Starting with lubrication is the logical choice. Regular oil changes are an essential part of keeping lawn mowers, chainsaws, generators, and other small engines performing at their best.
Devices powered by two-stroke engines — including chainsaws, leaf blowers, and certain lawn mowers — demand particular attention. A high-quality two-stroke engine oil significantly reduces harmful deposit accumulation and promotes smoother operation. Valvoline's two-stroke engine oil for chainsaws, for example, is specially formulated to deliver superior lubrication while minimizing smoke, keeping the engine clean and running efficiently. Develop a routine of inspecting and changing the oil in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines to guard against engine wear and maximize the lifespan of your equipment.
Our recommendation is to inspect and change the oil following the manufacturer's guidelines or approximately every 50 hours of use. Staying on top of this schedule can feel tedious, but it is a habit that will significantly extend your equipment's service life. Expensive repairs and unnecessary downtime are far more inconvenient in the long run.
Air filters do exactly what their name implies — they filter incoming air to the engine, trapping debris before it can damage internal components. However, a clogged air filter restricts airflow, forcing the engine to work harder, consume more fuel, and deliver less power.
Cleaning your air filter every 25 hours of use and replacing it when necessary keeps engine performance at its peak. In particularly dusty or debris-heavy environments, more frequent inspections become unavoidable. A clean air filter translates directly to a healthier engine and can mean the difference between a machine that runs smoothly and one that labors under normal conditions.
Want your small engine to start reliably every time? The answer lies in a properly functioning spark plug. A worn or fouled spark plug causes inefficient combustion, leading to poor starting, reduced performance, and increased fuel consumption. Technicians who work with small engine equipment inspect spark plugs at least once per season or after roughly 100 hours of operation. During inspection, look closely for signs of deterioration such as cracked porcelain or worn electrodes. Discoloration or carbon buildup can also signal that the plug needs replacement or adjustment. Swapping out spark plugs at consistent intervals — or immediately upon detecting any issue — preserves engine efficiency and dependability, ensuring your lawn mower or small engine starts without hesitation and operates at full capability.
For diesel engines specifically, the choice of fuel and oil carries considerable weight in determining engine longevity and output. Valvoline's diesel engine oil is designed to deliver outstanding protection and efficiency even under the most demanding operating conditions. Selecting the correct fuel and oil grade not only boosts performance but also aligns with the engine manufacturer's specifications, preventing avoidable damage. Always use only the recommended fuels and oils to minimize repair costs and sustain reliable operation. Unsure which oil is right for your machine? Valvoline has you covered. Visit Valvoline's Lubricant Advisor, input the make, model, and type of your equipment, and get expert guidance on the ideal engine and oil combination.
Keeping your engine clean is equally important, particularly since these engines frequently operate in dusty, damp, and demanding conditions. Grass clippings, dirt, wood particles, and other debris collect on the engine surface, causing overheating and potentially triggering mechanical failure. Cleaning your engine regularly — especially after working in dirty or dusty environments — prevents debris accumulation that can obstruct airflow and cooling. A blower or soft brush can effectively clear loose material; pay special attention to the cooling fins and air intake areas. Done right after each use, this takes only five minutes and can spare you considerable trouble down the road.
With Valvoline by your side, your small engines are in good hands. Follow the maintenance guidance from our experts and rely on our complete range of products suited for engines of every size. We look forward to seeing your yard in perfect shape, your small projects completed efficiently, and your generators running at full capacity.