Using the right gas and oil in your leaf blower is important to the the performance of blower. It’s so important that using the wrong type of fluids can void manufacturer warranties.
Makita leaf blowers use unleaded gasoline with a minimum 89 octane rating and maximum ethanol content of 10%.
Makita currently offers blowers with 4-cycle (4-stroke) engines. However, you may still find Makita 2-cycle (2-stroke) blowers still being used. These two engines have different fuel requirements.
- Makita 2-cycle engine: Mix the gasoline with 2-cycle engine oil at a ratio of 50:1.
- Makita 4-cycle engine: Add straight gasoline. Do not mix with oil. 4-cycle engines have separate fill ports for gas and oil.
Always refuel away from combustible products in a well-ventilated area. Wait for the engine to cool before removing the fuel cap to add fuel.
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Follow all safety instructions provided in your equipment operator’s manual before diagnosing, repairing, or operating. Consult a professional if you don’t have the skills, or knowledge or are not in the condition to perform the repair safely.
Old Gas in a Makita Leaf Blower
Gas doesn’t stay good forever. It can begin to break down as soon as 30 days after you purchase it. This can leave behind varnish and sticky deposits that lead to fuel restrictions and component failures.
Old gas can be the cause of a starting, dying, or running problem.
Effects of Ethanol
Ethanol is an alternative fuel added to gas so it’s more environmentally friendly. This is a product that is made from corn and other high-starch plants.
Ethanol is not a good product for small engines so it should be consumed with high contents. Only use gas with an ethanol content of 10% or less.
Ethanol naturally attracts moisture to the fuel system. The water and ethanol mixture leaves behind a varnish that coats the fuel system. It also begins to separate from the gas.
Consume Fresh Fuel & Use a Fuel Stabilizer
Because gas breaks down so quickly, it’s best to consume gas within 30 days. Use a fuel additive to stabilize it to extend its shelf life.
Note: If using a Makita with a 2-cycle engine, you will find some 2-cycle oils including a fuel stabilizer.
Don’t assume the stabilizer will last longer than 30 days unless the information is provided by the manufacturer. Some stabilizers will last up to 30 days while others can last up to two years.
Sea Foam Motor Treatment is a petroleum-based product that is safe to be used in a small engine. This is a great product when looking for an additive that will make gas stable, reduce moisture, and clean the fuel system.
Gas and Oil Mix to Use in a 2-Cycle Makita Leaf Blower
NEVER place straight gas in the fuel tank. Gas runs extremely dry and will cause the engine to seize. The effects of running straight gas will often result in having to purchase a new replacement leaf blower.
A Makita 2-cycle leaf blower requires gas to be mixed with oil at a ratio of 50:1 to provide lubrication to the engine. You will find one fill port for this mixture.
Use unleaded gasoline with a minimum 89 octane rating (mid-grade) and a maximum 10% ethanol content. Add a 2-cycle premium oil that is ISO-L-EGD and JASO M345 FD certified.
How to Mix Gas and Oil for a 2-Cycle Makita Leaf Blower:
- Use the chart below to determine how much fuel mix to prepare.
- Remove the cap from an approved gas can. Add unleaded fuel (minimum 89 octane rating & maximum 10% ethanol content) to a gas can.
- Using the chart for ounces of oil required, add the 2-cycle oil to the gas can.
- Replace the cap.
- Gently shake the fuel and oil until they are mixed.
- Add to your Makita leaf blower fuel tank.
2-Cycle Gas to Oil Mix Ratio for Makita Leaf Blowers
| Gas to Oil Mix | 1 Gallon | 2 Gallon | 2.5 Gallon |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50:1 | 2.6 oz | 5.2 oz | 6.4 oz |
Gas to Use in a 4-Cycle Makita Leaf Blower
Makita leaf blowers with 4-cycle engines require straight gasoline. (Do not mix with engine oil).
Use an unleaded gas with a minimum 89 octane rating and maximum ethanol content of 10%. Add a fuel additive like Sea Foam or STA-BIL to keep the gas stable.
Oil to Use in a 4-Cycle Makita Leaf Blower
4-cycle engines on a Makita blower require an SAE 10W-30 engine oil.
Using Ethanol-Free Fuel is Best for a Makita Leaf Blower
To avoid the negative effects caused by using an ethanol-based fuel, it’s best to use an ethanol-free fuel in a Makita blower. This is the more costly option for fueling your blower.
ECHO offers a ready-to-pour ethanol-free fuel to add to the fuel tank. This is not only a great option for the blower, but it’s also a very convenient option for the user.