They may also occasionally work on portable generators and go-carts. In addition, small-engine mechanics in northern parts of the country may work on snowblowers and snowmobiles, but demand for this type of repair is seasonal. However, boat mechanics may work outdoors at docks or marinas, and in all weather conditions, when making repairs aboard boats. They may work in cramped, or awkward positions to reach a boat's engine. During the winter months in the northern United States, mechanics may work fewer than 40 hours a week because the amount of repair and service work declines when lawnmowers, boats and motorcycles are not in use.
Many mechanics only work during the busy spring and summer seasons.
However, many mechanics schedule time-consuming engine overhauls and work on snowmobiles and snowblowers during winter downtime. Mechanics may work considerably more than 40 hours a week when demand is strong. Top Motorcycle, boat, and small-engine mechanics held about 52,000 jobs in 1998. About 14,000 were motorcycle mechanics, while the remainder specialized in the repair of boats or outdoor power equipment. Most of the remainder were employed by independent repair shops, marinas and boat yards, equipment rental companies, wholesale distributors, and landscaping services.