STIHL engine technology: designed for long lasting performance

STIHL promotes innovation in many areas of engine technology for improved efficiency, reliability and performance.

From our reimagined four-stroke engine to fuel injection, engine technology developments from STIHL help you rise to any challenge. Our tools are designed to meet a wide range of needs across many applications and user groups, and we are constantly improving the engines in our petrol tools. To help explain, we’ve put together a few highlights about the innovative technology currently used in STIHL petrol engines.

STIHL engine technology

A person wearing protective gear using a STIHL FS 131 petrol brush cutter on uneven grassy ground in front of a house

STIHL 4-MIX®

Featured on some of our brushcutters and backpack blowers, the STIHL 4-MIX® engine uses the operating principle of a four-stroke engine, using 2-stroke fuel mix. This innovative design gives high engine power and much greater torque, while generating fewer harmful emissions and scavenging losses.

Magnesium pistons

As a pioneer of technological innovation, we devote a great deal of energy and expertise to designing chainsaws that are lightweight and high-performance. We have taken a big step forward in this area with our magnesium alloy piston. Find out more about the benefits and development process.

STIHL 2-MIX engine technology

The STIHL 2-MIX two-stroke engine offers high-power performance, fast acceleration and simple operation. The innovative stratified scavenging system reduces harmful emissions and significantly reduces fuel consumption - with no drop in power output.

Fuel injection technology

Fuel injection in the STIHL MS 500i chainsaw and TS 500i cut off saw ensures fuel is measured and delivered precisely when it’s needed, regardless of altitude and temperature. This innovation eliminates the need for a carburettor and leads to lightning quick acceleration and throttle response.

The decompression valve

With a STIHL decompression valve, starting an engine requires less manual effort as some of the pressure in the cylinder can be temporarily released. This greatly reduces strain and fatigue, helping you to work harder for longer.

The STIHL fuel tank cap

The STIHL tool-free tank caps enable you to open and close the oil and fuel tanks with a minimum of fuss and with no need for tools. The bayonet design makes refuelling quick, clean and easy even while wearing gloves.

STIHL air filter system

The long-life air filter system from STIHL cleans the intake air in multiple steps, separating the larger dust particles and venting them back into the air. This clever routing ensures consistent operation and further extends the service life of the air filter.

STIHL carburettor heater

The STIHL electric carburettor heater prevents your chainsaw carburettor from icing at low temperatures. A thermostat activates the carburettor heater at temperatures below 10°C, allowing for great performance and easier starting all throughout winter.

Summary: STIHL engine technology

Innovation covers a wide range of engine types from STIHL 4-MIX®, 2-MIX and fuel injection
Since we have tools for a wide range of applications, we innovate in many areas of engine technology
STIHL engine technology has been in constant development since 1926

More STIHL engine technology innovations

The M-Tronic system ensures that engine performance is continuously optimised, as well as providing precise electronic regulation of ignition timing and fuel metering. M-Tronic automatically adapts to changes in fuel quality, altitude and air temperature, perfect for demanding every day use by professionals.