Small Engines

The heart of outdoor power equipment, learn from our experts important small engine maintenance and repair projects to keep your machinery performing to its potential.

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Family Handyman Approved: Sea Foam Motor Treatment

Keep your engines running smoothly.

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How to Test a Spark Plug to See If It’s Working

Every small gasoline engine has a spark plug, and this key component requires periodic inspection and testing. Learn how to...


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How to Clean a Small-Engine Spark Plug

All small engines have a spark plug, and cleaning spark plugs from time to time helps keep your equipment running...


8 Most Common Lawn Tractor Repairs

If you own a lawn tractor, a.k.a. a riding lawn mower, knowing how to make these eight common repairs can...


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Why Is There Oil On My Spark Plugs?

Got a two-stroke engine running rough or not at all? Oil could be the problem. If you're wondering why there's...

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How to Repair Small Engines: Cleaning the Carburetor

Don't Google "small engine repair near me" the next time your lawnmower sputters. Learn how to do it yourself. Small...


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What Type of Lawn Mower Oil Should I Use

Your lawn mower needs the right kind of engine oil used in the right way. Read on to learn about...

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Safety Basics to Prep Power Yard Equipment for Spring

It's springtime! Time to get outside and do yard work. Here are 10 tips to keep your outdoor power equipment...


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10 Things You Should Know About Gasoline

Do you think premium gas is free of ethanol and the best choice for small engines? Do you ever treat...


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Why is My Lawn Mower Smoking?

Leaking oil from the exhaust is the usual cause of blue, white or black smoke from a lawn mower. Learn...


How to Test an Ignition Coil

Test the ignition coil quickly and easily with a simple ignition system tester

Keep Your Automotive Tools at Your Fingertips

I really like my trusty rolling mechanic’s stool because it saves my knees when I work on cars and small...