1. Check the number of cylinders. A 2 cycle engine will typically have only 1 cylinder, while a 4 cycle engine will have 4 cylinders.
2. Look at the spark plug. A 2 cycle engine will have only 1 spark plug, while a 4 cycle engine will have 2 spark plugs.
3. Listen to the sound of the engine. A 2 cycle engine will typically have a higher pitched sound than a 4 cycle engine.
4. Check the exhaust emissions. A 2 cycle engine will typically emit more pollutants than a 4 cycle engine.
5. Check the oil. In a 2 cycle engine, the gasoline is mixed with oil before it is burned in the engine. In a 4 cycle engine, the oil and gasoline are kept separate.
