Hello there! If you've got a woodchipper like the All-Power or Gentron, it's super important to take good care of it. One of the essential things you need to do is change the oil regularly. Don't worry; it's not as complicated as it sounds, and I'll explain why it's essential and how to do it in simple terms. 

First off, choosing the right oil is crucial. It's like picking the right fuel for your car; it helps your woodchipper work better and last longer. Just follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the kind of oil to use; Typical climates will use 10W-30 engine oil.  The right oil reduces friction and protects the engine parts, which means it will work like a charm for years to come. 

Now, let's talk about starting your woodchipper. Starting it the right way is super important to avoid problems. The video we have will guide you through the steps you need to follow. Whether it's a cold start or restarting after a quick break (engine warm), you'll learn how to do it like a pro. Oh, and here's a pro tip: always remember to turn the fuel switch off when you're done using the woodchipper. Forgetting to do this can cause damage to some parts that aren't covered by the warranty, and that's something we want to avoid. 

Taking care of your woodchipper is more than just changing the oil and starting it correctly. There are other simple things you can do to keep it in top shape.   The engine needs to be run every so often to prevent fuel problems, try to run it once a month to exercise it, and keep the fuel fresh.  If storing it longer than a month, add a fuel stabilizer.  For sure the engine needs to run once every 3 months, or it should be considered long term storage and prepped accordingly.

So, to sum it up, changing the oil and following the right starting steps are crucial for your woodchipper's health. Don't worry; the video on our website will make it super easy for you to understand and do it yourself. By doing these simple things, you'll keep your woodchipper running smoothly, and it'll be your reliable partner for all your outdoor projects. Happy wood chipping! 

 Special Thanks - Thank you Sam Brooks of Norkdorf Entertainment for providing this useful video for the woodchipper community.

Step by Step Instructions - Take a Deeper Look

Maintaining your small engine is essential for its longevity and top-notch performance. One crucial aspect of maintenance is changing the oil regularly. If you're new to this, don't worry! In this beginner's guide, we'll walk you through the straightforward steps of changing the oil in your small engine, helping you keep your equipment in tip-top shape!

Step 1 — Gather Your Tools and Materials

• Before you start, make sure you have everything you need: 
• Fresh engine oil (typical climate uses 10W-30).
• An oil container to catch the old oil.
• A wrench or socket wrench to remove a bolt.
• A funnel for easy pouring.
• Some rags or paper towels

Step 2 — Safety First
Safety is always a priority! Remember to take these precautions:

Let the engine cool down completely.
Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starts.
Work on a level surface to ensure proper draining.
Wear gloves and eye protection to avoid spills and debris. 

Step 3 — Locate the Drain Plug 

Find your engine's drain plug and oil filter. Usually, the drain plug is on the bottom.  The engine may have two drain plugs in order to be used for different applications.  Use the drain plug that is easiest to get to.

Step 4 — Draining the Old Oil
Place the container under the drain plug. Use your wrench to loosen and remove the plug. Let the old oil flow out. Be careful—it might still be warm. Once it's done draining, clean the plug and put it back securely.

Step 5 — Oil Filter
There is no oil filter on this type of engine.  Since small engines do not require an oil filter, the regular oil change is even more important to follow a routine schedule.

Step 6 — Adding Fresh Oil
The manual should state the oil capacity, typically 1.16 quarts of oil.  If the engine has an oil level check, fill it to the max line.  If there is no oil level check, fill it all the way up to the bottom level of the threads.

Step 7 — Clean Up and Dispose of the Old Oil Properly
Wipe up any spills and store the old oil in a sealed container. Never pour it down the drain! Take it to a recycling center or an auto shop that accepts used oil for recycling.

Conclusion
Changing the oil in your small engine is a breeze once you know the steps. Regular oil changes will keep your engine happy and running smoothly, just like staying hydrated keeps you healthy. With this beginner's guide, you're well on your way to becoming an expert at small engine maintenance. Happy tinkering!

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