking off wall and firing it up, still original plug and have never had to clean spark arrestor
Steve I’ve owned many four and two strokes engines for over 40 years with a lot of Stihl products. I’ve always used premium fuel in running season . When engines are put in storage I drain gas run till they die and remove spark plug and shoot a little oil in piston . Spark plug put back in tight. Done... Everything starts well in spring (Always) luck I don’t think so. Works well in Iowa.👍 This works with jet skis, outboard motors,generators, snow blowers, chain saws, leaf blowers,lawn mowers, everything I own.. Maybe gas is different in Canada.🤔
I am 65 yrs old. I have NEVER EVER had issues with ANY fuel that I've used in my entire life ! and I am a Motor head. Been running motors for my whole life. I have an Echo weed Wacker I bought in 1991. It runs like the day I bought it. I run plain old 87 octane in everything and have never had issues. I say BS !
Being the cheap-ass that i am, I'm still gonna run pump fuel during the work season for that engine, but I'll have to consider using that for winterizing. Maybe start using it later in the season to avoid having to drain a tank. Thanks!!
Used to work at a Stihl dealer. The pre mixed fuel is awesome for emergencies or for storage. I use Stihl 2 stroke oil with pump gas. When im done with my saw or trimmer I run it empty. 15 years later and have not had any fuel related problems. It is about time to adjust the valves on my FS90 though.
One thing I would like to add, (if I may)... years ago, 1996, I bought a new, 18” straight shaft, Husqvarna weed trimmer. I have always used “Sta-Bil” along with the 2cycle oil & fuel additive. I have ALWAYS winterized it by filling the tank completely. Now then,... by running it with both the oil and “Sta-Bil”, I have never, (knockwood) had to have it in the shop! I KNOW, I can set the choke, pull the cord 3 times, and it WILL START! I think the lesson here is, if there is NO AIR in the fuel tank, there is no room for condensation! Just my 2 cents worth. (23 year young Husky, STILL runs like it was NEW)
All I can say is non-ethanol fuel and Stabil in the 4cycles and Opti 2 oil and non-ethanol in the 2 cycles has served me well the last 40 years or so. Love your videos Steve, keep them coming!
Ever since I simply switched to non-ethanol gas, it's eliminated my fuel related problems. I store it with a full tank and it starts right up in the spring.
+1 to Roger Mills recommendation to use AvGas from your local airport. AvGas is minimum 100 octane (usually around 102 or so), has absolutely no alcohol whatsoever, no funky junk additives, and is very stable. Far more stable than any auto-gas with fuel stabilizer added. The higher octane really works well in 2-stroke engines. Your 2-stroke engines will start easier, run quieter (no pre-ignition ping) and smoother then they do with car-gas . I did a full career in the fire service. About 20 years ago we were having problems with the mixed fuel going bad in our equipment and fuel cans on our fire engines. Chainsaws, K-12 saws, generators, extrication tool power units etc. After some research, we switched over to exclusively use AvGas and all those problems ceased. The lead content in the AvGas did and does not cause any problems with engines "designed" to run on lead-free fuel. In addition to boosting the Octane rating of the fuel, the lead provides lubrication. And AvGas just does not go bad. No more lacquering of the carb, no phase-separation of the alcohol and water, no problem with the ultra-light aromatics evaporating off and lowering the octane and making starting hard. Even here in the Peoples Republic of California AvGas is currently only about $5.20 per gallon, a fraction of the cost of Moto-Mix or any of the Quart-Cans of engineered fuel. And AvGas does not deteriorate any of the o-rings, gaskets or seals in your engine or fuel system. I have a Stihl 072 saw that I bought new in 1983. Since new I have exclusively used AvGas and Synthetic 2-Stroke oil (mostly Amsoil with the occasional Klotz) and have never re-built the carb. Finally had to replace the fuel lines for only the second time last year. Still using the original plastic fuel tank.
taildown For those who aren’t airplane educated the gas is called 100LL. low lead. Small airports will sell it and you can put it in 5 gallon cans just ask them first. Most pumps are self service credit card type for after hours flyers. Just ask the line guy at the desk if you can find him before wandering out on the apron.
Bought several new Husqvarna small engines in 2014. Trimmers, blowers, saws...etc. Been using engineered fuel from day 1 and every engine has been absolutely flawless! Easy starts. No performance issues. The reduction in heartache is worth the price.
Thanks so much for this video. I am a retired chemist that worked for Dow and taught in universities. You video is super in its analyses of the fuel and the chemistry of the blends. I very much appreciated you speaking about the benzene. Where I worked I was exposed to both benzene, phenols, and other ring compounds.....there were no old guys working there. 'Nuff said as to the health probems!
I installed a shut off valve on my gas line. My last run for the fall I shut the valve off and let the engine run out of gas. In the spring I open the valve. It takes a few seconds for gas to get into the carborator, but it starts right up. Works like a charm.
Man, I don't even do that. I just dump an excessive amount of seafoam in the tank, and run it for a couple mins to get it through the carbs, then top the tank off to the brim so there's no room for condensation to form. (91oct, no ethanol content fuel) Starts right up after sitting 6+ months.
Yep do not let fuel sit in carb, also if you leave fuel in tank use stabilizer, it keeps gas from turning g to varnish. I just put enough in lawn mower to get yard cut at yrs end and let tank and carb run dry. Any left in my fill can goes into car usually 1 to gallons. Buy new fuel next yr and never more than you can use in a month. Gas does not age well
@@rbeck3200tb40 That is what I do. The shut off valve just gives me the ability to not run all the gas out of the tank. Shut off valves are cheep and easy to instal.
I agree! I go through about 50 Gallons a year, That’s $1850 Dollars a year I could have my lawn Professionally Manicured for that amount. Then I could sit, watch and Drink my Budweiser
Yup, that sound like an arm and a leg. It might be easier learning how to take out ethanol from regular gas by adding a little bit of water to the fuel, shaking it to bond the ethanol to water, let it settle in the bottom for 24hrs then siphon the ethanol free fuel from the top of the mixture to use on your engines.
This video is especially useful for those of us who have worked around raw (gas station) gasoline for years, as it changed in composition. We have soaked parts in gas, and were not careful to avoid skin contact. There is enough information in this video to persuade many-- who otherwise might develop serious diseases-- to be very careful with gasoline and its vapors in the future. Thanks for your time and effort on this publication.
@@catfishbilly3.765 Modern mechanics are aware they cannot treat gasoline like a harmless petrochemical solvent, or another version of alcohol.. The skin is a major contact avenue for all chemicals, good and not so good. Skin contact is how chemical warfare takes its toll, in addition to the lungs. "Normal pollution" is not what it used to be..
@@catfishbilly3.765 In fact, old time fuel was much worse. Before 1970s they put PbEt4 lead tetraethyl in the fuel to increase the octane number, and to lubricate the exhaust ports with PbO. When they forced the removal of PbEt4, there was a lot of resistance, but now we all know it is good. We have catalysts, we do not breath in PbO and half-burned fuel chemicals. Benzene was also a part of the fuel, it is difficult to remove, and even if you remove it, then what are you gonna do with it??? It is really the best way to keep in as a part of our gasoline, and burn it to CO2.
@@bobgreene2892 see my answer to catfish. gasoline penetrates the skin and goes into the bloodstream. this is because it dissolves the fat. Fats and oils repel water and many harmful things that may be in the water.
@@west_park7993I remember the lod leaded fuel. Seems like we didn't experience the kinds of problems we do today. I'm convinced today's problems aren't a result of just ethanol, there's something besides just that causing rubber parts failures. I'm also not convinced corrosion is a result of ethanol.
Personally I've stopped having any carb issues since I've been religiously using sta-bil. If I put gas in a can I put stabilizer in it. My local shop who last worked on my chainsaw gave me that advice and it's done wonders for me. Personally I'll never buy this fancy fuel at the prices they charge.
Been running small engines using sta-bil for 35 years and have never had a carb problem on any of my chainsaws or small generators. I tell guys this and they don't believe me.
My lawn and garden mechanic specifically disagrees with using Stabil (specifically) in combination with running the take empty before storage. In support, over the past 20 years, I discovered for myself the practice results in solids precipitating out of the remaining fuel/stabilizer combination which plugs the jetting over the winter when it evaporates. I cannot say that Stabil is the culprit, BUT in combination with running the fuel line/carb dry and sitting idle over the winter months has resulted in 8 carbs having blockages in the spring where stabilizer in a full tank with the fuel petcock OPEN has never resulted in the precipitants experienced before - in the last 15 years now. (BTW, upon recommendation, I switched to Seafoam in my winter storage generators, lawn & garden equipment, chainsaws, and three [fuel injected] Corvettes). Using the WET storage method, i.e., full tank w/fuel in the carbs/injectors - ready to instantly start when if attempted. Is it because of using the Seafoam vs. Stabil? I cannot say. But, I've never had an issue with starting engines after a winter's nap with either Seafoam or Stabil AS LONG AS THE FUEL SYSTEM REMAINED WET (the revised recommendation by some manufactures - as Steve pointed out. And, I concur.
I disagree with you on some points . Yeah the premixed fuel might supposedly be better for the engines . But let's be honest stihl and husqvarna get the same premimum fuel we get at the pumps and then they use the same 2 stroke oil as well . They are going to use the cheapest fuel and oil possible yet they charge the consumer an outrageous price. The real difference if anything is they mix it properly and add some additives as most homeowners dont . I'd rather buy gas station fuel and run their oil than pay $ 35 a gallon for premixed fuel . The problem with gas station fuel is its self life of 30 days before it goes stale . If you refuel the machine often and keep fresh fuel around then chances are you will be fine . The only time I run premixed fuel is right before winter I run a tank through the engine. But that's my opinion. Great video keep up the good work !
I kind of agree with you and by the way you said pre mix was $35 a gallon but it's actually $89 a gallon. If you're a large commercial outfit I can see them using it to offset maintenance costs but the regular lawnmower and weedwacker owner is not going to fork over $89 a gallon.
@@jwayne777 absolutely! I farm and do some landscaping and I know all to well the high fuel costs . We have a tractor that holds 400 gallons of fuel at $6 a gallon ! Take care !
@@markchidester6239 yeah I'm a mechanic and I've seen a few machines with issues from running premixed fuel . Now these instances were a couple of carb issues and one with a melted piston. I don't recommend running premixed fuel all the time . We run 1 tank it before we winterize the equipment. The premixed fuel can burn hotter than regular mixed fuel . Then you have to think about if it was blended properly or if the oil/fuel ratio is wrong.
Good god your talking complete bollocks. The fuel is not like fuel from the pumps akalyte fuel has a shelf life of 5 years whereas pump gasoline/petrol lasts about 3 months if your storing an engine this give this type of fuel a huge advantage.
Steve, I've been doing this for four years with engineered fuel. True Fuel & Moto Mix when I get to the Stihl dealer. I've stored my walk behind, my trimmer, all my brush gear and even my zero turn mower with these fuels in the tanks all winter. Come spring everything starts on the very first go pull start items take a single pull and they are up and running. My oil in the crank case even stays cleaner at drain intervals. You've hit this right on target my friend.
MotoMix or another high quality Engineered fuel is the only fuel that has been ran in my Stihl string trimmer. I’ve owned it for ten years, I cut 3 acres of grass for once a week for 10 years with that thing. I cleared that three acres in North Carolina with a Farm Boss Chainsaw and the that trimmer, that’s allI had. I just purchased a Husky Lawnmower because my knees are gone, not because my Trimmers went bad. Superb instructional Video. Every High School student should have your videos as part as their general education, we’d have a lot less dummies out there.
I did this "non" winterization with my Husqvarna gas string trimmer (2 stroke) and Husqvarna fuel, leaving the gas in. Just started it up for the first time, and... IT STARTED AND RAN!! I expect Husqy's engineered fuel is similar to the Moto-Mix in composition. Way better than needing to pull & clean a carb.
Here is some food for thought as well. When you go to a gas station and it has a multi-selection for the type of gas you want, just remember that if you are filling up a 1-2gal gas can with, for eg., premium, you will be filling your can with whatever’s the last choice of fuel was made for at least 1gallon. The pipes from the tank in the ground and the pump and hose will be full of the last gas chosen. Put the first two gallons in your vehicle then fill the Jerry can. So if your out with the gang on all your motorcycles and pull into gas station to fuel up with premium, be the next or last guy to fill your tank. Great video Steve. Great!
I stopped using ethanol a couple of years ago, and haven't had any issues since. I still believe ethanol is the main culprit, and could there be a chance Stihl is just promoting their product, and using this channel as a vehicle for their sales pitch? I've been googling this science, and cannot find these claims anywhere other than from Stihl. Pre-mix fuels are cost prohibitive to most people, and in my opinion, unnecessary.
I agree. Several years ago I eliminated ethanol from my weed eaters, chainsaws, leaf blowers, mole killer ,and motorcycles. I have not had trouble since I did this. I think this fuel is not necessary.
@@stefanodogg280 Yeah if you don't have much stuff to do battery would be the way to go. But I agree with the other two comments, I switched about 5 years to non ethanol and haven't had anymore problems. I still however run a tank of fuel mixed with mechanic in a bottle for the first and last tank of the season in the my equipment.
@@jruss9109 I have 8 gas chainsaws including two Stihl Magnum types and I too use premium non ethanol gas for them, draining the tanks and running them dry before storage. I've simply found that smaller battery powered saws can get a lot of tasks accomplished where I used to use a gas saw with all the hassle they entail. These batteries are versatile, if you also get the weedwhacker and the inverter.. which can run a laptop, several lights and more in a power outage
@@stefanodogg280 I'd love to get the 60v Dewalt since all my other tools are Dewalt, but atm I have no reason to replace my lil Husky 440, that thing has been a beast.
Very informative. However, my experience is that gas-pump gas works fine with no problems--as long as you do a couple of things. My 13 YO Husqqvarna with Honda GCV160 has been fine. I run the tank and carb dry at the end of the season to prevent gumming up the carb jet. Premium gas to eliminate ethanol. Once when it became harder to start, I ran some Sea Foam through the carb's air intake to decarbonize the combustion chamber (lots of YT videos on how to do this) and it has been great ever since. Almost all problems are user neglect in some way.
I've always put my saws away 'wet' with either Star-tron or Sta-bil in them. Not one problem over the last 25 yrs, but this looks like something worthwhile to try....thanks Steve!
So, storing with Star-tron & Sta-bil has kept you trouble-free for 25 yrs (as it has me, as well). It makes no sense to me to change strategies from what I know works & is specifically designed for storing for several months to something not specifically designed for storage, is more expensive, & is unproven (at least by me & others I personally know). To make wise choices in today's world, one must also understand the unholy marriage of marketing & capitalism, where corporate marketers are paid by the greedy profit-driven corporations to convince us we need to pay them more & more as they become ever more wealthy & powerful & control us more & more.
Good video a always Steve. I buy gas straight out of the pump, regular, 87 octane, usually 10% ethanol, no stabilizers or any other additives, whichever station is closest. Sometimes I don't start one of my engines for over a year. I've never had a problem. Just saying
Many decades of using Sta-Bil in both 10% ethanol and ethanol-free gas with no problems. In the Fall I start my blower and trimmer, dump the fuel out, then continue running it until it stops. In the Spring, both machines start and run with ZERO problems. I practically wore out an American-made Homelite blower and trimmer doing the same thing. Gave them to a friend who did repairs for the parts. I’ve had and Echo trimmer for over 10 years, perfect, and a Stihl blower, 4 years old and expect no problems with them. Same goes for my 4-stroke mowers and tiller.
As someone who works for a major outdoor power equipment manufacturer, fuel issues are the #1 problem that cause equipment starting and running failures. Please listen to the man! This is great info and I learned a lot from this video beyond blaming everything on the ethanol. I knew there had to be more to the pump gas story. I only use non-ethanol fuel and stabilize every ounce as soon as it's in the gas for during regular use, but the winterization technique with the engineered fuel is a great "best practice" for off-season storage. Running a tank full of engineered fuel every so often will also help keep your fuel systems clean. Thanks Steve!
You have a misplaced modifier in your first sentence. As written you're saying that the FUEL ISSUES is/are "someone who works for a major outdoor power equipment manufacturer".
Well how many years have you been trouble free? I personally lose a carbureator less than every five years, so I am satisfied. Some of my carbs are over 10 years old on pump gas. I am thinking of changing to engineered fuel for the cleaner burn and less carbon build up and the inconveniance of mixing.
Well, I've had my Craftsman for 19 years and used Mid-Grade gas station fuel and I've never even looked at the oil dipstick, let alone changed the oil. I did have to replace the string pull when the rope frayed.
As a lawncare professional, I have to say that service and repair is less expensive overall than the cost of premixed fuel. Perhaps for a typical use homeowner, premix is a better option.
Yes, for a homeowner premix is great typically as they don't use their equipment on a daily basis, and some equipment sits for several weeks to several months so premix for that is great.... For the pros that are using their equipment daily premix don't make any sense as you are going through your fuel fast enough that you won't have any issues.
Thanks for the info. I recently purchased a Stihl 361C and was running 90 octane non-ethanol fuel. That fuel worked great in my older Stihl saws - not so in my 261C. I have been told by my local Stihl dealer that my non-ethanol 90 does not have enough octane to adequately run that saw. My problem was once the saw got hot - it kept vapor locking on me - particularly on summer days. I started running the engineered fuel and it runs like a champ. I asked the dealer - what do the high fuel use arborists and loggers do. Cost of this stuff would be prohibitive. He said they run ethanol containing fuels with a higher than 90 octane rating then add an ethanol stabilizing / removing additive. Make any sense?
Thanx Steve thought I knew better for over 30 years! Just finished winterizing lawn mowers and chainsaws, snow blowers, trimmer's! You're advice makes my machines run like new!!!
I’ve been using the Premix. I find it starts each time much easier. For years I mixed my own, but my stuff never started as well. It’s expensive as “H” but the last thing I want is one arm longer than the other when I have work to do!! I might go back to mixing my own considering the price of pre mix. I’ll just try to keep my gas fresh and I won’t buy large amounts..
I’ve been using engineered mixes fuel in my 2-stroke small engines exclusively from the beginning and I believe I have far less issues than friends that mix gas station fuel.
Ok..Steve..Your right about pump fuel...My method..Mr. Funnel First..Takes water and particles out..Then Star Tron Fuel Enzyme Treatment..I live up at 7000 ft. above sea level..Starting fluid always...
@@Evanx373 Great point but we are not considering the potential health risks of gas station fuel. It is not clear what that is. It would be good to know more. What price do we put on our health?
I like the videos you make. You know your stuff. I was surprised to hear the storage method completely do a 180. I always store my equipment with fuel in it. The reason I do it is because I have never had to replace a dry rotted fuel line. So using this method I have never had trouble waking my equipment up after a long winter.
I am going back to TruFuel. I ran out and was unable to get any. I used a gallon of. Citgo 93 with Ethanol Shield. My power saw has been running like crap. Starting issues, etc. Back to TruFuel for my power saw. I am dumping the Citgo mix immediately! Thanks! I thought my saw was going funky.
Interesting, at the end of every season I collect all my small engines (4 Sthil) two mowers and drain the tanks completely. Once drained I let them run till they stop. The older ones for at least 25 to 30 years and the new ones are at least 5 to 8 years as best as I can remember. Still going strong each spring. Snow blower and generator get the same loving treatment at the end of winter. Just checked Amazon for the Moto Mix, $160.00 Canadian plus taxes for 4 quarts. Highway robbery in my mind. 🙀 My craftsman ride-on lasted 23 years then I gave it away to someone for parts.👍🇨🇦👨🦳
Me too. But it's no guarantee. I have a 4-stroke Makita leaf blower that is having carb problems. It's never had anything other than alcohol-free fuel. Been diligent about maintenance, but I'll be damned if it doesn't run like shit. I don't know what's true. If what our boy, Steve says, even alcohol-free fuel is 40% bunk. Our other choice? Buy the fuel that costs 20$ a gallon. What guarantee do we have that the $20 a gallon fuel isn't going to leave us with a clogged jet?
@@stevetdean1966 Just be diligent keeping the fuel clean of crud. For long storage periods like generators I always run the carb dry with never a problem.
I've been using nothing but Tru Fuel in my Backpack Blower since the day I got it - Never had a problem at all over the past 7 years. Going to do the same for the new chainsaw I picked up. Since I don't do my own maintenance (other than minor things) I feel that I'm ahead in the long run. Thanks Steve for the explanation.
Been using premium fuel in all the Echos using Echo Power Blend extended life oil for over well over ten yrs, so far I've spent $25 on carb kits and fuel primer bulbs. One thing I always do is give the machine a shake before starting just to remix oil in tank and don't store with a full tank. Good idea for some people to use proprietary fuel.
I always run premium with a high quality oil like stihl or husqvarna in my personal saws. That being said, when I was an arborist, we used regular 87 octane in all our saws, I worked as an arborist for 6 years and never had an issue, some of more commonly used saws had hundreds of tanks of gas run through them, with no issues. I believe the biggest thing is to run the saws regularly and keep fresh gas in them.
@@xxvodanhxx Use the lowest grade octane fuel you can find for these small engines. High octane doesn't mean higher power; it just means it has a higher resistance to knocking and detonation--features needed for high compression ratio engines (performance engines, etc).
I have a Cub Cadet rider that is 12 years old, a Cub Cadet zero turn that is 6 years old, a Cub Cadet tiller that is 6 years old and a Stihl chain saw that is 6 years old. All run on the cheapest pump gas, never get winterized and always start right up and run great.
I use regular gas and oil in my equipment for the summer. I winterize with Trufuel. I empty gas tank and let run till it dies. Then I refill with trufuel and run for about 5 minutes. Shut er down and store in an unheated shed.
In Belgium, we trim hedges all day long in summer and always use pre mix fuel like Moto-Mix but it's Aspen. We use it because it's better fot the engine, it's already mixed and it's not that harmful for the health. I can ensure you if you're hedge trimming all day and you breath all those fuel fumes , you feel horrible at the end lf the day. We always use hand held hedge trimmers, but extended trimmers for reaching high places
When I bought a new Stihl string trimmer last summer I bought two gallons if the Stihl fuel as well. The dealer said it doubles the warranty? By getting the fuel with the implement. Can't wait to get a new Stihl chainsaws this summer. Thanks for the great informative videos!!!
I was told by a stihl dealer if you bought it with your equipment warranty was doubled. I’ve never used this stuff and know it’s expensive but I also only use 2 gallons a season with my trimmer,hedge trimmer and chainsaw. For people in the business as a profession it would be very expensive but the small use homeowner how much do we really use.
Very informative on the contents in the can fuel , thanks. Tell my customers to use it as much as they can. Some use a lot of fuel through out the summer cutting several lawns. They use gallons of fuel. I tell them, when they approach the end of the season where they only have one or two mowings left to go use pre-mixed Fuel in the equipment so it will survive the winter nicely. And it works. Thanks Steve. Great video.
I only run TruFuel in my Stihl Chainsaw, I have never used pump gas, and it runs like a champ. Since it's shelf life is so good, I always keep 2 unopened quarts around.
I work for the local power company and a few years ago we switched to motomix. We don't use our saw everyday but when we need them we need them in a bad way. Before we switched it was almost a weekly deal to haul a saw to the repair shop for fuel issues. Since we switched it has cut repair bills by 2 thirds. Maybe even more. For my home saw and weed eater I've been using Coleman fuel mixed with stink 50:1 mix for several years. No issues at all and runs just as good as the stihl mix. Plus it over half price of moto fuel . In all reality moto fuel is Coleman fuel. I know all the rc model aircraft guys that fly the super high dollar airplanes use Coleman fuel mixed with stihl oil. It works fantastic.
I dont see where folks are constantly having issues? I per mix my fuel and sometimes dont run my equipment till the next hunting season....never a problem. That's my blowers, riding mower Weed wacker... mowers. Same thing with my buddies.
I used to dump the fuel after the season ,then run it and choke it dry . After a couple trips to the repair shop and spending $$$ I decided to try this. I have used aspen and motomix. They are both great. Yes its expensive but no frustration or trips to the repair shop. For the little fuel the average person uses ,I think it is worth it.
Alkylate fuels are great for long storage. Just last week borrowed my father's secondary "weed eater". He told me that it had been sitting for was it almost four years in storage, including cold long Finnish winters. Popped the fuel tank open and smelled the tank and almost no odor. He said it had alkylate fuel in it and we topped it off and it was about six pulls and it almost started. With less than 20 pulls it was running and it was running just fine and it revved just fine after warmup. Just like it would've been used couple months ago. From experience I can tell that after few years I've had plenty of issues with motorcycles and other bit larger carburetor engines, pretty much always requiring complete carb cleaning. That safety thing you mentioned is no joke either. Especially with chainsaws and other handheld equipment you'll for sure inhale exhaust gasses.
I started using this premixed fuel in my chainsaws three years ago. On my last tank for my saws I fill up with premix and run my saw then top off for winter storage and so far no problems with gummed up carbs or cracked fuel lines.The store bought fuel is too expensive to use if your cutting cords of wood but for storage in the winter its fine.
Also, if you want to put premium fuel in your gas cans, make sure to clear the hose of whatever gas (probably regular unleaded) the previous customer used. I usually put 1-2 gallons of premium into my vehicle first, then fill my gas can. If you pump the gas into your can from the start, you're actually not getting the gas you're wanting, and if you're only buying a gallon or 2 that can make a big difference.
Most manufacturers don't recommend premium gas. I know Hustler doesn't and neither does Echo. I had a 200hp HPDI Yamaha and they recommended regular gas.
Finally somebody besides me gets it about junk gas big oil is pawning off on us down here in southeast Texas regular (87 octane?) smells a lot like diesel a big tnx to you steve
Some good points there mate. I remember an engineer I worked with many years ago telling me how bad benzine is. Apparently it was originally added to fuel when lead was banned as an additive. He argued that benzine is so harmful we were better off with the lead. But in two stroke engines we don't need either, obviously.
I bought the Husqvarna 50:1 Fuel+Oil XP+ fuel for the PoulanPro PR5020 20" chainsaw I bought because Husqvarna makes PoulanPro. Now that I know all about gas station Premium gas, I'll stay with this or maybe price the Stihl to compare. However, when I'm finished using it (haven't used it yet), I'll drain all the bar oil and fuel out to store it because I probably won't be needing it again for quit a while. Thanks, Steve! 👍👍 You're the man.
Our fire dept in Texas transitioned from gas station fuel to the canned fuel several years ago. Our Stihl saws and ventilation fans were constantly in the shop prior to the change. After using the canned fuel, our stuff started and ran great. We don’t use that much fuel so the cost wasn’t that bad. I just bucked approx. 70 trees a few weeks ago. I blew through the canned fuel and that cut in to my profit quite a bit. At $25 a gallon, I spent nearly $75 on fuel. That stunk. I wish there was an in between source that was good but not so expensive.
I've used SeaFoam in any and all gas cans, not including 2-stroke, and have left engines for > 5 years, and had zero varnish, and immediate start. The engineered fuel is nice, but the value is extremely poor based on its pricing. Toluene (SeaFoam) does a gr8 job IMO.
How do I use it. If I have gas left in the saw and think I won't use it for a while, add some seafoam? How much? If I storing it for a long time, run it empty and leave it empty? Or leave it with only some seafoam? Or leave it with se gas and seafoam?
I have 2 cycle engines. I will use regular gas/oil mixture in my equipment all year long until the end of the season nears and run it dry. Then Ill use the expensive "good stuff" out of the can until I store them for winter. Its my opinion that it cleans the engines and keeps them running awesome.
5 лет назад+15
So for everyday use it's just overkill. But for storing those mixes may be a wise choice.
I agree also. For the average homeowner it's probably better. The average homeowner may go through only 1- 2 can during mowing season. 1 gallon gas oil mix might be too much for the average household.
Very interesting facts there Steve, many thanks. I have been running Aspen4 in my generator for a few years since new and winterisation in my dirt bikes. Changed to Aspen2 in my three pro saws, a few months ago, and have noticed an improvement in starting and running. Work for an arborist business as a Groundie where I need reliability and less harmful emissions is a bonus too. No more fiddling around mixing fuel either! All Petrol in the UK has ethanol in it now, just not worth the hassle if I don’t use one of the saws for a few weeks.
I use Briggs and Stratton Fuel Fit mixed with ordinary fuel station petrol ( OK gas!) in my equipment. ( Plus Stihl two stroke oil in my two stroke engines) l have a Stihl 038AVE saw that is well over 30 years old , I've never touched the carb yet! However l always let the carbs run dry before l put them away for the winter .
We’ve had this fuel for around 10 years and they can’t make the engines capable to handle the fuel yet? so instead we make new fuel to go with the engines?
more refining of fuel,greater the cost.....It would be easier to redevelop fuel than re designing new engines to suit,which would be @ higher cost,take diesels for example,run on less refined fuel but cost to maintain it is greater vs petrol engine.
Well it's not the engines fault the fuel is crap and has a 30-day shelf life. Ethanol laced fuel will absorb water into it whether it's in a fuel can or modern engine. Until we make engines that run on water, trying to run an engine on water will always prove problematic no matter how much engineering we throw at it. TL;DR If you want to store equipment full of fuel for longer than a month, you first need fuel that's designed to have a shelf life longer than 30 days.
Personally,I would prefer some methanol blend as a fuel of choice,using a filter separation system to bypass water attracted to it.Better all round tbh:)
Ethanol becomes unstable after sitting for long periods. The engines CAN handle ethanol, but ethanol doesn’t handle sitting for lengthy periods. If your small engined equipment is used every day, then no problem.
Your correct, but Stihl and Husqi determine the specifications for the fuel and put their name on it. Just like auto manufacturers do not make their own coolants, lubricants, etc. but sell it at the parts counter.
I have been using normal unleaded fuel that I manually mix with two stroke oil in my equipment for the past eight years while living in my part of country Australia and have had no issues with my equipment. Oh sure, I expect that the Stihl fuel is a premium product, just like their very expensive chainsaws are premium equipment, but for us more common folk, that can only afford so much, in my experience I can say that using just regular fuel is fine. Mind you, if I ever did save up enough money to buy a $1000 plus chainsaw I would probably buy the more expensive fuel, though I doubt I could afford the postage costs. But I do love the way that Steve presents his videos.
Hey Steve.....I watched your previous winterizing vid using stabilizor. I run regular pump fuel over the year but in winter, I drain everything off and fill with Aspen 2 and Aspen 4 (for my ride on and push mowers). Not cheap but it's peace of mind for me. You've just validated what I'm doing! Not often I'm ahead of the game! Awesome vids bruv....keep 'em coming! Hi from the United Kingdom!
Thanks for sharing this. I've heard (and said) a lot of dumb things about why gasoline from the station is (or isn't) bad for small engines. And I've cleaned a few carburetors and junked a few lawn mowers that might have lasted longer had I known what I know now.
My 10year old 2cycle chainsaw is used perhaps twice a year and has always been hard to start and suffers from vapor lock when hot. I found that the engineered quart bottle, 50:1 premixed, 94octane, ethanol-free gas gives me much more dependable operation. I do drain and run dry after every use. In my experience, you need to minimize gumming/varnish and use high octane for hot weather operation. My second choice would be no-ethanol, premium gas with Stabil added.
Great video! I’ve noticed that pump gas tends to give my modern equipment a hard time, but I’ve never had a problem running it in vintage equipment. Case in point, my 12 horse Briggs and Stratton 4-stroke from 1975 has been run on standard 87 octane pump gas and it has never had an issue, other than the gasket beneath the sediment bowl needing replaced once, it is on my old wood splitter and the damn thing fires up every spring. My Echo SRM300 brush cutter from the early 80’s has an original carburetor that has never been rebuilt as does my SRM220. Both machines run 40:1 mixed ethanol fuel with zero problems and run like brand new. New Husqvarna, Stihl, Jonsered, Craftsman etc etc is built chincier than a happy meal hot wheel. Manufacturers are looking at the balance sheet and cutting corners I reckon!
@@jasonjrf Pretty neat to hear someone else callin’ It “weed whippin”! Lot of folks cock their head to the side when I call it that. 😆 And I agree, I use up a five gallon tank very quick and I mix my gas in old five quart oil jugs and they won’t release vapors until the cap blows off, which hasn’t happened to me yet. I’ve seen gas cans with pressure relief valves and caps that will leech out vapor nonstop and wreck the gas in short order. Six months down the road you’re left with varnish that will toast a carb quick! Fella with a RUclips channel about small engines was talking about mix gas having a three week shelf-life and I bet it’s for that very reason.
I'm guessing, this applies to 2 or 4 stroke outboard motors also. Should relive the yearly overhauls on carburetors especially because of longer storage periods .
Great video I’m fighting a carb issue w my sons motorcycle love the input I think the gas is the problem only one of the 2 cylinders is getting hot gotta be a fuel issue but I need to check the compression it has spark
Hey Steve, love the topics and info on your channel. Does the gas without ethanol have all the bad and ugly chemicals in it too. I have gone to non-ethenol gas in all my small engines and have had good success by doing that. Do you think going to one of these other fuels would be better and if so, why?? Thank T.
I've been winterizing my equipment with engineered fuel for 3 years now without any issues. It is expensive so I just run the tank dry at the end of season and run engineered fuel into it and leave it and haven't had an issue starting up come the spring or well winter with the snowblowers yet. When I'm running equipment daily though I'm using regular gas from the pump, 2 cycles since I don't use them as often I stay with engineered fuel all the time to avoid having to deal with those carbs.
Dean Mavis premium still has ethanol. Just as much as regular. Only difference is the octane rating. Premium burns slower, so unless you have a high compression engine, some of the premium goes out the exhaust unburned, and your engine has less power.
@@beanolatte2682 Who is saying premium unleaded is ethanol free? It even says on the sticker at the pump that the fuel contains x% ethanol. If these folks are talking about the recreational gasoline, which is usually 93 octane, then they should specify. Always read the sticker. If there is no sticker then assume there is ethanol.
Really though, if you're using chainsaws, chippers, mowers and brushcutters most days just for your own land, buying this premium stuff isn't an option. But I WILL be removing the ethanol from all my forecourt fuel from now on, and will use stabilisers.
Exactly....if you use the equipment frequently the premix stuff isn't worth it, but for many of us that don't use our equipment very often, it makes more sense. For me for example, I run my trimmer and blower maybe once a month, through a season of use I maybe go through one of the 1/2 gallon cans of premix fuel. I'm also slowly going to battery powered equipment so my gas stuff sees even less use now, so the premix makes far more sense in my case.
@@wildbill23c Yup. I'm moving more towards cordless chainsaws as I can do my coppicing with them. All else still needs petrol or several years life extention so as I can do it with a scythe.
A couple of years ago I switched to the pre mixed fuel. Immediately my chainsaw worked better. I thought it was because of my inaccurate oil/fuel ratios. Now I know!
Seems silly that small engine manufactures use materials that are damaged by gas station gasoline. Its almost as if they want there equipment to fail or for you to by there special fuel. This is why I switched over to electric tools (string trimmer & light use chain saw). I don't have to worry about the issues associated with small engine problems because of the fuel. Issue for me is that to do the maintenance on a gas-powered tool, takes more time than then for the job I need to use the tool for! The point of a tool is to save time & make the job easier.
OH HELL YESSSSS Guy Tech,,,gas powered crap is becoming a thing of the past,,,with the advances in both battery technology and electric motor technology only a serious dink would chose gas over electric give a choice,,,,electric is size for size and weight for weight WAY more powerfull than gas as well as energy put in versus work gotten out electric has it all over gas,,,just this past winter I decided to get a new snowblower because my gas one was getting a bit wore out tom say the least,,,so even though they were a bit more money I decided to give electric a try because all the hassle of a gas one (easier to throw batteries on a charger than drag out gas cans and all that crap),,,well I'll never go back to gas,,,after the second time this past winter using the electric one I gave my neighbor my old gas crap as well as a full 5 gallon can of gas to go with it,,,the electric ABOSOLUTELY KICKS the gas ones ass in every way, I bought the snow joe 100 volt IONPRO 24 inch cordless 2 stage with 4 extra batteries and only once have I had to use the extra back up batteries because they ran out of juice before I finnished my rougly 50 foot long driveway and 50x50 foot parking area as well as my 25x4 foot walkway between the house and shop,,,and that was only because I got lazy and let the snow get deeper than about 10 inches,,,If I didn't have a gardener that did my lawn mowing I'd buy an electric mower to go with the snowblower,,but I pretty much got rid off all that crap when I retired and other than winter snow removal (because i actually enjoy getting out in the winter) don't own any lawn equiptment anymore,,,but the little i do own is electric,,,I am a mechanic though and all my rattle guns that ar air powered have been replaced by electric cordless millwaukee as well all my wood working type tools with the same,,,,no stupid extension cords, air hoses (I even have one of those cordless air compressors to use on tires and what not and it works GREAT) or gas cans to drag out, or even noisy air compressors to listen while they try to keep up with the air tools is a much more pleasent world.
@S2 turbine That's exactly why for the time being I'm staying away from battery equipment as well. What the industry needs to do is come up with battery standards where one brand of size x will fit any brand of equipment. Right now its too proprietary to keep cost down.
I found just running the engine dry was very effective in keeping the equipment working the next season. It’s when I forget to run it try that I have to pay someone to fix my stuff.
This use to be a recommended practice, but there will always be traces of fuel in the system even after running it dry - especially in bigger carbs with a bowl. It only takes a little bit of stale, dirty, water-contaminated or just plain bad fuel to cause gum, varnish or corrosion. Plus running dry exposes fuel lines and other rubber or plastic fuel system components to air (oxygen) which can cause deterioration over time.
@@VBCJesusSaves usually if I’m on my game I’ll put fuel stabilizer in the tank and let the engine run for about 5 minutes and then I drain the tank the best I can by syphon and then start the engine again and run it dry. I’m not sure if that would solve the bowl issue but I certainly found that approach better than just run it dry without stabilizer. 🤷♂️
@@richvail7551 Just listen to Steve and fill with engineered fuel if your machine is going to sit for at least 30 days or more. It's not cheap, but neither is a carb replacement. You'll never run the bowl dry. You can take it off and clean it out, but who wants to do that on every machine. Stabilizer is essential if you're using pump gas, however, it isn't the ultimate solution for off-season. Today's pump gas isn't what grandpa used to use. Cheers!
In 1988 I purchased a Honda lawnmower and a John Deere snowblower. In the following years, I used midgrade ethanol-free fuel. I would buy 5 gallons at a time and treat the fuel with Stabil. Whatever gas was leftover at the end of the season I would burn in my car. I did the usual recommended maintenance. I sold my duplex in 2020 and I gave both of those units to the new owner and they were still working great after 32 years of use using gas station fuel. When I use to cut a lot of wood I also used the same fuel in my chain saws and again no problems. I would never pay 20 bucks a gallon for some specialty fuel.
Click here for MotoMix fuel ➜ amzn.to/2Po5VwB
Click here for TruFuel ➜ amzn.to/2UvuGL2
Click here for Husqvarna Fuel ➜ amzn.to/2UoG0IV
Check out these other informative videos:
How To Winterize A Lawn Mower, Generator, Etc. ➜ ruclips.net/video/qccdo2UMMsE/видео.html
How To Winterize a Chainsaw, Weedeater, Blower or Trimmer ➜ ruclips.net/video/FEmT8qUoD0E/видео.html
How To Winterize/Maintain The Battery on a Riding Mower ➜ ruclips.net/video/CJmlFxcyw44/видео.html
How To Rebuild A Carburetor On A ChainSaw, WeedEater, Etc. ➜ ruclips.net/video/7-VpdJEJRRw/видео.html
Make sure to check out the Saloon here too…
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Steve's Small Engine Saloon... Sir, you normally provide a wealth of information to your viewers. But, I just retired after making gasoline for 40+ years (going all the way back to leaded gasoline) and can say unequivocally that gasoline does indeed contain some of the bad and worse things on the chart...BUT definitely NOT in the quantities stated. Paraffines are nothing more than wax and are abundant in diesel fuel. Benzene/Aromatics in gasoline is typically measured in PPMs (Parts Per Million). My refinery (720k/barrels a day) strips as much benzene out as possible because it is feed stock for ethylene (plastics production). I could keep going item by item. The information supplied by the product supplier is twisting math to sell their product. A similar tests were done in our Lab for Distillation, VP (vapor pressure), End Point, and Knock-Engine Thresholds. We found these products were nothing more than "Blend-off Stock" in a can...!!!
I'm not trying to insult you, Steve, but to enlighten you to the "numbers game" that is used in sales plus a little insight into prime fuels manufacturing...
Has Echo Canada sent you anything about their red armor line of oil and fuel? I've heard nothing but good things about it and it's supposed to actually clean and revitalize your small engine as it works. So maybe you could let us know what you think about this reported magic in a bottle?
TOMMY SAULTER interesting 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
I apologize in advance Steve. The reason, I'm calling BS on this one! I'm mid 70's and live in Canada. My lawn mower, weed whacker, chain saws and leaf blowers run on either straight regular gas or gas/oil 50:1. In the fall I just make sure everything is filled and left in the cold. Spring time I fire everything up and I'm off and running. I have a gas golf cart in Arizona that I do the same. Fill it up and leave it. Gets pretty damn hot down there in the summer. Hot or cold. I don't have a problem . Some of the stuff I have is over 10 years old. I don't use fuel stabilizers.
@@elmermohninger6193 I do the same thing except in February I drain the gas tank, add fresh new fuel, let it run for 15 minutes, and then change the oil.
I'm a mechanical engineer and I can't understand why they don't redesign these components so that they are compatible with gas station fuel. Well, that's not totally true. I do understand. They want to sell replacement equipment when it fails or specialty fuels and mixes to keep it from failing.
I agree...
Good point Shane Martin.
The Corporate Muckie-Mucks hate us "Shade-tree", experienced, and Professional Mechanics!
They depend on the "don't fix, replace" individuals, and people that don't read their Operator's Manual that is INCLUDED... Duhhh!
We could use different materials ethanol resistant, but you guys bitch about fuel price, how much you think it will cost a carb that dont rust and a carb kit that dont worn out in ethanol? People have what they are willing to pay.
Bingo.
Its completely due to cost.
I work at Lowe's, and nearly all outdoor power equipment returned, is for starting issues or won't stay running. All due to "mostly, but not always" user error. Not knowing how to mix fuel properly, store for long periods, general maintenance... Videos like these could help so many people, especially the average homeowner who isn't too small engine savy.
Agreed!
I’ve known about this for some time from working at a small engine repair shop and even though I moved on I still try to help my customers at Home Depot know the difference between them! Thank you for even showing me a few things I didn’t know! 👍🏾
You're Welcome...
For everyone out there, please listen until the end of the video! Steve recommends storing your engines with this fuel not running it all the time. If this type of fuel was cheaper it would be great to run all the time though. Great video, thank you Steve!
Thank You...and You're Welcome...
In Belgium we always use it, but it's Aspen, it's way too harmful for health. We trim hedges all day long with hand held hedge trimmers and being in the smoke from regular gas all day is just horrible
Exactly - Steve is a Smart Functioning Drinking man - like me !!! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
I agree and make sure you are using ethanol-free during the season, especially if you are not using it for several weeks, keep that small engine in pristine condition
he should have said that right upfront then, he implied pump gas was so bad thru the video, I turned it off before the end, as I wasn;t buying it. very long video just to recommend a winterization plan. especially as chainsaws don;t get winterized up North where I live, they get used.
Steve. So happy you have not given up on us you tubers .I don't blame you with the general public. Too much stress at times. Love your show.
I think it might be the formulation of gas in various parts of the country. I have used non ethanol gas, both 91 and 87 octane without issues for over 15 years. I have more than 6 engines from 5 to 20 hp, air and water cooled. It works in the upper mid west. Prices for the canned fuels are insane.
With u
Canned fuels are only good for storage. Especially tru fuel. That stuff is no good.
Yeah I'm right there with you even with my chainsaws the same thing I do say though that good old fashioned seafoam in all my equipment to start out the year is just a standard procedure I've done for 30 years and I see no reason to stop doing it cuz I never have issues because of fuel and gumming up stuff like that you know
Same here in Texas. My equipment runs like crap on canned fuel you couldn't pay me to run that stuff.
The pre mixed fuel is way out of budget 4 many people. If they want us use it they need to shrink there heads an make it affordable
Way way over priced
its cheaper to replace diaphragm and fuel lines you get it from china for few bucks
I saw Quarts (liter) was $13 I can clean my own carb
You're right about the price, it should have gold dust in it for that price. I go through a lot of gas in small engines in a years time. My nephew bought a 5 gallon container of the pre-mixed fuel and I almost passed out when he told me what it costs! As Fran008 stated, "it's cheaper to replace the diaphram and fuel lines every year! I am left to wonder why older gasoline engines and two cycles engines didn't have this problem? My dad spent 3 decades in the tree and firewood business, using multiple chain saws and a log splinter and never ran anything but pump gas through them and never had any problem. It seems like our technology is going backwards!
I don't care how much it costs. I don't make my living with my small engine machines but I want them to start and run when I need them. Not take them apart/rebuild/clean them.
If you actually watch to the end of the video you'll realize that Steve mentions to use this refined fuel for WINTERIZING equipment. Not for necessarily everyday use. The ignorance of some people! Keep it up Steve!
Thanks Mike...
I thought it was to stop from getting cancer of the blood that comes from daily use. I don't wanna die.
I use engineered fuel in my saws always now, including storage. Switched to premium gas a few times - saw runs like crap every single time I switch over - the old surging rrr RRR rrrr. Switch back to engineered fuel - saw runs like brand new with lots of power. I use it bc I need the power.
I do use mixed gas in the weedwacker and lawnmowers & those seem to tolerate it (I run a small amount of engineered fuel thru my carbs after I run my engines dry of regular gas to sit in the carbs for the winter). But my chainsaws definitely don't. I live in a state that likes ethanol in their gas. Ironically, most ethanol-free gas stations are in states that grow corn... which are the biggest lobbyists for ethanol gas... everywhere else. :)
@xamot80 If you know everything then why watch?
Add stabil
I took your advice about a year and a half ago. I always had a chain saw in the shop for fuel line and carb issues but not any more. Now that's all I run in the trimmer and all 4 chain saws. I also store my sawmill mowers and water pumps with it. Best advice ever. Thanks Steve for all you do
Great job!
It also can make a difference if you live in an area where you winterize yard equipment for 3 months, or if you winterize for 6-7 months.
Great video Steve, thanks!
This is the most UNDERRATED subject known to man,
Small engines needing carb overhauls as fast as you can look at them is all because of pump gas,
Ethanol is pure garbage, less gas mileage and water in your float bowl, I have a vintage style go kart with a new motor that I refuse to run on corn juice!
Right on
I’ve got a STIHL fs90r trimmer….have had it since 2010, I started using moto mix after I learned about it and this is eleventh season of just taking off wall and firing it up, still original plug and have never had to clean spark arrestor
Awesome!
Ya. But it is a fs90r. Best trimmer ever made
I've got a 20year old Ryobi..... still runs great, never had the plug out. I switched to ethanol free 10 years ago.. Maybe it's luck.
I’ve had an ice auger for 25 years and I do the same thing with gas. Amazing story bruh. Nobody GAF
Steve I’ve owned many four and two strokes engines for over 40 years with a lot of Stihl products. I’ve always used premium fuel in running season . When engines are put in storage I drain gas run till they die and remove spark plug and shoot a little oil in piston . Spark plug put back in tight. Done... Everything starts well in spring (Always) luck I don’t think so. Works well in Iowa.👍 This works with jet skis, outboard motors,generators, snow blowers, chain saws, leaf blowers,lawn mowers, everything I own.. Maybe gas is different in Canada.🤔
@Dave Iauco I think running your 2 stroke at 24-1 is running it lean not rich . Less gas due to more oil . Might not be healthy for it .
I am 65 yrs old. I have NEVER EVER had issues with ANY fuel that I've used in my entire life ! and I am a Motor head. Been running motors for my whole life. I have an Echo weed Wacker I bought in 1991. It runs like the day I bought it. I run plain old 87 octane in everything and have never had issues. I say BS !
Being the cheap-ass that i am, I'm still gonna run pump fuel during the work season for that engine, but I'll have to consider using that for winterizing. Maybe start using it later in the season to avoid having to drain a tank. Thanks!!
Agreed!
Used to work at a Stihl dealer. The pre mixed fuel is awesome for emergencies or for storage. I use Stihl 2 stroke oil with pump gas. When im done with my saw or trimmer I run it empty. 15 years later and have not had any fuel related problems. It is about time to adjust the valves on my FS90 though.
One thing I would like to add, (if I may)... years ago, 1996, I bought a new, 18” straight shaft, Husqvarna weed trimmer. I have always used “Sta-Bil” along with the 2cycle oil & fuel additive. I have ALWAYS winterized it by filling the tank completely. Now then,... by running it with both the oil and “Sta-Bil”, I have never, (knockwood) had to have it in the shop! I KNOW, I can set the choke, pull the cord 3 times, and it WILL START! I think the lesson here is, if there is NO AIR in the fuel tank, there is no room for condensation! Just my 2 cents worth. (23 year young Husky, STILL runs like it was NEW)
All I can say is non-ethanol fuel and Stabil in the 4cycles and Opti 2 oil and non-ethanol in the 2 cycles has served me well the last 40 years or so. Love your videos Steve, keep them coming!
So just adding Stabil to the fuel is sufficient? That's what I do.
I don't even use Stabil, just non ethanol fuel. It sets all winter and starts right up.
Ever since I simply switched to non-ethanol gas, it's eliminated my fuel related problems. I store it with a full tank and it starts right up in the spring.
Non ethanol with Amsoil Sabre. The Amsoil has stabilizer in it for back up..
+1 to Roger Mills recommendation to use AvGas from your local airport. AvGas is minimum 100 octane (usually around 102 or so), has absolutely no alcohol whatsoever, no funky junk additives, and is very stable. Far more stable than any auto-gas with fuel stabilizer added. The higher octane really works well in 2-stroke engines. Your 2-stroke engines will start easier, run quieter (no pre-ignition ping) and smoother then they do with car-gas . I did a full career in the fire service. About 20 years ago we were having problems with the mixed fuel going bad in our equipment and fuel cans on our fire engines. Chainsaws, K-12 saws, generators, extrication tool power units etc. After some research, we switched over to exclusively use AvGas and all those problems ceased. The lead content in the AvGas did and does not cause any problems with engines "designed" to run on lead-free fuel. In addition to boosting the Octane rating of the fuel, the lead provides lubrication. And AvGas just does not go bad. No more lacquering of the carb, no phase-separation of the alcohol and water, no problem with the ultra-light aromatics evaporating off and lowering the octane and making starting hard. Even here in the Peoples Republic of California AvGas is currently only about $5.20 per gallon, a fraction of the cost of Moto-Mix or any of the Quart-Cans of engineered fuel. And AvGas does not deteriorate any of the o-rings, gaskets or seals in your engine or fuel system. I have a Stihl 072 saw that I bought new in 1983. Since new I have exclusively used AvGas and Synthetic 2-Stroke oil (mostly Amsoil with the occasional Klotz) and have never re-built the carb. Finally had to replace the fuel lines for only the second time last year. Still using the original plastic fuel tank.
taildown For those who aren’t airplane educated the gas is called 100LL. low lead. Small airports will sell it and you can put it in 5 gallon cans just ask them first. Most pumps are self service credit card type for after hours flyers. Just ask the line guy at the desk if you can find him before wandering out on the apron.
breathing the lead is not healthy
Bought several new Husqvarna small engines in 2014. Trimmers, blowers, saws...etc. Been using engineered fuel from day 1 and every engine has been absolutely flawless! Easy starts. No performance issues. The reduction in heartache is worth the price.
Right on
Thanks so much for this video. I am a retired chemist that worked for Dow and taught in universities. You video is super in its analyses of the fuel and the chemistry of the blends. I very much appreciated you speaking about the benzene. Where I worked I was exposed to both benzene, phenols, and other ring compounds.....there were no old guys working there. 'Nuff said as to the health probems!
I installed a shut off valve on my gas line. My last run for the fall I shut the valve off and let the engine run out of gas. In the spring I open the valve. It takes a few seconds for gas to get into the carborator, but it starts right up. Works like a charm.
Man, I don't even do that. I just dump an excessive amount of seafoam in the tank, and run it for a couple mins to get it through the carbs, then top the tank off to the brim so there's no room for condensation to form. (91oct, no ethanol content fuel) Starts right up after sitting 6+ months.
Yep do not let fuel sit in carb, also if you leave fuel in tank use stabilizer, it keeps gas from turning g to varnish. I just put enough in lawn mower to get yard cut at yrs end and let tank and carb run dry. Any left in my fill can goes into car usually 1 to gallons. Buy new fuel next yr and never more than you can use in a month. Gas does not age well
Just use the lawn mower and let it run until it runs out of gas then store it.
@@rbeck3200tb40 That is what I do. The shut off valve just gives me the ability to not run all the gas out of the tank. Shut off valves are cheep and easy to instal.
Sell your equipment in fall but new in spring..
Motomix is great fuel but 36.99 + taxes a gallon is just insane.
For that price, I could use regular gas and justify getting a new trimmer every season.
I agree!
I go through about 50 Gallons a year, That’s $1850 Dollars a year I could have my lawn Professionally Manicured for that amount. Then I could sit, watch and Drink my Budweiser
Just an idea, maybe you could just use the motomix for the last tank when it’s sitting over night or longer storage times.
Yup, that sound like an arm and a leg. It might be easier learning how to take out ethanol from regular gas by adding a little bit of water to the fuel, shaking it to bond the ethanol to water, let it settle in the bottom for 24hrs then siphon the ethanol free fuel from the top of the mixture to use on your engines.
I use non-ethanol fuel and run the carb dry after each use. Haven't had any problems, yet.
This video is especially useful for those of us who have worked around raw (gas station) gasoline for years, as it changed in composition.
We have soaked parts in gas, and were not careful to avoid skin contact. There is enough information in this video to persuade many-- who otherwise might develop serious diseases-- to be very careful with gasoline and its vapors in the future.
Thanks for your time and effort on this publication.
Is gasoline really that bad and harmful now that we should avoid skin contact and vapors? If so I did not know that
@@catfishbilly3.765 Modern mechanics are aware they cannot treat gasoline like a harmless petrochemical solvent, or another version of alcohol.. The skin is a major contact avenue for all chemicals, good and not so good. Skin contact is how chemical warfare takes its toll, in addition to the lungs. "Normal pollution" is not what it used to be..
@@catfishbilly3.765 In fact, old time fuel was much worse. Before 1970s they put PbEt4 lead tetraethyl in the fuel to increase the octane number, and to lubricate the exhaust ports with PbO. When they forced the removal of PbEt4, there was a lot of resistance, but now we all know it is good. We have catalysts, we do not breath in PbO and half-burned fuel chemicals. Benzene was also a part of the fuel, it is difficult to remove, and even if you remove it, then what are you gonna do with it??? It is really the best way to keep in as a part of our gasoline, and burn it to CO2.
@@bobgreene2892 see my answer to catfish. gasoline penetrates the skin and goes into the bloodstream. this is because it dissolves the fat. Fats and oils repel water and many harmful things that may be in the water.
@@west_park7993I remember the lod leaded fuel. Seems like we didn't experience the kinds of problems we do today. I'm convinced today's problems aren't a result of just ethanol, there's something besides just that causing rubber parts failures. I'm also not convinced corrosion is a result of ethanol.
Personally I've stopped having any carb issues since I've been religiously using sta-bil. If I put gas in a can I put stabilizer in it. My local shop who last worked on my chainsaw gave me that advice and it's done wonders for me. Personally I'll never buy this fancy fuel at the prices they charge.
Been running small engines using sta-bil for 35 years and have never had a carb problem on
any of my chainsaws or small generators. I tell guys this and they don't believe me.
My lawn and garden mechanic specifically disagrees with using Stabil (specifically) in combination with running the take empty before storage. In support, over the past 20 years, I discovered for myself the practice results in solids precipitating out of the remaining fuel/stabilizer combination which plugs the jetting over the winter when it evaporates.
I cannot say that Stabil is the culprit, BUT in combination with running the fuel line/carb dry and sitting idle over the winter months has resulted in 8 carbs having blockages in the spring where stabilizer in a full tank with the fuel petcock OPEN has never resulted in the precipitants experienced before - in the last 15 years now. (BTW, upon recommendation, I switched to Seafoam in my winter storage generators, lawn & garden equipment, chainsaws, and three [fuel injected] Corvettes). Using the WET storage method, i.e., full tank w/fuel in the carbs/injectors - ready to instantly start when if attempted. Is it because of using the Seafoam vs. Stabil? I cannot say. But, I've never had an issue with starting engines after a winter's nap with either Seafoam or Stabil AS LONG AS THE FUEL SYSTEM REMAINED WET (the revised recommendation by some manufactures - as Steve pointed out. And, I concur.
TBH that’s an even better idea cost wise, but these other fuel options are nice as well
I have several 5gal cans to store only ethanol free fuel which is added fuel stabilizer never a problem.
Seafoam works better than stabil
I disagree with you on some points . Yeah the premixed fuel might supposedly be better for the engines . But let's be honest stihl and husqvarna get the same premimum fuel we get at the pumps and then they use the same 2 stroke oil as well . They are going to use the cheapest fuel and oil possible yet they charge the consumer an outrageous price. The real difference if anything is they mix it properly and add some additives as most homeowners dont . I'd rather buy gas station fuel and run their oil than pay $ 35 a gallon for premixed fuel . The problem with gas station fuel is its self life of 30 days before it goes stale . If you refuel the machine often and keep fresh fuel around then chances are you will be fine . The only time I run premixed fuel is right before winter I run a tank through the engine. But that's my opinion. Great video keep up the good work !
I kind of agree with you and by the way you said pre mix was $35 a gallon but it's actually $89 a gallon. If you're a large commercial outfit I can see them using it to offset maintenance costs but the regular lawnmower and weedwacker owner is not going to fork over $89 a gallon.
@@jwayne777 absolutely! I farm and do some landscaping and I know all to well the high fuel costs . We have a tractor that holds 400 gallons of fuel at $6 a gallon ! Take care !
Can you back up that statement with some kind of proof or is that your opinion?
@@markchidester6239 yeah I'm a mechanic and I've seen a few machines with issues from running premixed fuel . Now these instances were a couple of carb issues and one with a melted piston. I don't recommend running premixed fuel all the time . We run 1 tank it before we winterize the equipment. The premixed fuel can burn hotter than regular mixed fuel . Then you have to think about if it was blended properly or if the oil/fuel ratio is wrong.
Good god your talking complete bollocks.
The fuel is not like fuel from the pumps akalyte fuel has a shelf life of 5 years whereas pump gasoline/petrol lasts about 3 months if your storing an engine this give this type of fuel a huge advantage.
Steve, I've been doing this for four years with engineered fuel. True Fuel & Moto Mix when I get to the Stihl dealer. I've stored my walk behind, my trimmer, all my brush gear and even my zero turn mower with these fuels in the tanks all winter. Come spring everything starts on the very first go pull start items take a single pull and they are up and running. My oil in the crank case even stays cleaner at drain intervals. You've hit this right on target my friend.
Thanks for sharing
MotoMix or another high quality Engineered fuel is the only fuel that has been ran in my Stihl string trimmer. I’ve owned it for ten years, I cut 3 acres of grass for once a week for 10 years with that thing. I cleared that three acres in North Carolina with a Farm Boss Chainsaw and the that trimmer, that’s allI had. I just purchased a Husky Lawnmower because my knees are gone, not because my Trimmers went bad. Superb instructional Video. Every High School student should have your videos as part as their general education, we’d have a lot less dummies out there.
Right on Abby! Thank You...
You cut 3 acres a week with a string trimmer? Holy cow!
@@berkeleygang1834 Yeah sounds bit over done, must grow real fast all year round.
I like the idea of just using it for winterizing, there have been numerous videos done now about fuel stabilizers showing that they don’t do anything.
I did this "non" winterization with my Husqvarna gas string trimmer (2 stroke) and Husqvarna fuel, leaving the gas in. Just started it up for the first time, and... IT STARTED AND RAN!! I expect Husqy's engineered fuel is similar to the Moto-Mix in composition. Way better than needing to pull & clean a carb.
I agree!
Here is some food for thought as well. When you go to a gas station and it has a multi-selection for the type of gas you want, just remember that if you are filling up a 1-2gal gas can with, for eg., premium, you will be filling your can with whatever’s the last choice of fuel was made for at least 1gallon. The pipes from the tank in the ground and the pump and hose will be full of the last gas chosen. Put the first two gallons in your vehicle then fill the Jerry can. So if your out with the gang on all your motorcycles and pull into gas station to fuel up with premium, be the next or last guy to fill your tank. Great video Steve. Great!
Crustyswede1 good advice. I never thought about it that way.
Or buy a motorcycle that runs on regular. :-)
I stopped using ethanol a couple of years ago, and haven't had any issues since. I still believe ethanol is the main culprit, and could there be a chance Stihl is just promoting their product, and using this channel as a vehicle for their sales pitch? I've been googling this science, and cannot find these claims anywhere other than from Stihl. Pre-mix fuels are cost prohibitive to most people, and in my opinion, unnecessary.
I agree. Several years ago I eliminated ethanol from my weed eaters, chainsaws, leaf blowers, mole killer ,and motorcycles. I have not had trouble since I did this. I think this fuel is not necessary.
I agree as well but am moving to battery powered equipment as much as possible. Too many advantages to list
@@stefanodogg280 Yeah if you don't have much stuff to do battery would be the way to go. But I agree with the other two comments, I switched about 5 years to non ethanol and haven't had anymore problems. I still however run a tank of fuel mixed with mechanic in a bottle for the first and last tank of the season in the my equipment.
@@jruss9109 I have 8 gas chainsaws including two Stihl Magnum types and I too use premium non ethanol gas for them, draining the tanks and running them dry before storage. I've simply found that smaller battery powered saws can get a lot of tasks accomplished where I used to use a gas saw with all the hassle they entail. These batteries are versatile, if you also get the weedwhacker and the inverter.. which can run a laptop, several lights and more in a power outage
@@stefanodogg280 I'd love to get the 60v Dewalt since all my other tools are Dewalt, but atm I have no reason to replace my lil Husky 440, that thing has been a beast.
Very informative. However, my experience is that gas-pump gas works fine with no problems--as long as you do a couple of things. My 13 YO Husqqvarna with Honda GCV160 has been fine. I run the tank and carb dry at the end of the season to prevent gumming up the carb jet. Premium gas to eliminate ethanol. Once when it became harder to start, I ran some Sea Foam through the carb's air intake to decarbonize the combustion chamber (lots of YT videos on how to do this) and it has been great ever since. Almost all problems are user neglect in some way.
I've always put my saws away 'wet' with either Star-tron or Sta-bil in them. Not one problem over the last 25 yrs, but this looks like something worthwhile to try....thanks Steve!
You're Welcome...
So, storing with Star-tron & Sta-bil has kept you trouble-free for 25 yrs (as it has me, as well).
It makes no sense to me to change strategies from what I know works & is specifically designed for storing for several months to something not specifically designed for storage, is more expensive, & is unproven (at least by me & others I personally know). To make wise choices in today's world, one must also understand the unholy marriage of marketing & capitalism, where corporate marketers are paid by the greedy profit-driven corporations to convince us we need to pay them more & more as they become ever more wealthy & powerful & control us more & more.
Hell yes
Dee Cee greed pure Greed
Good video a always Steve.
I buy gas straight out of the pump, regular, 87 octane, usually 10% ethanol, no stabilizers or any other additives, whichever station is closest. Sometimes I don't start one of my engines for over a year. I've never had a problem. Just saying
Many decades of using Sta-Bil in both 10% ethanol and ethanol-free gas with no problems. In the Fall I start my blower and trimmer, dump the fuel out, then continue running it until it stops. In the Spring, both machines start and run with ZERO problems. I practically wore out an American-made Homelite blower and trimmer doing the same thing. Gave them to a friend who did repairs for the parts. I’ve had and Echo trimmer for over 10 years, perfect, and a Stihl blower, 4 years old and expect no problems with them. Same goes for my 4-stroke mowers and tiller.
As someone who works for a major outdoor power equipment manufacturer, fuel issues are the #1 problem that cause equipment starting and running failures. Please listen to the man! This is great info and I learned a lot from this video beyond blaming everything on the ethanol. I knew there had to be more to the pump gas story. I only use non-ethanol fuel and stabilize every ounce as soon as it's in the gas for during regular use, but the winterization technique with the engineered fuel is a great "best practice" for off-season storage. Running a tank full of engineered fuel every so often will also help keep your fuel systems clean. Thanks Steve!
Thank You...and You're Welcome...
You have a misplaced modifier in your first sentence. As written you're saying that the FUEL ISSUES is/are "someone who works for a major outdoor power equipment manufacturer".
Thanks for everything Steve. I used to think I was trouble-free with non-ethanol gas but you made me rethink this
Well how many years have you been trouble free? I personally lose a carbureator less than every five years, so I am satisfied. Some of my carbs are over 10 years old on pump gas. I am thinking of changing to engineered fuel for the cleaner burn and less carbon build up and the inconveniance of mixing.
Well, I've had my Craftsman for 19 years and used Mid-Grade gas station fuel and I've never even looked at the oil dipstick, let alone changed the oil. I did have to replace the string pull when the rope frayed.
As a lawncare professional, I have to say that service and repair is less expensive overall than the cost of premixed fuel.
Perhaps for a typical use homeowner, premix is a better option.
Yes, for a homeowner premix is great typically as they don't use their equipment on a daily basis, and some equipment sits for several weeks to several months so premix for that is great....
For the pros that are using their equipment daily premix don't make any sense as you are going through your fuel fast enough that you won't have any issues.
Thanks for the info. I recently purchased a Stihl 361C and was running 90 octane non-ethanol fuel. That fuel worked great in my older Stihl saws - not so in my 261C. I have been told by my local Stihl dealer that my non-ethanol 90 does not have enough octane to adequately run that saw. My problem was once the saw got hot - it kept vapor locking on me - particularly on summer days. I started running the engineered fuel and it runs like a champ. I asked the dealer - what do the high fuel use arborists and loggers do. Cost of this stuff would be prohibitive. He said they run ethanol containing fuels with a higher than 90 octane rating then add an ethanol stabilizing / removing additive. Make any sense?
Thanx Steve thought I knew better for over 30 years! Just finished winterizing lawn mowers and chainsaws, snow blowers, trimmer's! You're advice makes my machines run like new!!!
Awesome! You're Welcome...
I’ve been using the Premix. I find it starts each time much easier. For years I mixed my own, but my stuff never started as well. It’s expensive as “H” but the last thing I want is one arm longer than the other when I have work to do!!
I might go back to mixing my own considering the price of pre mix. I’ll just try to keep my gas fresh and I won’t buy large amounts..
I’ve been using engineered mixes fuel in my 2-stroke small engines exclusively from the beginning and I believe I have far less issues than friends that mix gas station fuel.
Right on Buddy...
That's abslutely true!! I do it too.
Ok..Steve..Your right about pump fuel...My method..Mr. Funnel First..Takes water and particles out..Then Star Tron Fuel Enzyme Treatment..I live up at 7000 ft. above sea level..Starting fluid always...
Interesting facts, but you can replace the carburetor with a brand new one every year for less than the premium paid for MotoMix @ $45/gallon
Yup and when you burn through about 4 gallons a month or more of mix gas that's insanity to pay for canned
@@Evanx373 Great point but we are not considering the potential health risks of gas station fuel. It is not clear what that is. It would be good to know more. What price do we put on our health?
I like the videos you make. You know your stuff. I was surprised to hear the storage method completely do a 180. I always store my equipment with fuel in it. The reason I do it is because I have never had to replace a dry rotted fuel line. So using this method I have never had trouble waking my equipment up after a long winter.
I am going back to TruFuel. I ran out and was unable to get any. I used a gallon of. Citgo 93 with Ethanol Shield. My power saw has been running like crap. Starting issues, etc. Back to TruFuel for my power saw. I am dumping the Citgo mix immediately! Thanks! I thought my saw was going funky.
Interesting, at the end of every season I collect all my small engines (4 Sthil) two mowers and drain the tanks completely. Once drained I let them run till they stop. The older ones for at least 25 to 30 years and the new ones are at least 5 to 8 years as best as I can remember. Still going strong each spring. Snow blower and generator get the same loving treatment at the end of winter. Just checked Amazon for the Moto Mix, $160.00 Canadian plus taxes for 4 quarts. Highway robbery in my mind. 🙀 My craftsman ride-on lasted 23 years then I gave it away to someone for parts.👍🇨🇦👨🦳
Have been storing my small engines this way for several years. Also only run no ethanol gas in all my.small engines. Zero problems with this program.
Right on
Me too. But it's no guarantee. I have a 4-stroke Makita leaf blower that is having carb problems. It's never had anything other than alcohol-free fuel. Been diligent about maintenance, but I'll be damned if it doesn't run like shit. I don't know what's true. If what our boy, Steve says, even alcohol-free fuel is 40% bunk. Our other choice? Buy the fuel that costs 20$ a gallon.
What guarantee do we have that the $20 a gallon fuel isn't going to leave us with a clogged jet?
@@stevetdean1966 Just be diligent keeping the fuel clean of crud. For long storage periods like generators I always run the carb dry with never a problem.
I've been using nothing but Tru Fuel in my Backpack Blower since the day I got it - Never had a problem at all over the past 7 years. Going to do the same for the new chainsaw I picked up. Since I don't do my own maintenance (other than minor things) I feel that I'm ahead in the long run. Thanks Steve for the explanation.
Right on Wayne!
Been using premium fuel in all the Echos using Echo Power Blend extended life oil for over well over ten yrs, so far I've spent $25 on carb kits and fuel primer bulbs. One thing I always do is give the machine a shake before starting just to remix oil in tank and don't store with a full tank. Good idea for some people to use proprietary fuel.
Thanks for sharing Jimmy. Why do you not store with a full tank?
I always run premium with a high quality oil like stihl or husqvarna in my personal saws.
That being said, when I was an arborist, we used regular 87 octane in all our saws, I worked as an arborist for 6 years and never had an issue, some of more commonly used saws had hundreds of tanks of gas run through them, with no issues. I believe the biggest thing is to run the saws regularly and keep fresh gas in them.
No shit
Damn it why did google tell me I should use at least 89 octane for my 40:1 mix because 87 wouldn't be enough... im going to try 87 next time
@@xxvodanhxx no
@@xxvodanhxx Use the lowest grade octane fuel you can find for these small engines. High octane doesn't mean higher power; it just means it has a higher resistance to knocking and detonation--features needed for high compression ratio engines (performance engines, etc).
I have a Cub Cadet rider that is 12 years old, a Cub Cadet zero turn that is 6 years old, a Cub Cadet tiller that is 6 years old and a Stihl chain saw that is 6 years old. All run on the cheapest pump gas, never get winterized and always start right up and run great.
I use regular gas and oil in my equipment for the summer.
I winterize with Trufuel. I empty gas tank and let run till it dies. Then I refill with trufuel and run for about 5 minutes. Shut er down and store in an unheated shed.
In Belgium, we trim hedges all day long in summer and always use pre mix fuel like Moto-Mix but it's Aspen.
We use it because it's better fot the engine, it's already mixed and it's not that harmful for the health. I can ensure you if you're hedge trimming all day and you breath all those fuel fumes , you feel horrible at the end lf the day. We always use hand held hedge trimmers, but extended trimmers for reaching high places
PJ 2000 why not go electric ????
@@jimmysapien9961 2 reasons: a lack of power for some hedges
And battery powered equipement is really expensive
When I bought a new Stihl string trimmer last summer I bought two gallons if the Stihl fuel as well. The dealer said it doubles the warranty? By getting the fuel with the implement. Can't wait to get a new Stihl chainsaws this summer. Thanks for the great informative videos!!!
Great point!
I was told by a stihl dealer if you bought it with your equipment warranty was doubled. I’ve never used this stuff and know it’s expensive but I also only use 2 gallons a season with my trimmer,hedge trimmer and chainsaw. For people in the business as a profession it would be very expensive but the small use homeowner how much do we really use.
That warranty extension applies to the Stihl Ultra oil, not the fuel.
Very informative on the contents in the can fuel , thanks. Tell my customers to use it as much as they can. Some use a lot of fuel through out the summer cutting several lawns. They use gallons of fuel. I tell them, when they approach the end of the season where they only have one or two mowings left to go use pre-mixed Fuel in the equipment so it will survive the winter nicely. And it works. Thanks Steve. Great video.
Right on Mikey! Thank You...
I only run TruFuel in my Stihl Chainsaw, I have never used pump gas, and it runs like a champ. Since it's shelf life is so good, I always keep 2 unopened quarts around.
Right on
I work for the local power company and a few years ago we switched to motomix. We don't use our saw everyday but when we need them we need them in a bad way. Before we switched it was almost a weekly deal to haul a saw to the repair shop for fuel issues. Since we switched it has cut repair bills by 2 thirds. Maybe even more. For my home saw and weed eater I've been using Coleman fuel mixed with stink 50:1 mix for several years. No issues at all and runs just as good as the stihl mix. Plus it over half price of moto fuel . In all reality moto fuel is Coleman fuel. I know all the rc model aircraft guys that fly the super high dollar airplanes use Coleman fuel mixed with stihl oil. It works fantastic.
Right on...
Yes, it's the same stuff as motomix. Just add a bottle of stihl oil and your good to go. Wal-Mart brand is cheaper that Colman brand.
Al Yaz Coleman fuel is naphtha. Same as lighter fluid. Same as VM&P Naphtha at the hardware store.
@@graphicsdude doesn't seem like a engine would run very good on straight naptha. Or am I missing something he said.
I dont see where folks are constantly having issues? I per mix my fuel and sometimes dont run my equipment till the next hunting season....never a problem. That's my blowers, riding mower
Weed wacker... mowers. Same thing with my buddies.
I used to dump the fuel after the season ,then run it and choke it dry . After a couple trips to the repair shop and spending $$$ I decided to try this. I have used aspen and motomix. They are both great. Yes its expensive but no frustration or trips to the repair shop. For the little fuel the average person uses ,I think it is worth it.
Alkylate fuels are great for long storage. Just last week borrowed my father's secondary "weed eater". He told me that it had been sitting for was it almost four years in storage, including cold long Finnish winters. Popped the fuel tank open and smelled the tank and almost no odor. He said it had alkylate fuel in it and we topped it off and it was about six pulls and it almost started. With less than 20 pulls it was running and it was running just fine and it revved just fine after warmup. Just like it would've been used couple months ago. From experience I can tell that after few years I've had plenty of issues with motorcycles and other bit larger carburetor engines, pretty much always requiring complete carb cleaning. That safety thing you mentioned is no joke either. Especially with chainsaws and other handheld equipment you'll for sure inhale exhaust gasses.
I started using this premixed fuel in my chainsaws three years ago. On my last tank for my saws I fill up with premix and run my saw then top off for winter storage and so far no problems with gummed up carbs or cracked fuel lines.The store bought fuel is too expensive to use if your cutting cords of wood but for storage in the winter its fine.
My idea also. Right on...
Also, if you want to put premium fuel in your gas cans, make sure to clear the hose of whatever gas (probably regular unleaded) the previous customer used. I usually put 1-2 gallons of premium into my vehicle first, then fill my gas can. If you pump the gas into your can from the start, you're actually not getting the gas you're wanting, and if you're only buying a gallon or 2 that can make a big difference.
Wow, that thought never crossed my mind. Thanks for that tip.
Nice tip!
Most manufacturers don't recommend premium gas. I know Hustler doesn't and neither does Echo. I had a 200hp HPDI Yamaha and they recommended regular gas.
In New Zealand we have a separate hose for each gas type.
@@jeffcoulter7181 ya .. Murica 🙅😂
Finally somebody besides me gets it about junk gas big oil is pawning off on us down here in southeast Texas regular (87 octane?) smells a lot like diesel a big tnx to you steve
Have used Recreational “Rec” gas for past 4 years and solved all gas related issues. $4 gallon is peanuts compared to canned gas.
Some good points there mate. I remember an engineer I worked with many years ago telling me how bad benzine is. Apparently it was originally added to fuel when lead was banned as an additive. He argued that benzine is so harmful we were better off with the lead. But in two stroke engines we don't need either, obviously.
Thank You...
I hate mixing 😞
I bought the Husqvarna 50:1 Fuel+Oil XP+ fuel for the PoulanPro PR5020 20" chainsaw I bought because Husqvarna makes PoulanPro. Now that I know all about gas station Premium gas, I'll stay with this or maybe price the Stihl to compare. However, when I'm finished using it (haven't used it yet), I'll drain all the bar oil and fuel out to store it because I probably won't be needing it again for quit a while. Thanks, Steve! 👍👍 You're the man.
Our fire dept in Texas transitioned from gas station fuel to the canned fuel several years ago. Our Stihl saws and ventilation fans were constantly in the shop prior to the change. After using the canned fuel, our stuff started and ran great. We don’t use that much fuel so the cost wasn’t that bad. I just bucked approx. 70 trees a few weeks ago. I blew through the canned fuel and that cut in to my profit quite a bit. At $25 a gallon, I spent nearly $75 on fuel. That stunk. I wish there was an in between source that was good but not so expensive.
$1 a tree
You can do the majority of the work with pump gas, and switch to the canned fuel when your almost done.
I've used SeaFoam in any and all gas cans, not including 2-stroke, and have left engines for > 5 years, and had zero varnish, and immediate start. The engineered fuel is nice, but the value is extremely poor based on its pricing. Toluene (SeaFoam) does a gr8 job IMO.
I agree. Couple caps of it in all my 2 cycle gear keeps em good for the winter
i use it in all my small engines and never had a problem...never...and yes im an old guy ok??
@Dave Hanson wrong it works in anything
How do I use it. If I have gas left in the saw and think I won't use it for a while, add some seafoam? How much? If I storing it for a long time, run it empty and leave it empty? Or leave it with only some seafoam? Or leave it with se gas and seafoam?
I have 2 cycle engines. I will use regular gas/oil mixture in my equipment all year long until the end of the season nears and run it dry. Then Ill use the expensive "good stuff" out of the can until I store them for winter. Its my opinion that it cleans the engines and keeps them running awesome.
So for everyday use it's just overkill. But for storing those mixes may be a wise choice.
I agree...
I agree also. For the average homeowner it's probably better. The average homeowner may go through only 1- 2 can during mowing season. 1 gallon gas oil mix might be too much for the average household.
Yes - Listen to my man 👨 = Steve
Very interesting facts there Steve, many thanks. I have been running Aspen4 in my generator for a few years since new and winterisation in my dirt bikes. Changed to Aspen2 in my three pro saws, a few months ago, and have noticed an improvement in starting and running. Work for an arborist business as a Groundie where I need reliability and less harmful emissions is a bonus too. No more fiddling around mixing fuel either! All Petrol in the UK has ethanol in it now, just not worth the hassle if I don’t use one of the saws for a few weeks.
I use Briggs and Stratton Fuel Fit mixed with ordinary fuel station petrol ( OK gas!) in my equipment. ( Plus Stihl two stroke oil in my two stroke engines) l have a Stihl 038AVE saw that is well over 30 years old , I've never touched the carb yet! However l always let the carbs run dry before l put them away for the winter .
We’ve had this fuel for around 10 years and they can’t make the engines capable to handle the fuel yet? so instead we make new fuel to go with the engines?
Greed
more refining of fuel,greater the cost.....It would be easier to redevelop fuel than re designing new engines to suit,which would be @ higher cost,take diesels for example,run on less refined fuel but cost to maintain it is greater vs petrol engine.
Well it's not the engines fault the fuel is crap and has a 30-day shelf life. Ethanol laced fuel will absorb water into it whether it's in a fuel can or modern engine. Until we make engines that run on water, trying to run an engine on water will always prove problematic no matter how much engineering we throw at it.
TL;DR If you want to store equipment full of fuel for longer than a month, you first need fuel that's designed to have a shelf life longer than 30 days.
Personally,I would prefer some methanol blend as a fuel of choice,using a filter separation system to bypass water attracted to it.Better all round tbh:)
Ethanol becomes unstable after sitting for long periods. The engines CAN handle ethanol, but ethanol doesn’t handle sitting for lengthy periods. If your small engined equipment is used every day, then no problem.
I would bet Stihl dosen't make fuel or Husqavarna. Some third party makes it and they put their brand on it.
Heck yes
Your correct, but Stihl and Husqi determine the specifications for the fuel and put their name on it. Just like auto manufacturers do not make their own coolants, lubricants, etc. but sell it at the parts counter.
I have been using normal unleaded fuel that I manually mix with two stroke oil in my equipment for the past eight years while living in my part of country Australia and have had no issues with my equipment. Oh sure, I expect that the Stihl fuel is a premium product, just like their very expensive chainsaws are premium equipment, but for us more common folk, that can only afford so much, in my experience I can say that using just regular fuel is fine. Mind you, if I ever did save up enough money to buy a $1000 plus chainsaw I would probably buy the more expensive fuel, though I doubt I could afford the postage costs. But I do love the way that Steve presents his videos.
Hey Steve.....I watched your previous winterizing vid using stabilizor. I run regular pump fuel over the year but in winter, I drain everything off and fill with Aspen 2 and Aspen 4 (for my ride on and push mowers). Not cheap but it's peace of mind for me. You've just validated what I'm doing! Not often I'm ahead of the game! Awesome vids bruv....keep 'em coming! Hi from the United Kingdom!
Right on...
Thanks for sharing this. I've heard (and said) a lot of dumb things about why gasoline from the station is (or isn't) bad for small engines. And I've cleaned a few carburetors and junked a few lawn mowers that might have lasted longer had I known what I know now.
Why do the gas manufacturers put the other junk in here? What is the purpose of it? What does it do to the environment and is it worth it?😊
My 10year old 2cycle chainsaw is used perhaps twice a year and has always been hard to start and suffers from vapor lock when hot. I found that the engineered quart bottle, 50:1 premixed, 94octane, ethanol-free gas gives me much more dependable operation. I do drain and run dry after every use. In my experience, you need to minimize gumming/varnish and use high octane for hot weather operation. My second choice would be no-ethanol, premium gas with Stabil added.
Great video! I’ve noticed that pump gas tends to give my modern equipment a hard time, but I’ve never had a problem running it in vintage equipment. Case in point, my 12 horse Briggs and Stratton 4-stroke from 1975 has been run on standard 87 octane pump gas and it has never had an issue, other than the gasket beneath the sediment bowl needing replaced once, it is on my old wood splitter and the damn thing fires up every spring. My Echo SRM300 brush cutter from the early 80’s has an original carburetor that has never been rebuilt as does my SRM220. Both machines run 40:1 mixed ethanol fuel with zero problems and run like brand new. New Husqvarna, Stihl, Jonsered, Craftsman etc etc is built chincier than a happy meal hot wheel. Manufacturers are looking at the balance sheet and cutting corners I reckon!
@@jasonjrf Pretty neat to hear someone else callin’ It “weed whippin”! Lot of folks cock their head to the side when I call it that. 😆 And I agree, I use up a five gallon tank very quick and I mix my gas in old five quart oil jugs and they won’t release vapors until the cap blows off, which hasn’t happened to me yet. I’ve seen gas cans with pressure relief valves and caps that will leech out vapor nonstop and wreck the gas in short order. Six months down the road you’re left with varnish that will toast a carb quick! Fella with a RUclips channel about small engines was talking about mix gas having a three week shelf-life and I bet it’s for that very reason.
Premium fuel does not always mean ethanol free fuel
100pct👍🏼
Most Premium fuel in Texas has Ethanol. There are a a few stations tht sell ethanol free fuel. IE: Murphys, Bucees
Just started using Stihl Moto Mix. Nice to know there's none of the harmful elements in it.
Good stuff
I wish I would've had professors like this guy....probably would have finished college. Great vids!
Thank You...
I'm guessing, this applies to 2 or 4 stroke outboard motors also. Should relive the yearly overhauls on carburetors especially because of longer storage periods .
Great video I’m fighting a carb issue w my sons motorcycle love the input I think the gas is the problem only one of the 2 cylinders is getting hot gotta be a fuel issue but I need to check the compression it has spark
Hey Steve, love the topics and info on your channel. Does the gas without ethanol have all the bad and ugly chemicals in it too. I have gone to non-ethenol gas in all my small engines and have had good success by doing that. Do you think going to one of these other fuels would be better and if so, why?? Thank T.
I've been winterizing my equipment with engineered fuel for 3 years now without any issues. It is expensive so I just run the tank dry at the end of season and run engineered fuel into it and leave it and haven't had an issue starting up come the spring or well winter with the snowblowers yet. When I'm running equipment daily though I'm using regular gas from the pump, 2 cycles since I don't use them as often I stay with engineered fuel all the time to avoid having to deal with those carbs.
Right on Rob! I agree...
Now I know why my lawn tools are turning to crap so quickly. thanks again. steve
You're Welcome...
At $20 a gallon for this fuel in a can, iI'll stick to and tell all my customers to use premium from the pump.
Dean Mavis premium still has ethanol. Just as much as regular. Only difference is the octane rating. Premium burns slower, so unless you have a high compression engine, some of the premium goes out the exhaust unburned, and your engine has less power.
@@graphicsdude so they are lying by saying the premium is ethanol free??
Dean Mavis yes. Premium is NOT ethanol free.
I use a little sea foam in my premium gas / oil mix in my 2 cycle engine's and use sea foam in my regular gas for my 4 cycle engine's
@@beanolatte2682 Who is saying premium unleaded is ethanol free? It even says on the sticker at the pump that the fuel contains x% ethanol. If these folks are talking about the recreational gasoline, which is usually 93 octane, then they should specify. Always read the sticker. If there is no sticker then assume there is ethanol.
Really though, if you're using chainsaws, chippers, mowers and brushcutters most days just for your own land, buying this premium stuff isn't an option. But I WILL be removing the ethanol from all my forecourt fuel from now on, and will use stabilisers.
Exactly....if you use the equipment frequently the premix stuff isn't worth it, but for many of us that don't use our equipment very often, it makes more sense. For me for example, I run my trimmer and blower maybe once a month, through a season of use I maybe go through one of the 1/2 gallon cans of premix fuel. I'm also slowly going to battery powered equipment so my gas stuff sees even less use now, so the premix makes far more sense in my case.
@@wildbill23c Yup. I'm moving more towards cordless chainsaws as I can do my coppicing with them. All else still needs petrol or several years life extention so as I can do it with a scythe.
My Dad also mixed in some oil of some kind...
But gas was the first choice for the Chainsaw
A couple of years ago I switched to the pre mixed fuel. Immediately my chainsaw worked better. I thought it was because of my inaccurate oil/fuel ratios. Now I know!
Awesome!
Seems silly that small engine manufactures use materials that are damaged by gas station gasoline. Its almost as if they want there equipment to fail or for you to by there special fuel.
This is why I switched over to electric tools (string trimmer & light use chain saw). I don't have to worry about the issues associated with small engine problems because of the fuel. Issue for me is that to do the maintenance on a gas-powered tool, takes more time than then for the job I need to use the tool for! The point of a tool is to save time & make the job easier.
OH HELL YESSSSS Guy Tech,,,gas powered crap is becoming a thing of the past,,,with the advances in both battery technology and electric motor technology only a serious dink would chose gas over electric give a choice,,,,electric is size for size and weight for weight WAY more powerfull than gas as well as energy put in versus work gotten out electric has it all over gas,,,just this past winter I decided to get a new snowblower because my gas one was getting a bit wore out tom say the least,,,so even though they were a bit more money I decided to give electric a try because all the hassle of a gas one (easier to throw batteries on a charger than drag out gas cans and all that crap),,,well I'll never go back to gas,,,after the second time this past winter using the electric one I gave my neighbor my old gas crap as well as a full 5 gallon can of gas to go with it,,,the electric ABOSOLUTELY KICKS the gas ones ass in every way, I bought the snow joe 100 volt IONPRO 24 inch cordless 2 stage with 4 extra batteries and only once have I had to use the extra back up batteries because they ran out of juice before I finnished my rougly 50 foot long driveway and 50x50 foot parking area as well as my 25x4 foot walkway between the house and shop,,,and that was only because I got lazy and let the snow get deeper than about 10 inches,,,If I didn't have a gardener that did my lawn mowing I'd buy an electric mower to go with the snowblower,,but I pretty much got rid off all that crap when I retired and other than winter snow removal (because i actually enjoy getting out in the winter) don't own any lawn equiptment anymore,,,but the little i do own is electric,,,I am a mechanic though and all my rattle guns that ar air powered have been replaced by electric cordless millwaukee as well all my wood working type tools with the same,,,,no stupid extension cords, air hoses (I even have one of those cordless air compressors to use on tires and what not and it works GREAT) or gas cans to drag out, or even noisy air compressors to listen while they try to keep up with the air tools is a much more pleasent world.
You both have good points.
Planned obsolescence THE AMERICAN WAY! General Motors cars are FULL of this shit!
@S2 turbine That's exactly why for the time being I'm staying away from battery equipment as well. What the industry needs to do is come up with battery standards where one brand of size x will fit any brand of equipment. Right now its too proprietary to keep cost down.
Thanks Steve. I'm going to try this before going on deployment again.
Thank you Steve for Xplaning Xactly what’s in our pump fuel. I thought the problem was the Ethenol too, but it makes perfect scents about the Olifens.
You're Welcome...
I found just running the engine dry was very effective in keeping the equipment working the next season. It’s when I forget to run it try that I have to pay someone to fix my stuff.
This use to be a recommended practice, but there will always be traces of fuel in the system even after running it dry - especially in bigger carbs with a bowl. It only takes a little bit of stale, dirty, water-contaminated or just plain bad fuel to cause gum, varnish or corrosion. Plus running dry exposes fuel lines and other rubber or plastic fuel system components to air (oxygen) which can cause deterioration over time.
@@VBCJesusSaves usually if I’m on my game I’ll put fuel stabilizer in the tank and let the engine run for about 5 minutes and then I drain the tank the best I can by syphon and then start the engine again and run it dry. I’m not sure if that would solve the bowl issue but I certainly found that approach better than just run it dry without stabilizer. 🤷♂️
@@richvail7551 Just listen to Steve and fill with engineered fuel if your machine is going to sit for at least 30 days or more. It's not cheap, but neither is a carb replacement. You'll never run the bowl dry. You can take it off and clean it out, but who wants to do that on every machine. Stabilizer is essential if you're using pump gas, however, it isn't the ultimate solution for off-season. Today's pump gas isn't what grandpa used to use. Cheers!
In 1988 I purchased a Honda lawnmower and a John Deere snowblower. In the following years, I used midgrade ethanol-free fuel. I would buy 5 gallons at a time and treat the fuel with Stabil. Whatever gas was leftover at the end of the season I would burn in my car. I did the usual recommended maintenance. I sold my duplex in 2020 and I gave both of those units to the new owner and they were still working great after 32 years of use using gas station fuel. When I use to cut a lot of wood I also used the same fuel in my chain saws and again no problems. I would never pay 20 bucks a gallon for some specialty fuel.