1. K-State home
  2. »4-H Youth Development
  3. »Projects
  4. »STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math)
  5. »small-engines

4-H Youth Development

Character Grows Here Curiosity Grows Here Friendship Grows Here Leadership Grows Here Responsibility Grows Here

Small Engines

In this project youth will have hands-on experiences that will help them understand how small engines work and how to keep them working. The 4-H Small Engine project creates the education and hands-on opportunity for youth to learn all about engines. In this project youth will identify and discover the function of different engine parts, learn compression ratios, safety issues, and lastly tear down and rebuild an engine all while learning the valuable life skills.  


Things to Learn/Do in the Project

Level 1

  • Learn major parts of engines
  • Importance of clean air to an efficient running engine
  • How to service a small engine and replace a spark plug

Level 2

  • Learn safe ways to operate an engine
  • Learn engine cycles
  • Identify useful tools and internal parts of an engine
  • Learn different engine types and sizes

Level 3

  • Learn to trouble shoot and repair and rebuild an engine
  • Use the internet to find resources, rules and regulations for small engines
  • Start your own business or career

Project Materials

Reasonably priced materials are available for every project in Kansas 4-H. You can order the materials for your project online or contact your local Extension Office. 

Small Engines (SE 100)

Additional Small Engines Resources

State Fair Small Engines Information