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Learn these Simple Steps to Start Most ANY Small Engine Confidently!

Updated: Aug 10


Ever struggled to start a lawn mower, snowblower, or weed eater without instructions? If you're interested in avoiding this scenario, read on for a general guide in preparing to start your small engine equipment, easily and confidently!


Please Note: These tips don't replace the specific machine's operator's manual, which provides detailed instructions for safe starting/operation. If you lack the owner's manual, follow these steps (assuming the machine is mechanically sound) for a general reference in preparing for engine starting.


Firstly, ensure the machine has fresh gasoline. Many small engine issues stem from poor quality, stale gas. Next, locate and open the gas shutoff valve, if so equipped. For more insights into the importance of using fresh gasoline refer to this post here: Why Won't My Push Mower Start? Solution: Mind your Gas!


Note: Determine if your engine is a 2-stroke or 4-stroke engine. A 4-stroke has an oil dipstick and separate oil and gas reservoirs. A 2-stroke requires premixing 2-stroke oil and gas (to the specified ratio, stipulated by the manufacturer) and does not have an oil dipstick. If your attempting to start a 4-stroke engine, ensure there is an adequate supply of engine oil in the crankcase. To check this read the dipstick. Never attempt to start the engine with a low level of engine oil!

Close up of an engine oil dipstick from a lawn mower engine
An engine oil dipstick from a four-stroke engine

Lawn mower with oil dipstick labeled
This is an example of a four-stroke lawn mower with its oil fill and dipstick location clearly labeled

Next, find the air filter and carburetor. Both are probably covered by some kind of cover. Near them may be a primer bulb which is used to 'move' gas by creating vacuum through the carburetor's many ports. Press it to prime the engine, but avoid over-priming, which can cause flooding. This primer bulb will be easily accessible if your unit has one. For a detailed walk through on how to start your lawn mower refer to https://app.jotform.com/251301165938253 to access our No Start Fix Guide. In it you'll find the solution to remedy a flooded engine, if it has been over primed.

Intake side of lawn mower labeled
Location of air filter and carburetor, this unit is not equipped with a primer bulb

Usually, three presses are enough.


If you discover a choke lever of some kind labeled with open or closed, don't fret. By understanding the following simple choke concept, you can tackle engine starting easily. Although it may seem counterintuitive, when starting a cold engine, CLOSE the choke to enrich the air-fuel mixture. After approximately 5-30 seconds of running, gradually OPEN the choke for smooth operation, once started.

Looking into a carburetor with the choke plate in open position
From view point of looking directly into carburetor, its choke plate is being held open in the run position

To try and remember this, think of the choke as kind of like a doorway. When it is closed (technically not fully closed)


Follow these steps to learn how to start any small engine

it creates a vacuum to pull air and fuel into the engine more easily. For more details on choke operation, refer to this post: How to use a Choke: Mastering the Choke Function in Small Engine Operation


Control features vary amongst machines but this concept is consistent for all engines.


Note: Some machines are equipped with an "auto choke" feature meaning that the operator need not perform the closing of the choke to start, manually.


Next, you would have to engage some kind of safety switch, and pull a starter rope or turn a key (if equipped with electric start) in order to fire the engine. This step varies amongst machines, and safe practice such as avoiding moving blades, augers, string heads etc. is required and must be followed for operator safety!


By adhering to these straightforward steps, you will be well-prepared and have a general starting point to start small engine equipment with confidence.


Print and refer to this summary card for a starting point, to get your small engine started
Print and refer to this summary card for a starting point, to get your small engine started




Never the Norm!



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