Proper Oil

• Homelite manufactures its own brand of oil specifically designed for its two-cycle engines. These engines are air-cooled, so they need a different, tougher, oil than a water-cooled engine. While Homelite recommends using only their blend of oil, it isn't an absolute requirement, as long as a similar two-cycle air-cooled engine oil is used.
  
  

Proper Gasoline

• The oil must be mixed into the proper gasoline. Homelite trimmers require a higher octane than most two-cycle engines do. The high speeds generate that high heat and friction, so if a low-quality gasoline is used, it won't burn properly in the engine; damage will occur inside the piston, cylinder or crankcase. Use only gasoline with an octane rating above 89. The gasoline also must not contain more than 10 percent ethanol or other additives.
  
  

Proper Mixture

• Homelite trimmers need a mix of 50-to-1 gasoline to oil. To achieve this mix, for every gallon of gasoline used, mix in 2.6 fl. oz. of two-cycle oil. Don't alter this ratio unless otherwise instructed by Homelite for certain situations, such as high elevation. Using a different ratio can cause permanent engine damage.
  
  

Proper Mixing

• Mix the oil thoroughly with the gasoline. Use a clean, empty gasoline container; pour the two-cycle engine oil into the container first. Add the gasoline and mix it as it's added. Close the container and shake it after the gasoline is mixed in.