Proper Way To Tip A Lawn Mower Over

There seems to be some controversy about which way to tilt a lawn mower over! In this video, I’ll show you how to tip a lawn mower and then prove it. This is the only sure way to safely flip or tilt a lawnmower over without draining all the fluids. If you use this method or technique, you will not hydro-lock the engine or have fuel or oil drip from the engine. Turn it over the right way!
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For more videos like this, check out:
👉Straighten A Bent Lawn Mower Crankshaft With A Pipe ➜ • Straighten A Bent Lawn...
👉Fastest Way To Tell If The Crankshaft Is Bent On A Mower ➜ • Fastest Way To Tell If...
👉Here's Why Your Lawn Mower Is Leaking Gas - Honda Style ➜ • Here's Why Your Lawn M...
👉How To Adjust the RPM Speed on a Lawn Mower ➜ • How To Adjust the RPM ...
🔧WELCOME to the Steve’s Small Engine Saloon KZbin 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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#stevessmallenginesaloon #smallenginerepair #smallengine #repair #troubleshooting #engine #lawnandgarden #lawnmower #lawnmowerrepair #mowerrepair #honda #craftsman #toro #husqvarna #troybilt

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

✅Click here for a common air filter ➜ amzn.to/3iLNFwr ✅Click here for a proper blade balancer ➜ amzn.to/2BmvxUO For more videos like this, check out: 👉Straighten A Bent Lawn Mower Crankshaft With A Pipe ➜ kzbin.info/www/bejne/rWO1oGx9oqqshac 👉Fastest Way To Tell If The Crankshaft Is Bent On A Mower ➜ kzbin.info/www/bejne/aabTZmp6fc52p9U 👉Here's Why Your Lawn Mower Is Leaking Gas - Honda Style ➜ kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqGZaHSwjLOVf5Y 👉How To Adjust the RPM Speed on a Lawn Mower ➜ kzbin.info/www/bejne/bYrVcmaHeq55pKc You can connect with Steve here too: ✅Visit Steve’s WEBSITE ➜ www.stevessmallenginesaloon.com/ ✅Visit Steve’s PARTS & TOOL STORE ➜ www.amazon.com/shop/stevessmallenginesaloon ✅Follow Steve on FACEBOOK ➜ facebook.com/stevessmallenginesaloon ✅Follow Steve on INSTAGRAM ➜ instagram.com/stevessmallenginesaloon/ ✅Follow Steve on TWITTER ➜ twitter.com/SteveSaloon

[@tobiwankanobi9613]

Steve i was cleaning my lawnmower and didn’t know this trick so when I put it on ground again and pulled the rope it smoked my hole garden and there was a lot of smoke I tell ya🤣

[@arturodelagarza3213]

HEY STEVE. THANKS FOR THE INFO. VERY INFORMATIVE.

[@jrtrejo495]

Hey Steve, I have one for you. I have a Stihl SH-85 Blower. This thing has been indestructible, had it for many years, have taken good care of it. Replaced the plug, the little lever that goes to choke to run, the push priming bulb, I’ve taken it in a couple times to see if I’ve missed anything. It starts great and runs great for a whole tank full of fuel. But when it runs out and I fill the tank again to keep going, I prime it a couple times to get the fuel back into the line and I have a hell of a time starting it back up again. I have to wait practically until the next day to use it again. Any suggestions. Thanks So Much.

[@blairfright9622]

Hi Steve, this is not related to the mower . I have a question concerning my ms 170 chain saw. It keeps leaking oil from the bottom of the engine case. And I have no oil coming out on chain when running. Any ideas?

[@juancontre5858]

Nice work good info n u prove it too

[@deawallace3584]

I am not a mechanic..just an elderly lady with common sense. Since my spouse has dementia and has done NO maintenance for years on anything...the job is mine. Thank you for giving such basic, but vital information. It is life-saving for some of us.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Who needs a mechanic when you've got common sense, right? You're doing an amazing job taking charge of the maintenance. Keep it up, superwoman!

[@carlcasey4177]

Your a good partner 👍🫡💪

[@barbaraellis6637]

I feel for you 🙏

[@deawallace3584]

@@barbaraellis6637 Thank you . Your words are uplifting. Appreciate it.

[@robnic52]

If hydrolocked surely you can just remove the spark plug and pull the starter cord a few times. Waste of oil and messy but it'll clear the cylinder won't it? Or am I missing something?

[@wince_moeron]

Mine usually gets tipped over when I pick it up and throw it across the yard cuz it won't start

[@todhurley3756]

After a 6pk of beer and 30mins pulling the rope and cussing. I throw it in the Creek behind the house. Thanks Steve Steve great video.

[@billcoley8520]

Buy a deere

[@MKD-dd6ng]

😂😂😂😂

[@pollyhorlander7389]

wince moeron 😂

[@bobbelsekwol]

Does that make it start though? Asking for a friend.

[@xyzxyz-hi8lp]

KZbin is like the dad I never had growing up.

[@user-dj7jw4fw4x]

A little sad, but maybe the best KZbin comment ever.

[@chrisdorio6750]

Sad, no dad. There are many young people today who don't even want to learn how to do simple things....

[@floridaman5125]

Great comment.

[@elizabethappleton3667]

Further to my husband tipping the mower over on the air filter side today and oil pouring out, I’ve been investigating utube. This is a wonderful video for me. Thanks. Now if he’ll just believe me.🤷‍♀️

[@julieharper1704]

I wanted to thank you for your videos. I'm 60 and didn't really know anything about my lawn mower other than putting gas in it. I now keep up with my air filter, oil and blade changes as well. I had a carburetor issue and thanks to you I took it off, cleaned it and put it back on. My son was impressed. He said he doesn't know anything about mowers. I was not going to give up, so I am very happy and like I always say, "you're never too old to learn". Thanks again for sharing your knowledge.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Great job!

[@DatOneRadDad]

Now that's rad!

[@Shukovsky]

Nice job julie!!!!

[@351clevelandmodifiedmotor4]

dont mow the lawn at your age youll have a heart attack, number 1 cause of heart attacks is mowing the lawn or washing the car, pay a honest good hearted kid you can trust to mow your lawn, i don't know why people think its time to mow the lawn when it's hot and sunny, thats the worst time to mow the lawn, washing the car is easy, don't do it when its hot and sunny, give it a quick wetting with the hose and have a spray bottle with soapy water spray a panel of the car then brush the area with a soft bristled broom then hose off the dirty soapy water do this to each panel until all the panels are done

[@michaelblodgett4704]

@@351clevelandmodifiedmotor4 🤣 OMG. You think 60 is on brink of heart attack and death. I'm 62, and I bet I can out exercise you.

[@darkegress4392]

At first I was annoyed thinking you needed to get to the point but your knowledge is GOLD! Thank you.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're welcome!

[@SeedFiddler-kp4eg]

I'm almost 70 years old. I passed auto mechanics because the instructor told us (me) at the end of the quarter, "If you turn in a piece of paper with your name on it, I will pass you." So I did. And he kept his promise. Now that you know who you're dealing with, then you will know how thankful I am, that in the last five minutes, I've learned more about mechanics that I have in the first 69 years of my life. Thank you! Trust me, this is barely exaggerating at all, just so that you know. Thank you!

[@dogsbyfire]

Been working on small engines for forty years, but I learned something from this video. You are the man! Love your shop, especially the beer can collection.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Cool, thanks

[@derek876544]

Been doing it for 20 years never thought of tipping mower over with piston at tdc ! cheers Steve never too old to learn

[@terryc47]

@@mgomez5606 how is gas going to leak out carburetor when it is at the top?

[@corydriver7634]

M Gomez it didn’t seem to leak from these 2 examples after 75 hours so...

[@corydriver7634]

M Gomez I guess Steve didn’t show us that step. He must have shut it off or clamped it because these two didn’t leak.

[@derek876544]

@@mgomez5606fuel doesn't usually leak (or only what's in carb)because fuel in tank is lower than carb when tipped over with carb uppermost

[@jerrysoutherland662]

Before I tip the mower over,I clamp the fuel line and start the engine and run it until the mower dies.Now I will put it on TDC.

[@Irwhodunit]

I was wondering about how you would use up 8 minutes to tell me how to turn the mower over. Thanks! I'm glad I watched the whole deal. Interesting stuff!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad I could help!

[@zybenson3367]

I was thinking the same but then I couldn’t stop watching. Great video

[@captainobvious9209]

1. What the hell? 2. What’s this? 3. Hmmmm 4. Suddenly can’t stop watching... 5 what has happened to me? 6 addicted

[@PMA65537]

I quit at 40 seconds after it's clear he means a petrol mower and not electric.

[@BTENERY]

@@PMA65537 that’s funny 😆

[@biking2cruze]

I get my mowers for free from the neighbors giving up on the equipment when it fails to start or dies while running. Seeing your video taught me more lessons on the maintenance and operation of power tools. We live in a throwaway society so much that we fail to appreciate what our equipment does for us IF we just take the time to change the oil, sharpen OR replace blades, change the spark plugs, clean or replace the air cleaner (some have paper elements, god I hate those cause they need to be replaced if worn out) and just keep the deck clean (be careful washing around the fuel cap air cleaner area as you don’t want water to enter and contaminate the fuel or block air cleaner. I was skittish bout putting mower on its side and went out of my way to point it spark plug-skyward. Now armed with your info, I’ll follow what you demonstrated to effectively get under and repair my equipment with (hopefully) less mess!😊

[@hanselito2416]

Admit it, you love that people throw stuff away. Sounds like youre doing your part 🎉

[@logmeindangit]

Speaking of the modern "throw it away"society we live in, I just picked up a nearly new mower being given away because it would start but not stay running. I took the cheap plastic carburetor apart, using KZbin videos as guides, and got it working. I don't know where the fuel was blocked in it, but I blew air through places I couldn't see, and whatever I did evidently dislodged the itty bitty beaver dam in the channels somewhere. I would have paid $350 for this mower new. The last one I bought new in the early 1990s wa+s starting to leak oil underneath at the shaft seal, so this was perfect timing. I'm now set for another 2 or 3 decades!

[@sallygiles3019]

Im a woman who lives alone, your videos are invaluable to me simple instruction, easy to follow and has saved me a bundle of cash thank you

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@Gurl_warrioR]

I’m a 65 year old woman that doesn’t have anyone to do things like mow the yard and this kind of knowledge is what I need to be self sufficient! Thank you so much! Looking forward to more knowledge from you and yes, I have clicked subscribed! 😁👍👏🏻✌🏻

[@JesusSaves827]

KZbin and the internet has made husbands no longer needed! 🤣

[@Find_Amelia_Island]

@@JesusSaves827 but a good one is wonderful to have !!

[@daddi-o2443]

@@JesusSaves827 Hey now! We must be good for something?!? ;)

[@alaysiakayebutler6299]

I'm with you, sister!! 60 yr old Grammy here, have rural property, and it's all on me

[@robertcorbin233]

My mother could fix anything from a microwave to an A/c. All it takes is knowledge. That how most of us men learned how to do it. By learning.

[@dwilliams5989]

Many years of grass cutting and needing to tip my lawn mower over occasionally, only to flood my mower with oil and gas and be frustrated. This was a great video i really needed. Great video Steve! Well done Sir.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@aedinquinn8687]

Intelligent comment; recently I incorrectly tipped my new lawnmower purchased in 2021 to discover I had to pull string multiple times to start lawnmower. Aedin

[@kev_6422]

What would you do once you flooded it? Did this yesterday and started spitting oil and smoke like crazy. Still got the yard to do

[@tomjones2121]

trying to reinvent flipping a lawn mower LOL, drain your oil , problem solved , then do whatever you want .....

[@johmac30]

@@tomjones2121 You are joking, right? Let me make a note. From now on, every time I finish cutting the grass I should drain the oil before flipping it on its side to clean the clippings under the deck. Then put the oil back in. That seems much easier than pulling the rope until I feel the most resistance and then flipping it up so the muffler is facing down. Did you even watch the video?

[@spg5658]

I change my blade only when my mower is out of fuel and i have emptied the oil in preparation for an oil change. But, this was very helpful for sure 👍

[@garysherman953]

Dang! I have been working on cars for 56 yrs. and I have been doing this wrong because I did not think it through. Thanks for the slap on the back of my head. I really appreciate it.

[@madelynl.5351]

I’m a 73 yo widow. Thanks for the info about the best way to overturn my B&S Craftsman lawn mower. I’m going to try it. I’m doing this one task at a time and by God, one day that engine is going to turn over! And btw thanks, comment ladies for unwittingly encouraging me to continue to attempt to do my own repairs. Off topic, my favorite bit of advice when it came to a new man in my life is to ask myself, “does he want a nurse or a purse?” I don’t need neither, thankyouverymuch! Just like my machines, I want a reliable self sufficient self starter with low maintenance and who is easy to figure out! (Btw, this is NOT a personal ad!)

[@leyfolkner3977]

We think alike! 71 yo here. So glad I found this dude, tho.

[@pamelalyon1030]

I'm happy you came on I'm a 60 year old widow and my husband had cancer 5years now but he always did all the man stuff fixed everything he was good at it. But if he would have known utube has gotten me by from watching how to fix it my self He would have been proud and drank a cold one with you just for being one of the reasons I count on utube to show me how to fix it so Thank You Steve.have one for us☺

[@timdoll6718]

Great informative and helpful video . I have an older Honda self propelled lawn mower that I bought used from a local lawn equipment sales and repair company. The instructions clearly show what you just so throughly explained. The instructions doesn’t mention the top dead center tip though. My mower has started on the first pull from the day I bought it 5 years ago. I run only ethanol free gas and turn the fuel valve off and empty the carb after each use. Thank You for the well posted video showing the correct way to lay the mower on its side.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@Slangevar333]

As a Kid, my father showed me many things, but when it came to mechanical things specifically combustion engines, he had little to teach. He just took his power equipment to a repair shop and let them do their work. I got to the point 25 years ago, where I got too frustrated to haul my gear to a mechanic and then wait endlessly for them to complete their tasks and present me with a bill that came close to motivating me just to buy a new unit. I have watched many how videos in the 17 years that youtube has been around (and before that saw tutorials on VHS) Your videos are so well done! Your personable way of speaking and expressing all the nuances of how various small engine problems are solved on so many different types of machines and make, well they really turn the lightbulbs on for me and make me eager to tackle the repairs and maintenance that go with the advantages and benefits they provide. Your body of work here is superior and so broad, it truly makes you one of my heroes. Today I salute you for sharing, producing, planning, performing and broadcasting by taking full advantage of youtube and the internet! You have inspired me to join your channel as a member and support your great work here.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

WOW! Thank you so much Randall...

[@timothydolan5587]

Hi Randall, I am 65 and I totally concur with your post. Keep on keeping on!

[@keza41]

Ok, I’ve seen a few of your vids now, I’m going to subscribe because you provide no bullshit intro, no shit music, excellent content, with sound advice backed up with years of experience. Thank you sir, I learn something every time I watch.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

WOW! Thank You...

[@ericgillin4319]

maybe that's why this guys videos are not irritating, no shit music, some videos i can not even watch because of the music

[@FourSeasonsNorth4x4]

Just the facts sir, just the facts.(and no shit music)😉

[@hopehenderson7510]

Same here, its refreshing to have strait to the point information. I'm subscribing for that reason. His advice checks out from what I've researched so far.

[@gman8648]

Absolutely!!

[@user-vx2ms6vw1f]

Thank you for your advice to fix my weed wacker due to the cutting strips that kept falling out when in use. I purchased a new Echo rapid loader and even with all the different attachments, it would not fit on my older Echo weed wacker. I was cheesed off a bit but I remembered viewing your video taking the loader apart, cleaning and lubing the metal parts that hold the cutting string and now it works fine again. Thank you again Charles

[@superdave336]

Really great video with easy to understand explanation on everything. Now we know the correct way to tip a mower. Thanks for sharing.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad it was helpful!

[@littlecrow6484]

It's so good to know that there's somebody out there who actually knows a thing or two about a thing or two.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@andrew_koala2974]

Someone NOT SomeBODY. He is not DEAD yet Your knowledge of the English language is poor.

[@paulmaxwell8851]

Please, get off your high horse. No-one needs a lecture from you, a stranger on the internet. @@andrew_koala2974

[@jeffbarnowske5598]

Canadians are so helpful and good natured! Thanks from a neighbor to the south!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Our pleasure!

[@madeincanada5251]

Made my day! Thank you sir!

[@shadowdog500]

I was ready to tip over my lawnmower today and remembered this video. I’m glad I re-watched it before tipping the mower because I forgot about the “pull it to TDC” part. When I was done, It started on the first pull with no smoke.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Great job!

[@Lee-mmg]

You are a hero to this old 75 yr old great grandma - I know so much more and you told it in such clear terms. Thank you, thank you!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You are so welcome

[@mackrod9028]

FINALLY SOMEONE WHO GIVES YOU A STRAIGHT TO THE POINT VIDEO 👍

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on Buddy! Thank You...

[@jonthompson2066]

Finally someone has set the record straight, with video to prove it! Great job Steve!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@RubenRodriguez-lc4ky]

Wow, great video! Thanks! I used to not worry about tipping over my old lawnmower because it had an oil drain plug at the bottom & I just picked up the whole thing & put it on saw horses. NOW however, the newer mower DOES NOT HAVE an oil drain plug but instead I have to tip it to drain the oil out of the same oil fill inlet! What a pain, stupid idea by the manufacturer, I think.

[@mplslawnguy3389]

I know this is 3 yrs old, but very helpful, I never knew you could hydrolock an engine like that. I’ve never done this process before and it hasn’t happened to my Honda, but I will do this from now on just to be on the safe side.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@klwthe3rd]

I love how Steve really goes into detail on his explainations in his videos. I'm the kinda guy who likes detailed instructions and guidance. Probably why I love this channel!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on Kenny! Thank You...

[@NickD_7]

As home owner in Michigan, I have watched 100s of do it you selfer videos around the house and garage. This channel is the best on being informed on a particular matter. Definitely a KZbin Oscar channel.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Wow, thank you!

[@iloveit9468]

Say yes to Michigan! 👋

[@beverleygregory]

thanks Steve your the best info mower man out there, I spent a whole day on a honda 50 mower took of the carb twice and cleaned it still wouldnt start and run right, it would normaly start and run great but last fall just started and quit so I just got at it again, as taking it to the local shop costs $140 .00 every time it doesnt run right, so I have to try to overcome the problem myself so Im glad to view your site, I learned I missed the main central jet that you removed with a screwdriver ,so Im getting back at it today, Ill keep you posted thanks again

[@user-wl1eh9gm7o]

Clearly explained and easy to understand. Excellent.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@Electraglide1350]

68 years old ... seeing something like this for the first time..... Thank you so much Steve ... didn't save me money but it did save me from a lot of frustration .... people should share knowledge just as you have ....

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad to help

[@andrew_koala2974]

68 years of age - NOT 68 years old. People and animals live through the 'ages' it is THINGS that become OLD == Your Lawnmower - car - clothes - appliances etc. Did you not live through the teen-age years? The clues are in front of your eyes yet you are blind. For your homework make a list of all the ages ManKind has lived through.

[@charlesoliver5834]

Your performance (a caliber step up from presentation) style is engaging, well organized, non- condescending, inspiring, cognitively brilliant, and entertaining. You obviously are very intelligent, but your charming delivery makes your videos stand out from others that may have correct facts, but are tedious to watch. You show us how to figure things out. Your script is free and conversational without the all too often pitfalls of the unprepared. "Ah, um, I think...." Video production is well framed, well lighted, and well segmented with close-ups. No drifting (motion sick generating) changes in focus or zoom. Yeah! And my biggest pet peeve. "There's always a sound issue!" You always have perfect sound even when loud sounds happen, you dampen them so we don't get our ears blasted. And you don't mumble, deminuendo at the end of a word or phrase! Natural story teller and performer. FULL MARKS! - Professor of Education, Dr. Charles O.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

WOW! Thank you so much....

[@jacobbehunin]

Thanks! I had heard of the HydroLock issue, and people always glossed over how to put the Piston in TDC. I appreciate you showing how to do that!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad to help

[@robd4526]

Hands down BEST explanation video for ..... which side to flip the mower AND what to do BEFORE

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@MarlinMark444]

Men, women, children, we must protect Steve at all costs.

[@jenniferhermanson8969]

Sir yes Sir Rank up people

[@tonym6920]

Good idea. I’ve always just tipped my mowers carb side up, not paying much attention to the TDC issue, and never, ever had an issue with oil leaks or hydro-locking the engine after cleaning the underside of the deck. Like you demonstrated, the mowers always start first or second pull, no smoke. (Toro Recycler and 2 Honda mowers) I can understand what you’re saying and it makes perfect sense Steve, so, I’ll it a try next time. I don’t see mention of placing the engine at TDC center in the owner’s manuals, maybe they should! LOL. Stay safe buddy! 👍👍

[@ccadama]

@Tman NC. What's a owner's manual??? Just kidding. I'm one of those few that actually takes the time to read and go back over my user's manuals when I need to look up info. Just think of the tech writer whose job it is to get all the info and write a manual. That person needs some love too. Hope you and your family stay safe and well.

[@Leonardokite]

@@ccadama And then there are the "Engrish" manuals. "Please set that thing cylindrical at the top of the expired central"

[@daurbn]

Never had an issue with tilting mower with carburetor up. But never left it on its side for more than a few minutes. Seen neighbors doing some crazy things and then they are wondering why oil is low and it won't start,had to intervene before catastrophe happened, then informed them of what you taught me and told them to follow your KZbin channel for more small engine tips and repair videos 😉 Thank you Steve!

[@timbohouston]

I had a guy buy a mower from me. He tested it everything worked great, then he tipped it and it wouldnt start. Lol

[@ehsnils]

If you get problems with hydrolocking due to oil in just a few minutes then it's likely that the engine is in bad shape anyway. Only rule of thumb I can consider is to have less than half tank of gas, At least on those where there's no float bowl but the carburetor takes fuel directly from the tank. Not sure if they make them anymore, they existed in the 70's/80's.

[@chris72972]

Love your videos. Super helpful. I work on small engines a lot, and I knew not to tip it over with the carb down, but I never thought about moving the piston to TDC to make sure the valves are closed. Makes total sense, but it's nice that you you explain it, and show an easy way to do it. Thanks for all your hard work. Much appreciated. Keep it up!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad to help

[@bruceboettcher9977]

Thank you, Steve, thank you. For 50 years I hated turning my mower over because I didn't know how and was not smart (or humble) enough to get educated. I love your clear no-nonsense approach. Did I say thanks?

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@blairfright9622]

Hi Steve, I've always tipped my mower with the carb up. But I didn't even think about top dead center, great tip! My hat off to the master!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@randyclark831]

I always turned the mower with the carburetor up when I changed the blade because it seemed logical that the oil would pool and make it difficult to start. Great to hear your explanation of the valve and piston position and how to “feel” that position. Good info!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@masterbondofox8982]

@@StevesSmallEngineSaloon I learned the hard way years ago. My mower was sputtering and fighting to start and to keep running ... after a day or two I put my troubleshooting mind to work and took out the air filter. Completely clogged with oil.

[@keneest3918]

Great info,well presented.

[@bobbiewhitten1718]

A lot of people in this country don't work on logic. Just read some of the questions they ask.

[@MMM40727]

Thank you! I just replaced the blade on my 12 yr old mower and not a drop of oil or gas spilled out! I’m a 63 yr old woman and this video helped me do it myself!! The grass looks fantastic with that new blade!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Great job!

[@jzm6403]

I've changed my blades 3 times on my Honda 22" and always have layed it on its right side like he does early in the video. It shows this in my Honda manual. Never had a problem.

[@vavoom8380]

I was given a '92 Craftsman mower that spent years exposed to the elements..cord would not pull, filter crumbling away, rain water in gas tank and oil like tar..thanks to Steve got that baby working and now for that edger!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@GG-eg6kn]

Finally a video that gets straight to the point!!! Then goes into detail!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@Dan4052]

Excellent! Very good. And your delivery is clear, concise, and grammatically correct! Loved it. Thank you.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're very welcome!

[@frankrobinson5453]

I was just about to perform an oil change on my push mower and was gonna tip it on it's side to drain the oil. I didn't realize the benefit of finding top dead center as you described. Many thanks for the great advice. I never thought of checking for tdc like this. Thank you.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@frankrobinson5453]

@@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Did the oil change today. Found tdc and tipped her over. Cranked on first pull, smoked for 2 seconds and everything is great. Also changed the plug. Feels like I accomplished something today.

[@secretsquirrel5566]

My goodness. I accidentally came across this channel trying to get my generator to start. Since then, I've made it through 4 of your playlists. You Sir are a gift to all of us. Your procedures and step-by-step instructions along with your tips of how to make things easier are just fantastic. Most people want to charge us mortals to fix these things, but you empower us to do it ourselves. I am a Senior Software Engineer and always considered that I just wasn't "mechanically inclined". It turns out that I was just fine. What I was missing was an instructor that spoke my language. Thank you Steve, you've really changed my knowledge and way of thinking.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Awesome comment! Thank You...

[@TheCount46]

Well, you certainly have solved another problem for me. No wonder I was having oil spill out and it took 10 or more pulls to start it. A big thumbs up for you, Steve!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@robertshorthill4153]

George 420 Here's a story for you: Last late August, my son - in- law has a pressure washer that he had that would not start. He was ready to return it. Asked me could I figure out why. I checked the oil and put in fresh gas of the non- ethanol type, since he just buys any gas he can find at the station. Turns out he put in about 3 times as much oil as it needed. I sucked as much oil as I could with a large syringe and filled it back up with proper amount. It fired right up and smoked for about ten minutes before burning off all the oil in the engine. I've still got the machine to use this spring if I need it for stuff and he can have it back in running order. Thanks to Steve it is running well. Watch out for over full engine oil tank Cheers Bov

[@arlenbell4376]

Glad I happened across this video as I just changed the blade on my mower two days ago. After a lot of work I was able to tip it backwards and support it as I’ve always heard was the only way to do it. This tip about TDC is a clear winner and I just subscribed to your channel!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@TheMycroft1]

I watched this video a few years ago and again just now. Thanks for the useful demonstration, wish I could 'Like' it a second time.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're very welcome!

[@tomwilliams8675]

Never knew about that. Just always put up with a little dripping and got the job done. That's why the grass has little brown spots next to the garage 😁 Thanks 👍👍👍

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@nonyabiz2777]

Nice work. The same advice my grand dad told me 45 years ago. You sir are a national treasure. Bravo to the camera person and editor. Nice quality work.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Wow, thanks

[@19KiloOIF3RedCon1]

You're awesome dude and explain procedures perfectly. Reminds me of my dad when he was alive(not just about the beer cans) he just doing shit so long that he showed up the people that think they know best!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@K159S]

Steve is my "go to" guy for lawnmower stuff. His videos are fantastic - clear instructions and he always explains the why's and how's of proper mower maintenance/repair. With the help of his videos, I overhauled the carb, replaced the pull cord and set the gap on the coil of my mower. And it starts on the first pull - every time. You're The Man, Steve!!! 🍻🍻

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

WOW! Thank You...

[@haraldlonn898]

Explains everything. Never had any problems before but now I know Im doing it right, including the beer after and not before.

[@dittilio]

I absolutely love that your "buffer" time is actually useful explanation of what's going on. Most channels spend 5 minutes saying nothing before finally "revealing" what should have taken 10 seconds. Love this channel.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

I appreciate that!

[@garybregel1572]

This video was great information. I always wondered about tipping the lawnmower over to work on it. I had no idea what side to tip it on. But now I do, thanks to your video. I'm guessing this applies to riding lawnmowers too. Someone gave me a used push lawnmower, and I got it working but I needed to sharpen the blade. I always use a riding lawnmower so I never came across this problem before. Again thank you!!!!!

[@williamkniesly5090]

Great video . I found out if i keep quiet long enough and pay attention I learn something. Thank you.

[@CoolHDude]

Damn, you make a great small engine instructor. You explained not only how but why. I found your video because I was about to replace my lawnmower blade and I wanted to make sure I didn't get oil anywhere it wasn't supposed to be at... while also making it easy for me to change it by tipping it over. Thanks again dude!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on Mikey! You're Welcome...

[@MH-wg6bz]

I've just always expected to drip some fuel or oil. Never thought much about moving the piston TDC and carb up. Great idea. Will use that next time.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@matthewmansell1413]

I didn't expect such a complete and informative video from something i randomly clicked on. Thank you so much for quality content and no extra fluff. You earned a subscriber.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on buddy! Thank You...

[@RejectedGamerGuy]

just starting a lawncare business. had a brand new mower smoke up on me. i didnt overfill or tip on its side so i assume it was a defective motor. i appreciate your tips! got a new replacement

[@edwardstavola3639]

I haven't been doing repairs but a couple of years but after watching your video it has taught me a lot. Well worth the time to view it. Thanks Steve!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Great to hear!

[@Leonardokite]

Hmmm, I never did the TDC thing before. One extra precautionary measure!

[@papawd3991]

I never did the top dead center trick. I will from now on, air filter up, muffler down. I have subscribed. 30 inch Toro & 52 inch Tiger Cat owner! Thanks.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

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

[@stephenbutler463]

brilliant tip, i got the hydro lock, with loads of oil burning, when i tipped to the side. Wish i knew this, thanks. Got out of Hydro lock by removing the spark plug, pulled the cord and oil shot out of the spark plug hole. Plug back in, smoked like a 60 a day smoker, but fine after that. Wish i'd seen this video b4 i done it

[@beeswan9775]

Thank you. I am a senior citizen living alone. I must do my yard and weekly mower maintenance myself. This was very helpful!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad it was helpful!

[@g.p.880]

20 years ago I was small engine tech at sears service and we always laid our mowers over to the oil filler side. Even the big 3 engine suppliers would tell us do it that way, but never mention tdc, wish I would of known that back then, great advice. Thanks.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@David-vn7th]

Thanks Steve great video. For years I have avoided flipping my lawn mower for fear of F***ing it up. Now I know how to do it correctly!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@ricknichols5680]

I've always wondered about which side to turn up...I never thought about positioning the piston to TDC and closing the valves. U de MAN

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@johnschafstall1323]

Teaching me about the top dead center was really great. Thank you!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@abe677]

My 85-year-old mother still mows her yard. Bags the grass too. She likes to life the mower to clean the under side, especially when the grass is a little damp. I'm sending her this video because she has made the mower un-startable more than once. You described this better than I could have.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on Marky...

[@chrisdewoody1529]

Your gonna make grandma take the plug out ?

[@abe677]

Hopefully stop her from screwing up the mower and having to call someone.

[@sharonwargo6370]

I changed the oil in a jeep recently. Was the ghost time I've ever changed out despite years of seeing to be shown how. Well today is first time I've changed a spark plug on a push mower. I'll let you know how it goes!! Thank you so much. I would've screwed something up for sure had I not watched this video prior to putting new spark plug in. Thanks so much you were very clear and great instruction!!

[@jameshoffnagle280]

You’re my favorite lawnmower man👍. Save me tons of money 💰, and I feel a little smarter after watching your channel. Thank you

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad to help

[@TheCount46]

Thank you, Steve! I don't know how many times I had to clean up the oil spill from tipping my lawn mower on the wrong side. The piston at top dead center solves all this! Thanks again for another excellent teaching lesson.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@robinsontimg7451]

thanks Steve; I was afraid to tilt my mower because of the fluids; now I feel confident to service my unit

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@stephenplatt852]

Your tips and spot on insights to avoid problems working on these lawnmowers, are excellent! Thanks...

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@sikwilly45]

I always used to just go for it and tip my mower on the muffler side down. I didn't know about pulling the rope to align the piston and close the valves. Thanks Steve!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad to help

[@philipm1009]

Steve thanks to your advice has kept my fleet of lawn mowers and chainsaws in great condition ,I have saved them all from being scrapped not the most modern lawnmower but certainly the best cheers from Ireland

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Fantastic!

[@Paul-jk9lz]

I live in Western Australia 🇦🇺 Have just got myself a lawn mower for the first time in over 12 years, dont normally have lawn as its to hard to keep alive during summer went for paths and native garden instead being sun tolerant MY CHOICE. Have a house with a lawn now, I'm going to give a go. I'll need to get some pointers to keep the mower running. So im glad I found your site.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@williamcattr267]

You are definitely getting a thumbs up an a subscriber! Well explained and helpful. Haven't tipped my Honda HRA214 over yet, but I always figured that there may be an issue with oil or gas seeping out if I put it on its side to service it.

[@johnnywalker6385]

I rebuilt transmissions for almost 50 years and to this day I understand small engine repair less than anything mechanical I’ve ever done. They never fail to make me crazy when trying to repair them. Thank you Steve for helping me keep some sanity!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@Joe-qv7jk]

Transmissions are EZ

[@mrbeans2425]

swapped my blades out yesterday! on that same Honda. No oil leaking but a little gas. took me about 15 minutes. Those Hondas are really nice machines! Great video!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@JusBidniss]

Great tip! I had already been tipping it in that direction, but my reason was to put the gas cap on the upper side. I hadn't even thought of engine oil, hydro-lock or anything. I suppose I must have had times when the combustion chamber filled with oil, but since I didn't start it right away, it had time to drain back down. But now having seen this, I will always do it this way. Thanks!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@leedarling6611]

I was amazed at your demonstration of putting the mower at top dead center before tipping the mower on its side. I never knew. I was training my 11 year old how to cut the grass. Unfortunately on this day our grass and the Power Toro Shute kept plugging up. We tipped it over to clean the underside of packed grass. Almost all the oil drained out. So the next tip over we tipped it on the gas tank side. No oil 8:49 leaked, but he could not pull the handle to start. I thought the engine was toast. But you just mentioned it was in hydro lock. After a while I got it to start. Next time I will make sure my son puts it at top dead center before tipping over. Thank you! Lee and Emil in Kingsburg ca

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@abouvier3457]

Greetings from a Canadian woman. I know this video is now two years old, but wanted to say well done! Your description is easy to follow. Although, I haven't tipped over my mower yet, and can't report what happened. Thank you Steve.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@rdleahey]

Great tip! When I turned my mower over the wrong way for the first time, the air filter got saturated with oil. I tried to run it’d like that; disaster! I do not bother to pull the plug off of the spark plug. I just shut off the fuel feed and wait for the engine to die.

[@breeze787]

I really appreciate you're sharing how to get the mower in top dead center in the compressions stroke. Never knew that, now I do. Muchos gracias' mun!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@bruceparr1678]

I run a have been running the same Victa 2 stroke since 1990 on 1700 square metre block. Never had to worry about any of those 4 stroke issues.

[@garrymacantanaiste575]

Hi Steve, I live in Australia, and I have started doing lawns and gardening, and I just want to say a big thankyou mate. You are teaching me a lot of good info that I really need to know.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on Mate! You're Welcome...

[@Sanepain]

You are right! I found the sweet spot for the piston and turned it over to work on it... and no oil drops--- none! Worked on it easily and it started on first pull with no smoke. Thanks!!!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad it helped!

[@williambodi6813]

Thank you so much for your videos, my mower accidentally got Hydro locked and I went online and saw your video on how to Repair my mower. It worked and it is because with your video and how you explain everything so well and so clearly I was able to do this!! Thank you Steve

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@groovr22]

Very informative. Good Stuff, Steve..! I love how you explained the reasons for doing it that way, instead of just saying, "Do it this way." You Da-Man..!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

I appreciate that!

[@Sitania]

This really did help me. My old man always said airbox up, but never mentioned the cylinder to top center. Cheers!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad it helped