Many, if not most, experienced instructors believe that synthetic oil is better for a number of reasons. Motocross riders have sworn by it for years and they regularly run their engines to death and back.
But for those who travel, getting decent oil on the road is tough. In a pinch, many gas stations carry 2-stroke oil but it’s not ideal. You can get synthetic oil in the Lawn & Garden department at Walmart under the name Polan (other departments may have 2-stroke oil but not synthetic). Menards carries Pennzoil in a 1 gallon container. Most motorcycle shops will also carry high quality synthetic 2-stroke oil.
A Quick Note About Fuel
In general, regular auto gas mixed with a good 2-stroke oil, at the prescribed ratio, will work in almost any 2-stroke motor. But there are benefits of using higher octane gas, especially for higher compression engines. Here’s more information on fuel, octane and what you’ll find in different fuel types such as Avgas. Here’s more on alcohol in gas.
A Quick Note About Fuel Containers
New regulations stipulate that retail gas containers have spill resistant venting. That’s noble but doesn’t work well for our application—they’re slow, frequently awkward and wind up (ironically enough) spilling fuel.
A great solution is using the gas containers from Motocrossers. Their shape and flexible hose gets into our confined tanks easily and, having a regular vent means the flow rate is great.
The cans can be ordered on the web or purchased at motorcycle and kart racing shops.
Siphoning Fuel
Siphon hoses with “wiggle pumps” are another solution that avoid spillage. A brass fitting with a marble in it serves as a one way valve that gets the siphon going without having to suck on anything.
Put the brass pump end in your tank, get the gas tank above your paramotor tank, wiggle the brass end quickly up and down until fuel starts flowing on its own–siphoning. Pull the brass end out BEFORE the paramotor gets full so it can accept the remaining gas in the line.