Small Engine Repair

Small engines can be found in a variety of vehicles and machines, including lawnmowers, golf carts, and generators. Small engines employ internal combustion technology. This means they are powered by the combustion of a fuel-air mixture after it is compressed by a piston and ignited by a spark plug. The combustion of the fuel-air mixture forces the engine’s piston upwards, which rotates a crankshaft. Through a transmission and drivetrain—basically a collection of gears and other mechanical elements that relay movement—the combustion engine powers the machine it is paired with. Essentially, internal combustion engines convert the fuel they burn into work. This allows the engine to achieve a variety of functions, from spinning a lawnmower blade to propelling a golf cart forward.

Most small engines are powered by a recoil start mechanism, meaning the user pulls a start cord. Pulling the start cord causes the engine to turn just enough for the fuel-air mixture to be initially ignited by the spark plug.

Small engines are notably more compact than full-size engines, saving space but resulting in reduced power output. Small engines have numerous key components, including a fuel tank, carburetor, spark plug, cylinder, piston, crankshaft, flywheel, etc.

• Wikipedia: Small engine
• Internal Combustion Engine Basics (energy.gov)
• How Does a Recoil Starter Work on a Lawn Mower?