Stihl is one of the most reliable outdoor equipment providers with a diversified portfolio of products. The company offers everything from battery-powered devices to professional trimmers and brush cutters. Historically, 2-cycle trimmers have been a hallmark of Stihl’s success. However, does the company make a 4-cycle trimmer?
Stihl manufactures various 4-cycle trimmers, including the FS 91/ 91 R, FS 111 series, FS 131/ 131 R, BR 500/600/700, and BR 800X. Additionally, the company introduced a 4-mix concept that requires users to utilize the traditional 50:1 fuel-mix ratio. In this way, 4-stroke engines combine the characteristics of both types of machines.
Several questions pop up in users’ minds when they first compare 2-cycle and 4-cycle trimmers. In particular, they don’t know if Stihl offers any 4-cycle weed eaters. This article aims to help you understand the difference between 2-cycle and 4-cycle trimmers. So, stay tuned to learn more about Stihl’s top 4-cycle gas trimmers.
Is Stihl 2-cycle or 4-cycle?
The company has historically relied on 2-cycle trimmers until the invention of Stihl’s 4-mix technology, which combines features of both 2-cycle and 4-cycle engines. Thus, you generally have plenty of options to consider in the company’s 2-cycle and 4 cycle trimmers alike.
Stihl offers a wide range of 2-cycle trimmers, including the FS 240c, FS 55R, FS 50c E, FS 52, FS 66, FS 80 R, and many others. Similarly, the company offers plenty of 4-cycle trimmers. The FS 91/ 91 R, the FS 111 series, the FS 131/ 131 R, as well as the BR 500/600/700 and the BR 800X are a few examples.
What Is Stihl’s 4-Mix Technology?
Invention and customer satisfaction are the two most important factors for Stihl. To stay on top of the market, the outdoor tool provider has come a long way. It combines the features of a 2-stroke and 4-stroke engine to form a hybrid technology known as Stihl’s 4-mix. The 4-mix device utilizes the combustion engine to power the machine.
Traditional 50:1 Mix
However, the machine’s overall efficiency and working capacities enhance to a great extent in the 4-mix engines used by the company. Nevertheless, the 4-mix engine still operates on a traditional premix ratio of 50:1.
Most 4-stroke engines do not require you to mix gasoline and engine oil at the traditional 50:1 ratio. Therefore, there can be many arguments against Stihl’s reliability on premix of engine oil and gasoline. However, it benefits the users in the following ways.
Benefits of Stihl’s 4-mix Engines
- The 4-mix technology has reduced the overall size of trimmers. The use of gasoline and engine oil premix eliminates the need for an oil reservoir. Consequently, devices utilizing Stihl’s 4-mix engines are relatively smaller than other 4-stroke machines available on the market.
- Replacing an oil filter is one of the most common expenses of professional landscapers. With the company’s hybrid engine technology, air filters and oil pumps have been eliminated. As a result, you do not have to change the filters on these devices.
- The up-gradation in the engine technology does not mean it affects trimmers’ performance in any way. Like any other traditional 2-stroke or 4-stroke device, you can efficiently operate the machine at any angle with more comfort and balance during high-end use.
- It makes the perfect choice for people looking for the benefits of a 4-stroke engine without compromising the efficiency of 2-stroke devices.
- Stihl’s 4-mix engines provide enhanced power, coupled with relentless torque production. The company’s research team aims to meet the power requirements of professional lawnmowers and landscapers. That is why you can rely on the power and torque production of these 4-mix engines.
- Utilizing high-performance materials, Stihl has successfully produced engines with low carbon emissions due to the use of 4-mix machines.
- One of the most common problems that many lawnmowers face with 2-stroke engines is the excessive vibration of the devices. As a result, operating and maintaining the balance on these products becomes messy. Nonetheless, engines utilizing the 4-mix technology do not have such issues.
- Noise minimization is another remarkable aspect of Stihl’s 4-mix engines. Regardless of the combustion engine, devices utilizing this type of engine produce significantly less noise.
- Last but not least, engines utilizing the 4-mix technology are more fuel-efficient than other traditional machines, including 2-stroke and 4-stroke engines.
Does Stihl Still Make 4-mixes?
Stihl currently offers plenty of 4-mix engines. The success of these types of engines results from a customer-oriented design and ergonomic features that enhance the products’ desirability. These include the FS 91/91 R, FS 111 series, FS 131/131 R, as well as the BR 500/600/700 and BR 800X.
Many factors have contributed to the popularity of Stihl’s 4-mix engines. In particular, you will love the higher torque production, compact shape, and easy maintenance on these machines.
The following aspects are some of the things you should keep in mind before deciding which product to purchase.
Lugging Power
Lugging simply refers to the process of the engine making its maximum torque. It is one of the factors that require your consideration, especially if you are a professional landscaper. As far as Stihl’s 4-mix engines are concerned, there is an excellent balance between torque production and power utilization.
In other words, the production of high torque on these engines does not reduce the engine’s power capability. It is particularly beneficial if you are dealing with high-end jobs.
Ease of Starting
The problem with the start-up occurs quite frequently among homeowners. There are many things to consider in this regard. Most importantly, the irregular use of a machine makes it challenging to start.
However, Stihl’s 4-mix devices cope with this problem quite efficiently. Among the excellent features of the engine is the superb decompression system, which helps speed up the starting of the machine.
Carbon Emissions
One thing we personally like about these 4-mix engines is their ability to reduce emissions by a significant margin. Many traditional trimmers utilizing a 2-stroke or 4-stroke engine do not have any design improvement, leading to fewer carbon emissions.
On the contrary, Stihl’s 4-mix devices are designed in such a way that they allow for excellent reduction of carbon emissions. These engines are also less polluting because they are powered by a technology that uses less fuel. The use of a bypass channel for complete lubrication is another plus that helps reduce carbon emissions.
Maintenance
The continuous use of any device requires professionals to maintain remarkable care regarding the engine and its components. Therefore, users should think twice about the maintenance requirements of any machine before making a purchase.
To that end, Stihl’s 4-mix technology reduces maintenance requirements for customers. As mentioned above, the user does not have to worry about maintaining the air filter or air pump on these devices.
Are 4-Cycle Trimmers Better?
Despite the numerous advantages of 4-cycle weed eaters, 2-cycle devices are not useless. Both devices suit the varying needs of professionals and homeowners in different ways, hence why knowing the differences between the two can help you understand which option works better for you.
First, both of these engines run on gasoline. On the company’s website, you can choose from a variety of electric and battery-powered trimmers. That being said, 2-cycle engines are suitable for lightweight, more manageable jobs that do not require high-end equipment.
On the contrary, 4-cycle engines are power boosters and suit demanding jobs. The following aspects are some of the most significant differences between the two.
Affordability
The cost of the engine and related components is one of the most critical factors affecting the price of the trimmer. The more powerful the engine, the more expensive it is. Similarly, a 2-stroke engine is less expensive than a 4-stroke engine because the build quality and featured components vary significantly between the two.
More specifically, a 2-stroke engine offers less power than a 4-cycle engine. Because of this, they are less expensive than high-end 4-stroke engines. On the other hand, engines built for 4-stroke engines have a premium build quality and premium parts. That is why their higher price is justified, to some extent.
Weight
When it comes to weight, 4-stroke engines are bulkier and heavier than 2-stroke ones. Because of their focus on high-end jobs, the former are more heavily weighted. They’re equipped with every component that is necessary for the seamless operation of the device.
On the contrary, 2-stroke engines are lighter as they feature fewer components than 4-stroke engines. But being lightweight does not mean you cannot trust them for any job. Therefore, when it comes to lightweight, medium jobs, we tend to prefer 2-stroke engines as they better suit these conditions.
On the other hand, a trimmer with a 4-stroke engine is essential for professionals and homeowners who want high-end work. Period.
Noise Production
Maintaining a landscape and mowing grass is not a silent business. Indeed, trying to use weed eaters produces a lot of noise. However, things have improved over the years, and many companies are vying for noise minimization in their devices.
When it comes to noise minimization during the device’s operation, 2-stroke trimmers are less efficient than 4-stroke engines. Indeed, due to advancements in design and better build quality, the latter outperforms the former in noise minimization and operational efficiency.
Carbon Emissions
We live in an era of environmental awareness where no one wants to damage the environment willfully. To that end, consumers prefer products with low carbon emissions. Some companies are even trying to make their products carbon-free as they keep innovating and creating sustainable products.
To that end, 4-stroke trimmers are way more efficient than 2-stroke devices in reducing carbon emissions. In addition, their design revolves around environmental sustainability and resource conservation.
In the same way, if you care about the environment as much as we do, you won’t buy a trimmer that is inefficient when it comes to reducing carbon emissions.
Maintenance
Trimmer maintenance is another significant aspect that distinguishes 4-stroke engines from their counterpart. Due to a less complex machine, a 2-stroke device is comparatively easier to maintain than a 4-stroke engine.
The build quality and overall design of both engines are remarkably different. For example, a 4-stroke engine is comparatively larger and bulkier than a 2-stroke machine. Additionally, the number of components or spare parts within the engine is greater on a 4-stroke engine.
As a result, 4-stroke engines usually require more maintenance. However, Stihl trimmers are different. They offer the advantages of traditional 2-stroke engines combined with advanced 4-stroke engines. That is why the maintenance cost on Stihl engines is way lower than on many other 4-stroke engines.
Lubrication Process
Every gasoline-powered engine requires an efficient lubrication process for the seamless operation of the device. The device may be wrecked once you start ignoring the lubrication process. The lubrication process is very different on both types of engines. Therefore, you will find a separate chamber for oil and gasoline on 4-cycle trimmers.
On the contrary, there is a single container for gas and oil on traditional 2-cycle trimmers, which means you should premix the gas and oil to a ratio of 50:1 on these devices. There is no other way to lubricate the engine of these machines.
Both processes have their pros and cons, depending on the overall design of the engine. Nonetheless, Stihl uses a unique combination of both technologies. For user convenience, its 4-mix engines use the lubrication method of 2-cycle trimmers.
In the end, it comes down to personal preferences and what makes the best choice for each individual. Users’ priorities and needs vary significantly from an individual to another. For example, a 2-stroke engine is more than sufficient for some, while for others, a 4-cycle trimmer is the best choice due to their personal requirements.
What Is the Best 4-cycle Gas Trimmer?
In our opinion, Stihl’s FS 131 and FS 131 R are great models of 4-cycle trimmers.
Four-cycle trimmers are best when it comes to high-end, professional use. However, you should analyze your needs before selecting a particular 4-cycle trimmer. The decision to buy a certain 4-cycle gas trimmer requires specific considerations.
The more you know about what makes the perfect 4-cycle trimmer, the more likely you are to make a successful decision.
What to Keep in Mind Before Buying a 4-cycle Trimmer?
Design
Multiple designs available on the market suit different things. There are usually two potential options when it comes to the design. You can either go for a straight or curved shaft design, depending on your landscape and lawn layout and design.
In general, we recommend our audience to go for a straight shaft design as it allows for more precision and comfort. However, if the landscape layout is a bit unusual, you can go for a curved shaft design as it offers the convenience of operating at multiple angles.
Convenience
Some devices are more convenient than others in terms of adjustments, comfort, and smooth handling. Numerous things can help you in this regard. For one, always prefer a handle with a sturdy grip, as it will allow you to avoid the frequent shaking of the machine over extended use.
You should not go for bulky models of trimmers if you are new to landscaping and do not know how things work in that area as a heavy machine will only result in fatigue and exhaustion.
Starting Efficiency
Starting efficiency is commonly overlooked by users. But, it is one of the things that matters a lot for users’ satisfaction and convenience. Some devices require users to pull cords for minutes before they start, for example.
That is why you should research the starting efficiency of any device you want to purchase before making a decision. A device that takes a long time to start is a no-go area for you. Period.
Anti-vibration Mechanism
Things are improving at an ever-increasing rate, and the technology behind gas-powered trimmers is revolutionizing the industry. In addition, multiple devices available on the market feature an anti-vibration mechanism to help enhance convenience for users.
Consequently, vibration-free devices are easier to handle and facilitate exhaustion-free usage for an extended time. You will also be able to work continuously if the trimmer does not have any issues with balance adjustments.
Conclusion
Stihl is one of the top-notch suppliers of outdoor power tools and offers everything from gas-powered trimmers to remarkable blowers for efficient landscape maintenance.
The company provides a wide range of 4-cycle trimmers with a unique blend of features. Additionally, its 2-stroke trimmers are incredibly efficient.
