What kind of oil to fill in the gas generator. Choosing oil for gas generators What kind of oil is poured into a gasoline generator

Generator engines are less demanding on fuel and lubricants than automobile engines, therefore, special oil for a generator or automobile can be used equally effectively in them. Semi-synthetic oil is enough for the generator - the best choice in terms of cost and characteristics. Next, we will take a closer look at what kind of oil to fill in the generator.

Oil classification

Classification for two-stroke engines:

  • JASO F - developed in Japan. For safe and comfortable operation of the generator, JASO FC class low-smoke oil is used. The FD marking is suitable for heavy loads.
  • ISO is a European system, based on JASO, but demanding on engine cleanliness. The ISO-L-EGD class complies with JASO FD.

For four stroke engines:

  • API is a standard established by the American Petroleum Institute that defines the level, performance properties and purpose of the oil. Using this system, you can choose a lubricant that will match the age and type of engine. The rating system consists of a pair of letters - an index for gasoline (S) and diesel (C) engines. The second letter of the index shows the relevance of the product, the closer it is to the beginning of the alphabet, the lower the class and the older engines it is intended for. For example, SG is suitable for engines from 1993, SN for the most modern ones.

  • SAE - classifies the viscosity and fluidity of the oil, that is, determines the seasonality of the product. The standard itself does not show the viscosity of the oil, but the temperature range in which it will perform its functions. It is selected in the range allowed by the manufacturer for the temperature in which the motor is used.

What kind of oil to fill in a gasoline four-stroke generator - according to API not lower than SL and 10W30-10W40 according to SAE - a universal option suitable for almost any conditions, 5W-30 and 5W-40 viscosities are more often used for winter, but 10W-40 remains the most popular class . The marking contains the symbols 4T. For diesel generators, it is not recommended to use universal oils suitable for diesel and gasoline engines. Optimum quality lubricants marked CD, CE, CF-4, special oil for diesel engine generator and other diesel engines.

Two-stroke engines do not have a crankcase for filling oil, the oil-gasoline mixture is poured directly into the carburetor, there are a number of specific requirements for lubrication: it must dissolve in gasoline and burn out as much as possible. Oil for a generator with a two-stroke engine has a 2T standard. This is a completely different standard than TC-W3 - oil for water-cooled engines (boats, jet skis, etc.), these oils cannot replace each other.

Each manufacturer gives its own recommendations on which oil to use in the generator, based on its characteristics. It's simple - follow the viscosity and API recommendations when choosing and don't deviate from them. The choice of lubricant depends on the type of engine installed (two-stroke and four-stroke) and the fuel it consumes - gasoline or diesel.

It is not necessary to use special oil for the generator, ordinary automotive oil is suitable. Car engines are equipped with a water cooling system, generators are air-cooled, but this does not prevent the oil from performing its function, since its boiling point is higher than the limit at which the generator operates.

You can sequentially fill in mineral, semi-synthetic or synthetic, but do not mix them, but carry out complete replacement to avoid mixing additives. The most optimal choice is semi-synthetic oils, they have an affordable cost and a sufficient set of performance characteristics. It makes no sense to fill in synthetics, since the generator operates at a constant speed of about 3000 per minute for gasoline and diesel engines less than 12 kW and 1500 rpm for large diesel ones, that is, it does not accelerate to 4-6 thousand revolutions, as in a car, so the properties semi-synthetics are enough, and the price is lower.

Many major manufacturers engines for generators are recommended to use their own oils. Honda has these, but the manufacturer himself says that you can fill in any other oil that is suitable for the class. The manufacturer FUBAG also has its own oils, semi-synthetic EXTRA SAE 10W-30 and mineral PRACTICA SAE 30 are recommended for the generator. You can find them in the company store https://store.fubag.ru/catalog/motornoe-oil/.

Manufacturer Huter does not require the use of special oil, it allows you to fill in any formulations that are suitable for viscosity and be guided by the recommendations of the oil manufacturer. For two-stroke engines, use special oils designed for this: Esso 2T Special, Mobil Super 2T and domestic production - MHD-14M, M-12TP.

How often to change the oil

Changing the oil in the generator has a certain interval, depending on the type of engine, often the manufacturer indicates it in the instructions. If there is no registration certificate, you can use the general recommendations:

  1. The first change during the break-in period is to be carried out after 5 hours. New parts rub against each other, the oil absorbs all the metallized parts and quickly becomes unusable, so it is important to change it earlier.
  2. The second replacement should be carried out on average after 20-25 hours, regardless of the load with which the generator was working.
  3. Third change after 50 hours. Subsequent replacements can be carried out after 50 or 100 hours, depending on the type of motor installed.

Rating of the best oils for 4T generators

What oil to fill in a gasoline or diesel generator with a 4T engine, a list of recommended brands:

  1. LUKOIL Lux 10 W-40. Semi-synthetic domestic oil with a wide range of applications, suitable for both automotive engines, and for generators with gasoline and diesel engines, API class SL/CF. Resistant to high temperatures, good cleaning properties.
  2. Ravenol TSi 10 W-40. Universal semi-synthetics with high fluidity. Diesel generator oil, API CF grade. Motor automotive oil, can be used in generators.
  3. Bizol Rasenmaherol SG SAE 30. Special oil for four-stroke engines of gas generators, lawn mowers, motor cultivators, power plants and other equipment. Can only be used in summer. Suitable for diesel and petrol engines. Can be mixed with similar oils.
  4. JB GERMAN OILL Farmer Super SAE 30 . API SG/CF class. Specially designed for garden equipment and generators. Mineral oil, can only be used in the warm season.
  5. Mannol 4-Takt AGRO SAE 30. API SG class. Special oil for 4-stroke generator. Suitable for air and liquid cooled vehicles. The manufacturer claims that it is compatible with any type of fuel, but the API class for diesel is not indicated, therefore I do not recommend using it for it. For summer use only.
  6. LIQUI MOLY Rasenmaher oil SAE 30. Special oil for gasoline engines of lawn mowers, generators and other air- and liquid-cooled machinery. It is used only at positive temperatures. API SJ grade, gasoline generator oil. Can be mixed with other oils of similar viscosity.
  7. Castrol Magnatec 10 W -40 . Semi-synthetic automotive oil for a wide range of applications. API SL/CF class. Can be used in petrol and diesel engines during summer and winter. Provides high protection of parts against wear.
  8. Forte SAE 10W-40 . API SM/CF class. Universal semi synthetic oil for any season. Can be used in petrol and diesel engines. It is this oil that Honda recommends for use.
  9. Werk SAE 10 W -40 . Semi-synthetic oil for gasoline engines of generators. Class according to API SG/SJ. It has high quality, not used in cars. Suitable for any season.
  10. Mostela 10 W -40. It is used for equipment with air and water cooling. API SL/CF class. Designed for generators and other equipment, can be used in any season.

Rating of the best oils for 2T generators

What oil to pour into a generator with a 2T engine, a list of popular lubricants:

  1. Ravenol Vollsynthetisches Zweitakoel VSZ . Fully synthetic oil based on esters and polyisobutane. Suitable for 2T engines with air and water cooling, mixed or separate lubrication system, air and water cooling. Class according to API TD, ISO L-EGD. Guarantees the cleanliness of working parts and low emission of gases into the atmosphere.
  2. LUKOIL MOTO 2T . Mineral engine oil, suitable for use in generators and other equipment. Meets the requirements of API TS, JASO FB, ISO E-GB. Low ash, reduces the amount of carbon deposits on parts and smoke.
  3. ROLF Garden 2 T . It can be used in engines with separate and mixed lubrication systems, injection and carburetor, with air or water cooling systems. Complies with JASO FD/ISO-L-EGD, API TC. The oil is semi-synthetic and low-ash, environmentally friendly, can be used in harsh conditions.
  4. Esso 2 T Special . Oil for air-cooled engines, with and without separate lubrication. Class according to API TC, JACO FC. Provides good lubrication and cleanliness of internal parts.
  5. MHD-14M. Surprisingly good oil from a domestic manufacturer. Suitable for vehicles with working volume up to 200 cm3. Shows low smoke, economy and good lubrication.

Text prepared by: Alexey Lukin

Petrol generators of various manufacturers and models are equipped with engines with certain requirements for the properties and characteristics of fuels and lubricants. When choosing which oil to fill in your model, you need to be guided by the manufacturer's recommendations. Each gasoline generator is equipped with an instruction that contains relevant information - how much and what fuels and lubricants are required for the normal operation of the engine. If for some reason you have to make a choice yourself, then we will give further general recommendations, based on which you can make a choice which oil can be poured into the motor of your generator.

Varieties of gasoline engines

The generator may have a two-stroke or four-stroke gasoline engine. Modification two-stroke engine does not provide for a separate crankcase for oil. In this design, the motor uses a pre-mixed mixture of gasoline and oil. For this reason, the choice lubricants for such a generator puts forward special requirements.

The oil should be easily soluble in gasoline, in addition, it should burn completely. For two-stroke air-cooled engines, there are a number of special oils of the 2T standard. When buying, please note that TC-W3 oils, also intended for a two-stroke engine, cannot be poured into the generator. This oil can be used on engines with a water cooling system (installed on jet skis and motor boats).

A much wider choice of oil for four-stroke engines. If your generator is equipped with such a motor, then you need to understand a little about the types and classifications of fuels and lubricants. Engine oil for engines of this type is classified according to the following indicators:

  • SAE (viscosity);
  • API (performance properties).

The SAE parameter tells the user at what temperature environment this oil will work most efficiently in the engine, providing the best lubrication of all its parts and assemblies. In accordance with this standard, there are winter, summer and multigrade oils. Gasoline generator sets can be filled with the following types of oils:


In the warm season, 10W30 oil may be the best choice. If the autumn-winter period of operation begins, then you need to choose from the bottom of the table, first of all, giving preference to the type of lubricant marked SJ or SL according to API. This is a modern oil, which, in terms of its quality characteristics and performance properties, is best suited for a gasoline engine. It is this marking that you should pay attention to when choosing oil for a generator according to API (performance properties).

In order for the gasoline generator to maintain its performance and its characteristics for as long as possible, it is important to adhere to several rules.

  • The engine of the new unit is "run-in" for 20 hours of operation. After that, it is worth changing the oil completely;
  • Do not forget about the need to replace fuel and lubricants in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations (most often it is 50 hours on mineral and 100 hours on synthetic oil);
  • It is advisable to change the oil when operating temperature motor;
  • Before starting the engine, check the level with a special dipstick. If necessary, add oil to the mark indicated on it;
  • After starting the engine, you need to let it run for Idling A couple of minutes. During this time, the engine will warm up, and the oil will be distributed throughout the system and lubricate all parts;
  • In continuous operation, check the oil level every 5 hours;
  • Even if you use the generator very infrequently, you should change the oil at least once a season;
  • Important: the gasoline generator cannot be operated continuously - it needs periodic rest.

Remember that the quality and characteristics of the oil you use in your generator largely determine how it will work. Lack of sufficient lubrication of engine parts can lead to premature engine failure. It is very important to remember that the oil must be selected according to the season, as well as the need for regular monitoring of the sufficiency of its level in the crankcase.

Our experienced managers will help you to make the choice easier. Use the feedback form on the site and get expert advice on choosing fuel and lubricants, as well as recommendations for the maintenance and operation of your generator.

Each user needs to know that buying a generator is not the most important thing. It's important to make sure it works. A special oil for a 4-stroke gas generator can help with this. Lubrication is necessary so that the unit can start and perform its intended functions. Without such a substance, the unit will not be able to fully operate and will not provide the required power.

When I bought the equipment, it turned out that any oil would not work. It is necessary to use a composition that is suitable for a particular generator. Only in this case it will be possible to use the device on full power and get access to all the features of the device. In general, let's talk about how to choose the right oil to fill in a gasoline generator.

Before buying a suitable generator, you should carefully study the characteristics of the equipment and clarify which oil may be required. Special attention it is recommended to pay attention to the type of installed engine, and what type of fuel is used - gasoline or diesel fuel. The choice of lubricant directly depends on this characteristic.

The oil is designed to protect the engine from negative impact environment. Lubrication allows you to reduce the level of wear of parts in the motor, and therefore preserve the working properties of the generator for a long time.

An important point is that generators with a 4-stroke engine run on clean gasoline. The oil is poured into a special container. The consumption of such devices can be up to 1-2 liters per hour.

Classification of oils - which ones are suitable for a gas generator?

The lubricating composition is an integral consumable, without which the generator will not work. Lubrication is needed to reduce friction between separate elements. During the operation of the equipment, it is necessary that you have an adequate level of lubrication. This will reduce wear and avoid serious damage. It is important that the motor does not stop. In addition, a break-in product is first poured into the new unit, which should be drained after 5 hours of operation. Every 20-50 hours of operation, it is recommended to change the oil.

It is strongly not recommended to fill in the first oil that comes across. This can result in serious damage and additional costs. A knowledgeable person will be able to easily determine what a particular oil is suitable for. You should be guided by the marking:

  • formulations marked according to the API system and suitable for gasoline generators have the letter "S". The second letter is the class. The lower classes are A, B, and C;
  • lubricants marked SJ, SL are suitable for gasoline devices, but it is important to pay attention that the product is intended for a 4-stroke engine.

Synthetics, mineral water and semi-synthetics differ in composition. At different manufacturers you can buy grease with different additives. It is the additives that determine the basic properties of the product and the procedure for its operation. If you are guided in choosing not the SAE type, then an important parameter is the temperature and individual characteristics of the operation of the equipment.

What kind of oil to fill in the gas generator?

The most convenient option may be to use all-weather oil. It is allowed to change mineral water to synthetic and vice versa, but you do not need to add, but completely change the substance in order to avoid a conflict of additives when mixing. In addition to the type of lubricant, it is worth paying attention to the operational characteristics of the product.

As an example, I will give the most popular lubricants for gas generators from different manufacturers:

  1. Super 1000. All-weather product, mineral, including thickener. Universal. The cost is from 660 rubles per liter.
  2. Magnatec. A popular product that can be used in different motors. Synthetic, provides reliable protection against wear. The cost of a liter is 720 rubles.
  3. Q8 is a synthetic of excellent quality, obtained as a result of hydrocracking. Helps reduce fuel consumption. The cost of a liter is 940 rubles.
  4. Forte S.A.E. Semi-synthetics. Versatile and all season. Suitable for operation in cold conditions. The price of a liter is 480 rubles.
  5. Werk S.A.E. Budget product for 450 rubles / liter. Only suitable for gasoline generators.
  6. Mostela. A modern product that has very low flow rates. It costs - 560 rubles / liter.

Only high-quality oil can be the key to long-term and productive lubrication. It must be remembered here that the engine of the generator and the car is different unit. The maintenance of these structures varies. The owner of the generating station must strictly follow the procedure for the inspection and change everything in time expendable materials. If you regularly and correctly change the smear, then the unit will be able to work for many years.

Engine oil is an important part of any engine. Regardless of its design, this product is simply vital in it, since it fulfills two key features, lubrication and cooling. It prevents the occurrence of excessive friction between metal parts, the formation of metal chips. As a result, moving parts do not jam and work properly. Also, the lubricant is involved in the cooling of the pistons - with its help, the heat generated during their movement is removed. But not all of them are monotonous, each of them is only suitable for a specific task, more precisely the engine and operating conditions, therefore it matters which oil should be poured into - it will behave differently in different conditions.

The issue of choosing oil is revealed in the video below, we recommend viewing

To know exactly which oil is best used for a gasoline generator, you need to understand what it is. In its original form, it raw oil. She is has good lubricating properties and enough viscous to hold onto lubricated parts. These properties of it were discovered at the end of the century before last and patented in the United States. The world's first brand was called " Valvoline". But the product from ordinary oil, although it performs its function, is not clean enough for modern technology - sulfur and paraffin create pollution and fumes, which negatively affects engine performance. Therefore, an alternative has become synthetic oil applicable for a gas generator, which is produced by distilling oil and parsing it to the main components from which the base substance is made.

Various additives are added to it, thanks to which increase its performance.

Another opinion on the choice of oil

Oil classification

In total, several classifications of motor oils have been created for. Each of them in one way or another characterizes the properties and distributes them into the appropriate groups. Among them, there are two main groups of classifications, this is API - in which substances are indicated by the combination of operational properties and SAE - viscosity classification. Both of them characterize for engine oil on Gas engine.

API system designed so that it can be used to select products that match the service life and type of a particular engine. For oil on a gasoline engine, the mark S is assigned, the second letter characterizes the quality level. Thus, the most low level, this is SG, which is suitable for older engines made before 1993. SH is for engines manufactured in 1996, SJ is for 2001, and SL is for more modern ones. In general, this classification presents substances with marks that begin with the first letter of the English alphabet. The farther such a letter of classification from the beginning, the higher the quality of the oil. At the moment, the highest quality product is indicated by the SN marking.

There are a huge number of manufacturers of lubricants of various types on the market, and the question arises which oil to fill in the gas generator. It depends to a large extent on the environment in which the unit operates and what budget you are counting on.

Synthetic, semi-synthetic or mineral

We will not go into the process of making oils, I would like to say only one thing: synthetics are the best in quality among all oils in terms of stability and properties, semi-synthetic oil is a little worse and they are in the niche itself. mineral oils. In principle, any of them can be poured into the engine of a gasoline generator, everything depends on the amount that you are willing to spend. Synthetic is the most expensive of oils, semi-synthetics will be a little cheaper and mineral water is the most budgetary.

How to choose oil viscosity

The viscosity of oils for gas generators depends on the temperature at which you will use the generator. If it is a street and it is summer or a warm room in the yard, then it will be enough 5W40 or 10W40- it's thicker. If the use of the gas generator will take place in an unheated room or outdoors at temperatures below 5 degrees, fill 5W30 or 10W30 it's hotter.

Advertising, marketing ploy

Salespeople have long made up a lot of stories about the need for special oil for gas generators. I have heard stories more than once that the machine will not work, there is water cooling, and in gasoline generators air, etc. This is all nonsense, the boiling point of oils starts at 300 degrees and not one generator does not operate at such temperatures. You can safely pour good automotive oils.

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