Lawn mower what type of oil

In colder temperatures, thinner single-grade oil performs better in engines. It gets a little more complicated with multigrade engine oil. Look at the first number, with a W 10W, for example as a measure of flow in cold temperatures. The W stands for winter not weight. The lower this number, the less viscosity an oil will have at colder temperatures, and the better it will flow. The higher number that follows the 30 in 10W 30 refers to viscosity at higher operating temperatures and in hot weather.

Multigrade oils typically are designed to flow in a range of temperatures to match conditions. Some oils have additives that also keep viscosity steadier in cold or heat.

When choosing the right lawn mower oil type for your mower, your best bet is to check the manufacturer recommendations. Also consider the engine type such as 2-stroke engine , oil viscosity, and average temperatures where you live. Four-stroke engines tend to power heavy-duty equipment, but are reliable and your best bet for larger lawns. Oil and gas are kept separate in a four-stroke engine. You can buy SAE motor oil online view example on Amazon , at any auto parts store, from most gas stations, and in the automotive section of a hardware store.

Do not use special additives. Outdoor temperatures determine the proper oil viscosity for the engine. Use the chart to select the best viscosity for the outdoor temperature range expected. Engines on most outdoor power equipment operate well with 5W30 Synthetic oil. For equipment operated in hot temperatures, Vanguard 15W50 Synthetic oil provides the best protection.

Check oil level more frequently. The Society of Automotive Engineers has developed a categorization of motor oils which will indicate the viscosity thickness and temperature in which engine oil can be used. This is called the SAE, it is printed on every bottle of oil and will also indicate whether or not the oil is synthetic.

Above is a chart that lists SAE type and the temperature in which it functions the best. We have recently modified our engine oil recommendations to state that you may now use a synthetic 5W30 or 10W30 oil in all temperature ranges.

Engine break-in procedures using synthetic oil remain the same. Please keep in mind that the use of synthetic oil does not preclude you from performing your regularly scheduled lawn mower maintenance i. Engine oil capacity is, just like oil type, dependent on your specific engine model. Learn how to properly and safely use, troubleshoot, and maintain your lawn mower, tractor, snow blower, and other lawn and garden equipment.

Synthetic oil is viable for most conditions. It is very slippery and so it works well as a lubricant. Compared to other oil types, it also performs well in more extreme temperatures. However, it can be more expensive and less efficient than conventional oil. You should change your lawn mower oil after approximately 50 hours of use. If you have a brand new mower, I recommend changing it for the first time after five hours. However, you can also check the levels periodically to see if the oil needs changing.

Four-cycle oil is suitable for four-stroke lawnmower motors. Larger mowers usually have this engine type, although you should check your product manual.

For these kinds of lawnmowers, SAE 30 is often a suitable choice. However, a two-stroke motor will need a different type of oil. If your mower has a large, four-stroke engine, it may handle using regular motor oil. Change Region. North America. Push Mowers. Riding Lawn Mowers. Zero Turn Mowers. Pressure Washers. Portable Generators. Snow Blowers. Electric Products.