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06 Nov 2025
0 Comments By Earl Gibson Small Engines

🔥 The Oil & Gas Ratio Riddle: Avoiding Catastrophic Two-Stroke Engine Failure

The simplicity of a two-stroke (2-cycle) engine is its greatest feature, but it also hides its greatest vulnerability: it does not have a separate oil reservoir. The oil that lubricates the piston, cylinder, and bearings is the same oil you mix directly into the gasoline. Get this ratio wrong, and you’re essentially running a time bomb. This isn't just about a little smoke—it's about protecting your investment from total catastrophic failure. READ MORE

05 Nov 2025
0 Comments By Earl Gibson Small Engines , , ,

⚡️ V is for Velocity: Why 40V, 60V, and 80V Aren’t Gimmicks

As battery-powered outdoor power equipment (OPE) pushes gas engines toward retirement, consumers are faced with a dizzying choice: 40V, 60V, 80V, and even higher. Is a higher number just a marketing ploy, or does it actually translate to better performance for your lawnmower or chainsaw? The answer is simple physics: a higher voltage is a more efficient and practical way to deliver the intense power needed for heavy-duty yard work. It all comes down to the relationship between Volts (V) and Amps (A). READ MORE

04 Nov 2025
0 Comments By Earl Gibson Small Engines , ,

🛠️ Keep Your Trimmer Trim: Solving Line Feed Snags and Gear Head Care

If you run a string trimmer, you know the frustration: you're halfway through tidying up the yard, and suddenly the line won't feed, or worse, the head feels sticky and sluggish. These seemingly small issues—line feed problems and a neglected gear head—are the silent saboteurs of an efficient trimming session. Don't let a poorly maintained head slow you down! With a little preventative maintenance, you can ensure smooth, reliable performance all season long. READ MORE

03 Nov 2025
0 Comments By Earl Gibson Small Engines , ,

Carburetor Tuning 101: Adjusting High & Low Speed Screws 🔧

So, you've cleaned your air filter, installed fresh fuel, and put in a new spark plug—but your engine still runs rough. If it struggles to accelerate or idles poorly, you might need to adjust the carburetor mixture screws. This guide is for small engines that feature adjustable fuel/air mixture screws (often found on two-stroke equipment like chainsaws, trimmers, and some older lawnmowers). Caution: Improper tuning can quickly lead to engine damage. Always prioritize your engine's health over maximum power. READ MORE

02 Nov 2025
0 Comments By Earl Gibson Small Engines , ,

Breathe Easy, Power Up: The Air Filter Trick for Small Engine Performance 💨

When your small engine equipment—your mower, generator, or snow blower—starts feeling sluggish, running rough, or burning through fuel faster than usual, your mind might jump to complex issues like a carburetor overhaul or a pricey repair. Stop right there. The single cheapest, fastest, and most impactful piece of maintenance you can perform to restore peak power is simply replacing the air filter. It's the engine’s lungs, and if they're clogged, your machine is literally being choked. READ MORE