Yes, a follow up to my leaf blower question. I'd rather move on and
learn from this. I *do* know that 2-cycles require a proper mix of oil
in the fuel, and I *did* read the manual, but I managed to screw it up
for a variety of reasons.

Given that I'm not the only person with a busy life and crazy-ass
distractions, how do YOU try to make sure that you get the right oil
mixture in your yard tools?

US measurements are just the first of many ridiculous parts of the
equation here (sorry, traditionalists). You get a 32-ounce gallon (or
64-ounce two-gallon) container and some other container for the oil and
directions to put (say) 6.4oz (out of 8oz in the container!) in the gas
-- but who has a fluid measure with tenths marks? Not to mention that
the containers themselves are opaque (the cans, at least, by federal
law) and unmarked with fill lines or any such. (One can ensure an even
two gallons via the gas pump, but that supposes a 100% empty container
to start with.) Eyeballing it, which is what I have always done (without
seizing engines in the process, either), just seems risky now.

[In any case, I don't think it was a poor mix on my part, but use of the
wrong container in a rush.]

So, you have to have some gas sitting around for various purposes. You
don't want to run to the Shell every time you need to touch up the
driveway or whatnot. You may need to have different mixes for different
engines (no oil for the 4-cycle mower, 40:1 for the leaf blower, 50:1
for the chain saw, etc.). The containers aren't well designed for this
task. The measuring system is ridiculous. Math is involved. Yet a
mistake seems like it can kill an engine.

Do you mix each one in advance, or add the oil on fueling? What do you
measure with? Do you label and separate the containers? (What do you do
if you label something 40:1 and then forget to mix it once?) What do you
do with leftovers (mixing fresh gasoline with mixed, or the last 1.6oz
of oil)? Is there a visible color change you can get used to in seeing
the fuel (and legal transparent containers to keep it in)? Has some
smartypants invented a device which does the mixing for you, and is
available if you call 1-800-GAS-MSTR in the next fifteen minutes (but
wait, there's more)? Surely somebody has put their brains to this
problem before.

I found one google result for "pre-measured 2-cycle oil" -- the Mantis
products offer a kit with six just-the-right-amount containers. Surely
there's more?

"Dan Hartung" wrote in message
...
Yes, a follow up to my leaf blower question. I'd rather move on and
learn from this. I *do* know that 2-cycles require a proper mix of oil
in the fuel, and I *did* read the manual, but I managed to screw it up
for a variety of reasons.


snip

If it smokes badly or fouls the plug, then I add more gasoline.....

g

--

SVL

For 32-1 you get a 8oz can of lawn boy oil and add 2 gallon of gas to an
empty container. For a different mix Echo oil may come in a different oz
for a different mix. Or use the wifes measuring cup and follow
directions. Old gas goes in the car or boat, simple, dont make it hard.

"m Ransley" wrote in message
...
For 32-1 you get a 8oz can of lawn boy oil and add 2 gallon of gas to an
empty container. For a different mix Echo oil may come in a different oz
for a different mix. Or use the wifes measuring cup and follow
directions. Old gas goes in the car or boat, simple, dont make it hard.


......Nope......

Its not "old gas"--its simply too rich for the machine, due to engine
combustion temperature and pressures, also bearing design and material......

Why in the hell should I dump it into an engine having no need whatsoever
for lubrication within the fuel path ???

I have already paid a premium for that oil, in money and time, and it
actually adds negative value as fuel for the car.....the fact is, doing this
will make a four stroke motor more prone to detonation......

Now, ( conversely ) .....another thing always I do is add a little more oil
if the 2 cycle engine doesnt smoke a little bit--pretty close to what the OP
has been doing all along

A little smoke is a good thing......

Now "old gas" is what I dump into the diesel tractor, but that is a
different story altogether--and dont you even THINK about asking what it is
*I* do with old diesel....G.....

--

SVL

OP asked what to do with old gas, for me thats 6 mo or more, and he
mentioned left over. Usualy it lights my outdoor fires, i was just
giving an idea to start fresh so he knows whats in his can. I usualy
now only mix a gallon at a time and run all equipment 32-1 Having
different mixes is tough.

"m Ransley" wrote in message
...
OP asked what to do with old gas, for me thats 6 mo or more, and he
mentioned left over. Usualy it lights my outdoor fires, i was just
giving an idea to start fresh so he knows whats in his can. I usualy
now only mix a gallon at a time and run all equipment 32-1 Having
different mixes is tough.


Sheesh....you guys are just too damned easy......

Thats pretty close to what I do, but also I will vary up or down depending
on the age, condition and manufacturers recommendations.

And of course the amount of smoke produced in the exhaust........

Cheers,

--

SVL

"Dan Hartung" wrote in message
...
Yes, a follow up to my leaf blower question. I'd rather move on and
learn from this. I *do* know that 2-cycles require a proper mix of oil
in the fuel, and I *did* read the manual, but I managed to screw it up
for a variety of reasons.

Given that I'm not the only person with a busy life and crazy-ass
distractions, how do YOU try to make sure that you get the right oil
mixture in your yard tools?

I don't use enough "mixed" gas to make large batches so I buy those 6 packs
of the oil, one of which when added to 1 gallon or so of gas makes the
proper mixture. I can almost use it up before the season is over. I also now
label the gas can as to what the mix is for along with when I mixed it.

All manuals now go in a manilla folder that contains nothing but tool
books/rcpts/info.

Dan Hartung wrote:
Yes, a follow up to my leaf blower question. I'd rather move on and
learn from this. I *do* know that 2-cycles require a proper mix of oil
in the fuel, and I *did* read the manual, but I managed to screw it up
for a variety of reasons.

Given that I'm not the only person with a busy life and crazy-ass
distractions, how do YOU try to make sure that you get the right oil
mixture in your yard tools?

US measurements are just the first of many ridiculous parts of the
equation here (sorry, traditionalists). You get a 32-ounce gallon (or
64-ounce two-gallon) container and some other container for the oil
and directions to put (say) 6.4oz (out of 8oz in the container!) in
the gas -- but who has a fluid measure with tenths marks? Not to
mention that the containers themselves are opaque (the cans, at
least, by federal law) and unmarked with fill lines or any such. (One
can ensure an even two gallons via the gas pump, but that supposes a
100% empty container to start with.) Eyeballing it, which is what I
have always done (without seizing engines in the process, either),
just seems risky now.

[In any case, I don't think it was a poor mix on my part, but use of
the wrong container in a rush.]

So, you have to have some gas sitting around for various purposes. You
don't want to run to the Shell every time you need to touch up the
driveway or whatnot. You may need to have different mixes for
different engines (no oil for the 4-cycle mower, 40:1 for the leaf
blower, 50:1 for the chain saw, etc.). The containers aren't well
designed for this task. The measuring system is ridiculous. Math is
involved. Yet a mistake seems like it can kill an engine.

Do you mix each one in advance, or add the oil on fueling? What do you
measure with? Do you label and separate the containers? (What do you
do if you label something 40:1 and then forget to mix it once?) What
do you do with leftovers (mixing fresh gasoline with mixed, or the
last 1.6oz of oil)? Is there a visible color change you can get used
to in seeing the fuel (and legal transparent containers to keep it
in)? Has some smartypants invented a device which does the mixing for
you, and is available if you call 1-800-GAS-MSTR in the next fifteen
minutes (but wait, there's more)? Surely somebody has put their
brains to this problem before.

I found one google result for "pre-measured 2-cycle oil" -- the Mantis
products offer a kit with six just-the-right-amount containers. Surely
there's more?

Well, my method works for me. I have two containers. One for straight
gas (mower) and one for 2 cycle. I buy my gas in the first container. At
the beginning of the season I measure out a quantity from the first
container to the second and add oil. I use metric measuring since it is
easier to figure ratios. You may have to buy it in gallons, but there is no
requirement about how you measure it.

If needed during the year I do it again. At the end of the season
whatever is left in the two cycle container goes into my girlfriend's car (I
have a diesel) along with the contents of the other container.

It works for me.

BTW, the ratio for mixing need not be dead on. You should aim for
close, but exact is not required. If in doubt go for a little extra oil.
If too much it will smoke and you can add a little more gas.

--
Joseph E. Meehan

26 + 6 = 1 It's Irish Math

"Dan Hartung" wrote in message

Given that I'm not the only person with a busy life and crazy-ass
distractions, how do YOU try to make sure that you get the right oil
mixture in your yard tools?


First, you buy two completely different looking containers. I have a big
one for the mower, small one for the gas/oil mix for the chainsaw and
snowblower.

I use the same mix for both. One states be 40:1, the other 50:1, so I use
40:1.

Next, buy oil in a container that has a measure. Got mine at Wal Mart. It is
a two section thingies and you squeeze the bottle and fill the reservoir.
Markings tell you that you have enough for one gallon, etc. No math
involved. Dump the oil into the container, then take it to the gas station
to fill putting in the proper amount. I mix one gallon as I use little of
it in a year.

Leftover after a year gets duped into the mower can. Usually it is less than
half a gallon mixes with two of straight gas. Never had a problem with
that. Any gas at the end of mowing season get dumped into the car.
Ed

http://pages.cthome.net/edhome

This isn't rocket science:

1. Buy 1 gallon of fresh premium fuel
2. Measure 3 oz of Mobil MX2T in a plastic measuring cup
3. Add it to the gas and shake the jug
4. Replace this mix every season.

Use this mix in everything that needs 2 cycle fuel mix. The ratio of
oil to fuel is based on oil technology vs engine technology!!



On Mon, 31 May 2004 01:36:27 -0500, Dan Hartung
wrote:

Yes, a follow up to my leaf blower question. I'd rather move on and
learn from this. I *do* know that 2-cycles require a proper mix of oil
in the fuel, and I *did* read the manual, but I managed to screw it up
for a variety of reasons.

Given that I'm not the only person with a busy life and crazy-ass
distractions, how do YOU try to make sure that you get the right oil
mixture in your yard tools?

US measurements are just the first of many ridiculous parts of the
equation here (sorry, traditionalists). You get a 32-ounce gallon (or
64-ounce two-gallon) container and some other container for the oil and
directions to put (say) 6.4oz (out of 8oz in the container!) in the gas
-- but who has a fluid measure with tenths marks? Not to mention that
the containers themselves are opaque (the cans, at least, by federal
law) and unmarked with fill lines or any such. (One can ensure an even
two gallons via the gas pump, but that supposes a 100% empty container
to start with.) Eyeballing it, which is what I have always done (without
seizing engines in the process, either), just seems risky now.

[In any case, I don't think it was a poor mix on my part, but use of the
wrong container in a rush.]

So, you have to have some gas sitting around for various purposes. You
don't want to run to the Shell every time you need to touch up the
driveway or whatnot. You may need to have different mixes for different
engines (no oil for the 4-cycle mower, 40:1 for the leaf blower, 50:1
for the chain saw, etc.). The containers aren't well designed for this
task. The measuring system is ridiculous. Math is involved. Yet a
mistake seems like it can kill an engine.

Do you mix each one in advance, or add the oil on fueling? What do you
measure with? Do you label and separate the containers? (What do you do
if you label something 40:1 and then forget to mix it once?) What do you
do with leftovers (mixing fresh gasoline with mixed, or the last 1.6oz
of oil)? Is there a visible color change you can get used to in seeing
the fuel (and legal transparent containers to keep it in)? Has some
smartypants invented a device which does the mixing for you, and is
available if you call 1-800-GAS-MSTR in the next fifteen minutes (but
wait, there's more)? Surely somebody has put their brains to this
problem before.

I found one google result for "pre-measured 2-cycle oil" -- the Mantis
products offer a kit with six just-the-right-amount containers. Surely
there's more?

davefr wrote:
This isn't rocket science:

1. Buy 1 gallon of fresh premium fuel
2. Measure 3 oz of Mobil MX2T in a plastic measuring cup
3. Add it to the gas and shake the jug
4. Replace this mix every season.

Use this mix in everything that needs 2 cycle fuel mix. The ratio of
oil to fuel is based on oil technology vs engine technology!!

Hi,
True. But the mix ratio is anywhere from 1:25 to 1:100.
How can your mix cover all 2 cycle engines? I have only weed eater and
chain saw using oil mix, and yes, I have only one jug for both.
But everything? There are so many 2 cycle engines out there.
Also I use old mix if left over and there has been no problem.
Both engines start on couple pulls every spring.
Tony

Is mobil MX2T synthetic , where do you get it

In article , Dan Hartung wrote:
Yes, a follow up to my leaf blower question. I'd rather move on and
learn from this. I *do* know that 2-cycles require a proper mix of oil
in the fuel, and I *did* read the manual, but I managed to screw it up
for a variety of reasons.

Given that I'm not the only person with a busy life and crazy-ass
distractions, how do YOU try to make sure that you get the right oil
mixture in your yard tools?

US measurements are just the first of many ridiculous parts of the
equation here (sorry, traditionalists). You get a 32-ounce gallon (or
64-ounce two-gallon) container and

This is part of your trouble: 32 ounces is a quart, not a gallon; 64 ounces is
a half gallon, not two. One gallon is 128 ounces.

some other container for the oil and
directions to put (say) 6.4oz (out of 8oz in the container!) in the gas
-- but who has a fluid measure with tenths marks?

[snip remainder]

The easiest way to do this is to buy a one-gallon gas can for each different
mixture that you need, and buy 2-cycle oil in the appropriate size containers
for mixing one gallon of each mixture.

For example, some of my 2-cycle tools need 32:1, and some need 40:1. So I have
two one-gallon gas cans, labelled 32 and 40.

I buy 2-cycle oil in 3.2-ounce containers for mixing 40:1, and in 4-ounce
containers for mixing 32:1. With the gas can empty, pour the oil in, and add
gas until it's full -- and the mixture is right. No measuring, no calculating.

Whatever mixture you need, just look for 2-cycle oil that's labelled for
mixing that mixture. Or calculate it: for an x:1 mixture, divide 128 by x, and
that's the amount of oil (in ounces) to use to make one gallon of x:1 mix.
Example: for 40:1, divide 128 by 40 and get 3.2.

Wen you need to top off a can, add (say) 1 gal (128 oz) exactly -- most gas
pumps inticate to 0.001 gal now) and for 32:1 (say) add 128/32 = 4 oz. The
unknown amount of gas in th ebottom of th egas can is already 32:1 the new
is 32:1 so the result is 32:1 -- if you mismeasure a little and end up at
28:1 or 36:1 you'll be okay, but 16:1 double) or 64:1 (half) you'll be in
trouble, especially w/ the latter!

Agree metric would be easier (except you'd likely mix 15:1. 25:1, 30:1 etc.
vs 16:1, 24:1, 32:1, as you're no longer working in powers of 2.

A disposable (gas/oil resistant) plastic measuring cup, a dedicated pyrex
glass measure or a 60cc syringe can be useful or 2:1 oil in a translucent
container w/ measurement marks can help.

Mix as little extra as possible unless it will be used in a reasonable time
(weeks/months not years)

Harder is if you have several 2 strokes, one taking 20:1 the other 32:1 or
40:1 mix for now you need two cans, clearly labeled, and you need to
remember who's who, then there's th e4 stroke gas w/o oil...\\


"m Ransley" wrote in message
...
For 32-1 you get a 8oz can of lawn boy oil and add 2 gallon of gas to an
empty container. For a different mix Echo oil may come in a different oz
for a different mix. Or use the wifes measuring cup and follow
directions. Old gas goes in the car or boat, simple, dont make it hard.

"Edwin Pawlowski" wrote in message
. ..

"Dan Hartung" wrote in message

Given that I'm not the only person with a busy life and crazy-ass
distractions, how do YOU try to make sure that you get the right oil
mixture in your yard tools?


First, you buy two completely different looking containers. I have a big
one for the mower, small one for the gas/oil mix for the chainsaw and
snowblower.

and just so your girlfriend doesnt decide to do you a 'favor' (or any number
of other instances where someone else might be using your stuff) get a
sharpie permanant marker and write 40:1 oil/gas mix for xxxxxx (blower, weed
eater, etc..) on it. and write on the other tank something like lawn mower
only.

i wont go into the details, but i do this to every gas can now...

randy

Doug Miller wrote:
In article , Dan Hartung wrote:
US measurements are just the first of many ridiculous parts of the
equation here (sorry, traditionalists). You get a 32-ounce gallon (or
64-ounce two-gallon) container and

This is part of your trouble: 32 ounces is a quart, not a gallon; 64 ounces is
a half gallon, not two. One gallon is 128 ounces.

D'oh! *bangs head* Yep, I can never remember it when I need it (or when
posting). But usually I use the chart on the back of my 2-cycle oil, anyway.

The easiest way to do this is to buy a one-gallon gas can for each different
mixture that you need, and buy 2-cycle oil in the appropriate size containers
for mixing one gallon of each mixture.

Yeah, I've seen those 3.2oz containers, but they're almost the same cost
as the 8-ouncers! I guess it beats replacing the machinery ...

I buy 2-cycle oil in 3.2-ounce containers for mixing 40:1, and in 4-ounce
containers for mixing 32:1. With the gas can empty, pour the oil in, and add
gas until it's full -- and the mixture is right. No measuring, no calculating.

I think the way to go, now, is a clear measuring cup pre-marked for the
6.4 ounces that I need for the 40:1 mix in a 2-gallon can. The other
suggestion I liked was a "mix" container that is separate from the one
you use to buy gasoline in. That way you never add gas, then forget to
add oil when you get home.

Having done some reading on this, now, I think I got off easy. I could
have ruined my boat engine ...

Edwin Pawlowski wrote:
"Dan Hartung" wrote in message
Given that I'm not the only person with a busy life and crazy-ass
distractions, how do YOU try to make sure that you get the right oil
mixture in your yard tools?

First, you buy two completely different looking containers. I have a big
one for the mower, small one for the gas/oil mix for the chainsaw and
snowblower.

Great suggestion. I wanted to get another color, but the only one at Ace
besides red was blue, and then only for 5-gal cans.

Next, buy oil in a container that has a measure. Got mine at Wal Mart. It is
a two section thingies and you squeeze the bottle and fill the reservoir.
Markings tell you that you have enough for one gallon, etc. No math
involved. Dump the oil into the container, then take it to the gas station
to fill putting in the proper amount. I mix one gallon as I use little of
it in a year.

Yeah, I've now seen those containers. That is a great idea.

"Dan Hartung" wrote in message
...
Edwin Pawlowski wrote:
"Dan Hartung" wrote in message
Given that I'm not the only person with a busy life and crazy-ass
distractions, how do YOU try to make sure that you get the right oil
mixture in your yard tools?

First, you buy two completely different looking containers. I have a
big
one for the mower, small one for the gas/oil mix for the chainsaw and
snowblower.

Great suggestion. I wanted to get another color, but the only one at Ace
besides red was blue, and then only for 5-gal cans.

blue cans are for kerosene. not the end of the world, but its still best to
put gas in red cans so someone else doesnt get confused. just get a small
1 gallon can and mark it well with the gas/oil ratio you are using it for.

randy

"Dan Hartung" wrote in message
Yeah, I've seen those 3.2oz containers, but they're almost the same cost
as the 8-ouncers! I guess it beats replacing the machinery ...

You guess? A 3.2oz container is under a buck, how much is a new
weedeater?

"xrongor" wrote in message
...

"Dan Hartung" wrote in message
...
Edwin Pawlowski wrote:
"Dan Hartung" wrote in message
Given that I'm not the only person with a busy life and crazy-ass
distractions, how do YOU try to make sure that you get the right oil
mixture in your yard tools?

First, you buy two completely different looking containers. I have a
big
one for the mower, small one for the gas/oil mix for the chainsaw and
snowblower.

Great suggestion. I wanted to get another color, but the only one at Ace
besides red was blue, and then only for 5-gal cans.

blue cans are for kerosene. not the end of the world, but its still best
to
put gas in red cans so someone else doesnt get confused. just get a
small
1 gallon can and mark it well with the gas/oil ratio you are using it for.

randy

And I would like to add: ALWAYS CHECK THE COLOR OF THE
GAS BEFORE PUTTING IT INTO YOUR CHAINSAW....

Sometimes the wife may do you a favor by straightening up the
garage and putting things where she thinks they belong. If you
always check for a "blue" tint, you'll be doubly certain...

Andy in Fink, TExas

Once again, the ratio specified by the manufacturers had more to do
with the oil technology at the time then with the engine
technology/design. 2 cycle oils have improved so much that even the
old 16:1 engine recomendations get better lubrication using 40-50:1
assuming the newer oils are used. (the old 16:1 oils were probably
Group I dino's where the new 50:1 oils are typically a highly advanced
synthetic.)

You don't need a seperate jug for each mix as long as you use a modern
2 cycle oil. I've done research and Mobil MX2T is one of the best.
(available at Autozone)



Tony Hwang wrote in message news:ScIuc.629455$oR5.26671@pd7tw3no...
davefr wrote:
This isn't rocket science:

1. Buy 1 gallon of fresh premium fuel
2. Measure 3 oz of Mobil MX2T in a plastic measuring cup
3. Add it to the gas and shake the jug
4. Replace this mix every season.

Use this mix in everything that needs 2 cycle fuel mix. The ratio of
oil to fuel is based on oil technology vs engine technology!!

Hi,
True. But the mix ratio is anywhere from 1:25 to 1:100.
How can your mix cover all 2 cycle engines? I have only weed eater and
chain saw using oil mix, and yes, I have only one jug for both.
But everything? There are so many 2 cycle engines out there.
Also I use old mix if left over and there has been no problem.
Both engines start on couple pulls every spring.
Tony

Is it a synthetic

xrongor wrote:
"Dan Hartung" wrote in message
...
Great suggestion. I wanted to get another color, but the only one at Ace
besides red was blue, and then only for 5-gal cans.

blue cans are for kerosene. not the end of the world, but its still best to
put gas in red cans so someone else doesnt get confused. just get a small
1 gallon can and mark it well with the gas/oil ratio you are using it for.

Roger that, then. Thanks!

Now, red I can understand (a quick google shows that blue is kerosene
and yellow is diesel), but why must it be opaque?

And why *isn't* there a separate color for oil-gas mix? Sheesh.

Personaly I would go with a seperate can for each, and buy the coresponding
mix for each. Not the most effiecient but just how much will you use in a
season? I have the same dillema with my leaf blower but I can tell you the
NEXT one I buy will be 50:1.

"Dan Hartung" wrote in message
...
Yes, a follow up to my leaf blower question. I'd rather move on and
learn from this. I *do* know that 2-cycles require a proper mix of oil
in the fuel, and I *did* read the manual, but I managed to screw it up
for a variety of reasons.

Given that I'm not the only person with a busy life and crazy-ass
distractions, how do YOU try to make sure that you get the right oil
mixture in your yard tools?

US measurements are just the first of many ridiculous parts of the
equation here (sorry, traditionalists). You get a 32-ounce gallon (or
64-ounce two-gallon) container and some other container for the oil and
directions to put (say) 6.4oz (out of 8oz in the container!) in the gas
-- but who has a fluid measure with tenths marks? Not to mention that
the containers themselves are opaque (the cans, at least, by federal
law) and unmarked with fill lines or any such. (One can ensure an even
two gallons via the gas pump, but that supposes a 100% empty container
to start with.) Eyeballing it, which is what I have always done (without
seizing engines in the process, either), just seems risky now.

[In any case, I don't think it was a poor mix on my part, but use of the
wrong container in a rush.]

So, you have to have some gas sitting around for various purposes. You
don't want to run to the Shell every time you need to touch up the
driveway or whatnot. You may need to have different mixes for different
engines (no oil for the 4-cycle mower, 40:1 for the leaf blower, 50:1
for the chain saw, etc.). The containers aren't well designed for this
task. The measuring system is ridiculous. Math is involved. Yet a
mistake seems like it can kill an engine.

Do you mix each one in advance, or add the oil on fueling? What do you
measure with? Do you label and separate the containers? (What do you do
if you label something 40:1 and then forget to mix it once?) What do you
do with leftovers (mixing fresh gasoline with mixed, or the last 1.6oz
of oil)? Is there a visible color change you can get used to in seeing
the fuel (and legal transparent containers to keep it in)? Has some
smartypants invented a device which does the mixing for you, and is
available if you call 1-800-GAS-MSTR in the next fifteen minutes (but
wait, there's more)? Surely somebody has put their brains to this
problem before.

I found one google result for "pre-measured 2-cycle oil" -- the Mantis
products offer a kit with six just-the-right-amount containers. Surely
there's more?

"Dan Hartung" wrote in message
...
xrongor wrote:
"Dan Hartung" wrote in message
...
Great suggestion. I wanted to get another color, but the only one at Ace
besides red was blue, and then only for 5-gal cans.

blue cans are for kerosene. not the end of the world, but its still
best to
put gas in red cans so someone else doesnt get confused. just get a
small
1 gallon can and mark it well with the gas/oil ratio you are using it
for.

Roger that, then. Thanks!

Now, red I can understand (a quick google shows that blue is kerosene
and yellow is diesel), but why must it be opaque?

And why *isn't* there a separate color for oil-gas mix? Sheesh.

because you would need to use about 100 colors to cover all the
possibilities. although you can always go down and buy a can of spray
paint...

randy

I pick the tool that needs the most oil and go with that mix for all my
equipment. Most stuff uses 40:1 now but I have 2 items which use 32:1 so
all my equipemnt gets 32:1 and been doing this for a dozen years and I
usually give the stuff away because I get bored with them and get something
new at some point because nothing ever breaks. Been using the same edger,
blower, and trimmer for many years. Even an old 2 cycle lawnboy mower. It
all does well with this sloppy method. Only downside is extra pollution I
am causing. I also save gas season to season with no problems. Sometimes
add a little oil to an old mix before I use it. If I had a $400 blower, etc
I probably would not be so sloppy.


"Dan Hartung" wrote in message
...
Yes, a follow up to my leaf blower question. I'd rather move on and
learn from this. I *do* know that 2-cycles require a proper mix of oil
in the fuel, and I *did* read the manual, but I managed to screw it up
for a variety of reasons.

Given that I'm not the only person with a busy life and crazy-ass
distractions, how do YOU try to make sure that you get the right oil
mixture in your yard tools?

US measurements are just the first of many ridiculous parts of the
equation here (sorry, traditionalists). You get a 32-ounce gallon (or
64-ounce two-gallon) container and some other container for the oil and
directions to put (say) 6.4oz (out of 8oz in the container!) in the gas
-- but who has a fluid measure with tenths marks? Not to mention that
the containers themselves are opaque (the cans, at least, by federal
law) and unmarked with fill lines or any such. (One can ensure an even
two gallons via the gas pump, but that supposes a 100% empty container
to start with.) Eyeballing it, which is what I have always done (without
seizing engines in the process, either), just seems risky now.

[In any case, I don't think it was a poor mix on my part, but use of the
wrong container in a rush.]

So, you have to have some gas sitting around for various purposes. You
don't want to run to the Shell every time you need to touch up the
driveway or whatnot. You may need to have different mixes for different
engines (no oil for the 4-cycle mower, 40:1 for the leaf blower, 50:1
for the chain saw, etc.). The containers aren't well designed for this
task. The measuring system is ridiculous. Math is involved. Yet a
mistake seems like it can kill an engine.

Do you mix each one in advance, or add the oil on fueling? What do you
measure with? Do you label and separate the containers? (What do you do
if you label something 40:1 and then forget to mix it once?) What do you
do with leftovers (mixing fresh gasoline with mixed, or the last 1.6oz
of oil)? Is there a visible color change you can get used to in seeing
the fuel (and legal transparent containers to keep it in)? Has some
smartypants invented a device which does the mixing for you, and is
available if you call 1-800-GAS-MSTR in the next fifteen minutes (but
wait, there's more)? Surely somebody has put their brains to this
problem before.

I found one google result for "pre-measured 2-cycle oil" -- the Mantis
products offer a kit with six just-the-right-amount containers. Surely
there's more?

Here is the simple answer. Get a one galon gas can (BTW, in
New York, here, there are 128 ounces in a galon). Go to the
Dollar Store, and buy a baby bottle which is graduated in
ounces. Pour four ounces of two stroke oil into the baby
bottle. Pour all that oil into the gascan. Go to the store,
buy about .98 or so galons of premium. Pump it into the gas
can. Screw the cap on the gascan, and shake it.

Gas mix with 4 ounces of oil to 1 galon of gas is called
"thirty two to one mix" also called 32:1 and will run fine
in nearly every two cycle equipment made.

The reason I don't suggest a two galon can, it takes a long
time to use that much gas mix on household gadgets.

Store the baby bottle in a tool box, don't put it on the
shelf where grandma will find it and think it's for Scooter.

Shake the gascan before you fill the tank. Every time. I
know... oil isn't supposed to separate out. And planes
aren't supposed to crash in the world trade center. Shake
the gas every time you use it.
--

Christopher A. Young
Learn more about Jesus
www.lds.org
www.mormons.com


"Dan Hartung" wrote in message
...
Yes, a follow up to my leaf blower question. I'd rather move
on and
learn from this. I *do* know that 2-cycles require a proper
mix of oil
in the fuel, and I *did* read the manual, but I managed to
screw it up
for a variety of reasons.

Given that I'm not the only person with a busy life and
crazy-ass
distractions, how do YOU try to make sure that you get the
right oil
mixture in your yard tools?

US measurements are just the first of many ridiculous parts
of the
equation here (sorry, traditionalists). You get a 32-ounce
gallon (or
64-ounce two-gallon) container and some other container for
the oil and
directions to put (say) 6.4oz (out of 8oz in the container!)
in the gas
-- but who has a fluid measure with tenths marks? Not to
mention that
the containers themselves are opaque (the cans, at least, by
federal
law) and unmarked with fill lines or any such. (One can
ensure an even
two gallons via the gas pump, but that supposes a 100% empty
container
to start with.) Eyeballing it, which is what I have always
done (without
seizing engines in the process, either), just seems risky
now.

[In any case, I don't think it was a poor mix on my part,
but use of the
wrong container in a rush.]

So, you have to have some gas sitting around for various
purposes. You
don't want to run to the Shell every time you need to touch
up the
driveway or whatnot. You may need to have different mixes
for different
engines (no oil for the 4-cycle mower, 40:1 for the leaf
blower, 50:1
for the chain saw, etc.). The containers aren't well
designed for this
task. The measuring system is ridiculous. Math is involved.
Yet a
mistake seems like it can kill an engine.

Do you mix each one in advance, or add the oil on fueling?
What do you
measure with? Do you label and separate the containers?
(What do you do
if you label something 40:1 and then forget to mix it once?)
What do you
do with leftovers (mixing fresh gasoline with mixed, or the
last 1.6oz
of oil)? Is there a visible color change you can get used to
in seeing
the fuel (and legal transparent containers to keep it in)?
Has some
smartypants invented a device which does the mixing for you,
and is
available if you call 1-800-GAS-MSTR in the next fifteen
minutes (but
wait, there's more)? Surely somebody has put their brains to
this
problem before.

I found one google result for "pre-measured 2-cycle oil" --
the Mantis
products offer a kit with six just-the-right-amount
containers. Surely
there's more?

"Stormin Mormon" wrote in message
...

Here is the simple answer. Get a one galon gas can

Here is a simple answer....try and learn to spell the word " Gallon".......

Just maybe a few educated folks might take your religion more seriously, eh
???

=====

You ****wad....

--

SVL