Small Engine Parts Shop | OEM & Replacement Parts | Lordco Auto Parts

What maintenance should I do to my gas-powered outdoor tools before using them for the first time in the spring?
Carry out a small engine spring tune-up before using your outdoor power tools for the first time at the start of the season. This includes adding fresh fuel and a cap of fuel stabilizer, replacing the air filter, and inspecting or replacing the spark plug. For 4-cycle engines, top up or replace the oil. While you are at it, inspect fuel lines and cutting components, like blades or trimmer line, if applicable, ensuring everything is in good condition.

How long does gasoline last in a small engine?
Typically, fuel stays fresh in the tank for anywhere between 30-90 days. Fuel stabilizers can help extend this range and help protect the entire fuel system.

Why can't I leave untreated fuel sitting in my 2-stroke or 4-stroke small engine?
Without the addition of a fuel stabilizer, gasoline will become stale and less combustible over time as volatile components evaporate, leaving behind residue that can clog fuel components and result in starting issues.

How often should I replace the air filter in a small engine to ensure proper airflow?
It is recommended to replace the air filter every season or more frequently if your outdoor power tool starts and stalls, or if you notice dirt, dust or grass clipping build up on the filter.

What maintenance steps should I take to ensure my portable generator is ready to go when I need it?
Run your generator ever so often to check its operation. Perform a visible inspection and replace dirty air filters, bad spark plugs. If the generator sits for a long period of non-use, add a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel from degrading.

How often should I change the oil in my 4-cycle lawnmower?
Refer to the lawn mower's owner manual for recommended oil change intervals, but typically oil should be changed every 25-50 working hours or once per season.

How often should I replace the air filter in a small engine to ensure proper airflow?
Replace the air filter every season or more frequently if your outdoor power tool starts and stalls, or if you notice dirt, dust or grass clipping build up on the filter.

How will I know it's time to replace the air filter in my outdoor power equipment?
If you notice black exhaust smoke or a lack of power, inspect the air filter and replace it if it looks dirty. A clean air filter will help improve air flow and maintain optimum engine performance.

How will I know it's time to clean a 2-stroke carburetor?
An outdoor power tool that sputters when starting or shakes when idling could be an indications of a clogged carburetor. To clean the carburetor, use a carburetor cleaner or a fuel system treatment recommended for 2-cycle engines. If using Sea Foam fuel system treatment, follow the manufacturer's directions and add two ounces per gallon for pre-mix 2-stroke fuel or 3-4 bursts if using Sea Foam Spray to clean and prevent suspended debris from clogging the carburetor jets.  

What steps should I take to winterize outdoor equipment running with a 2-stroke engine?
Drain or add a fuel stabilizer to any remaining gasoline, change the oil if needed, and clean the machine before storing it in a dry, sheltered area.

What’s the best way to store a lawnmower or other gas-powered outdoor equipment when not in use?
Drain or add a fuel stabilizer to any remaining gasoline, change the oil if needed, and clean the machine before storing it in a dry, sheltered area.

Why won't my gas-powered chainsaw, lawnmower, hedge trimmer, pressure washer, etc. start?
If your yard tool refuses to start, the most common cause could be stale fuel. Gasoline untreated with a fuel stabilizer will degrade after 30 days. Other common culprits are a dirty engine air filter, bad spark plug, clogged carburetor, cracked fuel lines, or worn starter and ignition components. Check and replace components systematically until the issue is resolved.

Why is black smoke coming out of the exhaust of my gas-powered chainsaw, lawnmower, hedge trimmer, pressure washer or generator?
If you notice black exhaust smoke or a lack of power, inspect the air filter and replace it, especially if it looks dirty. A clean air filter improves air flow and maintains engine performance.

Why is my outdoor power tool running rough?
An outdoor power tool that runs rough or sounds like it's struggling may be a result of restricted airflow, stale fuel, a misfiring spark plug or a clogged carburetor. Replace the air fitler it it looks dirty, replace the spark plug if it looks worn, and replace old fuel with fresh. If the issue isn't resolved, clean the carburetor jets.