Straighten A Bent Lawn Mower Crankshaft With A Pipe

I will tell you why I don't use a hammer to straighten a bent shaft. I use a heavy pipe now because it is softer, safer, impact proof and easy. A lawn mower is garbage if it has a bent shaft. You have nothing to lose by trying this trick...
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#stevessmallenginesaloon #smallenginerepair #smallengine #lawnmower #mower #honda #craftsman #toro #troybilt #johndeere #husqvarna #crankshaft

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

✅Click here for a dial indicator ➜ amzn.to/2QxEOlw ✅Click here for a strong magnet ➜ amzn.to/34K65d4 ✅Click here for a clamp ➜ amzn.to/3gF8loe For more videos like this, check out: 👉Proper Way To Tip A Lawn Mower Over ➜ kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5aoh5ydqLukqKc 👉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

[@staind288]

Thank so much for this video Steve. I used to smash it with a hammer myself and the last time I did this I broke a motor mount right into the sump on a Honda engine! I'll definitely be utilizing this way next time

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@russellrobinson505]

Cool Steve!!! Thanks!

[@lesgallivan4159]

Why not put a chunk of 2x4 cross the underside of the mower deck , then a small screw jack between it and the crankshaft. Seem , in theory that it would be a much more accurate way , could mount a dial indicator on the opposite side and get a running measurement while straightening

[@hectorcalderon3011]

@@lesgallivan4159 that is a very good idea

[@bobc.5324]

As a youngster working around my fathers service station I worked on mowers every summer. Fixed several bent crankshafts that way. Customers gladly paid me. In fact after I got married a customer brought one in and said he bent the crankshaft and was trashing the mower. I told him I could straighten it, he didn't need to buy a new one. He said if you want you can have it. I straightened it , took it home and used it for many years. It had a wind up crank instead of a pull rope. Finally wore out the crank mechanism and put a pull rope housing on it until it finally died. Loved those Briggs engines.

[@mesoanto1031]

What a story!! From a youngster to a married man with the lawnmower as the subject

[@lesschattermoresplatter5769]

I’ve straightened the crankshaft on several engines over the years and my system is similar to yours but I remove the blade and the spark plug plug so the engine spins freely. I then hold a sharpie in the position where you had the screwdriver tip but a tad closer. You spin the crank and the sharpie will leave a mark on the high side. Bend the crank the opposite direction with a cheater pipe, wipe off the previous mark and do it all over again. Works like a charm.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Great tip! Thank You...

[@jeremyvercher4696]

He removed the spark plug

[@lesschattermoresplatter5769]

@@bitteroldman701 rest your hand on the lower side of the deck so it’s steady then pull the rope slowly to make the crank turn. It only takes a couple seconds.

[@mkoszyca]

@@StevesSmallEngineSaloon 8:44

[@pirat350]

Finally a bent crank fix that doesn't involve a sledge. I'm a big fan of Archimedes ("give me a lever,a fulcrum and a place to stand and I can move the world") been using his principles for decades. I'm ashamed that I did not think of this. The pipe trick gives you so much more control. Good job my friend and thanks!

[@charliecubero2260]

I tried this and it solved my problem. I can’t thank you enough. I’m going through thought economical times, and not only I saved money on repairing my lawnmower, I also use it to make a little extra money. This was a win win situation for me. Thanks again, Sir.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@zrkn1]

A perfect example of why you're a successful mechanic. While straightening certain aircraft engine parts we never hit them, it's a gradual bending with a tolerance of up to .001 to dead nuts. Thank You!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Cool...

[@tobysarsi6864]

Totally agree, why hit with a hammer when you can bend with a pipe? Plus the bending method gives you time to achieve precision.

[@mongomay1]

Great tip, you have no idea how many mowers got scrapped because of this issue.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You got that right!

[@timbohouston]

I need to do this to one of my riders

[@lawnmanmartinfan7909]

I have the same mower Steve that you were using it's a Honda recycler with the double blade system the double blades hooked up to a piece of steel in the shape of a bow tie how do you get the bow tie off the crank shaft. There's 3 Is bolts total 2 of them hold on the mulching blades the 3rd one comes straight up the center of the shaft like a normal single blade mower but when I remove that Bolt 🔩 the bowtie won't release.??????

[@JesseJohnson-hj9xj]

I bent my shaft worse than yours. I did what you said and it worked. I didn't get it as straight as you did but, my mower is useable. It definitely was not before. Thank you.

[@joeolejar]

I saved my mower after hitting a rock that bent the shaft nearly as bad as your example. Used a 4 foot pipe just as you did.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@DaveMason-gt7nh]

My crankshaft was bent almost 1/4 inch, I used the pipe method. It took me about a half hour but it worked. The suggestion to check the flywheel keyway was spot on mine was way out of time. Lawnmower is back in service. Thank you Steve.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@DScottDay]

What suggestion? Did Steve mention this in THIS video? At what time counter number? Where should the keyway be on the shaft below? Is the keyway the same keyway as above? What about the keyway 180 degrees on the other side of the shaft? Help me someone?

[@DScottDay]

At 7:50 about on this video STeve says, "but that's on another video." What's that other video called about the Key Way and the timing? Thx, DDay

[@PeterFeltersnatch852]

​@@DScottDayholy fuk... relax... either way to much coffee or way to much meth

[@DScottDay]

@@PeterFeltersnatch852 I didn't say that Peter. sry someone used my name.

[@f9qo]

Been there, done that. It's wise to use a pipe thats inside diameter fits as close as is possible over the crank, or insert something in the pipe to make the fit more snug. With too loose a pipe, especially with a smaller diameter crank, you risk putting an additional bend in the crank when you pull on it. Then, the additional bend over the exposed part of the crank is a bugger to straighten out.

[@BAAcic]

That is a really good point. I'll bear it in mind when I do my one. No I won't, I'll bare it in mind!

[@mikedunn7795]

Never heard of this before! Wish I knew about it about 50 years ago when I ran over a small tree stump in the grass with dad's brand new Toro! The mower was still usable,but it sure vibrated when you mowed with it!

[@gabriellovin7227]

Wow I am so happy now. So glad I found this video!! I’ll be fixing my mower today!! Used twice only and has been sitting for years… hopefully it’ll work in less than 14 tries haha

[@rickwashek478]

Good one Steve. I had a mower many years ago with a bent crank. Took it 3 or 4 places they all said had to replace crank shaft can't straighten it. Then I heard of a repair shop to check it. The guy was pretty old he said let it here I'll fix it. I don't know what he did but that old mower ran smoother than it ever did.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Awesome Rick...

[@bobmcl2406]

That is an EXCELLENT video! I purchased a Murray self-propelled mower for cheap, specifically because it had a bent crank. I did the hammer thing, but did not dare hit too hard. It made things a little better I have been putting up with the free hand massages for a couple of years. Now I have a method to make things way better. Thanks Steve, you are a star!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad it helped

[@Thomas63r2]

This video is legend. I ran over a buried rake and it brought my engine to a dead stop and then had a tight spot. I was able to get it started with difficulty, and finish a large lawn with the vibra-massage. I first looked on eBay for a replacement crankshaft. I wasn’t expecting that I could straighten it out like the Steve way. Thanks

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@pattayperformance]

Don’t ask me why I never thought of this. I use the hammer method. Every time I post a video of it on my channel people go nuts (in a bad way) 🤣. This year I had 5 bent crank shafts to the point I was tempted to spend $300 on the bench mounted tool. Your video saved me bench space and money.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@oakleyfain2742]

Steve I am 77 and tried this and after 3 bud lights I had my wife help me and it worked great the mower ran great Im not sure it my wife or the bud was the most help HA HA

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@punisher6001]

Man, you rock! Straight to the point, very clear, professional tutorial. Thankyou so much!!!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@TheDkb427]

Awesome video Steve!!! I just ran over a tree saw buried in the yard and noticed my lawnmower was shaking more than before. Haven't fixed it yet but now I know not to beat the hell out of it with a hammer! Lol Thanks man!!!!

[@littlebearish]

I just ran over a very large bolt that was laying in my yard the other day and it brought my mower to a dead stop and completely mutilated the blade and crank. I put a new blade on and it vibrated so bad it was unusable. I took the blade and adaptor off, used the blade as a straight edge to find the high spot and have it one good whack with a sledge hammer and it was straight as a pin. So funny this would pop up in my suggestions after going through that. This is clearly the better route as its more controllable. I can't tell ya how many decent mowers I've seen thrown at the dump for just a bent crank. Nice to see ya giving good instructions on how to fix them.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@watchman401]

I would not have thought that thin wall pipe could do it, but it did, good tip!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@geoffreyjones2000]

I've done this twice with excellent results, but I never told anyone :) you're the best, sir

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Fantastic!

[@tinkerscorner54]

Hey Steve, A buddy of mine brought his mower over the other day because it kept quitting on him. We started it up and I tied the shut off bar down to see how long it would take to shut off. First thing I noticed was that the governor was out, so I shut it down quick and did the governor adjustment. Started it up and it still idled way too high, so I shut it down quick again, adjusted the idle speed, tied the rope back on the handle and started it up again. I "thought" that I could do a fine adjustment on the idle but the durn mower was trying to hop sideways down my driveway, so I couldn't just turn the mower loose to make the adjustment. My buddy was watching and asked me what in the world was making it do that. I told him it was ether a badly balanced blade or the crankshaft could be bent. I told him to take my mower, finish the job he had going, and I would look further into it. And, Sure enough, the crank was bent a hair over 5/16" out. So, I came here and watched this video and tried to do the adjustment using a 30 mm deep socket with about 3 feet of 1/2 inch drive extensions. Well, after about a half hour and only gaining 3/32 off of the 5/16 inch bend, I quit because I was sure that one of those extensions was about to break and there was too much flex in the "Rig" to make any progress. I figured that I'd go to Lowe's and pick up a cheap piece of pipe and keep it around for a cheater bar (I left all of mine at my Dad's house when I got married and moved on and never got them later because he always used them). What a SHOCK! I mean Sticker Shock. I looked in every department that carried any sort of pipe and the prices blew my mind. It used to be cheap to go and get about a 3- or 4-foot length of pipe, and there used to be a chance of getting a scrap piece really cheap or free from mistakes at the pipe cutting/threading station (that they no longer have). I ended up getting a 1-1/4" X 36" piece of galvanized pipe in the plumbing department and it totaled $24.75 U.S., AFTER the 10% Military Discount. And the durn thing wasn't even threaded! 25 bucks for what was around 4 or 5 buck just 20 years ago! We used to throw pipes that size in the scrap heap at the jobsite. What's worse is, if I'd have gotten the 10-foot length, yeah, it was cheaper per foot, but it was $56! Even at today's gas prices, I can't squeeze that much gas in my car on a bet. And for a stupid, short piece of pipe! That's STUPID HIGH. Sorry about the long comment and the "Inflation" rant. That's the first time I've ever even considered making a special spot on my tool board just for what used to be just leftover scrap. I may even engrave a serial number on it and give it a custom paint job so it can be identified if it's ever stolen. Thanks for the video. I reckon that I'll take that overpriced, designer cheater bar and see if I can get that crank as close as you were able to. (For $25, I should be able to just point it at the crank and "Scare It Straight". I could have gotten a new crank on Flea-bay for $14 more.) Take Care!

[@SuperheroDon]

Steve, SOLID! Caught my Husqvarna on a hidden Pine stump. Bent the shaft so badly the blade is hitting the inside wall of the mower deck! Bought me a fence pipe for a bender bar. Followed steps 1-5. Back in action!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Awesome!

[@trevorbarker9686]

Thanks I have always thrown the bent Crankshaft mowers away thanks for letting me know that I can bent them back into shape

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad to help

[@bobw.991]

Freak'n "A" Steve, thanks man. I didn't want to spend $350 on the shaft straightener, and I hate beating on it with the BFH.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@rossbrumby1957]

350 for a crankshaft straightener? You can get a briggs replacement mower here in Australia for less.

[@tobysarsi6864]

I was also about to buy the $350 Mighty Mac driveshaft straightening tool from eBay, but kept waiting bc it’s not a cheap tool. And I have 3 engines that have bent shafts that were given to me free bc of the bent shafts. Majority of DIY videos show the hammer technique and that didn’t have the precision I was hoping for. So when I saw Steve’s video on the pipe method, I said “Yes thank you Steve! I can try that and save myself $350!” I’m just fixing mowers for my own self-learning, I’m not running a shop, so I’m OK with sensible DIY methods to avoid a “Game over man!” scenario. Steve you are A1 because I have not seen or read anyone else on KZbin or the forums with the long pipe leverage technique, Outstanding Steve!

[@nbpt1000]

@@rossbrumby1957 It is intended for a shop that will professionally straighten a few shafts a month. A local show where I live wanted $50 to $100 to straighten the shaft on a Quantum Engine. My word. It would pay for itself pretty quickly if you have a good reputation.

[@davidrobinette3834]

Back in the late 60’s and the 70’s I used a dedicated jig which mounted the engine in the horizontal position. There were two adjustable blocks, one for holding the crankshaft stable just as it came out of the engine. The other could be adjusted near the end, as this one did the actual bending. A run out dial was used to 1) measure the initial run out and 2) measure progress. I was trained to ALWAYS adjust a few thousands at a time. My preferred method was to bend a few thousands and let it sit in tension for 30 minutes or so. Yes it was a slow process, but if you rushed it you could crack the crank. You may not realize it was cracked, but if the owner hit another obstacle the shaft could splinter and the lawyers would be at the door. I’m NOT SAYING that your technique is wrong, I’m just saying that as a 14 year old factory certified Briggs technician this is how I did it.

[@wallyschloeffel1678]

If you had to pay someone to replace the crank it is generally cost-prohibitive but if you can do it yourself then it would be the better option, the crank is the biggest cost but normally the gaskets and other smaller parts that are needed aren't that expensive. Another good indicator that the crank is bent if it is bent enough will be wetness around the lower crank seal. I have replaced several crankshafts on the John Deere JS38 self-propelled push-type mowers & made fairly good coin when I sold them (mind you I got them for free because the owners were told too expensive to fix) & it would be if you were paying someone to repair them. Another great video Steve thanks again.

[@todhurley3756]

Great job. Just wish could have seen this a year ago when I hit a brick with my new mower.

[@Bilytkid]

Great video. On my lawnmower, I was able to disassemble the motor, remove the crankshaft, then put it in a big lathe. Using a torch on the bend, while straightening it to line up with the tailstock of the lathe.

[@archangel8838]

Hot diggity my lawnmower had been sitting around for almost 2 months .been using my weed waker until i came across you helpful video , went out gave her a try with a pipe , and I'll be Damned ! IT WORKED ... the shaking and vibrations gone I it works just like if it were brand new .. God bless and thank you so very much sir . Salute ..🍺

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@rupe53]

Just thought I would mention that if the crank was bent due to hitting something you need to check the blade for bends as well. Also look at the blade adaptor because it might be aluminum and that can crack too.

[@scottsteinhoff5151]

Absolutely awesome Steve! You are definitely the master of small engine repair!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Wow, thanks

[@66lwmorgan]

Most guys have there garage setup with shelves holding anti freeze, oil, WD 40 and a butt load of cleaning products but not here. I love how your shelves display all the different types of drinks needed to work on small engine's. Looking good Steve, keep adding to the list.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank You...

[@mlmiks]

Cant wait to bent my crankshaft so i can try this. Great way to save a lost mower. Thanks Steve.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad to help

[@moconno1]

Awesome video Steve! Why didn’t I see this before I junked a beautiful Honda mower 3 years ago. Keep up the good work. Drink 😊😎👍🏻

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thanks 👍

[@dionpeek4339]

Really cool I actually have a lawnmower motor from 20 years ago that I hit a tree stump with now I can fix it

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Cool!

[@vladislav3]

HUGE Bonus points for having a Czechvar (Budvar) open while working! I immediately took you more seriously. Ahoj from Slovakia.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

LOL! Right on buddy...

[@vladislav3]

@@StevesSmallEngineSaloon Also, after going and doing this on my Honda it worked perfectly. Thankfully because that part could not be obtained here if I didn't straighten it.

[@specialks1953]

Briggs & Stratton had a tool to straiten crankshafts (a pointer system with a bolt to force the shaft correct.) back when I was very young and working on vertical shaft engines back in about 1965 or close to that time. I fixed very many in my days working for White Stores Inc. on Jensen Dr. in Houston, Texas. We usually fixed them under warranty but did not get warranty money from Briggs then. My dad was the manager and helped customers more than most back then.

[@mjg263]

Great tip Steve! I was going to do the exact same thing a few years ago but everyone kept saying “use a hammer” so I figured there must be a reason why nobody ever uses a long pipe. Should’ve just tried using a pipe, the hammer didn’t work for me and I ended up parting the engine out and scrapping it.

[@RichardWilson-sh3kr]

Pretty cool, would have never thought of trying to save one in that shape.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@TotalFreedomTTT-pk9st]

I'm half way in and this is really good - the dreaded bent crank shaft is being undreaded before my eye's - must be that blade mount hole or it is softer iron that allows the bend or it's the forces involved are so intense - full stop at 4000 rpm' s and a flywheel blade to add to the mass - that's some explosive force or actually contained explosive force I guess

[@andyjones9386]

I tore my motor down and straightened the crank with a hydraulic press.More trouble but I got it perfect.I was afraid to damage the block by prying or beating on the crank while it was still in the block.Worked for me.

[@HellSolo]

Look at this beast bending metal like a God!!!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Bendin it like a NINJA Buddy!

[@tfitz44]

New subscriber! Great video. I have a John Deere JS26 push mower that has a bent crankshaft. Nothing like running over a piece of old cast iron pipe that was hidden. I figured there had to be a better way to do this than to just smack on it with a hammer. I’ll give it a shot. Nothing like living in a rural, country area where you’re pretty much on your own for repairs like this. But I like it that way. It makes me learn how to do my own small engine repair.

[@jimmyross4352]

Thanks Steve! I’m going to try this now with a new discarded Honda mower. I was going to use a 4# Mall🏋🏽

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Good luck!

[@dannylinc6247]

People told me to be afraid of it shearing after the fact. Did you know that of all the failed crankshafts studied, the one proven cause is always lack of lubrication? You can get the adapter sleeve and whack them to your heart's content, find a shop that uses the straightener jig, or bend them back with this neat trick. People who fear breakage tell Whopper stories about the blade being attached and coming flying out and hitting someone. But you have to think it's going, if that was possible, it's going to hit the deck and the ground and stop. I say you can straighten them and shear is not an issue in studies I read. I also found no news stories of mower blade coming out and flying across the yard either. Great video and we'll thought out as always.

[@timweage6004]

Great idea Steve, I got one in the back yard with a bent crank. I’ll give it a try.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@cowboypicker1968]

Damn 14 tries, I bet that’s a lot of good beers lol

[@weschaffin]

This works. I did it and results were surprisingly good.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@johnwallis7744]

I used this method and it worked a treat, I got the crankshaft almost perfectly straight again. Then, when I put the blade back on I noticed that it was well over an inch lower (at the end of the blade) at one end than it was at the other, in relation to the bottom rim of the deck. I realised that I'd pulled so hard on my 4ft of pipe whilst straightening the crank that I'd stretched the whole deck out of shape. However, after some remodelling of the deck with a 14lb sledgehammer I got it back level in the end and it's all working fine now.

[@canuckfixit7722]

What's the long-term status of this repair? Is the mower still running strong? If the main bearing is not damaged by either the initial impact or through stress from the pipe straightening effort, the mower can still live on.

[@danjanssen6464]

Hi Steve, great video. 2 years ago, I used a mini sledge and a block of wood. Every hit moved it a 1/32, so it was perfectly concentric in the end and ran great afterward. However yes, at the time it seemed barbaric and i was scared what I was doing to the bottom end. Next time (hopefully never) it will be your method. Thanks again!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@ogreunderbridge5204]

Good thing the customers from my garden tool tech days likely wont see this video. As a diploma B&S mechanic, I got paid for replacing a whole heep of bent cranks with new ones :))

[@beerggls]

Sweet. Easier than Taryl’s video over there, using a big ol custom made crank spindle bending jig setup.. Nobody got time for all that!

[@beerggls]

You must have stronger legs than mine.. spindle ain’t bending before the entire mower rotates. Tried driving stakes in the dirt front and back to help hold the deck stationary.. broke stupid plastic front end height adjust cross bar axle retainers.. Toro 21” with single levers front and rear that adjust both wheels with one lever simultaneously. Damn plastic parts!

[@butler386]

Ah Ha, this makes better sense than with a hammer. Great tip. Thanks again for the information.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad to help

[@robertchall8576]

That will work never tried it and hope I don't have to. You would have to take your time to save from bending back and forth. Most people would make it worst . thanks Steve.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Great point

[@knurlgnar24]

Not sure what you're saying, this absolutely works. I've used a cruder sledgehammer method a couple of times and the mowers ran great for years afterwards.

[@rtiros]

Just fixed two mowers using that method works perfectly fine.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@edmcwv]

Thanks! I needed to see this before I when out and bought another mower. I tried to get the crankshaft straightened but everyone I talked to told me it couldn’t be done.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad I could help

[@tobysarsi6864]

Yes all of my previous internet research kept saying “hit with a hammer” or “don’t do it due to liability [if you run a shop]” or “just replace the driveshaft”. Nobody else was mentioning this rather simple and elegant method of using leverage from a long pipe! Thanks Steve!

[@tkskagen]

But, you should also replace the "Output Shaft Seal" as well! Luckily, that isn't very hard to do. Thanks Steve!👍 Take care, 🤓 -Thomas

[@kriswright1022]

Yep, the video clearly shows the lip of the seal is damaged.

[@Kay-dx8vm]

I literally scrolled down this comment section for this. You can see the oil is leaking. It is still a very informative video though, if I was in a middle of mowing or just because I wanna fix my mower (I always fix mine) then I would do this. Doing this first actually makes it possible to disassemble the crank case as well.

[@jamesstevenson69]

Tried it Steve, but couldn't budge the shaft using a 4 foot cheater bar, and I reefed it . It's a Honda gcv 160. Tough mother of a shaft. Really like your style. James in Ottawa, Canada.

[@logikalx]

I had to do this after hitting an iron nail. I got the crankshaft straight but now the mower deck is slightly bent. It is still way better, quiet now and less vibration. I may not even bother to try and get the deck straight its an old mower anyways! Thanks for the video.

[@annalaurie741]

Hi Steve, I am a 'slightly older' lady - so not a ton of muscle power - do you think this trick would be possible for me? Also, I am in the UK - what kind of pipe is that? I guess it has to be something quite heavy to be strong enough. Thanks for the videos, they are great.

[@bumblbesss]

This Crank Shaft Is not BENT" Its Rotationally Impaired !!!!!!

[@jorgeposadas1192]

Hahahahahahahahaha

[@blatorden]

:)))

[@MrPallingo]

It's dizzy from too much ethanol in the tank.

[@buddyg1408]

I'm imparid also 🙃

[@8000RPM.]

That's the Joe Biden explanation.

[@davidossinger8183]

This is great. I took a 3 year old Husqvarna mower to a dealer asking them to explain why the muffler has shaken itself completely off. They sold me a $50 replacement muffler and said everything was fine. It wasn't fine. It broke a motor mount next time I used it. But maybe now I can resurrect it.

[@grassroot1100]

good idea and saves having to replace the crank, taking the while engine apart. Did that last time. Thanks

[@michaelslivensky8741]

I'm not trying to be the jerk here, but what I was taught by my Briggs mentor was, a crankshaft should only be straightened, to facilitate removal of the sump, for an actual crankshaft replacement, he actually had a crankshaft straightening jig/tool and would absolutely not straighten a crankshaft for anyone. But for the end user, I can see this as useful information. He didn't want the liability or the return service. sometimes you just hafta call something not worthy of repairing.

[@briang4470]

Hey man if you're trying to finish cutting your grass and need to finish it, you gotta do what ya gotta do but I understand, never expect a professional to do a rig or hack repair for you, if you want a bandaid or rigged repair do it yourself, but I have seen people straighten cranks good enough to not notice any vibration and most of these mowers are cheap throw away units so what do you have to loose by trying to straighten it.

[@localenterprisebroadcastin5971]

I respectfully disagree. I’ve gone through numerous engines with this issue and I’ve always been able to salvage the cranks...personally I do it a bit different but the end result is the same. Most lawn mower engines are tuff as fuck...I’ve done a lot of experiments to see what kills em, believe me when I say your mentor was trained to sell parts to keep the factory in business...it’s hands down way cheaper to buy a whole motor rather than replace any of the internals (unless of course you’re modifying for performance)...just bend the crank back put on a new blade and go to town 👍

[@Hellsong89]

Aw yes, burned engine control unit, there is no reason to try and repair it, since its liability issue and factory does not sell replacements/those cost absolute shit ton.. better scrap the whole car and get the new one, eh? Would repaired axle potentially snap? Would engine controller go potentially spastic while driving and give full throttle? Yes and yes, but doing so enables utility of the machine for years to come saving money and environment. Potential danger of that happening can be easily prevented by using proper safety gear on case of a mower and having kill switch for the car, both witch should used/exists by the default. In case of axle, just give it a visual inspection time to time and smack it rather gently with hammer to see if it snaps from that force and you should be good. As mentioned everything these days is made to be expendable trash with intentional parts design to fail after warranty. Thats why old stuff should be tried to repair long as possible, since those do not have mentioned designed faults, least as much. Sounds like your mentor was told to sell crankshaft replacements, cause those are made so expensive that its cheaper to buy new engine and that point whole new mower... with half the utility life since gotta sell more mowers. Now days only thing factory repair does is chance spark plugs, filters and oil to factory demanded maintenance. If something is wrong with engine with in warranty time they just replace engine all together, since mechanics hour rate is more than difference between parts vs engine. Those engines and parts cost to company fuck all so hence its cheaper for them to replace whole engine, but after warranty end users run into inflated prices for all the parts, since those have profit margins so it comes cheaper to repair the engine if you have skills, but of course Brigs mechanic would say to replace everything. Obviously new crank would be optimal, but even after time those part prices dont drop to justify purchase when repair can be done in 5 minutes with fucking pipe...

[@edwindude9893]

This has popped up while I’m in bed flicking through KZbin . Cheers Steve your a star.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Cool...

[@randymaier4915]

I bought a Honda 216 VKA lawn mower 2 years ago, and ran over my stupid sewer cleanout cap. It took a bit to get the blades + blade adapter off but I am down to the crankshaft now and hoping I can restore it! I ended up buying a 'fence post' which is probably too long (5 feet) and wide (1.75 inches). The crank is 1 inch in diameter so any pipe just wider than that should be good.Thanks for the video!

[@garypitts3334]

Today I was given a mower which not only had a bent crank but was binding in the bottom bearing ,straightened it using your method and I must admit it did not end up as straight as yours but in the end it runs well.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on Gary!

[@heavymetalmadman3533]

awesome video

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thanks!

[@johnhanson4795]

love your videos Great information and Thanks for sharing your Knowledge!Beers up!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Our pleasure!

[@geraldfischer6049]

Done that repair and it works! Even if it’s a very slight bit iff!

[@theswingshiftmetaldetectin5900]

Awesome video! My wife ran over the frame of a trampoline that had been moved and was sitting higher on the ground with the frame exposed. When she ran over the frame it caught the blade and bent our Honda engine crankshaft. The mower has been sitting in our shed for 10 years waiting for me to repair it. I was going to purchase a new crankshaft until I watched your video. Now I am going to use your technique to see if I can straighten out the crank. I’ll let you know how it turns out. Thanks so much for this video. You are saving me lots of time and money!!!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@gott2641]

I usually use the hammer method, however I use a dead blow hammer to prevent denting the end of the shaft. It works for me, and I understand the risks as the mowers I've had bent shafts on I never sell on to others. Also, as badly bent as that shaft was in the video, you can definitely tell the oil seal was damaged, and will possibly develop a slow leak over time. Hardly worth fixing if paying for the repair, but for a personal mower perhaps.

[@phildelgiudice3448]

Steve you’re a legend man. Love the vids and keep doing what you’re doin man. So much knowledge being shared here. One of my favorite channels! 👍🏽

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thanks! Will do!

[@Gssmallenginerepair]

Totally agreed

[@davidreynolds4684]

You did a good job. I cant believe the shear pin didnt go and save me this bs. Im 52 years old. Never in my life have i even sheared a pin on a mower much less bent the crap out of a shaft.

[@williamstevenson755]

This actually works well.Thank you very much, Steve, for this instruction. I snagged $250 mower from the dumpster and fixed it using this technique. Mows great now. A blessing.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Nice work!

[@JGsgarage_unboxings]

Thank you for your channel. I do small engine repair and I still learn Soo much from you. You have done nothing but make my life and business alot easier. And I subbed today. Idk why I just kept searching for you haha

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thank you very much!

[@goldentrowel1968]

Great job Steve ,, Just a quick question regarding the oil seal being compromised would you recommend a new seal

[@briang4470]

It wouldn't be a bad idea to replace it but honestly most of these machines are cheap throw away units, so I would straighten the crank and just run it and see if it leaks, if it dont leak just leave it and save the time and money but if it leaks then replace it.

[@goldentrowel1968]

@@briang4470 Cheers Brian thank you

[@olexboris7314]

Oh man! That’s really save a lot of money! Last time it costed me for almost new engine in money by local mechanic! I’m watching you from abroad, thanks God I know english for understanding, but there’s a lot of people don’t speaking english and they can’t use your information, so don’t you think to make any translations or different channel for foreigners? Thanks again for useful vids!

[@MinusTheSparkPlugs]

I'm not a big mower guy but that is the most money saving easy thing I've ever seen in my life that anyone can do to take what is essentially junk and have a perfectly operational machine afterwards. Thanks Steve!!!!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@cheryltrozelle4855]

I have straightened quit a few bent cranks with the old jig and hammer but this is the cats whiskers.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on

[@sdelony]

I bent the crank on Honda commercial mower could have used this video five years ago

[@leojuninocencio]

Thanks Steve for making this video. It’s very informative!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

My pleasure!

[@professionalidiots101]

In the push bike industry a very similar method is used to straighten drop outs and basic frame alignment. Great video Steve 👍

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Cool, thanks

[@geekay4703]

7:26 hahahahahaha that Bill Paxton quote from aliens. Straight up have to iso that Steve moment and reuse it on the channel again.

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

I cant believe you actually got that! LMFAO! Right on Buddy...

[@petem7942]

@@StevesSmallEngineSaloon I knew it immediately too. I've watched that movie like 50 times though :) Thanks for the tip. I have a mower that I picked up for free where someone hit a rock. I replaced the flywheel key that was sheered, but it's shaking like a bitch so I assume the crank is bent. I'll check it and fix it if so. Thanks!

[@jimcharb4230]

Giver me a big enough lever, and I can move the world!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Yeah Jimmy!

[@bobross6802]

A big enough lever and a place to stand (and a beer to hold)

[@franksinozich5823]

I watched your video on straighting a bent crank. I tried this on an AWD Husqvarna to no avail. The shaft appears to be considerably bigger than the one you straightened. Anyway, I enjoy and appreciate your videos. Also, the clock is great addition to my garage.

[@355PH]

Steve is a great mechanic. Saved me so much money as I do all my own service and repair. Lots of Love and respect from Leeds England 👍😁

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thanks Mate...

[@357bullfrog2]

I didn't realize a crank could bend that much without breaking

[@charliepearson1678]

@Lassi Kinnunen Im sure thats engineered in to it

[@rydplrs71]

There are internal fractures,

[@charliepearson1678]

@@rydplrs71 yup . i wouldn't even consider straightening one of those that was more than say 1/8" or so out of center

[@rupe53]

@@charliepearson1678 ... one must consider that 3/8" bend was total movement so the actual bend is only half that. (maybe 3/16"?) IOW, just over a 1/8" each way. Yeah, that's fudging it a bit but worth a try.

[@MrTheHillfolk]

Yea you can get away with it most of the time, just it kinda sucks if it happens again. Even as a backyard butcher I know every time ya do it, it gets weaker.

[@AndyFromm]

Dang that's a bent shaft...

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

The worst...

[@knurlgnar24]

I've straightened a few crankshafts with a sledge and it worked fine, but your method is simpler and much less likely to cause additional damage to the bearings or deck. Thanks for the video!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

You're Welcome...

[@saskiford4415]

Hello Steve, What a brilliant video!! I thought I was going to have to spend a lot of money sending my lawn mower to the repair shop, but happened upon your fantastic video and now it works like a dream. As you say, the crank shaft is not factory straight, but it's good enough and I didn't have to spend a penny Thank you. 😊

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Right on Buddy! You're Welcome...

[@wstewart5532]

These are almost always caused by your wife trying to be helpful and cutting the grass

[@BushcraftingBogan]

Or son who is mad about doing it and just runs over everything to get done in a hurry. Lol.

[@patrickflohe7427]

Or son who hits a stump or something....

[@theautodidacticman_]

The few soyboys that gave this a thumbs down didn’t have enough strength in their arms to bend the crankshaft back haha they’re probably one latte away from being a ma’am 💁‍♀️

[@BritishBeachcomber]

I don't see any 👎👎👎 except the 👎 I just gave you 😂

[@pepin159]

Thank you very much, I had my big hammer ready and somehow I went to KZbin and you gave me hope. Thank you again!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Glad I could help!

[@michaelblackler1089]

Steve, i have watched your channel for at least two years.Very informative and i am proud to be 1 of your 313k subscribers. Keep up the great work!

[@StevesSmallEngineSaloon]

Thanks, will do!

[@TotalFreedomTTT-pk9st]

I'm with you on the thuggy boy hammer method - I've learned to calm down - the pipe method is the way and just don't over pull it