Is it ok to run out the fuel in a 2 stroke?

[teslaman]

Is it ok to disconnect the fuel line and run the outboard until the carbs are empty or can this lead to engine damage?

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Is it ok to run out the fuel in a 2 stroke?

The only problem I have with it is concerning multiple cylinder engines. It may continue to run even though one or more of the other cylinders get no fuel. And if this is a premix set-up, that can also starve the cylinders of oil too....Not good....

 

[iwombat]

Re: Is it ok to run out the fuel in a 2 stroke?

It's the same as running it out of lubrication. I'd recommend against it.

 

[teslaman]

Re: Is it ok to run out the fuel in a 2 stroke?

I kind figured that. Thanks for the input.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Is it ok to run out the fuel in a 2 stroke?

You really don't run the carbs totally out of fuel. Some remains in the bowl. There are a couple schools of though on this, but my feeling is that if you have a small motor and remove it for transport, then run it dry but expect a little to dribble out of the carb(s). If the engine stays on the boat, treat each tank of fuel with stabilizer and just shut the engine off. The stabilized fuel will not gum things up and since the bowls are full, there can be little air to cause problems. With empty, or near empty carbs condensation, varnish and crud can build up.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Is it ok to run out the fuel in a 2 stroke?

i was taught to run them dry, after years of adulthood, i agree with Silvertip.

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: Is it ok to run out the fuel in a 2 stroke?

Definate No for oil injected models. Single carb premix - go for it.

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: Is it ok to run out the fuel in a 2 stroke?

It's okay to run a engine out of fuel that incorporates only a single carburetor. When the carburetor runs out of its fuel mixture, the engine stops.

However, a engine with multiple carburetors is another story. The top carburetor, if for no other reason than gravity, will run out of fuel before the other carburetors and the engine continues to run off the remaining carburetors. This results in at least one aluminum piston running up and down a steel cylinder wall with improper lubrication.... not a good idea.

 

[paulie0735]

Re: Is it ok to run out the fuel in a 2 stroke?

Is it ok to disconnect the fuel line and run the outboard until the carbs are empty or can this lead to engine damage?

No its not ok. Yes it will lead to engine damage.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Is it ok to run out the fuel in a 2 stroke?


The only way to stop this one was to run it out of fuel by draining the carb. Basic but beautiful back in the late fifties on my Dads little 8ft dinghy. Air cooled, noisy as heck. Thing would still be running now I am sure if he still had it. Check these out and see.