Is there a difference in pre-mix oil?

Question

I have been told that air cooled two strokes (chainsaws, weedwhacekrs, some motorcycles, etc) take a different premix oil than water-cooled two strokes (snowmobiles, boat motors) because of the difference in operating temperatures.

However when I look at the labels, they all have the exact same designations, I believe it is TC3.

So what is the story? Are all good quality two stroke oils suitable for different applications?

I've used them interchangeably with no troubles, am I just lucky so far or is there really a difference?

thanx

Answer 1

The difference is in the mix not the oil. In the old days regular motor oil was used but now TC3 is your best bet unless you want to move over to synthetic. the motor gets its lube from the gas/oil mixture instead of from a separate oil tank as in 4 stroke motors. the higher the ratio the lower the amount of oil. ALWAYS follow the manufactures recommended Oil/Gas ratio for each engine. I have one can for my weed eater (1 gal) 3 gal tank for my lawn boy mower and then my outboard tanks. Each engine is different. The oils used in the mix is the same.

Answer 2

certain things like you said take mixed ..gas/oil/mixed..like weedwhackers, chainsaw, your best bet is to when you buy something new to read what it takes but both of those things i have it mixed ...oil/gas..

Answer 3

Wow the first response really didn't answer the question at all...

I don't think the difference in oil itself is much different. Most marine oils are labeled as such because they are more friendly to aquatic life than those used in air cooled engines. Other than that, the only other differences in 2 stroke oils are ash content (may be required), synthetic oil content, and various additives. Just run the correct mixture and you should be fine.

Answer 4

I like what "John W" says. I not see a big difference, some brands may be designed to produce less smoke or have a fuel stabilizer added, which they usually say on the label. That about all I can add.

Answer 5

There is a difference.  You can get TC-3 or TCw-3.  The w is for water cooled.  The difference is due to the temp that the engines run.  There are multi use oils from pennsoil and others that are blended for both uses.  It is not worth it to skimp on the oil.  Use the best and mix it per the engine manufactor's instructions.  People will tell you to use more or use less or use this or that but the fact is engine manufactors spend a lot of time and money researching what is the best for their product.