Two-Stroke Engine Basics: Part Four

Now that we have overviewed the inner workings of a two-stroke engine, the advantages should be ascertainable. The consolidation of the stroke cycle allows for a more rudimentary and lightweight design, which also produces more power. This combination makes two-stroke engines ideal for various handheld equipment and small vehicles. With these obvious advantages, some may be wondering why two-stroke engines aren’t used in cars and other large vehicles.

The main drawback to the two-stroke is its longevity; the fact that the outboard motor oil and gasoline are mixed means that there is less direct lubrication, and the system wears faster. Because of this necessity to mix the gas and oil, the engine burns more of these fluids than there four-stroke counterpart—which is a major drawback in a vehicle that experiences extended usage. Finally, there is also more pollution emitted from a two-stroke due to the nature of its compression cycle.