What Oil Should I Use for My Lawn Strimmer to Ensure the Best Performance? When it comes to looking after your lawn strimmer, there is one variable which is more important than any other. It’s not the timing of your maintenance regime; it’s not how thorough you are when cleaning up after use. No, the most important factor for strimmer performance, extended engine life and saving money in the long run is the type of oil that you use. In this article we’ll explain everything you need to know about oils for lawn strimmers, from the purpose it serves, to which type of oil you should be using, as well as which top quality oils are available from Mowshop for your lawn care equipment. Why is oil important for a lawn strimmer? Strimmers are used to cut grass and weeds around flower beds and in other tight spaces which are often difficult to reach with a lawnmower. A strimmer typically features a short handle and a spinning head with the trimmer line inside. The vast majority of petrol strimmers use 2-stroke engines, which are highly efficient at power output for their small size, but require a mixture of oil and fuel. Oil serves multiple functions, including: Lubrication of the internal engine parts to reduce friction and wear Cleaning via suspension of dirt and carbon Cooling the engine to help prevent overheating Protection from rust and corrosion The wrong oil, or even running your strimmer without oil, will lead to engine damage, poor power output and expensive repair work quickly. What type of oil should you use for your lawn strimmer? Petrol strimmers generally use 2-stroke engines, which require mixing 2-stroke oil with the petrol fuel (in the correct proportions – often 50: 1 or 40:1 but check your manufacturer’s instructions for the required ratio). You’ll also find different types of 2-stroke oils, which are typically classified as: Mineral oil: Cheap, and suitable for older machines or infrequent use Semi-synthetic oil: A combination of mineral and synthetic, this type of oil is suitable for most general applications. Better lubrication and cleanliness of combustion than mineral Fully synthetic oil: Premium 2-stroke oils that offer the best protection and leave the least amount of residue, recommended for new or higher-performance strimmers. The best 2-stroke oils from Mowshop As well as a full range of engine parts for lawn mowers and strimmers, at Mowshop we also stock a range of high quality 2-stroke oils suitable for all kinds of lawn strimmers. Here are three of our top recommendations, which are available to order now: 1. Groundsman 2-Stroke Oil 1L This 1 litre bottle of 2-stroke oil is semi synthetic, and is ideal for everyday use with light to medium duty garden machinery. This dependable oil lubricates well and will help to prevent carbon build up inside the engine and reduce engine wear. Ideal for: Casual or seasonal gardeners who are looking for an affordable, straightforward option. Features: High performance, semi-synthetic oil Suitable for a range of 2-stroke garden machinery Easy to measure and mix 2. Husqvarna Two-Stroke Oil HP 1L This premium 2-stroke oil is from one of the most trusted names in the business. Offering semi-synthetic oil performance, this Husqvarna formula is ideal for tough jobs where your strimmer will be under high demand. Ideal for: Professional or high-performance strimmers, in particular Husqvarna machines. Features: Semi-synthetic blend for superior engine protection Less smoke and a cleaner burn Excellent option for high temperatures or high RPM conditions 3. Stihl HP 2-Stroke Engine Oil 1Ltr This high-quality general-purpose oil is suitable for a wide range of 2-stroke engines. A top option for any homeowner, this oil will ensure your strimmer is running smoothly, whether you’re just maintaining a small lawn or tackling more tough terrain. Ideal for: Homeowners who are looking for a reliable, all-round oil for regular strimmer maintenance. Features: Great lubrication and combustion properties Reduce engine wear and deposits Specially developed for the demanding needs of power tools How to mix 2-stroke oil After selecting your 2-stroke oil, you’ll need to mix it in the appropriate ratio with petrol before use. Mixing ratios may vary between strimmers but 50: 1 is the most common ratio, which equates to 100ml of 2-stroke oil per 5 litres of unleaded petrol. Mixing Tips: Always use a clean, approved fuel container Shake well before filling the strimmer tank Mix small amounts which will be used within a few weeks to avoid stale fuel Some 2-stroke oils are coloured (including the above oils) to make the mixture easier to see, which also helps reduce the risk of accidentally putting in too much or too little. Signs you have the wrong oil (or oil mix) If you use the wrong type or an incorrect mix of oil, you will notice: Heavy smoke Difficulty accelerating Rough idling Carbon deposits on spark plugs Reduced engine life If your strimmer is difficult to start, smells different, or if you notice dark or excessive smoke, it might be worth trying to ensure that your oil and fuel mix are as per the manufacturer’s recommendations (or switch to a high quality oil such as the Husqvarna semi-synthetic oil). Conclusion: Choose the best oil for your lawn strimmer Your lawn strimmer does a lot of work to keep your garden looking neat and tidy. Don’t let engine problems spoil your day! Choosing the right 2-stroke oil, like the ones above available from Mowshop, can make your strimmer run more smoothly, break less often and last longer. Whether you are edging your lawn once a week or using your strimmer every day, using the correct oil is vital. Check out Mowshop’s full range of 2-stroke oils here and order the best oil for your strimmer today.
