Rules for Storing 2 Stroke Eng Fuel

What are the “rules” about the frequency of changing the “50:1 oil/gas” mixture for a 2-stroke engine? I’ve heard many different things from people like it shouldn’t be used if its been in a fuel can for more than 2 weeks, 1 month, the summer season, etc. Also I have heard that the fuel can should not be left in the sun, or any HOT area for any length of time, because the chemical composition of the unleaded gas and the 2-stroke oil will be affected. Especially the gas used here in California.

All comments/recommendations will be greatly appreciated.

THANKS!!

Don

 

California likely has it's own set of rules on this due to tighter emissions regulations that I would not be aware of but, as a rule, we recommend not using fuel (whether mixed or not) older than 3 months old. After this point, gasoline will lose a good deal of its volatility and increase the liklihood of varnish deposits in the carburetor and combustion chamber.

 

I agree with that as a general rule of thumb. There are several factors that can change that, however. If the fuel is stored in an air tight container, in a cool dark place, it could last a year or more. If it's in a can that allows airflow, in a hot place, and even worse...in the sun, it won't last nearly as long. Also, the larger the amount stored, the slower it will go stale. A cupful will go stale much faster than 3 gallons.