Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

Well, after trolling for some feedback on a new trimmer and visiting a number of dealers, I have kind of settled in on the Echo PAS 260 head unit with the rapid load trimmer and the edger attachment.  No one has had anything bad to say about Echo.  When I pick it up, it feels right - good balance, not too heavy, and offers some flexibility.  I'll probably pick it up next week.

So what about oil?  Synthetic or stick with the Echo or Stihl 50:1.  I have two other pieces of 2 cycle OPE (a  Weedeater brand leaf blower and edger about 12 years old) that use a 40:1 mix.  I'm not crazy about having another fuel container with yet another type of fuel in it.  Can I use the 50:1 Echo or Stihl for all my 2 cycle OPE?  Does the Echo/Stihl 50:1 have adequate lubrication qualities for the older 40:1 equipment?  Or go with synthetic for everything, which I believe is 100:1.   Anyone know if the warrranty is affected if you use synthetic at 100:1?

I don't know about these small hp motors but on our Yamaha outboard we use Ring Free, which is an additive designed to prevent the rings from sticking. Supposedly the new fuels make this more likely. It may not be necessary in yard equipment - I subscribe to the "small boat, large ocean" theory, though and don't take chances.