Hey guys, I don't come here with a problem, but sort of a request. I'm really interested in learning about small engine parts, their operation, and theory. Is there a book or PDF file out there that starts from the beginning and would be an excellent entry level guide to small engine repair? I'm a journeyman electrician, so I don't consider myself completely green around the gills, I just want to learn all I can. Thanks.

 

I would check with your local high schools or community college to see if they offer an adults course in small engine repair. Long ago I took a night class at the local high and it was a lot of fun and quite inexpensive. Reading is certainly helpful but some things are hard to explain and it really helps to see & feel it for real.

If you are actually going to be working on certain engines it is helpful to have the proper repair manual for that engine so you know some of the specifics like valve gaps, spark plug gap and go, no go dimensions for wear parts. But honestly, most small engines are similar and general information is good for many. I like the Briggs Repair Manual and Briggs Service and Repair Manual since so much of what is covered applied to many engines.

 

I learned by experience. Someone gave me a couple of push mowers and I fought and fiddled until I got them running. I learned a lot on those two little machines, then went on to more and got to where I was selling them on the side of the road after school. I'd pick them up at the dumpsters and at the recycling center. 7 years out of high school I began my small engine repair shop and am still running it. I don't know of any good books on the subject, but I'm sure there are some. I'd recommend locating a couple old ones and get your hands dirty along with the reading.

 

You can look at "Audel's guide to small engine repair". The AUdel series of books are pretty good for teaching a lot of different skills.