What are the symptoms of faulty valves in a four-stroke engine?

Faulty valves in a four-stroke engine can cause a range of engine performance issues, which are well encapsulated in the choice chosen. Hard starting can occur due to the improper sealing of the valves, which affects the engine's ability to maintain the necessary compression during the intake and compression strokes. Loss of power is a direct consequence of inadequate airflow and combustion, as the engine cannot operate efficiently without proper valve function. Low compression is a critical indicator that the valves are not sealing correctly, which can lead to insufficient engine performance. High fuel consumption is also a significant symptom, as improper combustion efficiency causes the engine to require more fuel to attempt to generate the same power output.

These symptoms are key indicators that the engine is not operating as designed, ultimately leading to a reduction in overall efficiency and performance. Understanding these aspects ensures that small engine technicians can effectively diagnose issues related to valve problems, leading to more effective repairs and maintenance strategies.