MR B'S SMALL ENGINE REPAIR INC

I took my pressure washer to Mr. B's because the engine would start but would immediately die. I figured there was a fuel delivery problem. Prior to taking to Mr. B's, I changed the spark plug to see if this might be the problem, but the engine would not continue to run after the new plug install. I dropped off the pressure washer on a Monday and it was ready by late in the week. The diagnosis cost me $25 (was later applied to the cost of the repairs). I thought I would receive a call after Mr. B's found out what the problem would be and provide me with an estimate to repair, rather I received a phone call that the washer was fixed and ready. When I asked what was wrong with it, because of the response on the phone, I felt like I was bothering the caller to tell me what I was paying for. Although I was going to get the motor fixed anyway, I would have preferred to be given an estimate and diagnosis prior to repair, especially since I was charged for another spark plug to replace a perfectly new and usable plug. Mr. B's was more expensive than I expected, but hey, it's Northern Virginia. The pressure runs like new again. Mr. B's helped me unload and load the pressure washer in my truck. The staff was cordial.

Mr. B's is a very reliable repair shop so they are often crowded and have a backlog so they were not able to get to my mower for seven business days. However, they informed me of the delay when I dropped it off and asked if that was going to be a problem. They called as soon as they diagnosed the problem (eighth business day) and told me their schedule for repairing the problem. It was a broken blade balancer which was not in stock, nor in the warehouse so they called to inform me of the facts. Then they continued to research the solution and gave me updates every 3-4 days. They estimated the date for the parts coming in from the manufacturer, which were on back order, and then called when the repairs were complete (two days earlier than the estimate).

The carburetor charge was $49.00 (I saw one on the Internet for $20.00 but I don't know what the cost of shipping was). The air filter was $5.99 (reasonable). The labor cost was $45.00 (I really don't know the going rate). A couple of things of note: I was told that if the cost was $100.00 or more, I would be consulted before the work was done (the cost turned out to be $99.99). I found this to be a bit of a coincidence. When I dropped off the mower I was advised that there was a 7-10 day delay in return service. I waited 10 days to call. At that time, I was advised that the mower was ready (I don't know what day it was finally ready) and that they were so busy that they didn't get a chance to call. This is the only small engine repair shop in my area so I am stuck with them.

Mr. B gave us an estimate and then performed the work (with our authorization) well within the price range he gave us. He was courteous, professional and dependable. We would recommend him any time.

As usual, the repair was flawless.