Petrol engines

Many gardening and DIY devices are equipped with a thermal engine. It is possible to replace a failing engine to avoid buying a new machine. There are engines that run on 2 or 4 strokes gasoline, as well as 4 strokes diesel.

The available thermal engines are suited for various gardening and DIY devices:

- lawn mowers have a power range from 3.5 to over 10 HP depending on the width of the cutting deck;

- thermal garden shredders have a power of 4.5 to 9 HP;

- a power of 3 to 4.5 HP is required for an auger;

- hedge trimmers are mostly equipped with a 2 stroke engine ranging from 0.4 to 1.4 HP;

- pulled brush cutters need a power of 3 to 6.5 HP versus 8 to 20 HP for ride-on versions;

- the power of gasoline generators varies from 1.5 to 6 kW, but can reach thousands of kW for diesel devices;

- the power of a thermal chainsaw depends on its displacement.

The most common thermal engines are gasoline:

- 2 stroke engines operate with a mix of gasoline and oil;

- 4 stroke engines are equipped with an oil pan;

- they start easily with a pull-start or a starter for more convenience;

- their autonomy depends on the tank size and their consumption;

- their regular maintenance involves regularly checking the oil level, spark plugs, and air filter.

Some tools are equipped with a diesel engine:

- this type of engine runs on diesel fuel;

- diesel tools are intended for frequent and/or professional use;

- they are noisy, but provide strong power;

- large devices like diesel generators and motopumps are equipped with an electric starter;

- they are mounted on wheels for easier movement;

- the user must regularly check the oil level, the starter, the glow plugs, and the injectors.

The chosen thermal engine must therefore be suited for the device it will be mounted on. Regardless of its fuel, and besides its type (2 or 4 strokes), the main characteristics to determine are:

- the displacement measured in cm3;

- the rotation speed, or the number of rotations per minute (rpm);

- the power in kW or HP;

- the consumption;

- the weight and dimensions;

- the mounting system, the dimensions of the mounting holes;