Tips on the Difference Between Two Cycle and Four Cycle Engines

There are many people who cannot tell the difference between a two cycle and a four cycle engine. However the differences are very easy to spot. The danger of not knowing what type of engine is in your equipment, whether it is a lawn mower leaf blower, or other, is very important to know, because they require a different type of fuel.

A two cycle engine can be tipped and shook around more then a four cycle engine. That is because it does not have a pan of oil to keep things lubricated. A two cycle engine keeps itself from overheating do to friction from the extra oil that is put in it's gasoline. The most common use for a two cycle engine is in chain saws, do to the two cycle engines incredible strength to weight ratio. Not having to worry about a pan of oil means that the engine has a lot less extra weight. This factor also makes the engine more compact so that it can easily fit into a chain saw or other appliance. Two cycle engines are usually not as box like as regular engines, do to the fact that not being boxy conserves space.

A four cycle engine on the other hand should not be tipped on its side while it is running. This will displace the oil inside the oil pan and that could mean that the moving parts are not getting the recommended amount of lubrication required for use. For cycle engines take the normal gasoline fuel that you find at gas stations, and can range from a relatively small size, though they are no where near as small as two cycle engines can get, to one that can power an ocean liner. Your car has a four cycle engine in it.

So how do you tell the difference between the two? Well it can be quite simple. First, take a look at the engine in question. If you see a dip stick sticking out of it somewhere it is definitely a four cycle engine. Also there is usually a cap on it where you would put fresh oil in. usually the cap has a picture of an old fashioned oil can.

If your engine is a two cycle engine then you will have to put a little bit of oil into a can of gasoline. Just remember that that can is to be used only for the two cycle engines around your home. Remember if you have to change the oil in it is a four cycle engine.