Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): smoking lawnmower, weed trimmer, puff of smoke


Question
Mr Jones, i have a craftsman 6.5 Briggs engine self propelled lawnmower.when 1st started it sends a puff of smoke out of the muffler.after that it runs fine, no smoke whats going on.also would you recommend a top of the line commercial weed trimmer

Answer
Maruyama and Robin are the best weedeaters there are.  I say that not only because I sell Maruyama, but because I used them for many years commercially and know many people who still do and they are simply the best.  I would buy a Maruyama because they also have a five year commercial use warranty that is very comprehensive.

As for the smoking mower, I imagine you have a little oil seeping past the rings or a valve while the engine sits.  This in and of itself isn't really a problem but it may be telling you that wear is becoming an issue.  If it reaches the point where it's fouling the plug or smoking constantly, I would be concerned.  As for now, regular oil changes, regular air filter replacement, not cleaning, replacement, and taking care not to overheat the engine would be the course to take.  Thanks, PK.