Reasonable things to check yourself
Plenty of small engine issues come down to simple maintenance. It's reasonable to:
- Replace old fuel with fresh fuel
- Check and change the oil
- Inspect or replace the spark plug
- Clean or replace the air filter
Signs it's time to call
- The engine still won't start after fresh fuel and a new plug
- You smell fuel or see a leak
- There's blue or heavy smoke, knocking, or grinding
- The engine surges, bogs, or dies under load
- Fuel is pouring out of the carburetor or air box
- You're not comfortable taking things apart — that's a perfectly good reason
Before you call
Gather the equipment type, brand, model, and engine model if you can find it. Describe exactly what happens when you try to run it. A photo or two is a big help.
Safety
Disconnect the spark plug wire before working near blades or moving parts, work in a ventilated area, and keep fuel away from flames and hot surfaces.