Engine Oil

About Engine Oil

Engine oil is an essential maintenance product for keeping petrol-powered garden machinery, lawnmowers, and outdoor power equipment running smoothly and efficiently. Whether you're maintaining a ride-on mower, hedge trimmer, chainsaw, or pressure washer, selecting the correct engine oil ensures optimal performance, reduces wear on internal components, and extends the working life of your valuable equipment. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks specialist formulations for both 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines, with options from trusted brands including Handy, Makita, and ALM.

Understanding the difference between engine oil types is crucial for proper equipment maintenance. 4-stroke engine oils work in traditional lawnmower engines where the oil reservoir is separate from the fuel tank, providing lubrication to pistons, bearings, and other moving parts. 2-stroke oils are mixed directly with petrol in specific ratios to lubricate engines found in many strimmers, chainsaws, and smaller garden tools. Our selection also includes convenient service kits containing oil and essential maintenance components, making routine servicing straightforward for both professional groundskeepers and DIY gardeners.

Applications

• Professional gardeners and landscape contractors maintaining fleet equipment
• Groundskeepers responsible for sports facilities, golf courses, and public parks
• Tree surgeons and arborists servicing chainsaws and climbing equipment
• Agricultural workers maintaining farm machinery and smallholding equipment
• DIY enthusiasts and homeowners with lawnmowers and garden tools
• Garden machinery repair workshops and servicing centres
• Estate managers and facility maintenance teams caring for outdoor spaces
• Allotment holders with petrol-powered equipment

Choosing The Right Engine Oil

Check Your Engine Type: Determine whether your equipment has a 2-stroke or 4-stroke engine by consulting the operator's manual. 2-stroke engines typically have a single fuel tank where oil is mixed with petrol, whilst 4-stroke engines have separate oil and fuel reservoirs.

Follow Manufacturer Specifications: Always refer to your equipment manufacturer's recommendations for viscosity grade. Makita, for example, specifies SAE 30 for garden tools in typical UK operating conditions, whilst other manufacturers may recommend 10W/30 multi-grade oils for year-round use.

Consider Operating Conditions: Single-grade SAE 30 oils work well during the main mowing season when temperatures are moderate, but 10W/30 multi-grade formulations offer better cold-starting performance in spring and autumn whilst maintaining protection during hot summer operation.

Assess Your Usage Level: Professional users maintaining equipment daily should consider semi-synthetic formulations from brands like Handy, which offer enhanced protection against wear and deposits. For occasional home use, quality mineral oils provide adequate protection at an economical price point.

Safety Information

Engine oils are classified under COSHH regulations and must be handled, stored, and disposed of responsibly. Always work in well-ventilated areas when handling oils, and wear appropriate gloves to prevent prolonged skin contact. Never dispose of used engine oil down drains or into the ground—local authority recycling centres throughout the UK accept waste oil free of charge. When mixing 2-stroke oil with petrol, always work outdoors away from ignition sources and follow the manufacturer's mixing ratio precisely. Allow engines to cool completely before checking or changing oil to avoid burn injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use car engine oil in my lawnmower?
Whilst some automotive oils may be suitable, it's best to use oils specifically formulated for small engines. Garden machinery engines operate at different temperatures and speeds compared to vehicle engines, and specialist oils available at MyToolShed.co.uk contain additives designed for these conditions.

What's the correct mixing ratio for 2-stroke oil?
Common ratios include 50:1 (100ml oil to 5 litres petrol) and 25:1 (200ml oil to 5 litres petrol), but always follow your equipment manufacturer's specific recommendation. The Handy and ALM 2-stroke oils clearly specify their recommended ratios on the packaging.

How often should I change my lawnmower's engine oil?
For 4-stroke lawnmowers, change the oil at least once per season or after every 25-50 hours of operation, whichever comes first. Professional users should change oil more frequently, particularly in dusty conditions.