2 Strokes - How Long Between Runs?

[GaryMac]

I've been looking at the engine market for a long time now, and have been trying to avoid putting a 2 stroke engine on my planned gyro. I remember my dirt bike days from 30 years ago, and had too many problems with the 2 strokes back then. Cost may force me to rethink my position.

So here's my question... it is quite likely that my gyro will sit for a couple of weeks at a time without being run... What would you 2 stroke guys do in this situation?

Drain the gas? Anything needed to clean the carb before the next start up? My gyro will be stored about 2 hours away from my home, so running out to start it every week is not an option.

How do you guys handle the "long time between runs" issue?

Thanks, GaryMac

[Chuck Roberg]

Don't let gas sit too long in the tank. Fill it up with fresh fuel and oil before each flight.

Two months between flights is a long time. Two weeks is not that long.

[Bob Gregory]

Wind around here lays down about every three weeks to three months.
Have no trouble if mix is not exposed to air as in the carburetor.
Had to clean the sparkplug once or twice after 5 months on the upside down
engine. This method works for me on several motors and my farm tractor.
See the *.pdf.

I see it now. I saw it before. I have seen it.
When it is loose it is loose. You could lose it.
When you lose it, it is lost. A loser does not mind losing.
A damper damps. To dampen makes it wet.
When it is taut, it is tight. If you are taught, you will learn.
If you want it fixed, fix it. If you want to talk about it,
this is the place.

[Earthboundmisft]

GaryMac, use 100LL avgas and you can let it sit for a month with no issues.

[GaryMac]

thanks, guys.

I was wondering about the carbs junking up, and stuff like that.

[Earthboundmisft]

GaryMac, AV gas wont foul the carbs when it dries, even when premixed.

[Canadian Rhino]

Just keep it inside!
The heat of the sun by day and the cool of night makes an engine breath in and out drawing in moisture and drying out gas left in carbs
Fog your engine between seasons

[scottessex]

Wrap your carbs with a grocery bag (cheapskate) or cover like Bear Perkins sells.
and plug the exhaust. this will help keep moisture and dirt dobbers out.