Here's how it works: Find the right engine oil for your petrol device!

Engine oil name and meaning

In principle, the choice of engine oil comes down to viscosity at different temperatures. The viscosity denotes the flow property of the oil, i.e. how thick or thin the liquid is. In particular, the engine oil is classified in internationally standardised SAE grades. The abbreviation SAE stands for the Society of Automotive Engineers. This classification defines the limits of viscosity under cold and heat.

We will use a concrete example to explain what the engine oil designation means. The 4-stroke oil called 15W-40 has the following properties:

• The number before the "W", in this case 15, stands for the viscosity at low temperatures. The lower the number, the better the flow property at low temperatures, so that all moving parts in the motor are quickly reached. Specifically, we would recommend this oil for use at outside temperatures from -20°C.
• The number after the "W", in this case 40, stands for the flow property at heat, more precisely at 100°C. The higher this value, the better the lubrication of the engine oil at high outside temperatures and correspondingly high temperatures in the engine. We would recommend this engine oil for outdoor temperatures up to 30°C.

In particular, multi-grade oils such as 10W-40 (recommended for -20°C to 30°C) or 15W-40 (-10°C to 40°C) are suitable for our temperatures, i.e. for the central European climate. With multi-grade oils, whether summer or winter, you will always be well equipped in Germany and surrounding areas to properly care for your devices.

When should the engine oil be checked and changed?

All 4-stroke petrol devices from Einhell are supplied with a special service booklet that lists exactly how and when you should maintain your device. For example, an oil check should be carried out before each use, in the same way you should also check how much petrol you have left in the tank. You check the oil the same as you would in a car: Pull the dipstick out of the filler neck, wipe it and insert it again as far as it will go. When you pull the dipstick out of the filler neck again, the oil level should be visible between the minimum and maximum line.

When changing the oil, remember the following: Ideally, the first engine oil change should be after the first 20 hours of use of your petrol device. You can then change the engine oil after every 50 operating hours. How exactly to do this can be found as a step-by-step guide in your user manual.

How do I find the right engine oil?

Choosing the right engine oil always depends on the outside temperature at which you want to work with your device. While you usually work with petrol lawn mowers in summer, when it can get very warm in Germany, for example, you will need another special engine oil for an electricity generator that you might want to use in winter in particular. The choice of engine oil is therefore always regional and seasonal, so depends on the location and time of year, or on the outside temperatures. Whether an engine oil is suitable also depends on the type of fuel used in your device, i.e. whether it is diesel or petrol. You will find additional information on the recommended type of engine oil in the operating instructions for your device.

Incidentally, you should be careful if the oil is stored for too long! In the sealed original packaging, the engine oil can easily be kept for three to five years, but then chemical additives could become detached in it. In particular, partially synthetic and fully synthetic oils then lose their functionality in the long term. In case of doubt, you should buy new engine oil to get maximum performance and longevity out of your device.

What happens if there is too little or no oil in the device?

Too low an oil level or no engine oil at all can do significant damage to your petrol device. A petrol-powered engine is capable of maximum performance and also works without engine oil, but you have to remember that the moving parts in the engine rub against each other countless times per hour of operation. A lubricant ensures that the parts wear less and thus reduces the generation of heat. Engine damage is likely to occur if there is no oil, often because the increased friction has led to overheating. This means that an engine that is not sufficiently oiled will wear out faster. In addition, in the case of incorrect use, warranty claims are usually omitted, which is also mentioned in the operating instructions.

For example, you may notice that you are using an unsuitable engine oil because it causes oil loss. This happens in particular if the oil is too fluid for the current outside temperature. If you use too thick an oil, which naturally becomes even more viscous in cold temperatures, the parts will not be lubricated properly. This can cause problems when starting the engine and the fuel consumption can also be higher. If you use the wrong engine oil, the problem can be solved quite easily. Refer to your user manual to find out how to correctly perform an oil change, which is usually explained step by step. Then simply replace the oil with a more suitable engine oil and your device will be ready for use again.

Summary: The right maintenance makes all the difference!

You can fundamentally influence how long you ultimately enjoy your petrol lawn mower, your power generator or your hedge trimmer for by properly and regularly maintaining your devices. The choice of the right engine oil significantly influences the functionality and longevity of the engine. So, what are you waiting for? An inventory of your devices and their condition is never a bad idea. Then you can immediately apply the new knowledge about oil changes and maintenance!