Mix petrol and two-stroke oil at exactly the ratio in your manual, and use mixed fuel within about a month. Clean the air filter often, keep blades sharp, grease the gear head, and store the machine empty of fuel if it will stand for weeks. Always wear eye protection.
Mix the fuel correctly
Most brush cutters have two-stroke engines. They are lubricated by oil mixed into the petrol.
- Use the ratio in your manual. Many modern machines use 50:1 (20 ml of oil per litre of petrol) with good two-stroke oil, but some need more oil – check yours.
- Never run on plain petrol. The engine will seize within minutes.
- Mix only what you will use in about a month – old mixed fuel causes hard starting.
- Shake the can before filling.
Keep it breathing
Grass dust blocks the air filter fast. Clean it every day of heavy use and replace it when it is damaged. A blocked filter makes the engine weak and wastes fuel. Keep the cooling fins clear too.
Cutting tools
- Use the nylon head for grass and edges and the metal blade for bush and small stems.
- Keep blades sharp and balanced. A blunt or bent blade vibrates, tires you out and damages the gear head.
- Replace blades that are cracked – never weld them.
Gear head and shaft
Grease the gear head at the interval in the manual, usually every few tanks of fuel.
Storing the machine
If it will stand for more than a few weeks, empty the tank and run the engine until it stops. Store it dry and clean.
Safety first
Wear eye protection, ear protection, gloves, long trousers and strong boots. Keep people and animals at least 15 metres away – stones can fly out at high speed.
Need parts? Search brush cutter spare parts or book a service.
Common questions
Why will my brush cutter not start?
The most common causes are old or wrongly mixed fuel, a blocked air filter, a dirty spark plug or a flooded engine. Start by draining old fuel and refilling with fresh, correctly mixed fuel.
How much oil do I mix with one litre of petrol for a brush cutter?
Follow your manual. Many modern brush cutters use 50:1, which is 20 ml of two-stroke oil per litre of petrol.
This guide gives general advice. For your exact machine, follow the manufacturer’s manual or ask our team.
