Feature photo: Diane Barr and David Seabrooke with a riding lawnmower in the showroom at Bill's Repair Sales and Service, located in Rideau Lakes Township.

Bill's Repair Sales & Service Known as Hub of Expertise

Dave Seabrooke is famous for being a small engine guru.

The owner of Bill's Repair Sales and Service with partner Diane Barr on County Road 29 is known throughout Eastern Ontario and far beyond for his ability to diagnose and repair engines and equipment with exceptional accuracy.

"People do call me from all over the country," admits Dave, though he downplays the attention by saying it's more about longevity because he's been involved in the family business since he was a child.

"Everybody says he knows his stuff," says Diane. "He can tell what's wrong with an engine just by listening to it."

Dave's friendly personality is also well known, Diane says. People would congregate given the chance if there were chairs in the shop, she says. "I've called us the new Corner Gas."

Bill's Repair Sales and Service sells small engine parts, lawn, garden and forestry equipment with brands including Toro, Simplicity, Echo, Greenworks and Ferris. In 2021, Dave won the Briggs & Stratton Top Canadian Regional Dealer award for Eastern Ontario.

Dave's late father, Bill, started the business in 1968. It has been in continuous operation ever since - 54 years - with original and third-generation family customers coming through their doors.

"I've bought many things here over the years and it's always been the best service around - no question at all," says long-time customer Butch Dignard.

Dave shows an enthusiasm for all of his products, including the Greenworks battery-powered line. The zero-turn lawnmowers can cut two acres with one charge. The charger can be used in various Greenworks products.

His rule is if he doesn't like a product, he doesn't sell it. "Customer service is key. I enjoy my customers and I want them to be satisfied with the products I sell."

The shop does warranty work on products that are sold there. They do sharpening and welding work and everything from chainsaws to lawnmower blades and custom fabrication of chainsaw blades. You can find new and used parts for a large number of brands.

New and old customers should mark May 4th in their calendars for the annual big spring sale at Bill's Repair.