Whether it be in a lawnmower to cut that thick summer grass, or a snow blower for the dense pack that blocks your driveway, small engines help us with some of the most labor intensive home care tasks. If you own your own home, equipment powered by small engines is nearly mandatory. Without this equipment, the only option you have besides letting the lawn take over your driveway is to hire someone else to do it for you. This can be expensive. In fact, the amount you spend on lawn care or other related services can easily reach the cost of a decent piece of equipment within a couple of months. That’s why it is important to buy your own equipment and keep it properly maintained. Keep reading for some quick small engine maintenance tips.
Change the Oil
If you own a piece of equipment that has a four stoke engine, you need to change the oil at regular intervals. If you wait too long to change your oil, the viscosity of the oil can wear down and it will not lubricate and protect the engine as well as new oil. This can cause piston wear and lead to costly repairs or replacement in the future. The oil in a small engine needs to be changed about every 50 operating hours, but check your owner’s manual for exact specifications for your model.
Check the Spark Plug
The spark plug is what ignites the fuel in the combustion chamber. If it is not functioning properly or if it is dirty, it may not provide an adequate spark, causing a misfire or rough engine idle and poor performance. Remove the spark plug with a spark plug socket and clean or replace if needed. Check the spark plug gap and ensure it is within the manufacturer’s recommended gap size. Use this guide determine if your spark plug needs replacement.
Change or Clean the Air Filter
A small engine requires an unobstructed flow of clean air to create a proper fuel/air mixture. If the air filter is dirty or damaged, it can restrict the flow of air, causing poor performance, or it can allow dirty air into the combustion chamber, which may damage the small engine. Check the air filter weekly for damage and clean or replace if it contains excessive particulates in the fibers.
Keep the Engine Clean
A layer of grime and grease on a small engine can lead to poor performance and reduce its longevity. The grease can trap heat, especially if it is on the cooling fins. An engine that consistently runs too hot is an engine that won’t last very long. About every month or so, use an engine degreaser to degrease the cooling fins and other part of your small engine.
Small Engine Maintenance with Greg’s Small Engines
While small engine maintenance is easy enough that anyone can do it, sometimes we just don’t have the time. At Greg’s Small Engines, we can help with all your small engine needs. To make things really easy for you, we can even come and pick up your equipment, service it, and return it to you. Greg’s Small Engines Service and Repair is services are variety of makes and models. Contact us today for all your small engine needs!