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oil starvation in 4 stroke engines

15 years ago

I have a 1/2 acre mowable yard all of it moderately sloped. The total drop is about 22' along a 260' diagonal forming a bowl from top left to bottom right. I tried to buy a Toro Recycler 20332, describing my issue, and he refused to sell it claiming the cylinder would melt/seize up in a season of operation.

Some maintenance blog posts say that the oil sump on moderate angles will have adequate levels to lubricate.

Any thoughts?

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Comments (5)

roadbike
15 years ago
Both side of my house are sloped, one much steeper than the drop you describe. About 5 years ago I replaced a 30 year old splash engine Toro with a Toro Super Recycler using a splash briggs motor. I have yet to have an engine starvation problem.
ericwi
15 years ago
When a retailer refuses to sell you a lawnmower, there is very likely good reason. They are, after all, in business to sell, and they don't make any money when they lose a sale. He must have had previous experience with this engine failing in the field, due to oil starvation. On the other hand, folks have been mowing there lawns with 4-stroke, splash lubricated gas engines since around 1910, and 100 years is enough time for the manufacturers to figure out how to build an engine that will tolerate a 20 degree slope. In your situation, I would ask around, and make an effort to see what other people are using on sloped ground. Regardless of what mower you choose, keeping the oil level on the "maximum" line will help prevent oil starvation.
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orangedotfever
15 years ago
If you can find a good used 2 stroke mower at a dealer you won't have to worry about oil starvation.
walt2002
15 years ago
"he refused to sell it claiming the cylinder would melt/seize up in a season of operation. "

Well this is baloney. The first thing to go with oil starvation is the connecting rod unless engine is running at low speed, then it may be the top main.

It is surprising he did not sell you the mower and the suggestion for a 2 cycle is a good one.

Walt Conner
1saxman
15 years ago
Okay, that's about an 8% (8' in 100')slope, which is no problem for any mower. You get in trouble with a 4-cycle at about a 100% slope (45 degree angle). The salesman is an idiot. Why don't you print this off and show him?

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