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Small Engines
Guides for four-stroke small engines. Disconnect the spark plug wire before touching the blade or carb, and never run a generator or mower indoors — carbon monoxide kills.
Common problems
- Old or untreated fuel gumming the carburetor
- Fouled spark plug or weak spark
- Clogged air filter
- Low oil level triggering a shutdown
Related guides
guide
No-Crank / No-Start Diagnosis
Turn the key and nothing happens (or just a click)? Work from the simple stuff to the starter in a logical order.
Beginner–Intermediate · 30–60 minguideEngine Overheating: What to Check
Temperature gauge climbing? Here's how to stay safe and narrow down the cause from coolant to fan to thermostat.
Beginner–Intermediate · 30–90 minguideSmall Engine Won't Start (Mower, Generator, Pressure Washer)
The classic fuel–spark–air check for four-stroke small engines, plus carb cleaning basics.
Beginner · 30–90 min