A chainsaw is one of the most dynamic machines that work with the collaboration of electrical and mechanical mechanisms. Among other parts of the chainsaw, the engine is deemed as the most sensitive and fundamental part – while, fuel injected in the engine also holds the key importance. To maintain the health of an engine, it is necessary to provide it with quality fuel. Fuel with a lower octane number causes to increase in the temperature of the engine that creates irreparable damage. So, to be sure about the quality of fuel, you learn about the mixing of gas with fuel in your gas-powered chainsaws.
Usually, mixing fuel with gasoline is required while working with a two-cycle engine. The reason behind the addition of fuel with gasoline is to lower the temperature of the engine while working – this phenomenon also reduces friction between the parts of the engine.
If a two-cycle engine is compelled to run on gasoline without mixing an appropriate amount of fuel with it, parts of the engine are more prone to seize.
While working with your chainsaw, it is inevitable to use quality fuel; relying on fuel with a lower octane number creates many problems such as raising the temperature of the engine and permanent damage to the parts of the engine.
So, do not use fuel with an octane number lesser than 89, and make sure that the fuel you are buying is suitable for 2-stroke engines.
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Mix Gas with Fuel in Chainsaw 2023?
Depending upon the power of the chainsaw, the ratio of fuel to gas keeps on changing. Commonly, a moderately powered two-cycled engine has a 40:1 or 50:1 ratio of fuel with gas. Before you start working on it, be mindful of following precautions;
Do not forget that you are dealing with highly flammable fuel and gas – so, no negligence can be afforded. Comply with given precautions;
Safety Precautions
- Set the whole apparatus in a well-ventilated area
- Ensure that your chainsaw isn’t connected to power, and has cooled down
- Make sure that there is no source of fire nearby
- Keep everything away from the reach of children
Having ensured these safety measures, you are ready to proceed with the mixing procedure of fuel with gasoline;
1. Pile Up Materials
The first step belongs to the mixing of required materials. Be sure that you aren’t mixing materials in a normal container; instead, there should be a container approved by the factory manual (FM). The octane number of fuel shouldn’t be less than 89.
2. Mixing of Materials
Now, add about half of the required gasoline in an approved container along with the necessary oil considering the ratio of 40:1 or 50:1. Having added these materials, close the container and shake it well for 15 to 20 seconds. Materials should be mixed well with each other.
3. Add Remaining Gas
Earlier, there was added half an amount of gasoline in a container, now add the remaining amount of gasoline in the container. Close the container again, and shake it well unless the fuel gets properly mixed with gasoline. Through all this, the most important thing is to ascertain the right amount of fuel with gasoline – if there isn’t added an appropriate mixture, the engine might not work properly.
What is the Correct Ratio of Gasoline to Fuel?
Each chainsaw is built differently and requires a different ratio of gasoline and fuel to make the engine run smoothly and perfectly. Usually, the most common ratios are 40:1 or 50:1. Followings are separate charts for both of these ratios;
40:1 Gasoline with Oil Mixture Chart
| Gallons of Gasoline Fuel | Amount of Oil in Ounces (Fluid) |
| 1 Gallon | 3.2 Ounces |
| 2 Gallons | 6.4 Ounces |
| 3 Gallons | 9.6 Ounces |
| 4 Gallons | 12.8 Ounces |
| 5 Gallons | 16 Ounces |
50:1 Gasoline with Oil Mixture Chart
| Gallons of Gasoline Fuel | Amount of Oil in Ounces (Fluid) |
| 1 Gallon | 2.6 Ounces |
| 2 Gallons | 5.12 Ounces |
| 3 Gallons | 7.68 Ounces |
| 4 Gallons | 10.24 Ounces |
| 5 Gallons | 12.8 Ounces |
These charts will help you know the right amount of gasoline with oil. It is unavoidable to add both of these materials in the right amount; otherwise, the engine may not work properly.
What Are the Benefits of Mixed Fuel?
It isn’t necessary to use a mixture prepared by you; instead, you can also look into the options of mixed fuels prepared by companies. These mixed fuel manufacturing companies typically follow the decided amount of gas with oil. In short, you can also use mixtures available in market.
Here are some benefits of Mixed Fuel;
- Enhanced lubrication between the parts of engine
- Lowered temperature of engine
- Improved efficiency of engine (engine runs faster and smoother)
- Engine’s life increases significantly
- Engine requires significantly less maintenance
Few Tips for Mixing Chainsaw Gas
I hope that you would have understood the whole procedure, but here I have some additional tips for you which should also not be missed;
1. Use Two-Cycle Engine Oil
When you are mixing gasoline with oil, make sure that you are using only two-cycle engine oil. Regular motor oils can be highly damaging because they contain a significant number of non-combustible particles.
2. Do Use Approximations
It is a common mistake committed by people, they prepare a mixture with approximations – remember that guesses wouldn’t work here, and you may destroy the health of the engine without even knowing.
3. Proper Use of Gasoline
Make the right use of gasoline – it must be used with less than 10% ethanol. More amount of ethanol will absorb moisture and break the structure of gasoline molecules. This is how the engine of the chainsaw will damage.
4. Time Limit
How long does mixed chainsaw gas last?
This is a common question that hits the mind of many people. If you have a mixture in the engine for more than a month, it is better to change it. Usually, the mixture lasts for a month, but it depends upon the condition of the engine. If the engine is healthy enough, the mixture might last for 2 months.
However, it is necessary to check the mixture before when you are to use your chainsaw after a month or more.
Final Verdict
Mixing gas with the fuel in your chainsaws is one of the most important things that must be noticed to maintain the health of the engine. Follow the recommended ratio of oil with gasoline to enhance the power and life of your chainsaw’s engine.
The whole process might seem overwhelming in reading, but it will not take more than a few minutes of yours. And of course, I am here to answer all your questions related to the topic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How long can you keep mixed 2-stroke fuel?
If you are using pre-mixed fuel manufactured by some company, you may use it even after five years. but if it is opened, the life reduces to 2 to 2.5 years. On the other hand, if the fuel is in the chainsaw, it isn’t recommended to use it after 2 months.
Q2. How long is Stihl mixed gas good for?
Whether you are using Stihl or Husqvarna, there is a maximum limit of using the mixture for two months or 60 days. In most desirable conditions, this limit should be 30 days.
Q3. What is the ratio of 50 to 1 gas?
If you have a gas-powered chainsaw, you need to know about the ratio of oil with gas. With 50:1 ratio; one gallon of gasoline will require 2.6 ounces of oil, for two gallon of gasoline the amount of oil becomes 5.12 ounces, for three gallons of gasoline the amount of oil will be 7.68 ounces. Meanwhile, for 4 and 5 gallons of gasoline, the amount of oil will be 10.24 ounces and 12.28 ounces respectively.