Choosing the best oil for the 4-stroke engine of walk-behind tractors and cultivators

The answer to the question of which oil is best to pour into a 4-stroke scooter engine sounds short and banal - the one recommended by the manufacturer. But if you have a 150cc Honda or a new European, this recommendation can hurt your pocket. However, budget Chinese brands are not shy about recommending top-end lubricants, and if your finances allow it, then it’s better to do just that. In all other cases, you will have to look for an analogue. Fortunately, there are a lot of them on the market, and in a variety of price categories.

First of all, you need to find out which SAE classification the manufacturer recommends filling. We will build on it. In most cases, oils in the range from 5W-20 to 10W-40 are used. In rare cases, the numbers may be higher, but, as a rule, they are used in engines with high mileage. The recommended grade may vary and change. For example, depending on the climatic characteristics of your region. The first digit in the value shows what the minimum temperature should be to crank the engine. If you live in the north or use the scooter in cold weather, go for 5w or lower. For southern regions and summer rides the value may be higher.

The viscosity class - the second digit in the designation - is determined individually based on the characteristic features of the engine. Numbers above 40 are practically never used in scooters. Well, one more criterion is the brand. It is important to find a balance between the quality of the lubricant and its price. It is very difficult to do this without personal experience or professional recommendations. In our article, we take into account the opinions of experts and reviews of ordinary users, so we choose only the best options and not with an exorbitant price tag.

Top 10. AMSOIL Formula 4-Stroke Synthetic Scooter Oil

Rating (2021): 3.74

12 reviews from resources taken into account: Yandex.Market, Ozone

• Characteristics

  Price per liter: 670 rub.

• Country: USA
• Type: synthetic
• Viscosity: 10W-40

Quite a rare guest on the shelves of Russian stores. American motor oil designed specifically for scooters and motorcycles with small engines. Fully synthetic lubricant with a unique set of additives that allows it to be poured even into diesel engines. Of course, this quality is irrelevant for two-wheeled vehicles, but it makes it possible to use the lubricant in generators and special equipment that runs on diesel fuel. According to the classification, it is suitable for both new engines and those that have traveled more than one thousand kilometers. Provides reliable protection of parts and also compensates for the gap between them.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Suitable for all scooters
• Has no mileage restrictions

• Difficult to find in stores

What is the difference between two-stroke oil and four-stroke oil?

Some types of motor oil are designed for four-stroke power units, while others are intended for two-stroke ones. They are not interchangeable, and they should be poured in accordance with their intended purpose - lubricants for engines with different operating cycles have different requirements. Thus, oil for four-stroke high-speed engines, which use a forced lubrication system, is designed for prolonged exposure and is designed to provide a more stable coating of parts. In two-stroke engines, the oil comes with the fuel and must instantly dissolve in it, burning smokelessly with a minimum of deposits in the form of soot and ash. Therefore, a characteristic feature of two-stroke oils is their good cleaning and minimal content of aggressive additives. They, unlike four-stroke fluids, do not contain ash, extreme pressure and anti-wear additives. This allows them to burn almost completely along with the fuel without the formation of soot and toxic exhaust.

A special feature of oils for four-stroke engines is the content of many organometallic additives, which are aimed at improving their physical and mechanical properties and increasing their efficiency. And if such a mixture is poured into an engine with a two-stroke duty cycle, it will lead to the formation of ash deposits on the surface of the piston and the walls of the combustion chamber. Increased accumulation of deposits, in turn, can provoke the appearance of various troubles, which can only be eliminated by carrying out complex and expensive repairs to the engine, walk-behind tractor or motorized towing vehicle. Soot, which clogs the air filter and settles in the grooves of the piston rings if you use the wrong oil product, also causes a lot of harm. The accumulation of soot is fraught with loss of mobility of the rings, and this is a direct path to reducing the power of the walk-behind tractor engine, deteriorating its performance, and even complete failure.

Top 9. Gazpromneft Moto

Rating (2021): 3.84

50 reviews from resources taken into account: Yandex.Market, Otzovik

• Characteristics

  Price per liter: 540 rub.

• Country Russia
• Type: synthetic
• Viscosity: 10W-40

New on the Russian market from the giant Gazpromneft. This manufacturer could not stand aside and also decided to produce oil for scooters with four-stroke engines. More precisely, simply for 4-stroke engines, without describing what equipment they are installed on. The API classification is very broad, which allows us to talk about the versatility of the product. The structure of the lubricant is completely synthetic, which affects the price, which is not the lowest for a Russian brand. Separately, it is necessary to say about the unique set of additives. It is not new, and is used in almost all lubricants of the manufacturer. It has high oxidation resistance and anti-corrosion properties. This allows you to pour lubricant into engines with any degree of wear, and also use it to clean the crankcase of accumulated dirt.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Oxidation stability
• Anti-corrosion properties
• Universal purpose
• Synthetic base

• No specific purpose for scooters
• New on the market

What is important to know about using motor oil

• Exclusively city driving means difficult operating conditions for the engine. If you only drive around town, the oil should be changed more often than the manufacturer recommends.
• The less lubricant in the crankcase, the faster it degrades. Make sure the oil level is just below the maximum mark on the dipstick.
• You can assess the condition of the oil visually. If the fluid flows from the dipstick as if it were water, or looks burnt, then it needs to be replaced.

Top 8. Mannol 4-Takt Plus

Rating (2021): 4.16

22 reviews taken into account from resources: Yandex.Market, Otzovik

Universal purpose Oil with a wide range of approvals. Suitable for both small scooters and powerful motorcycles, as well as special equipment using four-stroke engines.

• Characteristics

  Price per liter: 430 rub.

• Country: Germany
• Type: semi-synthetic
• Viscosity: 10W-40

It doesn’t matter what kind of scooter you have, whether its engine has 50 cc or more than 150 – this oil can be poured anywhere. Even into a chainsaw or generator. The main thing is that the engine is four-stroke. Many experts argue that such versatility is unacceptable, but judging by the reviews, the oil is of quite high quality. In addition, the brand has long established itself in the market and is famous as a manufacturer of high-quality lubricants at attractive prices. Unfortunately, we do not know what technologies the company uses in production. You can only rely on user comments, and they are mostly positive and even laudatory. Oil can also be used as a topping, which is also a plus.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Wide range of applications
• A brand with an impeccable reputation

• Little information about components and additives
• Virtually no protection against copying and counterfeiting

Recommendations for changing 10W-30 oil

In the vehicle passport, automakers always indicate the brand of oil that is suitable for a specific type of engine. It is necessary to use the recommended lubricant and observe the interval between services to protect the motor as much as possible from wear.

It is recommended to switch to oil with a viscosity of 10W-30 after a significant mileage of the car, usually after 100,000-200,000 km. Lubricant is changed at intervals of up to 15,000 km for gasoline units and up to 10,000 km for diesel units (taking into account operating conditions).

Top 7. Motul Scooter Expert

Rating (2021): 4.36

23 reviews taken into account from resources: Yandex.Market, Ozone, Otzovik

The best oil for displacement engines It is recommended to fill the lubricant into four-stroke engines with a displacement of 150 cubic meters and above. Provides maximum protection of parts under high loads.

• Characteristics

  Price per liter: 700 rub.

• Country: France
• Type: semi-synthetic
• Viscosity: 10W-40

If your scooter's engine has a displacement of more than 150 cc, then it requires special oil. Many people try to simply fill in motorcycle lubricants, but, as experts say, this is not the best way out. One solution to the problem is Motul Scooter Expert, an oil designed specifically for large scooters. It makes no sense to pour it into 50 cc engines, although it will not harm them. The product is specially designed for high loads, which is important for large engines. It can also be used in cases of high wear of parts, when it is necessary to compensate for gaps formed over time. Add here an expanded classification, including Japanese types, and we get an excellent product, although quite expensive.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Recommended for engines from 150 cc
• Suitable for all four-stroke engines

• Increased consumption noted
• Not the most attractive price

Prices

High-quality four-stroke oils for walk-behind tractors are produced by companies from different countries, including Russia, France, Germany, Sweden, and the USA. A wide price range and variety of products allows you to choose the best option for any piece of small-sized agricultural machinery.

The table shows average prices for the most popular types of lubricants for 4-stroke internal combustion engines.

In order for a walk-behind tractor or cultivator to be durable and perform its functions efficiently, it is necessary to create optimal conditions for engine operation: troubleshoot problems in a timely manner and lubricate rubbing surfaces. It is important that only suitable motor oil is used to lubricate parts in friction zones, which should be purchased based on the technical requirements of the power plant and the actual conditions of its operation.

Top 6. Castrol Power 1 Scooter

Rating (2021): 4.65

46 reviews from resources taken into account: Yandex.Market, Otzovik

The most reliable engine protection The brand uses a special magnetization technology, thanks to which the lubricant envelops the parts as much as possible and extends their service life, protecting them from abrasion.

• Characteristics

  Price per liter: 510 rub.

• Country: Britain
• Type: synthetic
• Viscosity: 5W-40

Filling with Castrol oil means extending the life of the engine. This lubricant uses a special technology that makes the particles magnetized. This is true for both automobile and motorcycle oils. The oil is completely synthetic, which is also an advantage. The thickening temperature is 5 degrees, that is, it is excellent for use in cold weather. The product can also be used in engines with high wear. The same unique enveloping technology perfectly compensates for increased gaps and copes even with heavy loads. It doesn’t matter whether you have 50 cc or 150, Castrol oil will suit any scooter, and the Honda concern even recommends it as an alternative to the original oil.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Low pour point
• Unique magnetization technology
• Can be used in engines with high wear

• Very often copied
• Not suitable for all scooter models

Consequences of untimely oil changes

Untimely replacement or use of low-quality oil can lead to the following consequences:

• the formation of deposits formed by fuel combustion products and oxidized components of the lubricant itself. Engine power may decrease and the content of toxic emissions may increase;
• accelerated engine wear due to oil degradation;
• clogging of oil lines due to an increase in lubricant viscosity. When the oil becomes too thick, the pump cannot pump it through narrow tubes, causing oil starvation and dry friction in the engine, especially when starting in cold weather;
• turning of the connecting rod bearings due to clogged oil channels, etc.

Top 5. ELF Scooter 4 City

Rating (2021): 4.69

13 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, Otzovik

Pure synthetics The oil is completely synthetic, which puts it above its closest competitors that use semi-synthetic production technology. High quality product especially for scooters.

• Characteristics

  Price per liter: 550 rub.

• Country: France
• Type: synthetic
• Viscosity: 10W-40

Among oils for scooters with 4-stroke engines, synthetic products are quite rare. They are expensive to produce, and since the scooter itself is an unpretentious piece of equipment, semi-synthetics are quite suitable for it. But the French brand ELF doesn't think so. This is a synthetic lubricant of the highest quality. It is suitable for all types of scooters. Recommended by manufacturers such as Honda, Kawasaki and Suzuki, even though they have their own motor oils. At the same time, the price tag does not deter. 550 rubles per liter is, of course, not little, but not much either. Note that some top manufacturers charge much more, even for mineral water.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Maximum quality
• Affordable price for synthetics
• Recommended by top scooter manufacturers

• Cannot be mixed with other lubricants
• The choice of viscosity is very poor

Types of motor oils

1. Fully Synthetic. Synthetic oil. Produced through the synthesis of chemical components. Synthetic motor oil differs from others in that it is possible to set the required parameters and add various additives to the composition.

These lubricants perfectly protect the car. Due to cleaning, the motor does not become dirty even in harsh conditions.

Synthetics retain their own consistency at any temperature and do not change their properties.

1. Mineral oil. Made from refined petroleum. It costs a little, which makes it better than synthetic. Doesn't perform very well when used. Mineral water cannot cope with high and low temperature influences. It is prone to oxidation and must be replaced regularly. When the lubricant heats up, slag formation occurs in the engine.
2. Semi-Synthetic. Semi-synthetic oil. It is usually made on the basis of mineral water, which is mixed with various additives.

Operating performance is slightly worse than that of synthetic lubricant, but the price is lower.

Motor oil 10w30 is semi-synthetic. In other words, 10w30 has a mineral base to which additive elements have been added.

Top 4. LUKOIL Moto 4T 10W-40

Rating (2021): 4.72

48 reviews from resources taken into account: Yandex.Market, Ozone

Best price Cheapest motor oil specifically for scooters and motorcycles. One liter of lubricant costs about 15% less than its nearest competitor and is half the price of top brands.

• Characteristics

  Price per liter: 270 rub.

• Country Russia
• Type: semi-synthetic
• Viscosity: 10W-40

Recently, the Russian brand Lukoil has launched the production of special oils for motorcycles, scooters and snowmobiles. The set of basic additives in it has changed, the consistency and viscosity have changed. In addition, it is recommended to pour it into tools equipped with 4-stroke engines. That is, the oil is universal. Whether this is good or bad is difficult to judge. One thing is certain, a top brand would never agree to such a combination of appointments. However, buyers speak well of the product and praise it for its characteristics and large resource. In addition, oil can be poured on top of another. You do not have to completely drain the previous product and clean the crankcase. An excellent option if topping up is needed.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Multi-purpose lubricant
• Can be used as a top-up
• Affordable price tag

• Lots of fakes

Comparison with other lubricants

5w40

The numbers in the markings show the following:

• 5 – the minimum temperature limit is minus twenty-five;
• 40 – the maximum temperature limit is plus thirty-five.

Based on the description of the labeling, it becomes obvious that this oil is better suited, for example, for Siberia than 10w30 SM or even SN. It can be used over a wider temperature range, which is important.

5w30

5w30 oil has minor differences from 10w, which also ends in “30”. It can be poured if the temperature is not lower than minus twenty-five (that is, the difference, for example, with 10w30 API SM is five degrees).

Top 3. Eni/Agip i-Ride Scooter

Rating (2021): 4.77

71 reviews taken into account from resources: Yandex.Market, Ozone, Otzovik

The most popular oil Lubricant from a famous brand, which has surpassed all competitors in terms of the number of reviews. The product is often found in test reviews and is recommended by professional mechanics.

• Characteristics

  Price per liter: 470 rub.

• Country: Italy
• Type: semi-synthetic
• Viscosity: 10W-40

If you've ever had your scooter repaired by a mechanic, you've probably heard of this brand. It is this that is most often recommended to be poured into 4-stroke engines, and it does not matter whether you have 150 cubic meters or just 50. In addition, the name can be found in the technical documentation of many scooters and motorcycles. At least those brands that do not produce their own lubricants. The lubricant is especially recommended for owners of sports equipment subjected to heavy loads. Accordingly, an ordinary city scooter will feel just great with it. As experts from the Drive portal say, loading Agip i-Ride means loving your bike and wishing it many years to come.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Recommended for heavy loads
• Often mentioned by professional mechanics
• Strictly controlled quality

• Weak protection against counterfeiting
• Do not pour on top of another lubricant

See also:

• 20 best motor oils

Where can I buy?

You can buy lubricant of decent quality and at a reasonable price in the Gardenshop store. The store offers owners of motor-cultivators, walk-behind tractors and mini-tractors the best analogue of Sae 30 - high-quality Scout-5l oil. It has good lubricating properties and high energy-saving ability, prevents the formation of harmful deposits and is resistant to elevated temperatures.

You can purchase original motor lubricant at Gardenshop at the lowest price in the region - only 278 rubles. per liter! Those who trust the recommendations of professionals buy 4-stroke oil “Scout-5L”!

Top 2. LIQUI MOLY Motorbike 4T

Rating (2021): 4.86

21 reviews taken into account from resources: Yandex.Market, Ozone, Otzovik

Maximum compatibility The oil has an extended classification according to API and ACEA, which allows it to be used in 4-stroke engines with any mileage and with varying degrees of wear.

• Characteristics

  Price per liter: 800 rub.

• Country: Germany
• Type: mineral
• Viscosity: 10W-40

The LIQUI MOLY brand has long established itself in the market and is in constant demand among both car and motorcycle enthusiasts. The product is designed specifically for scooters with a 4-stroke engine. It has excellent viscosity indicators and an extensive list of purposes in different classifiers. It doesn’t matter if you have a new 150 cc Honda or a budget Chinese bike with a 50 cc engine, this oil can be poured into any system. Even having traveled more than one thousand kilometers. 40 viscosity units will fill even large spaces between worn parts, and a set of additives will remove all the dirt that has accumulated over years of operation from the crankcase. The price is not very good, but you have to pay for the quality.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Compatible with most motors
• Only high-quality additives and components
• High ratings from buyers and experts
• Availability on the market

• High price
• The brand is often counterfeited

See also:

• 10 Best Motorcycle Oils

Choosing the best oil for walk-behind tractors and cultivators

Having a cultivator with a Chinese or American engine or a walk-behind tractor with a Honda engine, you need to remember that the duration of operation of the walk-behind tractor is affected not only by the timeliness of troubleshooting, but also by the quality of the oil used, as well as the systematicity of its replacement. An incorrectly selected mixture or improper lubrication of parts in friction zones leads to increased carbon formation, increased fuel consumption and rapid engine breakdown.

Lubricants for 4-stroke motorcycle engines are produced in a fairly wide range - from budget to more expensive. To choose a suitable product, you need to navigate the labeling and parameters indicating its main criteria. Thus, the marking “S” classifies a group of lubricants intended for gasoline engines, and the letter “C” for diesel engines.

A number of automotive lubricants also meet all the requirements for motor lubricants for walk-behind tractors Neva, Scout, Crosser, Salyut, Zubr, Favorit, Dobrynya and other models equipped with a four-stroke air-cooled engine. To the question: “Is it possible to pour automobile oil into a walk-behind tractor?” experts answer - “Yes, only when using different types of liquid can different consumption rates and the degree of soot formed be observed.” But they do not recommend pouring transmission fluid into the motor of a walk-behind tractor, explaining that this type of substance is not intended to operate in the range of high speeds and high temperatures. If the transmission is poured into the engine, it will begin to burn intensely, precipitate, clog the channels and air filter, which can lead to serious damage.