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

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  • čas přidán 15. 06. 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...
    🔧WELCOME to the Steve’s Small Engine Saloon CZcams channel! Here you will find a vast library of easy do it yourself repair videos for all types of small engine equipment like chainsaws, weed eaters, hedge trimmers, brush cutters, leaf blowers, lawn mowers, pressure washers, generators, riding lawn mowers and so much more. I have been a small engine mechanic for over 30 years and my videos are absolutely loaded with tips and tricks that I have learned and want to pass on to YOU. 🙂
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Komentáře • 2,2K

  • @StevesSmallEngineSaloon
    @StevesSmallEngineSaloon  Před 4 lety +60

    Buy a proper blade balancer here ➜ amzn.to/2BmvxUO
    Check out these other informative videos:
    How To Install A Lawn Mower Blade Properly ➜ czcams.com/video/jsbTtEG078k/video.html
    Proper Way To Tip A Lawn Mower Over ➜ czcams.com/video/eeEVigsVqrE/video.html
    How To Adjust the RPM Speed on a Lawn Mower ➜ czcams.com/video/7YrA3QEIFnE/video.html
    How To Fix A Surging Engine On A Lawn Mower ➜ czcams.com/video/JOI293d8XUg/video.html
    Make sure to check out the Saloon here too…
    Click here for my website ➜ www.stevessmallenginesaloon.com/
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    • @johnmonroney8614
      @johnmonroney8614 Před 3 lety +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 Před 3 lety +1

      @@johnmonroney8614 aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!

    • @superbillybunter
      @superbillybunter Před 3 lety +2

      like your vid cheers from down under aus.

    • @richardbartolo2890
      @richardbartolo2890 Před 2 lety

      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 Před 2 lety +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 Před 2 lety +71

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

    • @jerkyturkey007
      @jerkyturkey007 Před měsícem +1

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

    • @mattwaters6987
      @mattwaters6987 Před měsícem

      How dare you! 😂

    • @chocolate_chip21
      @chocolate_chip21 Před 14 dny

      😂😂😂😂

    • @mikerichard6962
      @mikerichard6962 Před 10 dny

      Use tequila 😎

    • @adamjohnson7486
      @adamjohnson7486 Před 7 dny

      Hahahhaha 😂 me too, idk (other than Steve being awesome) why I watched this. But first thing I learned is Budweiser is the wrong beer . 😂. Great video

  • @PaulMFDouglas
    @PaulMFDouglas Před 3 lety +427

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

    • @medicduckster
      @medicduckster Před 3 lety +12

      Never fails 🤣

    • @dr.detroit1514
      @dr.detroit1514 Před 3 lety +11

      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 Před 3 lety +9

      Join the crowd!!!!

    • @damienmikkelsen6056
      @damienmikkelsen6056 Před 3 lety +21

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

    • @tjr8063
      @tjr8063 Před 3 lety +7

      I feel ya brother

  • @SB-bs7uv
    @SB-bs7uv Před 3 lety +32

    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 CZcams dad

  • @AlexanderTheGrateful
    @AlexanderTheGrateful Před 2 lety +11

    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

  • @DaddyBeanDaddyBean
    @DaddyBeanDaddyBean Před 2 lety +39

    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.

  • @Wyogoose
    @Wyogoose Před 4 lety +89

    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 Před 2 lety +7

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

    • @theobserver9131
      @theobserver9131 Před 2 lety +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 Před 2 lety +6

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

    • @theobserver9131
      @theobserver9131 Před 2 lety +5

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

    • @TheIronDuke9
      @TheIronDuke9 Před 2 lety +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 Před 2 lety +9

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

  • @petepeabody8905
    @petepeabody8905 Před rokem +11

    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

  • @kargo27
    @kargo27 Před 2 lety +23

    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 Před 2 lety +10

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

  • @ep7672
    @ep7672 Před 3 lety +4

    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!

  • @frankromano5445
    @frankromano5445 Před 3 lety +4

    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.

  • @pamandjohnmc
    @pamandjohnmc Před 2 lety +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 Před rokem +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.

  • @norcoca
    @norcoca Před 5 lety +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

  • @IamUncledeuce
    @IamUncledeuce Před 4 lety +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.

  • @andrewchurchley6779
    @andrewchurchley6779 Před 3 lety +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 Před rokem

      Nicely done with the extension!!

  • @alanshaw6161
    @alanshaw6161 Před 2 lety +12

    Steve, You have one of the best and most useful channels on CZcams. 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.

  • @rickrobeAK
    @rickrobeAK Před 5 lety +35

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

  • @craigerickson1910
    @craigerickson1910 Před 2 lety +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.

  • @andreassjoberg3145
    @andreassjoberg3145 Před rokem +2

    Thanks for that tip with the extension for checking balance. I used to balance it on my fingertip to get a rough feel, but this is much better, and I'll use this for when I sharpen my lawnmower blade this winter in preparation for spring. If you do not have an angle-grinder or a bench-grinder, another tip is that there are abrasive bits for your electric drill, if your blade is not too badly damaged, you can use that to sharpen it, and you might even be able to sharpen it without removing it depending on your lawnmower-design if your drill is slim enough.

  • @kenharris6316
    @kenharris6316 Před rokem +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.

  • @fassay
    @fassay Před 5 lety +12

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

  • @brianjohnson217
    @brianjohnson217 Před 2 lety +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  Před 2 lety +1

      Cool, thanks

    • @byronjohnson4268
      @byronjohnson4268 Před 2 lety

      How did you make it Brian

    • @Joe-hp8kb
      @Joe-hp8kb Před 2 lety

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

    • @mikeymike758
      @mikeymike758 Před 2 lety

      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 Před 2 lety

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

  • @TaskerStreete
    @TaskerStreete Před 3 lety +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!

  • @petestrickland2181
    @petestrickland2181 Před 4 lety +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!!!

  • @marshallbronne2142
    @marshallbronne2142 Před 3 lety +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.

  • @Raggzzaug11
    @Raggzzaug11 Před 3 lety +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.

  • @carlmetzger3971
    @carlmetzger3971 Před 2 lety +1

    You have one of the best yard equipment repair and understanding sites ever! I bookmarked many of your other videos and reference them often. Thanks brother! You are the best.

  • @naradomadath2926
    @naradomadath2926 Před 2 lety +1

    Steve just wanna say continue the great job you have been doing... God bless... and thank you for the support you provided myself and others over the years.

  • @paulworkman5755
    @paulworkman5755 Před 3 lety +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 Před rokem +2

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

  • @phil1shea
    @phil1shea Před 5 lety +3

    Clear and complete. Love the driver extension balancing trick!

  • @mongolioose
    @mongolioose Před 4 lety +2

    This channel is an absolute JEWEL, Steve. Thank you with gratitude.

  • @markbradley6993
    @markbradley6993 Před 3 lety +1

    Hi Steve
    Came across you channel about two years ago , it’s brilliant you make the most complicated tasks easy.
    Well done and keep the faith.
    👍

  • @jmi7562
    @jmi7562 Před 3 lety +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.

  • @northidahoguy5549
    @northidahoguy5549 Před 5 lety +5

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

  • @ralphs007
    @ralphs007 Před 2 lety +1

    I'll have to use your makeshift balancer. Every blade balance tool I looked at,there were complaints that it didn't work for a John Deere lawn tractor blade .
    Excellent video and thanks for making these videos!

  • @jesuscat3884
    @jesuscat3884 Před 3 lety

    Hi Steve, I've seen a few of your videos so far and it's been really helpful in fixing my 4 cycle lawnmower. Wanted to say thanks!

  • @BlaubartMT
    @BlaubartMT Před 5 lety +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  Před 5 lety +8

      Right on Buddy...

    • @lesaboo4740
      @lesaboo4740 Před 5 lety +3

      LMAO

    • @bobbyhempel1513
      @bobbyhempel1513 Před 5 lety +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 Před 5 lety +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 Před 4 lety +3

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

  • @royolstad8532
    @royolstad8532 Před 4 lety +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!

  • @martinglommen9888
    @martinglommen9888 Před 3 lety +2

    Absolutely good videos! Excellent teaching style and useful content. If you have not already done so, please do a video about refreshing a two cycle or four cycle engine that was improperly stored and then remained unused for many (10) years. Steve, you are a good man and deserve every good thing that comes your way. Keep up the good work!

  • @natep1661
    @natep1661 Před 2 měsíci +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.

  • @josephogle2015
    @josephogle2015 Před 5 lety +12

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

  • @jeffmays3608
    @jeffmays3608 Před 5 lety +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 Před 4 lety +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 Před 4 lety +4

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

    • @kramnull8962
      @kramnull8962 Před 4 lety +2

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

  • @kennymacraild8290
    @kennymacraild8290 Před 3 lety +1

    Fab video as ever Steve. Always clear and making it simple for village idiots like me to find my way round servicing my own garden machinery. You’ve become my first port of call when I need to know how to do something, actually second if you count the fridge for a beer first! Keep up the great work

  • @masterbondofox8982
    @masterbondofox8982 Před 2 lety +1

    Seriously Steve, thanks, I've been needing this information. I'll be sharpening and balancing my blade as soon as I can figure out where the oil on my spark plug is coming from. Mower's only a few years old!

  • @outdoorfreedom9778
    @outdoorfreedom9778 Před 2 lety +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!!

  • @rico1319
    @rico1319 Před 5 lety +40

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

  • @joevogelberger9922
    @joevogelberger9922 Před 4 lety +1

    Thanks, man.
    I sharpened my Snapper RER's blade once and used the wall nail method and it looked hokey to me, but I installed the blade and it took awhile but it wiped out the bearing in the mower deck.
    I'll use your balancing method from now on.

  • @georgebonney90
    @georgebonney90 Před 2 lety +1

    I'm fixing up an old riding mower that my uncle gave me and this channel has helped me out tremendously, thank you sir👌

  • @foldingchaise8387
    @foldingchaise8387 Před 5 lety +5

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

  • @longlowdog
    @longlowdog Před 5 lety +255

    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 Před 5 lety +6

      Good point

    • @bigjoe2458
      @bigjoe2458 Před 4 lety +8

      I always do that first before grinding

    • @artsmart07
      @artsmart07 Před 4 lety +8

      wouldn't that be common sense? haha

    • @artsmart07
      @artsmart07 Před 4 lety +1

      @@onekittyhawk63 hahahahahaha..

    • @bmead144
      @bmead144 Před 4 lety +2

      @@artsmart07 common sense is anything but common!😉

  • @patrickmertz2426
    @patrickmertz2426 Před 3 lety +2

    Not boring at all Steve, just informative, logical and helpful information as usual.

  • @charlesmckinley29
    @charlesmckinley29 Před 4 lety +1

    Thanks for the balancing tip at the end. I will probably order an actual balance this year.

  • @owa2533
    @owa2533 Před měsícem +3

    Very informative, not boring at all. Thank you.

  • @paulwharton1850
    @paulwharton1850 Před 6 lety +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 !

  • @robc.5745
    @robc.5745 Před 2 lety +1

    Good video Steve,I like to sharpen mine every season,I use the Oregon Gator blades, They really turn the clipping to good mulch ,And I sharpen them with a flap wheel on my grinder so as not to take too much off the blade and over heat the steel.

  • @richardball9116
    @richardball9116 Před 3 lety +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.

  • @jhooton75
    @jhooton75 Před 4 lety +3

    Great tips on balancing the blade. I've always just put a small screwdriver in my vise and put the blade on it (like the nail in the wall trick). I'm going to try the ratchet extension trick next time.

    • @rayndawg7181
      @rayndawg7181 Před 2 lety

      Same here, the screw driver shaft I use is about is an eighth of an inch in diameter- no thicker. Been doing it for 45 years, never a problem. I think the way he suggest, could be problematic. I also sharpen by blades on a bench grinder as I seem to be prone to hitting ever rock that pops up in my lawn, a spill over from the wife working in the garden, and boarders I think. 🤔

  • @Tony_Atk
    @Tony_Atk Před 5 lety +3

    Always used the extension trick on all my blades, works perfectly.

  • @sethfoulk6990
    @sethfoulk6990 Před 2 lety +1

    I never thought of the whole balancing it on something round,like the example, 6 inch ratchet extention! Good job Steve! Thank you!

  • @leonardrose7866
    @leonardrose7866 Před 2 lety

    Thanks for all the help that you & Buckin Billy produce ..really helping out the WV boys 👍

  • @steveolsted6378
    @steveolsted6378 Před 2 lety +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 Před 5 lety +42

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

    • @StevesSmallEngineSaloon
      @StevesSmallEngineSaloon  Před 5 lety +6

      Right on...

    • @heavymechanic2
      @heavymechanic2 Před 5 lety +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.

  • @josephbuzzetta-re7mv
    @josephbuzzetta-re7mv Před rokem +2

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

  • @les13robinson
    @les13robinson Před 3 lety +2

    Brilliant! Great idea for the balancing. Thanks, Steve. Much appreciated! Cheers, Les

  • @nw843x
    @nw843x Před 4 lety +3

    Good video as always. Try using a roloc disk instead of the angle grinder if you have one. It does not heat up the blade as much as the grinders do.

  • @nathanielpeace2343
    @nathanielpeace2343 Před 4 lety +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 Před 4 lety

      Excellent 👍

    • @jafinch78
      @jafinch78 Před 3 lety

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

    • @robertpeterson2825
      @robertpeterson2825 Před 3 lety +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.

  • @Benmelech
    @Benmelech Před 2 lety +1

    👏👏👏👏👏 absolutely love your no nonsense and extremely thorough instructions👍👍👍

  • @mackmay5442
    @mackmay5442 Před měsícem +2

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

  • @bladder1010
    @bladder1010 Před 4 lety +16

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

    • @michaeltaylors2456
      @michaeltaylors2456 Před 2 lety +3

      Good ole flat bastard…. file is an unappreciated tool

    • @raystanczak4277
      @raystanczak4277 Před 2 lety +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 Před 2 lety

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

  • @raymondrobinson6696
    @raymondrobinson6696 Před 3 lety +4

    I was thought to use a pocket knife basically just like your socket extension on the cutting edge. Good point on making sure blade is clean form comments.

  • @cliffordbowling8969
    @cliffordbowling8969 Před 4 lety +1

    Thank you for all your help in your posts , saves us a lot of money and time.

  • @ghopkins25
    @ghopkins25 Před 2 lety +1

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

  • @pauljs75
    @pauljs75 Před 5 lety +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 Před 2 lety +3

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

    • @fourcubed47
      @fourcubed47 Před rokem +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 Před rokem

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

    • @devinbraun1852
      @devinbraun1852 Před rokem

      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.

  • @isidroizazaga2786
    @isidroizazaga2786 Před 5 lety +3

    That video help me a lot because I use my lawnmower everyday and I have to sharpen .

  • @wildberj
    @wildberj Před rokem +1

    Hello Steve, thanks for the video. I also use a bench grinder and then put the blade in a vise and run a flat file on cutting edge and then use a sharpening stone about 4 passes each. Then recheck the balance. Have a great day

  • @TheCount46
    @TheCount46 Před 3 lety +2

    Good job, Steve and thank you again for your expert advice!

  • @teddybasterd9415
    @teddybasterd9415 Před 5 lety +30

    When gunbarreling your lawnmower blade it may take several beers to get it straight but hey what ever it takes to get the job done

    • @kramnull8962
      @kramnull8962 Před 4 lety +2

      A tall enough beer will result in being able to put the beer alongside of the blade and use it like a square. Especially if the first 5 beers haven't been able to be conclusive... Would be good if Milwaukee's Best made a 24oz. can, ya could just leave it on top of the tool box year around...

  • @hondo-pr4tu
    @hondo-pr4tu Před 4 lety +4

    You got a lot of knowledge man. Keep um coming. Steve's university of small engine .

  • @FLSTF-us4df
    @FLSTF-us4df Před 4 lety

    Hi Steve, keep up the great work you do, you are helping people save money. I watched your video on how to sharpen a Lawn Mower Blade, what do you do when the balancing hole on a blade is not round? There star snapped. This is what I did, I took a 8”x1/2”x1/4” because that’s what I had at the time, any size will work. I drilled a center hole just big enough that it rests on the forth hole on your style of balancer. I wish I could post a picture to of what I did.
    Thanks
    Luis

  • @hmroa3056
    @hmroa3056 Před 4 lety +1

    ALWAYS the best information! Thanks Steve.

  • @kimberlymazzitelli8644
    @kimberlymazzitelli8644 Před 3 lety +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 ;)

  • @munched55
    @munched55 Před 5 lety +3

    Thanks Steve. Have a fresh looking Toro I got with the house when I bought it. I better have a look at the blade as spring is around the corner.

  • @LibrenoDMCA
    @LibrenoDMCA Před 3 lety +1

    Thanks for posting this. Your videos have saved my happy behind more than once.

  • @cmthesame943
    @cmthesame943 Před 3 lety +1

    Thanks for your videos. As a recent widow, I have found much useful information in them. Your clear {despite the beer- or maybe because of it?!? (smile) } explanations are appreciated. I am not totally ignorant in the use of tools and/or making repairs, but there are just some things that my husband took care of and now I will need to deal with them, so is nice to get some knowledgable advice. It is helpful when you explain "something could be done this way", BUT "here's why you might not want to do it that way" . That information that is very useful and I'm sure keeps a novice or two from making a mistake. Also showing ways to do something if one doesn't have access to exactly a certain tool, how one can substitute with something that may be available. Thanks again & keep putting out those videos!

  • @dukeman7595
    @dukeman7595 Před 4 lety +4

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

  • @mikeymike758
    @mikeymike758 Před 2 lety +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,

  • @brucehampton1545
    @brucehampton1545 Před měsícem +1

    Nice video on shapeing blades and balancing. Thanks Steve.

  • @jimself9395
    @jimself9395 Před 2 lety +1

    Great tip on the Heineken, always helps me to have steady nerves before handling my angle grinder,. Thanks Steve, appreciate all your helpful tips. 👍👍👍

  • @PJRII
    @PJRII Před 4 lety +4

    Steve, thanks a million for all the great info. I was able to rebuild the carburetor on my rototiller and I'm no mechanic to say the least. I'm looking to replace a deck belt and maybe blades on my JD x300 mower, just trying to get brave enough. My question is: can I replace the beer with bourbon? Bless you Steve, best regards, Pete in Maine

  • @lukep6017
    @lukep6017 Před 5 lety +4

    Excellent VIDEO content. Thank you

  • @simplelifewithlyn
    @simplelifewithlyn Před 2 lety +2

    Just learned a lot from you. Been wanting to learn the "how to's" on lawn mowers. I've always wanted to maintain and fix at least the small issues on them since I do lots of mowing on our yard. Great video. Will definitely watch more of your videos coz I would love to learn a lot more and hopefully share what I've learned from people and from my experience on my vlogs. New subscriber here. Take care.

  • @josedejesus6185
    @josedejesus6185 Před 2 lety +1

    Nice, very nice advice! With you, we all learn something new in every video! Thanks! 👏👏👏👏

  • @jr4750jr
    @jr4750jr Před 6 lety +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.

  • @vintagefurness
    @vintagefurness Před 2 lety +1

    Thought I knew how to sharpen a blade. Bought a balancing tool, some Heineken NA, and my angle grinder. Awesome info. Worked great. Thank you.👍

  • @thisislargemouth5566
    @thisislargemouth5566 Před 4 lety +1

    Taking a leap and trying to start a small engine service business in my area. I've been watching your videos a long time and this is something I love to do. I'm not sure if it will be a viable business in my area or not but if nothing else this will be my first venture in trying to do something on my own and I'm sure it won't be my last. Thanks for all the quality information, Steve.

    • @StevesSmallEngineSaloon
      @StevesSmallEngineSaloon  Před 4 lety +1

      Best of luck!

    • @thisislargemouth5566
      @thisislargemouth5566 Před 4 lety

      @@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Thank you so much. I advertised for one day so far and I've got all kinds of stuff lined up. Already got a generator fixed for someone. This might be really fun.

  • @davidb5978
    @davidb5978 Před 5 lety +4

    I'm stealing that balancing trick, thanks.

  • @bnighter
    @bnighter Před 5 lety +3

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

  • @richardstrada212
    @richardstrada212 Před 4 lety +1

    Great video especially the need to balance the blade. Also you gave me a great answer to "how do I get my blade into a balanced state."

  • @rogerdamron5529
    @rogerdamron5529 Před 3 lety +1

    Thanks Steve's Small Engine Saloon, this video have been very helpful to me. Keep it up!