From large industries to the average homeowner, gasoline powered small engines are widely used to complete major and minor tasks all over the world. Lawn mowers, air compressors and pumps are among the most the popular equipment that utilizes this machinery. They also power ATVs, motorcycles, scooters and certain light aircraft. For household mechanics, knowing the basics of a gasoline powered engine can help better maintain your equipment and help you trouble shoot potential issues that may arise.

These systems are also known as an internal combustion engine. To run these engines, a spark created when the ignition is switched on creates an explosion as it comes into contact with the gasoline in the combustion chamber. Gasoline is a slow burning combustible liquid that becomes explosive when it mixes with air. This explosion is what gives the engine its power. There are a number of parts within these engines that make this entire process work efficiently.

1. Fuel System

The fuel system is made up of several other components. The fuel tank stores the gasoline until it enters the carburetor. A fuel pump removes the gasoline through a fuel line into the carburetor. The carburetor then mixes the required volume of air and gas in proper proportion to create the necessary energy. Inside the carburetor, a small filter collects small particles of dirt and sediment that may clog or dirty the fuel.

A primer is used to inject a small amount of extra gasoline into the carburetor to create a higher fuel intensity and stronger spark. This is usually used when weather conditions are cold or the small engine vehicle has been sitting for a long period of time.

2. The Ignition System

Combustion cannot take place if the spark needed to create the condition is not ignited. The ignition produces a high voltage spark that sets off the combustion needed to start the engine. A battery is used to activate this and a spark plug provides the catalyst in which current can flow.

3. The Cylinder Block

Combustion takes place in the cylinder block. Within the combustion chamber, the heat released by the chemical reaction creates a high-pressured gas environment. As this pressure force is pushed to the pistons of the engine, it causes the crankshaft to rotate.

4. The Cooling System

Because of the large amount of pressure and fuel reactions, gasoline small engines produce a large amount of heat. To keep them running efficiently, a cooling system must be in place. These engines are usually cooled using metal fins that push cool air across the system. Bearings are also used to bring down the amount of friction on the engine, thus reducing the amount of heat generated when it is running. Additionally, regular maintenance that includes oiling and cleaning filters will keep the engine heat down and the machine’s efficiency up.

There is a lot more that can be learned about the inner workings of a gasoline-powered small engine. However, the basic mechanics of these machines can be broken down to some basic fundamentals in vehicle engine construction. What everyone should remember about small engines is this: Take the time to understand the basic workings of your lawn mower, golf cart, motorcycle, snow mobile or other small engine vehicle so that you can better maintain and prevent breakdowns in the future.

- Ben Anton, 2008