Every 100–300 hours of operation
Or once a year if it’s a heavy-use machine (mower, generator, snowblower, etc.)
If you see any of these symptoms, it’s time:
Hard starting, especially cold
Backfiring through intake or exhaust
Loss of power or bogging under load
Loud tapping or ticking noise
Engine dies when hot
Poor compression readings
Briggs & Stratton: Every 100 hours is recommended, especially on V-twins and OHV models.
Kohler 7000/Command: Around every 300 hours, or yearly on mowers.
Honda GX-series: About every 300 hours, or if starting gets harder.
Predator (Harbor Freight): Usually after first 25 hours, then every 100–150 hours.
Valve clearance slowly tightens over time. If it gets too tight:
Compression drops
Hard starts
Burnt valves
Engine loses power
If they’re too loose:
Ticking
Poor performance
More wear
By Horton Repair & Service – Mansfield, OH
When you depend on your mower, snowblower, or generator, the last thing you want is for it to fail when you need it most. Regular small engine maintenance might seem like an extra chore, but it’s one of the smartest ways to protect your equipment — and your wallet.
A simple oil change or spark plug replacement can stop bigger problems before they start. Neglecting these basics can lead to major engine damage that costs hundreds of dollars to repair — or worse, a full replacement.
Clean filters, fresh oil, and properly gapped plugs help your engine run smoother and burn less fuel. That means better performance and savings every time you start it up.
Well-maintained engines can last years longer than neglected ones. A mower or snowblower that’s serviced regularly can serve you season after season, saving you from the cost of buying new equipment too soon.
Whether it’s the first snow of winter or the start of mowing season, maintenance ensures your equipment fires right up. No more pulling the cord a hundred times or hoping it’ll “start this time.”
Small engines aren’t cheap. Regular tune-ups are a small price to pay for keeping your equipment in top shape and protecting what you’ve already paid for.
At Horton Repair & Service, we specialize in keeping your small engines running like new — from tune-ups and oil changes to full rebuilds. Bring your mower, trimmer, or snowblower by the shop, and we’ll make sure it’s ready when you are.
📍 Serving Mansfield and surrounding areas
📞 419-571-2383
🌐 HortonRepairAndService.com
✉️ HortonRepairService@gmail.com
Keeping your mower in top shape is key to a healthy lawn — and avoiding costly repairs down the line. At Horton Repair & Service, we see a lot of mowers in need of attention, and many problems are easy to spot early. Here are 5 common signs your mower might need a tune-up:
Hard Starting or Won’t Start
If your mower struggles to start, or doesn’t start at all, it may be due to a dirty spark plug, stale fuel, or carburetor issues.
Rough Idling or Stalling
A mower that shakes, sputters, or stalls while running likely needs a tune-up to adjust the carburetor, clean the air filter, or replace worn parts.
Uneven Cutting or Stripes in Your Lawn
Dull blades or misaligned decks can leave your lawn patchy. Regular blade sharpening and deck adjustments keep your grass looking great.
Excessive Smoke or Oil Leaks
Oil on the ground or smoke from the engine often signals worn gaskets or a need for an oil change — addressing it early prevents bigger problems.
Unusual Noises
Grinding, squealing, or rattling sounds can indicate loose belts, worn bearings, or engine trouble. Don’t ignore unusual noises.
Tip: Regular tune-ups every season can save you time and money, and extend the life of your mower.
At Horton Repair & Service, we handle small engine repairs, tune-ups, and seasonal maintenance — keeping your equipment running smoothly. We even offer free local pick-up and delivery in Mansfield for your convenience.
📞 Call or text 419-571-2383 to schedule your mower tune-up today!
Winter is coming, and a properly tuned snowblower can make all the difference when the first snowfall hits. At Horton Repair & Service, we help Mansfield homeowners get their snowblowers in top shape, so you’re ready to clear driveways safely and efficiently.
Here’s a quick checklist to prepare your snowblower for winter:
Check Fuel and Spark Plug
Old fuel can gum up your engine. Drain leftover gas from last season or use fresh fuel with stabilizer. Inspect the spark plug — a clean, properly gapped plug ensures your engine starts reliably.
Inspect Belts and Auger
Check the belts for cracks or fraying, and make sure the auger spins freely. Worn belts or damaged augers can leave you stuck mid-storm.
Lubricate Moving Parts
Grease the chute, auger bearings, and other moving parts to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation.
Test Start and Run
Run your snowblower before the first snowfall to confirm it starts and operates correctly. This helps identify any issues early.
Professional Tune-Up
Sometimes, it’s easier and safer to let a pro handle the prep. At Horton Repair & Service, we offer snowblower tune-ups, repairs, and maintenance — plus free local pick-up and delivery in Mansfield.
Tip: Winter emergencies are stressful. Preparing your snowblower now can save you headaches later and keep your property safe.
📞 Call or text 419-571-2383 to schedule your snowblower winter prep today!
Auto tune-ups aren’t just routine — they protect your wallet. Here’s how:
Improved Fuel Efficiency
A tuned engine uses less fuel, saving money at the pump.
Prevent Major Repairs
Fixing small issues early prevents expensive breakdowns later.
Maintain Resale Value
A well-maintained car keeps its value longer.
Common Tune-Up Services
Oil changes, spark plug replacement, brake checks, and minor engine repairs.
At Horton Repair & Service, we provide full auto tune-ups and repairs for Mansfield drivers. Trust your local shop for honest pricing and reliable work.
📞 Call 419-571-2383 to schedule your vehicle’s tune-up.
Ignoring small engine problems can turn minor issues into costly repairs. Watch for these signs:
Excessive Smoke or Oil Leaks
Could indicate worn gaskets or the need for an oil change.
Hard Starting or Stalling
Often caused by carburetor issues or dirty spark plugs.
Unusual Noises
Grinding, squealing, or rattling may mean loose belts or worn bearings.
Poor Cutting or Performance
Dull blades, misaligned decks, or engine problems can reduce efficiency.
Frequent Breakdown
If your equipment constantly needs attention, a professional inspection is a must.
At Horton Repair & Service, we handle all types of small engine repairs — fast, reliable, and locally trusted in Mansfield.
📞 Call 419-571-2383 for expert repairs today.
🧠 Horton Repair & Service Blog
Welcome to the Horton Repair & Service Blog — where we share tips, advice, and updates to help you keep your engines running their best.
Here, you’ll find:
Small engine maintenance tips to extend the life of your mower, snowblower, and more
Auto repair advice for everyday drivers
Seasonal reminders to get your equipment ready for changing weather
Behind-the-scenes updates from the shop here in Mansfield
Our goal is to help you save time, money, and hassle by keeping your equipment in top condition — all while showing what makes Horton Repair & Service your trusted local choice.
Check back often for new posts, and if there’s a topic you’d like to learn about, feel free to reach out — we’re always happy to share our knowledge!