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Earl's Yard ServicesBlogSmall Engines
29 Oct 2025
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🔥 Understanding & Preventing Carbon Buildup in 2-Stroke Engines

That powerful, high-pitched whine of a 2-stroke engine—whether it’s on a chainsaw, trimmer, or leaf blower—is unmistakable. But that unique engine design, which burns oil mixed with fuel, has a primary enemy: carbon buildup.

Carbon deposits are the black, sooty, sticky residue left over from the incomplete combustion of fuel and oil. Over time, these deposits choke off vital parts of your engine, leading to frustrating performance issues.

Here is a deep dive into what causes carbon buildup and, more importantly, how you can prevent it and keep your 2-stroke running at peak power.

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28 Oct 2025
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Ethanol vs. Non-Ethanol: The True Impact on Small Engine Gaskets

The debate over Ethanol-blended fuel (E10) is one of the most persistent topics in the small engine repair world. While much of the discussion focuses on water absorption and carburetor clogging, there’s one component that quietly takes the brunt of ethanol’s chemical power: the gasket.

For mechanics and informed equipment owners, understanding how E10 fuel interacts with sealing materials is key to preventing costly fuel system failures and engine downtime.

Here is the definitive look at the true impact of ethanol on small engine gaskets and seals.

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27 Oct 2025
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How to Clear a Flooded Engine in Under 60 Seconds

It’s a frustratingly common scenario: you go to start your lawn mower, pressure washer, or generator, and it just cranks and cranks, refusing to catch. You might even smell gas. Chances are, you’ve got a flooded engine.

A flooded engine means there’s too much fuel in the combustion chamber, making it impossible for the spark plug to ignite the air-fuel mixture. The good news? For most small engines, you can often clear a flooded engine in under 60 seconds and get back to work.

Here’s your quick-fire guide to resolving a flooded engine.

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26 Oct 2025
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The Definitive Checklist for 100-Hour Mower Service

As a small engine repair pro, you know the drill: your clients rely on their lawn mowers—whether push, zero-turn, or tractor—to keep their yards pristine. A well-maintained mower doesn’t just cut better; it lasts longer and breaks down less.

While the owner’s manual has the basics, we’re going beyond. A 100-hour service is more than an oil change; it’s a deep-dive that prevents costly breakdowns during the peak season.

Here is the definitive, pro-level checklist for your clients or your own shop, designed to keep those engines humming past the 100-hour mark.

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24 Oct 2025
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🥶 Winterizing Your Blower: A Step-by-Step for Long-Term Storage

The leaves are finally gone, the weather is turning cold, and your faithful leaf blower is ready for a long winter’s nap. Don’t just toss it in the shed! Improper storage is the number one killer of small engines, leading to gummed-up carburetors, rusted pistons, and frustrating spring startups.

Whether you run a 2-stroke or a 4-stroke model, proper winterization is essential for a seamless start next season. Here is the definitive, step-by-step checklist for putting your blower into safe, long-term storage.

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