Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.)/oil weight

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Expert: Eric A. Jones - 10/30/2009


Question
I was told today that it is ok to mix oil weights, 10w30 & 30w, in my honda engine that powers a "Billy Goat" leaf shredder. I was always told by my dad never to do that. Would please clarify for me. Thank you !!!

Answer
I have always been told the same thing...DO NOT mix oil weights.  I'm not a chemist but it makes sense not to mix different oil weights.

In a pinch, if an auto engine or multi-quart oil capacity engine was a couple of quarts low I would probably use what I had available.  You Honda only takes a quart or a little more so you should never have to mix oil weights.

Eric

Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.)

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Eric A. Jones

Expertise

Lawnmower Repair . Certified Master Service Technician from B&S. Have 13 years experience on B&S, Lawn Chief, Weed Eater, Echo, Peerless, Wheel Horse, Snapper, Atlas, MTD, McCulloch, Homelite and many other numerous brands. Specialize in electrical repair.

Experience

Born and raised in the midwest. Started tinkering with engines when I was about 14 on my Suzuki RM-80. I began lawn mower repair at a small hardware store. I knew absolutely nothing. I read lots of repair manuals and met an older fellow who taught me many lessons. I continued working on small engines through high school and paid my way through college working on mowers at the same hardware store. Decided to get away from the midwest and mower repair so I joined the Air Force. I repaired air traffic control electronic equipment and ended up in Hawaii where I got a part time job at Small Engine Clinic. I gained a lot of experience from the Small Engine Clinic and had a blast repairing small engines. I then took the Briggs and Stratton Master Service Technician test and earned my MST. I then traveled to Wisconsin where I attended the factory update training seminar and received formal training. I received a scholarship from the Air Force and am currently pursuing another degree.

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