• Maximize the performance of motorcycles, ATVs, boats, snowmobiles and other small vehicles

• Troubleshoot, repair and overhaul 2-cycle and 4-cycle gas engines, diesel engines and powertrain systems

• Use the same advanced diagnostic tools and specialized equipment found in professional facilities

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All-terrain vehicles, jet skis and chainsaws — they serve different purposes but share a key characteristic: small engines! In our Small Engines/Recreational Vehicle Repair program, students learn how small engine technicians keep the vehicles Americans use on the job and at play in top form. They master the following skills while working with everything from Briggs & Stratton-powered push mowers to Harley Davidson motorcycles:

• Servicing and repairing two-cycle and four-cycle gas engines; overhauling four-cycle engines
• Servicing and repairing starting systems, plus ignition and charging systems
• Servicing and repairing electronic, mechanical and GDiesel® fuel systems, as well as governors
• Servicing and repairing braking systems, clutches and equipment drives
• Servicing and repairing liquid cooling, lubrication and exhaust systems

Instruction begins with fundamentals like shop safety and proper tool use before moving to advanced activities like troubleshooting an electrical starting system and engine overhauls. Students hone their skills with hands-on training in a program lab outfitted with nine hydraulic vehicle lifts, a chassis dynamometer and other industry-standard equipment.

Supervised by their instructor, students gain real-world experience as they service outdoor power equipment for LCTI’s Applied Horticulture and Indoor/Outdoor Maintenance programs, as well as school staffers. Upperclassmen are encouraged to secure internships or co-op positions at local shops and dealerships.

Our Small Engines/Recreational Vehicle Repair program is accredited by the following organization:

EETC (Equipment & Engine Training Council)

Industry Credentials

Small Engines students can earn the following certifications and credentials in high school:

• Certified Emissions Inspector and Certified Safety Inspector via PennDOT
• Apprentice, Technician & Certified Technician via Honda Engines
• Various certifications via Briggs & Stratton, ECHO and STIHL

College Credits

A statewide articulation agreement known as SOAR allows students to earn college credit for their work in the Small Engines/Recreational Vehicle Repair program.

• This program also has an articulation agreement with the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute.

Career Paths

with credentials:

• Motorboat Technician
• Motorcycle Technician
• Power Equipment Technician

with credentials and experience:

• Manufacturers’ Representative
• Motorcycle Shop Owner
• Service/Parts Manager

with postsecondary training or college degree:

• Aircraft Technician
• Mechanical Engineering Technician
• Mechanical Engineer