Spring Small Engine Maintenance: Get Ready for Summer!

Spring is here and that means it’s time to break out our small engines that have been sitting quietly all winter. From lawn mowers to weed eaters and everything in between, if it has a small engine, there are a few steps you’ll want to take before firing them up for a long hot season of work!

SEASONAL OIL CHANGE

Like any engine, contaminants and sludge build up over time. Small engines, under normal use, benefit greatly from a seasonal oil change. Consult your manufacturer’s guidance on the type of oil to use or contact a local small engine repair shop if you’re unsure.

REPLACE SPARK PLUG AND AIR FILTER

Small engines work best when all elements are in peak shape. A worn spark plug may keep your small engine from starting or may cause it to run rough once it does start. You may be able to clean it and adjust the spark gap instead of replacing it. It depends on the condition of the plug itself. If your small engine has an air filter, keeping it clean will help it run more efficiently over time. Again, you may be able to simply clean the filter. Either way, be sure to check the condition before heavy use.

CLEAN

Many of us like to think that “clean engines run better”. I don’t know if it’s true or not, but it is important to clean your engine each year. Removing debris may not seem like a big deal, but over time if you fail to keep your engine clean it could lead to overheating and other more serious long-term issues.

LUBRICATE

Moving parts need lubrication. Not much else to say! Check your owner’s manual for any recommended lubrication schedules to ensure your equipment works for years to come. Overlooking lubrication will lead to excessive wear and an early retirement of your vital equipment.

Legacy Feed and Fuel has a full-service small engine shop ready to help make this year worry free. Call the experts in Meridian or Nampa and they’ll get your small engine serviced in no time!