Factory recommends 32:1 with their Lawn-Boy oil available everywhere. It will smoke some and eventually build some carbon. I like a smokeless synthetic like Amsoil mixed at 50:1 or a specialty oil like Opti-2. Mobil-1 2t is a favorite of some here. Most synthetics smoke less or none at all and build virtually no carbon. I don't go beyond 50:1 with any oil.

I've got one in storage someplace. I like the blade clutch but they are dredfully expensive if need replaced.

The fuel to oil ratio should be 32/1 or 4oz of two cycle oil to one gallon fresh fuel. As a bonus use an additional ounce or two of seafoam or marvel mystery oil to the mix.

You'll like it.

Tip, try not to get the blade clutch wet, and engage it fast.

Neal

This is my favorite mower (aside from the 22260) and the one I use the most. Good luck with it.

Gentlemen, your tips and help are much appreciated, thanks. I've been reading through posts on LB's and can see there is a pretty large cult following. First thing that attracted me was the interesting body design and LB green paint. But I thought that 2 strokes in general had a shorter life span than 4 strokes, though this thing IS 21-23 years old and running just fine...

I've only run about one tank on this and it did smoke a fair amount. I will try the 50:1 synthetic and see what happens. I will also try to figure out why the rear drive isn't working. The guy a I bought it from (for $30) mentioned that the shaft was newer.

Your F engine is a proven performer. With proper care it will likely outlive most of the 4 strokes out there. Good luck with it.