How To SHARPEN And BALANCE A Lawn Mower Blade (The Correct Way)

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  • Опубликовано: 28 май 2024
  • How to sharpen and balance a lawnmower blade the correct way. Easy and thorough DIY steps to sharpen a lawn mower blade and balance it as well to give your grass that nice clean cut.
    Buy a proper blade balancer here ➜ amzn.to/2BmvxUO
    👍Please click the like button and tell me what you think of this video in the comments section below.
    For more videos like this, check out:
    How To Install A Lawn Mower Blade Properly ➜ • How To INSTALL A Lawn ...
    Proper Way To Tip A Lawn Mower Over ➜ • Proper Way To Tip A La...
    How To Adjust the RPM Speed on a Lawn Mower ➜ • How To Adjust the RPM ...
    How To Fix A Surging Engine On A Lawn Mower ➜ • How To FIX A SURGING E...
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Комментарии • 2,2 тыс.

  • @StevesSmallEngineSaloon
    @StevesSmallEngineSaloon  4 года назад +58

    Buy a proper blade balancer here ➜ amzn.to/2BmvxUO
    Check out these other informative videos:
    How To Install A Lawn Mower Blade Properly ➜ ruclips.net/video/jsbTtEG078k/видео.html
    Proper Way To Tip A Lawn Mower Over ➜ ruclips.net/video/eeEVigsVqrE/видео.html
    How To Adjust the RPM Speed on a Lawn Mower ➜ ruclips.net/video/7YrA3QEIFnE/видео.html
    How To Fix A Surging Engine On A Lawn Mower ➜ ruclips.net/video/JOI293d8XUg/видео.html
    Make sure to check out the Saloon here too…
    Click here for my website ➜ www.stevessmallenginesaloon.com/
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    • @johnmonroney8614
      @johnmonroney8614 3 года назад +3

      I use vice grips to hold blade on my trailer ramp in the upright position or Up for travel loaded and closed.
      Blade is torso height.
      And i use angle grinder. But there also is an optimal angle for the blade is 30°

    • @terryiommi311
      @terryiommi311 3 года назад +1

      @@johnmonroney8614 aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!

    • @superbillybunter
      @superbillybunter 3 года назад +2

      like your vid cheers from down under aus.

    • @richardbartolo2890
      @richardbartolo2890 2 года назад

      Steve: I bought a a used lawn mower it runs good, But it seems to cut the grass much better when the mower is pulled back wards over the lawn. I brought it into a repair shop they did a full maintenance on it, Plus a new blade and set the blade up to cut the lawn pretty low like I asked them. It runs great and cuts a little better, But it still cuts better when its pulled backwards over the lawn. What's up with that ?

    • @GeorgiaRidgerunner
      @GeorgiaRidgerunner 2 года назад +1

      Did i detect a bit of animosity torwards another
      Lawnmower youtuber
      Taryll fixes all possibly ?
      I dont watch that guy
      I cant stand the long running joke on his channel
      You know those rubber bubba teeth he always wears
      Its an insult to us southerners
      The stereotype is southerners all have rotten teeth it isnt anywhere near true

  • @jhirn2957
    @jhirn2957 2 года назад +47

    I’ve been sharpening with the wrong beer all this time.

    • @jerkyturkey007
      @jerkyturkey007 16 дней назад

      I always thought the proper beer was Molson Canadian, live and learn.

    • @mattwaters6987
      @mattwaters6987 12 дней назад

      How dare you! 😂

  • @PaulMFDouglas
    @PaulMFDouglas 3 года назад +419

    I always hit something right after sharpening the blade, never fails.

    • @medicduckster
      @medicduckster 3 года назад +12

      Never fails 🤣

    • @dr.detroit1514
      @dr.detroit1514 3 года назад +10

      Same luck I have with with new tires. Always right after, I get a flat or a tire gets ripped up somehow.

    • @g.d.7629
      @g.d.7629 3 года назад +9

      Join the crowd!!!!

    • @damienmikkelsen6056
      @damienmikkelsen6056 3 года назад +20

      Spend an hour making it perfect first 5 feet never fails to find a rock

    • @tjr8063
      @tjr8063 3 года назад +7

      I feel ya brother

  • @DaddyBeanDaddyBean
    @DaddyBeanDaddyBean 2 года назад +38

    If there are any nicks and edges curled down, you can grind the bottom side flat. You're not sharpening it yet, just repairing the bottom so you have a flat surface to grind to. Then go at the bevel side until you get a nice sharp edge. You'll get there a lot faster than grinding only from the bevel side.

  • @SB-bs7uv
    @SB-bs7uv 2 года назад +27

    Well the other day you taught me how to change my engine oil and how to filp my mower properly so it doesnt get water logged. Today its sharpening and balancing my blade. Thanks RUclips dad

  • @AlexanderTheGrateful
    @AlexanderTheGrateful 2 года назад +6

    I got tired of grinding the blades to balance them. now I just drill a small hole on one side, sometimes I don't have to drill all the way through! much easier, I've got it down to an art, been doing it for years and seems to be the best alternative to just grinding off more material

  • @kargo27
    @kargo27 2 года назад +22

    Good video, Steve. The nail trick actually does work and the reason why that balanced blade wasn't moving wherever you put is because it IS balanced. If you put an unbalanced blade in there the heavier end will most definitely drop down. All that to say, I still use the plastic conical balancer that you use because you get a front to back and side to side view of where to balance it.

    • @tonyjr6841
      @tonyjr6841 Год назад +9

      Been using the nail for 40 years. Don't fix it if it ain't broke.

  • @pamandjohnmc
    @pamandjohnmc 2 года назад +8

    I've always used a hand file to sharpen my blades. It takes a little longer, but it's easier for me to keep the sharpened edge straight.

    • @agtjamesb007
      @agtjamesb007 Год назад +5

      Same here. No risk of overheating it and making it brittle, and less likely to remove too much material and un balance it. Unless there are deep ruts chips and gouges, I always do it by hand.

  • @petepeabody8905
    @petepeabody8905 Год назад +10

    Thank you. I've been sharpening my mower blades wrong all these years and never knew it. This will now insure that the grass is being cut properly and that my blades are balanced too. Great job

  • @Wyogoose
    @Wyogoose 4 года назад +88

    If I may, I would suggest a 40 or 60 grit flap wheel rather than the hard abrasive rock wheel. The cut is much smoother and cooler. If the steel turns blue, any temper has been removed. Thank you for sharing all that you do..

    • @mikekopisz1227
      @mikekopisz1227 2 года назад +7

      Yup...cooler the blade is kept while sharpening, the longer the edge will last

    • @theobserver9131
      @theobserver9131 2 года назад +1

      I have not had much luck using flap wheels on steel, they get worn out in one or two minutes. Maybe I need to buy a better brand.

    • @mikekopisz1227
      @mikekopisz1227 2 года назад +5

      @@theobserver9131 use 3M flappers...they last forever

    • @theobserver9131
      @theobserver9131 2 года назад +4

      @@mikekopisz1227 Cool! thanks.
      3M used to be in my home town, Northfield MN!

    • @TheIronDuke9
      @TheIronDuke9 2 года назад +5

      @@theobserver9131 Also keep in mind flap wheels come in grit sizes like sandpaper, if you're using a fine grit on rough steel it's going to wear super fast compared to a course grit disc

  • @insertgoodname4809
    @insertgoodname4809 2 года назад +5

    The socket extension trick is *absolutely invaluable!* Best video on youtube!!!

  • @mackmay5442
    @mackmay5442 13 дней назад +2

    Great video, I learned a lot about sharpening blades that I did not know, including which beer is best for sharpening blades.

  • @josephbuzzetta-re7mv
    @josephbuzzetta-re7mv Год назад +2

    Outstanding! Steve your tips and instructions are the best on RUclips!

  • @nathanielpeace2343
    @nathanielpeace2343 4 года назад +59

    Hey Steve, I too have been using an angle grinder for years to sharpen my blades. I have had much better luck using a 60 grit flap disc than a traditional abrasive wheel. The flexibility allows you to better conform to the factory angle, and it seems to run cooler. If you give it a try, I think you'll never go back. Also, if someone doesn't have a bench vise, as safer alternative may be to use a large "C" clamp to hold the blade on a secure square post or benchtop, etc. I have used this method several times when no vise was available.

    • @bmead144
      @bmead144 4 года назад

      Excellent 👍

    • @jafinch78
      @jafinch78 3 года назад

      I've been using the 36 grit flap discs. I like the fancy little balancing tool. That looks like a wise investment.

    • @robertpeterson2825
      @robertpeterson2825 3 года назад +2

      +1 on using a flap disc. I prefer these for all grinding tasks vs a standard solid abrasive disc. As Peace suggests, once you try a flap disc you will never go back. Available in bulk from ebay sellers.

  • @ep7672
    @ep7672 3 года назад +3

    I love that you actually produced examples of the wrong way to sharpen a blade. You are a very thoughtful and generous creator. Seriously, thank you!

  • @TheDutchman79
    @TheDutchman79 2 года назад +1

    That’s was a amazing and very clear video how to sharpen those blades

  • @sgtkabukiman9411
    @sgtkabukiman9411 Год назад +2

    Also gotta watch those blades with the star pattern hole as they accurately self center evenly. Balancers are really made for blades with round holes.

  • @owa2533
    @owa2533 Месяц назад +3

    Very informative, not boring at all. Thank you.

  • @kenharris6316
    @kenharris6316 Год назад +3

    I used a bench grinder this time. I had the disc off my angle grinder for some reason. It was harder to get the angle right. After a couple of tries, I got it close, and sharpened 2 blades on my riding mower and one on my push mower. What a difference! I replaced the blade on my push mower a couple of years ago after I hit a stump or something and had one if those "rotary tiller" blades like you showed on the video. I have had the riding mower for a couple of years and hadn't sharpened it. Now hen I hit thick grass with either one, it slows the engine down very little.

  • @mikeadler434
    @mikeadler434 4 года назад +1

    I like the idea of balancing the blade with an extension.

  • @timbylander7015
    @timbylander7015 3 года назад +6

    This is THE ONLY small engine’s RUclips Chanel you will ever need.

  • @Raggzzaug11
    @Raggzzaug11 3 года назад +13

    I use a C-clamp outside on a heavy table and a angle grinder flipping it over for each side and take off rolled metal from the grinder with a file after checking the balance.

  • @larrynelson5292
    @larrynelson5292 23 дня назад +1

    Thanks. It was clear and thorough.

  • @yxcvmk
    @yxcvmk 7 дней назад +1

    11:00 excellent help for those home pros who don't need a specific too for just that one job. In your shop, I totally see the need for the balancer. In this case it's not really about saving the 5 bucks it cost, but more the need to avoid having too much stuff lying around 🙂

  • @frankromano5445
    @frankromano5445 3 года назад +3

    I have to say, I have watched a lot of videos by guys and none compare to Steve. He has not once sent me down the wrong road, and always gives complete directions. Including what not to do and why you shouldn't do it. Everyone should like and subscribe to his channel.
    Thanks Steve.

  • @andrewchurchley6779
    @andrewchurchley6779 3 года назад +10

    My old balancing method involved scribing a centre line on the blade and placing it on a knife held in the vise jaws. But since I bought a balancer like yours, I've never looked back. So much more convenient. Thanks Steve. You achieve a great atmosphere on your channel.

    • @davismize
      @davismize Год назад

      Nicely done with the extension!!

  • @charlescoker7752
    @charlescoker7752 Месяц назад +1

    When I mowed lawns for a living. I would weld hard surface on to the cutting edge, and where it would wear from sandy soil. Blades lasted longer, and stay sharper longer.

  • @richardball9116
    @richardball9116 3 года назад +2

    after watching your video and a couple other ones (not as professional as your video) I got myself a Kokanee and took the front wheel off my wife's bike. I filed a 3/8" lock washer to fit in the 5/8 hole in the blade. I then got another Kokanee and put the blade with the spacer in the hole on the bike wheel axle & wala !! It worked . The heavy side went down. I love watching your stuff. I worked in a saw shop in high school and do all my own maintenance.

  • @rickrobeAK
    @rickrobeAK 5 лет назад +35

    You're a great teacher, dude. Love these videos.

  • @BlaubartMT
    @BlaubartMT 5 лет назад +119

    After watching your video, I realize now what I've been doing wrong when sharpening my blades. My tool of choice has always been hard apple cider. I'll have to try the Heineken to see if that works better.

    • @StevesSmallEngineSaloon
      @StevesSmallEngineSaloon  5 лет назад +8

      Right on Buddy...

    • @lesaboo4740
      @lesaboo4740 5 лет назад +3

      LMAO

    • @bobbyhempel1513
      @bobbyhempel1513 5 лет назад +8

      Heineken will no longer get any of my money they are anti straight as in they're the sjw types that think that if you're not homosexual or transexual you are a bigot

    • @MrTheHillfolk
      @MrTheHillfolk 4 года назад +6

      @therealnightwriter
      Yea omg all the inported beers here are skunk piss.
      When i was in germany everything rocked.
      One guy said try a budwieser and im like i didnt fly 8hrs to have a bud.....it was excellent, not the swill here.
      All the imported stuff here in the states is trash.

    • @paulg444
      @paulg444 4 года назад +3

      dont feel bad, its a rookie mistake we all have made.

  • @mgtfbluestreak3956
    @mgtfbluestreak3956 2 года назад +1

    Never knew you could buy a blade balancer...cheers another great vid

  • @natep1661
    @natep1661 Месяц назад +2

    I just bought a blade sharpener made by all american blade and its epic. I also puchased the blade balancer like you have. The jig allows me to get perfect angle with control.

  • @jmi7562
    @jmi7562 3 года назад +4

    This is such a great video! I'd sharpened my blades before but never balanced them (I thought I did, but followed a method debunked in the video). I purchased a blade balancer for $11, sharpened the three blades on my mower deck, and afterwards it purred with hardly any vibration at all. Total time required was just over an hour, including wresting the deck on and off the tractor. I had progressively let the blades get out of balance and never picked up on the increased vibration. Tomorrow I'll properly balance my spare set of blades. Thank you, Steve, for another terrific lesson.

  • @craigerickson1910
    @craigerickson1910 2 года назад +9

    Been sharpening my blades for 55 years. Xlnt video, very clear and to the point. Agree with everything you say except I wouldn't recommend holding your blade while you sharpen w/ angle grinder. Spend a few bucks and buy a clamp to hold the blade to your workbench so you can guide the angle grinder more accurately with both hands. i like the angle it's at for easier sharpening than vertically in a bench vise. Safer and easier to control to get correct angle. You don't mention this but most new blades I've checked have a blade angle of about 22º. Stick with that, they know what they're doing at the blade factory. Nice job comparing the sharpened blade underside with the dull unsharpened one. Night and day. Keep up the good work and have another beer.

  • @tsdelaney
    @tsdelaney Год назад +1

    Brilliant! I was going to drop my blades off at John Deere... forget that, I'll do the mini grinder job myself. Thanks again!

  • @laurakilmer8652
    @laurakilmer8652 2 года назад +1

    Ok Now I know you are the smartest guy on the internet. damn.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! thanksk Charley

  • @steveolsted6378
    @steveolsted6378 2 года назад +3

    I used to use an angle grinder. It has issues, like hot spots, trying to make a flat surface with a curved wheel etc. I since found a much better power tool to do the job. It's faster, Sharpens better and you can still be drinking the beer. Try using a belt sander. Depending on how dull the blade is I use a different grade of sand paper. Works really, really good.

  • @akquicksilver
    @akquicksilver 5 лет назад +42

    I use a flapper disc, it works great, moves metal quickly, but is more forgiving than a disc. Great video.

    • @StevesSmallEngineSaloon
      @StevesSmallEngineSaloon  5 лет назад +6

      Right on...

    • @heavymechanic2
      @heavymechanic2 5 лет назад +14

      I started using a #80 flap disc this year and it generates less heat than the fiber and does a great job to dress the edge.

  • @renostubbs8504
    @renostubbs8504 Год назад +1

    A million thank you Steve,will attempt this ,GOD BLESS

  • @ghopkins25
    @ghopkins25 2 года назад +1

    Great to have a link for the balancer. Better than any RUclips commercial. Get the right tool for the job. Thank you.

  • @paulwharton1850
    @paulwharton1850 5 лет назад +11

    The balancing tip with a 6 inch extension socket and how much off centre the blade is......is pure genius.
    Many thanks......all the way from London !

  • @bladder1010
    @bladder1010 3 года назад +16

    I've got a good quality mill file, and that does a good job for me. Less mess, noise, etc.

    • @michaeltaylors2456
      @michaeltaylors2456 2 года назад +3

      Good ole flat bastard…. file is an unappreciated tool

    • @raystanczak4277
      @raystanczak4277 2 года назад +1

      I always sharpen with files and stones. I’d just remove dirt with a couple of light passes with a grinder so I’m filing clean metal.
      A grinder works fine, but you have to be careful not to overdo it, and don’t let the blade get hot.

    • @bladder1010
      @bladder1010 2 года назад

      @@michaeltaylors2456 File is the most satisfying to use. Creates a very spicy edge.

  • @Pharmgdb
    @Pharmgdb 2 года назад +1

    Thank you for the advice on balancing.

  • @Warf459
    @Warf459 2 года назад +1

    Thanks Bro, It's like RUclips know what my plans were for tomorrow. Yep. Gonna sharpen my blade tomorrow. I didn't know the blade needed to be balanced.

    • @StevesSmallEngineSaloon
      @StevesSmallEngineSaloon  2 года назад +1

      Good luck!

    • @Goodellsam
      @Goodellsam Год назад

      I never see other people talk about how important it is to balance the blade.
      It's just common sense. If it is not balanced, it is going to vibrate more. Vibration wears out everything. It also shakes screws and bolts out.
      I can't tell you how many guys look at me like I am crazy, when I tell them that.
      Another thing is chopping up limbs and branches, instead of picking them up. It just cost you in the long run.

  • @rico1319
    @rico1319 5 лет назад +40

    I thought you were going to balance that blade on the Heineken bottle! LOL! Thanks 👍👍👍😎🇨🇱

  • @royolstad8532
    @royolstad8532 4 года назад +3

    Those of us teetering on the edge of non-mechanical-ness (!?) really appreciate the critical insights you have for us. I would never have know, for example, that you can only sharpen a lawnmower blade if you're drinking Heinekin beer. That's the kind of hard-won knowledge that ONLY comes with years of experience. Again, thanks!

  • @no_handle_required
    @no_handle_required Год назад +2

    The drinking canadian has saved me so much money and taught me so many ways to fix my stuff. 👍🏻

  • @GirlGangsta33
    @GirlGangsta33 Год назад +1

    I just knew I was missing something.
    Heineken !!!!
    Thanks so very much for the key.

  • @kimberlymazzitelli8644
    @kimberlymazzitelli8644 3 года назад +3

    Steve is a single g irl s friend! Thanks Steve, dad never showed me how to change blades on my mower or air filters need to be cleaned an don't get me started on spark p lugs an carb's, I knew what they are but I'm supposed to do something with them? Your videos are easy to follow, understand an I can even get behind you on the idea that small engine repair builds a thirst that only a cold brew can quench ;)

  • @davelewis2335
    @davelewis2335 4 месяца назад +2

    "Get yourself some Heineken, that's the only beer you can use" insta sub

  • @IamUncledeuce
    @IamUncledeuce 4 года назад +5

    Steve, once again you saved me a whole lot the trouble and expense. Thank you kindly, now I have the sharpest blades in the neighborhood! It's Miller time. I hoist a brew in your honor.

  • @ernestscarrizales288
    @ernestscarrizales288 Год назад +1

    another great one! Have a beer!! Thank You..

  • @davidrussell8689
    @davidrussell8689 11 месяцев назад +1

    Spot on with the beer😂

    • @davidrussell8689
      @davidrussell8689 11 месяцев назад

      Good information with good humor , always appreciated !

  • @paulworkman5755
    @paulworkman5755 3 года назад +24

    Great tip on balancing (using the extension method. But, regardless of how one does it, ya might mention being sure there is no buildup of grass "smear" on the blade. I use a wire brush to quickly knock off any buildup there might be.

    • @MeltingRubberZ28
      @MeltingRubberZ28 Год назад +2

      Good idea. Easily could throw the balance off. Thanks for the tip!

  • @mikeymike758
    @mikeymike758 2 года назад +5

    Great video on sharpening the blade. But one important thing that you forgot/failed to mention when checking the blade balance with a cone balance or socket extension, is to make sure your bench or table is level. The eye will foul you with an out of level bench or table. Cheers,

  • @sawdustadikt979
    @sawdustadikt979 2 года назад +2

    I unfortunately killed my mower with the nail balancing method. The big shame is that it was a 40 year old GIANT MOW. I loved that old small manufacturer mower. One of the shafts came lose and I brought it to shop, they said it wasn’t worth fixing, I said I want it fixed and the cost is the cost. They then refused to fix it. That happened with a total of four shops. Let’s just say I really like old, one off equipment. I’m a self employed carpenter and I don’t care how weird or custom someone wants something, if their willing to pay, I will build it. So it was really frustrating to have that many businesses that were not up for making money. Anyhoo, just got me an old scag, got one of these balancers and came to my favorite RUclips channel for these types of things! Thank you Steve!

  • @georgemyers6518
    @georgemyers6518 4 года назад +1

    Great video.
    I never saw the socket extension trick for balancing before.
    Please keep the videos coming

  • @pauljs75
    @pauljs75 5 лет назад +22

    This can also be done with a straight file, if you've got something to clamp the blade to a table with. It works surprisingly fast, provided the whole cutting edge isn't dinged to the point of having to re-grind the whole angle into it. If that works as well as it does, then power rotary tools may need a light touch in comparison or you're just wasting the metal on the blade.

    • @PS-rr2jt
      @PS-rr2jt Год назад +3

      I’ve always used a file and try to touch it up every few cuttings. It only takes a few minutes.

    • @fourcubed47
      @fourcubed47 Год назад +5

      @@PS-rr2jt Agree, two to three times a year touch it up, takes minutes. I count the same number of strokes on each side and it stays balances.

    • @gulfstream7235
      @gulfstream7235 Год назад

      Takes all of 5 minutes to do a blade manually with a hand file, much better results truth be told...

    • @devinbraun1852
      @devinbraun1852 Год назад

      I agree. Unless you have a blade that has been neglected or damaged in strikes, you can hand sharpen a mower blade with a file in just a few minutes, often as fast as a grinder, with much better results. . Since you are not hogging of a bunch of material with a grinder, there is rarely the need to balance. I can imagine people who are not experienced hand sharpening maybe being intimidated and thinking it’s easier to just put it to a grinder, but once you are proficient, it’s the best method in my opinion.

  • @jeffmays3608
    @jeffmays3608 5 лет назад +40

    Just got my garden tilled using the bent mower blade system n saved a lot of money I was going to put towards an actual tiller. Thanks Steve.

    • @kramnull8962
      @kramnull8962 4 года назад +2

      You must be like me, I need to make a video of the proper bending procedures... My lawn is unlandscaped, so you remember the old Gillette commercials "Gotcha"... I get surprised every now and again... Or the good ole GROWING STUMP after it rains routine, I hate that one.

    • @captainthunderturd8442
      @captainthunderturd8442 4 года назад +4

      I just tell the wife I buried her credit cards out back and turn her loose.

    • @kramnull8962
      @kramnull8962 4 года назад +2

      @@captainthunderturd8442 That's one way to get the garden plowed every spring :)

  • @jakeschisler7525
    @jakeschisler7525 26 дней назад +1

    My mower I hit and had barb wire wrapped around 2 of the blades, well that also did something to the crankshaft just above the PTO. I had a shop fix that and he said if it doesn't work then I would have to have the crankshaft replaced. So so far it's fine. But before that fix as I was mowing the center blade fell off and luckily the bolt was still in the blade, how lucky was that! I have always sharpened my own blades and I have the same balancer and in fact have two of them. The people before us who lived here, when they were done with whatever they were doing left it in the yard and pastures. I'm still picking up junk.

  • @agalarzautube
    @agalarzautube 19 дней назад +1

    Heineken!!, you got my attention. Thank you for this valuable video.

  • @fassay
    @fassay 5 лет назад +12

    I like your balanced approach Steve. Well done as always.

  • @longlowdog
    @longlowdog 5 лет назад +253

    Only one little thing you didn't mention. Clean your blade with a wire brush before you start balancing. Your blade will not be in balance if the crusted grass and flaky paint come off when you restart the mower.

    • @wadsworth120
      @wadsworth120 5 лет назад +6

      Good point

    • @bigjoe2458
      @bigjoe2458 4 года назад +8

      I always do that first before grinding

    • @artsmart07
      @artsmart07 4 года назад +8

      wouldn't that be common sense? haha

    • @artsmart07
      @artsmart07 4 года назад +1

      @@onekittyhawk63 hahahahahaha..

    • @bmead144
      @bmead144 4 года назад +2

      @@artsmart07 common sense is anything but common!😉

  • @duckbuster115
    @duckbuster115 Год назад +1

    Hey love that Tecumseh engine sign on your wall………I had ten members of my family and couple guys down the roan that I grew up on work there some retired from there and unfortunately my dad died of a heart attach just 2 months before they closed down….and the rest just lost their jobs and had to find work else where…..back in the day they were good engines I think…..

  • @slipperyjohnson7016
    @slipperyjohnson7016 4 дня назад +1

    I don't drink, but I've been getting my blade off for years so I'm quite good at it.

  • @douglasmcwhirter9572
    @douglasmcwhirter9572 5 лет назад +14

    I got creative with the last time I sharpened my blade. I welded up the cutting edge with hardfacing wire and then ground the edge back to the original angle. This was almost 3 years ago, and the blades are still sharp. I have found many gopher mounds during that time, and the edge still holds up.

    • @rogeronslow1498
      @rogeronslow1498 5 лет назад +3

      That is the way to do it. I have always wanted to hardface my lawnmower blade as they are so soft and won't hold an edge.

    • @douglasmcwhirter9572
      @douglasmcwhirter9572 5 лет назад +3

      I used .045 diameter stoody 102g hardfacing wire with 75-25 argon co2 mixed shield gas. I think I am able to shave with the blades still.

    • @Dankyjrthethird
      @Dankyjrthethird 3 года назад

      Oh man that’s a good idea i should try that

  • @josephogle2015
    @josephogle2015 5 лет назад +12

    never thought about the 6in extention trik. thanks steve makes perfect sence!

  • @VengeFulHemi
    @VengeFulHemi 11 месяцев назад +1

    Many many thanks for that tip at the end. You are very informative.

  • @brianjohnson217
    @brianjohnson217 2 года назад +1

    Thanks for the blade sharpening video. You didn't mention how much Heineken to drink before you start. Seriously though another great and entertaining video

  • @phil1shea
    @phil1shea 5 лет назад +3

    Clear and complete. Love the driver extension balancing trick!

  • @norcoca
    @norcoca 5 лет назад +70

    Glad to see your channel growing as fast as it has. You’re a great man with great to the point tips and tricks. Love the channel keep up the great work

  • @neoone9820
    @neoone9820 11 месяцев назад +1

    I passed over all the other videos until I found Steve. Someone I've never met. Yet trust with my small engines.

  • @perrydavis309
    @perrydavis309 2 года назад +2

    Kinda surprised me that you don't have a bench grinder. So handy in so many ways.

  • @dukeman7595
    @dukeman7595 4 года назад +4

    I like the ratchet extension for balancing, nice trick.. Thanks for the tip..

  • @alanshaw6161
    @alanshaw6161 2 года назад +12

    Steve, You have one of the best and most useful channels on RUclips. I grew up on a farm and every kind of engine imaginable and I still learn tricks and tip from your videos.
    Keep up the good work and I will keep watching and liking all your videos.
    Also, you were correct Heineken was the only extra tool I needed this time.

  • @jamesragus1577
    @jamesragus1577 28 дней назад +1

    Good tips, well balanced presentation 😊

  • @philipbreau1246
    @philipbreau1246 Год назад +1

    I don't have a balancer, but your extension looks like a great idea. I'm going to try that. Thanks for posting

  • @brianjohnson217
    @brianjohnson217 2 года назад +21

    Hi Steve after watching your blade balancing method I was impressed with the balancing jig that you used .Being a retired engineer I've made one , works a treat . Took two cans of lager to complete the jig. Love watching your small engine videos, very informative and entertaining

    • @StevesSmallEngineSaloon
      @StevesSmallEngineSaloon  2 года назад +1

      Cool, thanks

    • @byronjohnson4268
      @byronjohnson4268 2 года назад

      How did you make it Brian

    • @Joe-hp8kb
      @Joe-hp8kb 2 года назад

      After you drink the lager, how do you make the jig?

    • @mikeymike758
      @mikeymike758 2 года назад

      Just make sure your bench or table is level. Your eyes can play tricks on you if the bench or table is not level.
      Being a retired mechanic/machinist. 😁

    • @brianjohnson217
      @brianjohnson217 2 года назад

      @@mikeymike758 I place it on the lathe bed which know is level in both directions

  • @fredhollinger
    @fredhollinger 5 лет назад +4

    Steve, you're awesome dude. I have an 11 yr. old son that loves watching your handy work. The only problem is when I start tearing apart a motor he tells me I should watch you first before I "mess" up. It's great that you keep it clean for the kiddos. You have my respect.

  • @vvegas9221
    @vvegas9221 2 года назад +1

    bought the balancer. I have 2 toro 22" blades. I couldn't believe how out of balance they were. hooked up my pneumatic angle grinder & got them back into shape. It was a lot better than using a mil file which took forever.

  • @petestrickland2181
    @petestrickland2181 4 года назад +5

    That was awesome. I’ve been doing the nail in the wall thing because I didn’t know the balance tool even existed. Great video!!!

  • @bryantoth5249
    @bryantoth5249 4 года назад +7

    Best thing I've found is a 24 grit sanding belt. Lean into it and you're done in a couple passes.

  • @lennyc624
    @lennyc624 2 года назад +1

    Excellent balance trick. Thanks

  • @stevenkeegan6260
    @stevenkeegan6260 3 года назад +2

    Very helpful. Thanks.

  • @jr4750jr
    @jr4750jr 6 лет назад +39

    I use to use this method for years and it does work very well but recently I started to use my Belt Sander 30 grit and because it's belt is so flat I get a better and smoother result. Placing the blade in a vice and keeping the belt sander flat at the correct angle 30 degrees, I get a very professional result by this procedure.

  • @northidahoguy5549
    @northidahoguy5549 5 лет назад +5

    That’s some really good stuff!!! Going to sharpen up mine tomorrow. Thanks!

  • @generalpublic3744
    @generalpublic3744 2 года назад +1

    I'm learning so much from Steve's videos. I'll skip the beer though! Thanks Steve!

  • @shafferjoe1962
    @shafferjoe1962 10 месяцев назад +1

    Steve another great video. And yes I have done the nail trick, but now see the down fall with it. Have a great and blessed day brother

  • @marshallbronne2142
    @marshallbronne2142 3 года назад +5

    I have a balancer, but I never knew about using an extension. Really cool. You know your stuff for sure. Thanks for all the great vids. I've learned a lot from them.

  • @outdoorfreedom9778
    @outdoorfreedom9778 2 года назад +3

    Glad I watched this vid, I learned something. I have no problem with sharpening the blades but having an extension on the bench is a good idea to keep checking the balance.
    My problem with the blades is the ears that eject the grass, weeds and crap in my case, tend to wear out then break off. If you happen to have a welder handy it's easy enough to hard face this area. After hard facing you also need to balance the blades.
    If the blades are just a bit off you may not feel it but the BEARINGS know all about it!!

  • @kimfoster9196
    @kimfoster9196 Год назад +1

    You're my go to guy. Love the channel.

  • @TaskerStreete
    @TaskerStreete 3 года назад +1

    A friend gave me a great Briggs mower about 12 years ago. I have a small yard, and use it only half a dozen times a year. I've neglected it a bit, and the blades are now completely cactus (due to rocks and uneven territory, and yes, I adjust the blade heights but still cop those rocks, stumps and buried concrete at times). It needs new blades, but at least now, I know how to keep the new blades sharpened. I'm in the process of clearing out those rocks etc. The whole balancing thing, was the most valuable thing I got out of this video, thanks!

  • @foldingchaise8387
    @foldingchaise8387 5 лет назад +5

    Thanks Steve Out, I love your videos, I love beer too !!!! Keep them coming !!!!

  • @bnighter
    @bnighter 5 лет назад +3

    each day I like to learn something. I wish it didnt take me 55 years how to do this.gracious.

  • @timflorance4544
    @timflorance4544 2 года назад +1

    Excellent video Steve!!

  • @radicalttc
    @radicalttc Год назад +1

    Another informative video, Thanks Steve.

  • @richb.4374
    @richb.4374 5 лет назад +3

    I bought a hand grinder just for this. Florida's sand is murder on lawn mower blades. Every time you mow, your blades are being sand blasted dull. Very tough to keep them sharp. You'd be sharpening almost every mow down here. LoL

  • @clarkdoukas3477
    @clarkdoukas3477 5 лет назад +27

    I'd highly recommend using a flapper disc vs a grinding wheel....

    • @throngcleaver
      @throngcleaver 5 лет назад +3

      Agreed! Far superior results, and a lot quicker.

    • @beerbeforebreakfast
      @beerbeforebreakfast 4 года назад +2

      Yes when done frequently no question. But for someone that has let there blade go, like alot of newbies to caring about their blade, a grinding wheel followed by a flap disk would be time saving. Just from my experience.

    • @wbballardjr123
      @wbballardjr123 4 года назад +1

      I agree, my flap disc didn't even make it butter knife sharp on my old, somewhat wore out blade. I used a grinder and it worked quickly.

  • @BenBolland
    @BenBolland 3 года назад +2

    I love your videos, going to buy a big mower tomorrow

  • @rickmarkgraf2617
    @rickmarkgraf2617 15 дней назад +1

    Well, I needed this. I am grateful.