Small Engine Repair
Overview
Small engine repair programs prepare people to repair and maintain small engines such as lawn mowers and chainsaws.Small engine repair programs prepare people to care for and repair small engines. Students learn to work on engines in lawnmowers and motorcycles. They also learn to work on snowmobiles, chain saws, and rotary tillers.
Small engine repair programs include topics such as:
- Routine maintenance tasks
- Specific part maintenance
- Troubleshooting techniques
- Diagnostic equipment
- Electronic instruments and controls
Schools
Many community colleges and technical schools offer certificate and associate degree programs in small engine repair. A certificate program usually takes six months to one year of full-time study. An associate degree program at a community college usually takes two years of full-time study to complete.
See schools that offer this program.
Related Educational Programs
- Agricultural Technologies
- Automotive Technology
- Boat Maintenance and Repair
- Diesel Technology
- Electrical and Electronics Equipment Installation and Repair
- Machine Shop Technology
- Motorcycle Repair
Related Careers
Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study
Other Careers Related to this Program of Study
- Appliance Installers and Repairers
- Automobile Mechanics
- Bus and Truck Mechanics
- Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers
- Coin and Vending Machine Repairers
- Computer, ATM, and Office Machine Repairers
- Electric Motor Repairers
- Farm Equipment Mechanics
- Home Electronic Repairers
- Mechanic and Repairer Helpers
Program Admission
Proprietary schools, colleges, and universities all offer this program. If you want to study at a proprietary school, you can prepare for this program of study by completing your high school diploma or getting a GED. If you want to study at a college or university, you can prepare for this program by taking the following courses: four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.
Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:
- Algebra
- Marine Mechanics and Repair
- Motorcycle Mechanics and Repair
- Principles of Technology
- Small Engine Mechanics and Repair
- Technical Writing
Typical Course Work
Program Courses
A program in this field typically includes courses in the following subjects:
- Engine Problems
- Four-Stroke Engine Overhaul
- Outboard Service Principles
- Small Engine Electrical Systems
- Small Engine Testing and Testing Equipment
- Small Engine Theory
- Small Engine Transmission of Power
- Small Engine Tune-Up
- Technical Communications
- Technical Math
- Two-Stroke Engine Overhaul
Things to Know
You can learn this career on the job, but employers tend to favor hires with some prior training.
You can expect to receive on-the-job training after you are hired. You may also take classes from a manufacturer of specialized equipment.
Most programs require students to purchase their own tools, safety equipment, and work clothes.
If you plan to open your own business, classes in small business administration can be helpful.
As small engine technology continues to advance, you will need to keep your skills up to date. Expect to take classes throughout your career. Your employer may pay for this training.
Schools
Tacoma Area
Bates Technical College (South Campus)
- Power Sports and Equipment Technician
- Power Sports and Equipment Technology