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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Buy a proper blade balancer here ➜ amzn.to/2BmvxUO Check out these other informative videos: How To Install A Lawn Mower Blade Properly ➜ kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKTFhad7fJVqbs0 Proper Way To Tip A Lawn Mower Over ➜ kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5aoh5ydqLukqKc How To Adjust the RPM Speed on a Lawn Mower ➜ kzbin.info/www/bejne/bYrVcmaHeq55pKc How To Fix A Surging Engine On A Lawn Mower ➜ kzbin.info/www/bejne/gICsY2xpmZ2Li8k Make sure to check out the Saloon here too… Click here for my website ➜ www.stevessmallenginesaloon.com/ Click here for my Parts and Tools Store ➜ www.amazon.com/shop/stevessmallenginesaloon Follow me on Facebook ➜ facebook.com/stevessmallenginesaloon Follow me on Instagram ➜ instagram.com/stevessmallenginesaloon/ Follow me on Twitter ➜ twitter.com/SteveSaloon

[@johnmonroney8614]

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]

@@johnmonroney8614 aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!

[@superbillybunter]

like your vid cheers from down under aus.

[@richardbartolo2890]

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]

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

[@PaulMFDouglas]

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

[@medicduckster]

Never fails 🤣

[@dr.detroit1514]

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]

Join the crowd!!!!

[@damienmikkelsen6056]

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

[@tjr8063]

I feel ya brother

[@AlexanderTheGrateful]

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

[@SB-bs7uv]

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 KZbin dad

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Great to hear!

[@ep7672]

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!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

WOW! You're Welcome...

[@insertgoodname4809]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Wow, thanks!

[@DaddyBeanDaddyBean]

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.

[@petepeabody8905]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...and Thank You...

[@Wyogoose]

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]

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

[@theobserver9131]

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]

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

[@theobserver9131]

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

[@TheIronDuke9]

@@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

[@pamandjohnmc]

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]

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.

[@frankromano5445]

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.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...and You're Welcome...

[@craigerickson1910]

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.

[@kargo27]

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]

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

[@brandonbell5357]

Nope

[@jmi7562]

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.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...and You're Welcome...

[@TaskerStreete]

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!

[@ghopkins25]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're welcome!

[@andrewchurchley6779]

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]

Nicely done with the extension!!

[@kenharris6316]

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.

[@nathanielpeace2343]

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]

Excellent 👍

[@jafinch78]

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

[@robertpeterson2825]

+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.

[@rdaleyj1]

Best lawnmower channel there is.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@neoone9820]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@brianjohnson217]

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]

Cool, thanks

[@byronjohnson4268]

How did you make it Brian

[@Joe-hp8kb]

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

[@mikeymike758]

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]

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

[@rickrobeAK]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@norcoca]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@teddd2009]

Useful, honest advise with demos are always winnings!

[@markantinozzi8657]

That's why I sharpen my razors to

[@richardball9116]

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.

[@cmthesame943]

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!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...and I am sorry for your loss...

[@steveolsted6378]

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.

[@BlaubartMT]

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]

Right on Buddy...

[@lesaboo4740]

LMAO

[@bobbyhempel1513]

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]

@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]

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

[@akquicksilver]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on...

[@heavymechanic2]

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.

[@carlmetzger3971]

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.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on Carl! You're Welcome...

[@josephbuzzetta-re7mv]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@alanshaw6161]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Wow, thank you!

[@mikeymike758]

As long as it's real beer, then great. My go to is PBR. 🤣

[@jeffmays3608]

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]

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]

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

[@kramnull8962]

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

[@timrobinson6573]

I worked summers for a landscaping company for 3 years and at the end of the day I spent an hour sharpening a stack of blades with a bench grinder for the next day.

[@vvegas9221]

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.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

I agree!

[@drandrewclarke]

thanks once again for sorting my problem out. sharpened and balanced using a cheap plastic balancer. one of my blades on my ride on was bent and it was quite an effort to straighten it which is not surprising.

[@Raggzzaug11]

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.

[@jr4750jr]

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.

[@lennybella1666]

00

[@chrisferrell6978]

It will do the job just fine

[@kimberlymazzitelli8644]

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 ;)

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on Kim! Thank You...

[@35Geneva]

Heineken is the only beer that will work! That was my problem. Switching from Bud to Heineken did the trick. Blade now as sharp as new. Thanks for the great videos Steve.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Good to know!

[@andydorman2119]

Thank you for the balancing lesson. Once I LEARNED about balancing, I tried two other ways. With the nail in the wall approach, the friction (however small) between the nail and the blade will stop the blade from rotating if unbalanced. The bearing/magnet tool is unparalleled accuracy. The key is the patience of the person balancing it. The blade is ONLY balanced when it stops moving LEVEL regarding the bearing way. That's the method I use. Patience. But it makes the difference between a mower that will last 10 or more years vs a mower that will last 5 or less. And: it's easier to start, does not bog down as easy, runs higher RPM, and fuel lasts longer. The only vibration you feel through the handle is the engine popping. Also important to mention that cleaning the understand of the deck is critical for correct air flow to not unnecessarily bog the blade and to mulch correctly.

[@IamUncledeuce]

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.

[@paulworkman5755]

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]

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

[@paulwharton1850]

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 !

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@natep1661]

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.

[@donwolfjr1]

Admittedly, I was doing it wrong!! Lol. Looks like I'll be resharpening mine soon WITH the correct balancer!!! Thanks, Steve!!! Don W., OHIO

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@bladder1010]

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

[@michaeltaylors2456]

Good ole flat bastard…. file is an unappreciated tool

[@raystanczak4277]

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]

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

[@douglasmcwhirter9572]

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]

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]

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]

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

[@timbylander7015]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@erwinwilde3109]

100% correct on all counts. Especially the part about not wasting your time with a file. I use a small angle grinder with a coarse sanding disc, works perfect.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@johnchapman6278]

Yes, I've always wondered how to turn my Mower over without hurting it ... thanks Steve!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad to help

[@outdoorfreedom9778]

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!!

[@pauljs75]

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]

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

[@fourcubed47]

@@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]

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

[@devinbraun1852]

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.

[@jhirn2957]

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

[@jerkyturkey007]

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

[@mattwaters6987]

How dare you! 😂

[@chocolate_chip21]

😂😂😂😂

[@mikerichard6962]

Use tequila 😎

[@adamjohnson7486]

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

[@wildberj]

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

[@masterlhopkins5528]

Saw a new way of sharpening mower blade using a die grinder, works great!

[@petestrickland2181]

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!!!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad it was helpful!

[@josephogle2015]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on Joe..

[@owa2533]

Very informative, not boring at all. Thank you.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@no_handle_required]

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

[@georgebonney90]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad to hear it

[@mikeymike758]

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,

[@hondo-pr4tu]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@fassay]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@kenmore7885]

New here, great vids, saved me from buying a new one. Rebuilt my B&S carb. And sharpened my blade. Runs & cuts like a new one. Many thanks

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad I could help

[@michellehemming1303]

Thank you Mr Steve for showing me how to balance any lawn mower blades even riding lawn mower blades on one of them

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad to help

[@hookemintheface5595]

Using a hot grind method just makes the edge brittle. You'll end up with more, and bigger chips in your blade faster. A slower moving 180 grit wet wheel works best. It takes slightly longer, but the edge on the blade stays sharper longer.

[@craigerickson1910]

Or, feel the blade occasionally to make sure it's not getting hot enough to remove temper. If it's too hot to briefly touch, switch to sharpening the other end. Keep count of the approx. number of grinder passes on each end so as not to throw off the balance too much. That works much faster than a wet wheel. Angle grinder also far better to sharpen mulching blades with upsy downsy curved sections.

[@danrao3707]

Great advise. Thats how I do my axes.

[@clarkdoukas3477]

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

[@throngcleaver]

Agreed! Far superior results, and a lot quicker.

[@beerbeforebreakfast]

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]

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.

[@rico1319]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

lol! Right on...

[@vincentrobinette1507]

That actually sounds like a good idea!🤣😁😂

[@shafferjoe1962]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thanks 👍

[@Hugeroost]

Couple things here Stevo. 1) it takes more than one sip of Heineken do get a blade sharp, also of note, Corona works as well. 2) tell these folks you can buy a dang good 4 1/2 in side grinder at harbor freight for 12 bucks, can't beat it. And 3) there's a slick little unit called The American Sharpener, or maybe it's Great American Sharpener, I'd have to go look. That thing is the absolute bomb yall, keeps it at 30 degrees. I own a lawn service in SE Texas, we mow over 100 yards a week, I am constantly sharpening blades. It is a HUGE difference using that thing, its amazing how much longer my blades stay sharp when at correct angle. The way your doing it, I did it like that for 20 yrs, you can't hold that 30 eyeballing it. I was shocked when I got that tool at how far off I was. Go ahead and chug half that cold one on next vid, Texas style. That was a 3 cold one vud you just did, I counted mine. Good job explaining that stuff, patient man....Roost

[@longlowdog]

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]

Good point

[@bigjoe2458]

I always do that first before grinding

[@artsmart07]

wouldn't that be common sense? haha

[@artsmart07]

@@onekittyhawk63 hahahahahaha..

[@bmead144]

@@artsmart07 common sense is anything but common!😉

[@marshallbronne2142]

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.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Happy to help!

[@dukeman7595]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

No problem 👍

[@williamcharles9480]

That little metal balancer that you suggest is well worth the less than 8 bucks that they want for it. Thanks for the great advice that you give out, this isn't the first time that you've helped me out. I guess that's why I became a subscriber. If people think that you're just some old drunk making videos, they're very wrong.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on Will! Thank You...

[@mongolioose]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Wow, thank you!

[@glennyj65]

As far as balancing goes, some of the blades my customers insist I sharpen (instead of getting new ones) are so bad that in order to balance them in a reasonable amount of time is to grind the very end of the blade's heavy side. Less metal to remove to achieve the balance. In some cases of like 28" and longer I've even had to cut off a small piece on one end just to make it within reasonable grinding limits.

[@moonrich3492]

Nothing like reducing the width of your cut so you can add a pass or two at the end of the job.

[@bryantoth5249]

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

[@kobra6335]

As long as the nail is centered in the circle, the heavier side of the blade will always move downward. I personally use a 1/8 inch pin punch for checking the balance.

[@PatrickM747]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

I appreciate that!

[@markpurdin9900]

You’re the man. I use angle grinder and the balancer. Never the nail trick

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@northidahoguy5549]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...and You're Welcome...

[@fredhollinger]

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.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on Fred! Thank You...

[@davidb5978]

I'm stealing that balancing trick, thanks.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@michellehemming1303]

Thank you Mr Steve for showing me how to balance a blade with a socket holder I do appreciate very much thank you good have a good day

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad I could help

[@randylorenzen4264]

You did it again. I could never get a balanced blade with the old nail in the wall trick. Now I know why. Thanks

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad to help

[@visumexcipio]

Never seen that extension bar method. Cool. Interesting!!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@raphaelbussy6482]

Was doing everything right until I looked at my bench and saw that “it” wasn’t leveled and was grinding both side back and forth… lesson learned. Thanks Steve!

[@paulbork7647]

What you have here will work most times. However, what the blade needs is dynamic stability, which is balance while rotating, so if someone cuts off the end of a blade on one side and balances the blade, one may well still have vibration. Also the dynamic balance is needed while cutting and not cutting, so the edges need to be the same, so one side isn’t being significantly more dragged than the other while cutting. I’ve never had any of these issues cause problems, but I’ve also not bent a blade as you demonstrated. Just trying for completeness for your viewers.

[@brandonbrook9664]

Wow, thank's Steve, at 64 yrs I thought I knew everything. (just like I did when I was 15 lol) But apparently not. I used to have one of those balancing do-hickies back in the day when Dad drove a Studebaker. Only thing was...... I had no idea what it was for! Nor do I have any idea where it came from, 'cept maybe in a bulk purchase of used tools tossed and bought in a garage sale junk box. It looked exactly like yours & close inspection revealed it was made out of cheap alloy cast, which is probably why I didn't even consider the posibility it might actually be a tool. I tossed it aside, maybe into a box of bizzare looking metal bolt on attachments for an old Singer treadle sewing machine that might come in handy some day. I haven't given it so much as a moments thought since.... until now. Given the fact that I've never thrown anything away in my entire lifetime..... it's gotta' be out there somewhere! But where to start looking? I've got a dozen out buildings, at least 20+ rusting hulks in my own personal 'Rust Valley' type Field of Dreams, 2 de-commisioned Safeway Semi-trailers used for storage, and a land bound floattila of boats & other such watercraft to look through. Sigh. Considering the task at hand, it's doubtful I'll find my balancer before I'm long dead and gone. But tonight I plan to show my son's this video..... just so they'll know exactly what it is, when & if they ever find it. Lunch break's now over, gotta' get back to the metal shop building and continue on my most recent project thanks to Steve's recent tutorial titled... 'How to Make a Sword out of an old Chainsaw Bar'. Thank's a lot Steve. The 1st sword is half done, 15 more chain bars to go, then I'll have a complete set ready for the Zombie Apocalypse, or if by chance the "Hoarders" TV crew ever shows up at my place, never to be seen again. The first one when completed, already has a home in my front door entryway. I plan to use it the next time the producers of the 'Canadian Picker's' TV program show up bangin' on my door again askin' if 'I'm ready to sell anything'. The next time, I swear to God I'll have one of their heads mounted on a fencepost as a warning to others. Back at it, cheers.

[@sethfoulk6990]

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

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad to help

[@teddybasterd9415]

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]

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...

[@kencraig7308]

Had a customer inspecting my blade sharpening with the mower rolled over on the wrong side. she calls me and says i never sharpened the blade and that there is oil coming out of the air filter and its all wet. she tried to convince me that she wasnt inspecting the blade, but i said how would you know about the blade unless you lifted up the mower, but she just kept saying why didnt i sharpen the blade. well ma'am when you sharpen a mower blade you can't see how i sharpen it unless you look real hard at the top or feel it with your hand, and as for the oil coming out of the air filter and cover its because you rolled the mower over on the wrong side while you were inspecting the blade. Sooooo, to make her happy i removed the blade and showed her how its done. Then, I showed her how the oil got into the air filter Compartment, and i tell you she was just so amazed at how and what she had done just because she didnt trust my work, and ive got 5 stars mind you on google.so anyway i got her all cleaned up and running at no extra charge and sent her on her way, hav'nt seen her since.

[@stevee7774]

Ken Craig - Gotta love those customers. You’ve always got the ones that don’t trust you and are convinced that you’re screwing them over. She’s probably taken it to some other shops that she thinks are screwing her over as well. It’s the same way in the automotive shop - I’ve seen these types throughout my career, try as you may you will never make them happy.

[@stevee7774]

franko - Brocken?

[@jamesmccloud1443]

You are the man!!! these repair places are so expensive...I am really handy...now I have the knowledge to do these tasks!! Thank You

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@sawdustadikt979]

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 KZbin channel for these types of things! Thank you Steve!

[@bubbalouie100]

Your info is so good Steve I finished the job without a beer, thank you again buddy.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Fantastic!

[@jeffhanson6844]

FYI the nail works and is reliable. You are no longer looking for the blade to hang level, with the nail what you are looking for is the blade to stay in whatever orientation you left it when you let go. Much like balancing a motorcycle wheel, if you put it in a position and it stays there it is balanced.

[@gulfstream7235]

Yeah, this whole buy a balancing device is bullshit. You might be out by a small degree by balancing on a nail or screwdriver but so what, won't do the mower one bit of damage...

[@tomthompson7400]

try a big ballbearing , works well as a pivot on a hard surface ,, you may have to hold the blade for front to back , bit it works.

[@PJRII]

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

[@sgtkabukiman9411]

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.