2Stroke oil

[PabloPicasso]

None of my local garages sell 2 stroke oil anymore. It's a trip to a DIY/garden centre or screwfix to get it now.

But what would be a good alternative if running out somewhere remote?

 

[davidmh]

If it for an outboard motor you really need an oil for marine use. The DIY and Screwfix stuff will be for gardening and chainsaw use. The marine engine runs less hot that chainsaws and need the correct oil. In an emergency you can use non marine oil, a good source is motorcycle suppliers.
David MH

 

[PabloPicasso]

Is this a wind up Davidmh?

Previously just used the motorbike or garden tool stuff. Never had an issue with it.

Screwfix 2stroke oil €6.95 for one litre. 4 litres of marine is €76.44.

Can it really make that much difference in 3.5hp tohatsu?

 

[billyfish]

A grounds care mechanic that worked for me for years said the stihl chainsaw oil was fine in a outboard but not the other way round. Go for it I used it .no harm done

 

[neil_s]

You can use SAE30 in a Seagull!

 

[VicS]

You can use SAE30 in a Seagull!

I did for several years.
At 10:1 to say it smokes a bit is an understatement

 

[WoodyP]

I screwed up a strimmer using marine 2stroke oil. I'm a bit wary now so won't try ordinary oil in my outboard. Not worth the risk.

 

[CM74]

You can use SAE30 in a Seagull!

SAE30 is also recommended as an alternative in an 80's Yamaha motorbike!

But TC-W3 marine outboard oil is available at reasonable enough prices (in the UK at least) for example Smith & Allan do a proper one for under £25 for 5l
Saying that, I understand that tc-w3 is quite an old standard and that a decent motorbike oil might be better (and potentially cheaper)
But that's an argument for another time I think!