Part of taking care of your chainsaw engine is making sure that the fuel ratio is correct. Different chainsaws can require different oil-to-gas ratios. So, it’s always better to double-check before mixing fuel.
Craftsman chainsaws use a 40:1 fuel-to-oil ratio for all 2-stroke engines. So, if you are using gallons as a unit of measurement, you will need 3.2 fluid ounces of 2-stroke engine oil for each gallon of gasoline. In liters, you will need 25 mL of oil for 1 liter of gasoline.
Let’s get into some basic details about Craftsman chainsaw fuel mix.
Craftsman Chainsaw Gas Mix
For Craftsman chainsaws, you will need to use unleaded gasoline. The recommended octane rating is at least 89. Many petrol has alcohol in them these days.
So, if you are using one of these fuel options, you should always use fresh fuel instead of storing them inside the chainsaw.
As for the oil, it should be a two-stroke oil for air-cooled engines. Craftsman suggests that you should use the oil from their brand. However, if the oil isn’t available, make sure to get a good-quality oil.
Craftsman Chainsaw Oil Mix Chart
The table below will give you an idea about the measurement ratio for oil and gasoline in gallons and fluid ounces:
| Gasoline (In Gallon) | Oil (In Fluid Ounce) |
| 1 | 3.2 |
| 1.5 | 4.8 |
| 2 | 6.4 |
| 2.5 | 8 |
| 3 | 9.6 |
| 3.5 | 11.2 |
| 4 | 12.8 |
| 4.5 | 14.4 |
| 5 | 16 |
If you want the measurements in liters, take a look at the table below:
| Gasoline (In Liter) | Oil (In Milliliters) |
| 1 | 25 |
| 2 | 50 |
| 3 | 75 |
| 4 | 100 |
| 5 | 125 |
| 6 | 150 |
| 7 | 175 |
| 8 | 200 |
| 9 | 225 |
| 10 | 250 |
Craftsman Chainsaw Fuel Mix: Step-By-Step Procedure
Mixing petrol and oil is an easy process. But it’s important that you follow the proper way if you want to avoid any mishaps.
Things You Will Need:
- Fuel-approved container
- 89 octane unleaded gasoline 1 gallon
- 3.2 fluid ounces of 2-stroke engine oil
- Wiping cloth
Step 1: Preparation
Keep your chainsaw on an even surface in a well-ventilated area. It’s recommended to do this outdoors. However, if you are doing it indoors, make sure that all the windows and doors are open. Gather everything so that you can complete it in one setting.
Step 2: Add Petrol To The Container
Pour 1 gallon of gasoline into your fuel-approved container. Always use a clean container. Make sure that you’re not spilling any petrol on yourself.
Step 3: Add 2-Stroke Oil
Take 3.2 fluid ounces of oil to the fuel container. If the oil you’re using doesn’t come in the exact amount, make sure to properly measure the amount. If you have a fuel container with measuring marks, you can use it to ensure that the oil is in the proper amount.
Step 4: Shake The Container
After adding both gasoline and oil, it’s time to mix them well together. Tighten the cap of the container and give it a shake for about ten to fifteen seconds.
If you are storing the mixture, shake it every time you pour it into the chainsaw. The gasoline and the oil may get separated after sitting for a while.
Step 5: Refill The Chainsaw Tank
Open the fuel tank cap of your Craftsman chainsaw and carefully pour the mixture. Make sure not to overfill the tank. It should be about 80% full. Close the fuel tank cap and the fuel container cap. Avoid using the chainsaw right where you refilled it.
If you work and refill the chainsaw at the same place, at least wait till any spilled fuel vapors. Finish the process by wiping the area near the fuel tank cap. In case you’re interested, I also have an article on Craftsman chainsaw carburetor adjustment.
Things To Remember
As I have already mentioned, you can make your chainsaw more efficient by using the proper fuel mix.
On the contrary, the engine may experience damage if you are not being careful with your fuel mix. Let’s take a look at a few things you should keep in mind when mixing fuel and using it.
Separate Container
You should never add gasoline and oil directly to the chainsaw. Always use a good-quality fuel container to mix them. Make sure that the container does not have any dirt in it. You can invest in a good container that comes with measurement marks for convenience.
Avoid Storing The Mixture
Professionals suggest that you shouldn’t store the mixture in the container for more than two months. You shouldn’t store fuel in your chainsaw. If you are storing the chainsaw for more than thirty days, always drain the fuel tank.
Suitable Products
As I have mentioned, using the right products is important. Check the gasoline and the oil’s specification before using them for your chainsaw.
As for supporting materials, you can get a good-quality fuel container. Powered Outdoors suggests that you also use a fuel stabilizer for the mixture.
To avoid mixing the fuel altogether, get a pre-blended fuel for your chainsaw.
Safety Measures:
- Allow your chainsaw to cool down before adding fuel to it.
- Check your specific model for fuel ratio to be certain if possible.
- Make sure that the fuel cap is secured in place before starting your chainsaw.
- If you have spilled fuel on yourself, change your clothes before starting the chainsaw.
- Avoid any source of ignition when you’re refilling the tank.
- Avoid adding fuel additives directly to the fuel tank.
- Do not store your chainsaw with fuel inside it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave fuel inside my Craftsman chainsaw?
Experts recommend that you shouldn’t store fuel in your chainsaw. In case you’re storing the chainsaw for more than a month, you should drain the fuel can and close the cap tightly storing it. Leaving fuel inside the tank for an extended period can cause gum deposits and damage the engine.
What is the correct fuel mix for chainsaws?
The fuel mix ratio suitable for a chainsaw can vary depending on the model and the brand. For instance, Stihl chainsaws use a 50:1 gasoline-to-oil ratio, whereas Poulan and Craftsman chainsaws run on a 40:1 ratio.
What kind of oil does a Craftsman chainsaw take?
You will need 2-stroke synthetic engine oil for your Craftsman chainsaw. Make sure that the oil is for air-cooled engines. Using any other oil may save you money but damage the engine in the long run.
Wrap Up
No matter what unit of measurement you are using, the ratio has to be 40:1 for Craftsman chainsaw fuel mix. Using too much oil can cause carbon buildup inside the engine.
On the other hand, using too less oil can cause the engine to run hot. So, to protect the chainsaw, you must ensure the fuel is mixed in the right proportion.
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