My recently retired brother has taken up repairing lawnmowers. He was bored and his wife said he needed a hobby. He has been super busy and the mowers just keep coming.
That's what I want to do, but I think when everything goes battery, small engine repair will be a thing of the past. Then, we're back to making disposable machines.
I think there will be a need for a lawn mower repair service for a long time even with the advent of electric mowers. There are thousands of gas mowers out there both in Canada and the US. I’m retired as well as it’s something I’m interested in and love doing so it would be a good hobby for me as well.🎉
@@richardmorse5307 I agree. I'm retired as well and like tinkering with small engine machines like tillers, snowblowers, lawnmowers, etc. Existing gas powered yard machines - if taken care of properly - will be around for many years to come. I have a 1992 Honda SP lawnmower that I purchased new and while it has needed some preventative maintenance items and new front wheels I'm sure it''ll out last me and become a hand-me-down.
@@milfordcivic6755 They have had battery mowers forever, I gave one away ten /twelve years ago that must have been thirty years old, lead acid is best, just get a new battery when it won't cut for long enough. Most electric mowers are not powerful enough to cut long grass, so not everybody loves them.
@@inthedarkwoods2022 Mustie1 look him up, you may enjoy. But like he said he has been sick on his last 2 uploads (on sunday) and hasn't been wrenching.
Mustie1 is a well-known TH-camr whom James is acquainted with. Many of us regularly watch both James and Mustie1. To address your rather blunt comment (WTF), withdrawals refer to a form of emotional or biochemical distress experienced when one is deprived of something. I was mitigating my withdrawal symptoms by indulging my addiction to Mustie1 through a proxy (James). Recently, Mustie1 has been unwell due to kidney stones and other medical issues. The phrase ‘Oh, the humanity!’ was famously exclaimed during a live radio broadcast on May 6, 1937, during the Hindenburg disaster, and it has since entered popular culture as an expression of sorrow.
"for once, I don't have to clean the carb!" Yeah, I was thinking the same thing! I say the same thing myself when I get that lucky, It's a rare occasion.
Sometimes there’s nothing wrong with lawnmowers when people throw them away sometimes they have a few extra lawnmowers in their garage or shed and when they clean them out they throw the lawnmowers away
I found a lawnmower at a yard sale. Beside the road. The person running the sale told me it wouldn't start. Got it home and found out why it want start. It was out of gas! Used it for four years before it quit running.
I think James has been practicing his welding or possibly getting a bit of expert training somewhere.... Welding mending plates onto 22 gauge sheet metal with zero blow outs is something to be proud of!! Great save.
Watching TH-cam has made me realize when ever I see lawn equipment on the side of the road to always grab it asap! Last month I found a weed trimmer and all it needed was a good carb clean and I pressure washed it and was good to go. I put it on Facebook marketplace and within an hour I got it sold for 150 bucks! I put absolutely no money into it other than some carb spray and a couple quarters for the pressure washer. You never know what condition one of these are in unless you stop and grab them. Yeah sometimes their really beat up and to far gone to try fixing but most the time it's usually a really good machine that just was put away for to long. I enjoy fixing stuff and if I can make a buck or two on it that's a win win. Thanks for people like you and all the others on TH-cam I have so much knowledge on fixing equipment I really appreciate you for doing what you do👍💯❤
James, Thanks for the video on fixing the Poulan. I have learned over the years how to weld thin metal. You are correct on the stitch method to welding however here is a little trick to ensure a positive weld. On your project you used a thicker material for the mend job. First thoroughly clean all surfaces to the bare metal. Next, use a low setting on the welder but start the weld on the thicker material and then continue the arc to the thinner portion. You want to see the flow of the bead continue from the thicker to thinner to make sure the 2 metals bond to each other. I noticed a few cold welds as they look beaded up on the mower deck. If you blow a hole in the metal just tap fill the hole. Better yet practice makes perfect. Just practice on some scrap to get the process to work in your favor. Thanks for the video's... Thanks for watching....
Have you ever considered using "weld thru primer" between the metal deck and patch. It will prevent rust jacking between layers and make your patch last longer.
I've been repairing FORD (found on road dead) mowers for a number of years. When my friend Liz was laid off, sales really picked up. Once repaired she does the hair and make-up. Narragansett Bay
That carb had alot of Iowa ethanol gel in it! I think you got it cleaned pretty well. The engine seems to be strong. Alex , I think you may have a winner. Part 2 will tell the tale. Goodluck and thanks for a great video my friend! 👏🇺🇸
The damage that was done to the deck shell is an example of why you don't clean the built up grass that is under the deck by pushing down on the handle bar and letting up on the handle bar and banging the front wheels on the ground. This is a common method people use to loosen wet grass that bogging down the engine. The damage shown here is the long term effect of banging the front wheels on the ground. Another great repair video James. Robin in Philippi, WV
James, in this ever increasing and chaotic world, just a simple repair video settles us down! We’re all called to “occupy “ till the lord comes for us, and you’re really helping with that! I pray for you and your family to have blessings and peace!
Having prayed for James and his family before, I can appreciate your words Robert. I hope you don't mind me saying this, but re: "To occupy" or "Do business" [Luke 19v13] this speaks to *what we do* or *don't do* with what we've been entrusted with before Christ returns. This parable and that of Mat 25v14-30 both illustrate the tragedy of wasted opportunity-and that true believers *will bear fruit* with what they've been entrusted with. God bless.
@@DanKoning777 True!! I was mostly referencing what Paul said, but agree we’re supposed to be true disciples and “producing fruit”!! Even disciples can recharge at times, and fellowship can a does come from simple things when hanging out with people you might want to witness to!!
I still have my Craftsman riding lawn mower and my first push mower I bought when I bought my first house in 1992 just normal tune up stuff I drain it every yr 32 yrs still running like the day I brought it home I was so proud lmao
This video was published 3 days ago. Today when I was driving to a store and passing by bunch of houses, I saw a small lawnmower at a house with a free sign on it. Right away I thought of you, and if I had a truck, and lived near you, I could have picked it up for you.
Great repair! Only recommendations I would give are: 1. A bandsaw makes cutting metal stock much quicker, easier, and clean compared to a grinder. Grinder will cut through anything, but the dust and sparks and finish aren't so much fun. would highly recommend getting a 'portaband'. They are very versatile, and you can get stands to make them easier to use in vertical mode (or simply clamp them in a vise, that totally works). 2. Lastly, very impressive the stitch welding you did with MIG on that thin sheet metal. If you ever plan on welding sheets together like that again though, I would highly recommend looking at getting the cheap 240V spot welder from Harbor Freight (or equivalent). You can get it for real cheap during a sale or coupon, and it makes welding sheet metal together an absolute dream. Much cleaner and quicker job with that tool in the arsenal. Great videos as always!
Well, that was a change. The engine sounds great and without carburetor service. Good repair. If it gets taken care of it should last a long time. Thanks for another excellent video.
God Bless you James, but me and other half have got Covid 19. Keep up the good humour, and remember to cuddle your kids, and treat your wife like a Princess (which I'm sure you do). Over and out. Nina 🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡❤️❤️❤️❤️👏👏👏👏👏🫂🫂
Nice save! I need to get myself a welder and do some practicing with it, I need one every once in a while. Usually when I find a mower like that I save the engine and scrap the deck, but it was great to see a proper repair job.
That could have been fixed without a welder>>larger plate bolted on. Did a similar repair on my brother-in-law's a few years ago. He then got rid of it and bought a Poulan 'Pro' 4wd mower. Bigger p.o.s. than the previous push mower. Had to replace all the idlers and belt on it this year so it would move under its own power. Spent $65 on it in parts. STUPID design.
I have recently taught myself to weld and it's one of the best things I've ever done. So far my flux core welding is actually pretty good! TIG and Stick are not so good but they're getting better. Definitely worth getting one and having a go
The best part of the new Briggs engines is the carburetor are very easy to clean most of the time you don’t need to take it off the lawnmower to clean it you can clean it on the lawnmower I can’t believe someone threw away a lawnmower cause a small piece of the deck needed to be fixed I knew it was going to start right up it was nice of them to put that note on it I love finding lawnmowers in the trash I have a few in my yard I found recently I found a Troy bilt from 2022 with a Honda engine they threw it away cause they put the new blade on backwards I been using it in my yard and it cuts nice
A great idea for you would be to make stickers that say “Repaired in America by J. Condon.” I saw a comment once that stated that all the machines fixed by you will run better than they were ever built to and in this case especially that is very true! Thanks James!
Hi James Randy here Well first off I really enjoy watching what you're gonna fix next! Anyway I had kind of a question slash video request...I recently was given a Craftsman 5.5hp mower. during troubleshooting noticed it was running kinda rough ( sputtering, loss of power, noisy), Compression around 50 😮 (exhaust valve packed with carbon not closing), checked air filter and was so dirty i cant even tell you how bad it was but after removing it it would run but rough and with little power. I removed the head and cleaned and lapped the valves, I removed the blade since it was bent and in bad, bad shape, wheels worn to hubs. Anyway, I fixed everything and got the compression up to 90 from fixing the valves but it still ran really rough and I couldn't figure it out man I was so frustrated cuz u make it look so easy lolz. anyway fixed and balanced the blade and torqued it down like you show and low and behold it ran perfect. Can you maybe do a video on how significant the blade is for the mower to run correctly. I guess it balances out the motor kinda like a counterbalance...thought it was really cool and wanted to hear your thoughts about that thanks Randy
Nice work repairing the broken deck on that mower, it sure runs good for a mower that was thrown away, obviously they just went and bought a new mower since the wheels broke on that one. I just recently found a very nice Husqvarna riding mower on the curb in my neighborhood with free written on it, they just ran the engine out of oil and it threw a rod. It has a Briggs and Stratton 21HP v-twin engine and a 48" deck, the mower is very clean and the deck still looks almost brand new for being a 2003 machine. I'm repairing the blown up engine, I ordered a good used replacement engine block for $60 off Ebay to replace the block with a big hole in it, also ordered 2 new rods, 2 sets of new piston rings, a good used crankshaft, gasket set. Just waiting on the parts to come in so I can repair the engine!
Greetings from Australia James...Love your skills/patience and presentation.....Its only a 2018 and they put it to the kerb!!! I suppose even if you didnt have a welder you could have pop riveted the plate into position....People are so wasteful....WD40 Rub down and it looks mint!!! Cheers Gary.
I was a little surprised to see you do all the wheel repair, etc. BEFORE attempting to determine if the engine was good. Always interesting to watch your videos.
Good job James, you did a great job welding that very thin metal, I have brazed thin metal before but can't seem to weld it as good as you did. Thanks for the video.
fixed a few other brand/models with the same issue. I just welded the adjuster itself right to the deck, figuring it will be ready for scrap before the adjuster ever gets broken or fails. I can smell the rotten burning grass scent in my mind. 🤣
Imo there's no better channel to find information/details for DIY small engine repairs. For those looking for that info, this is a good choice. One day I hope to see James tackle small appliance repairs-from washer/dryers to coffee pots, which always seem to be in need of repair. Thanks for another great video James. God bless.
Well, excellent short video. I chuckled when you said "the deck is 100%" But 100% of what??? Your comments at the end about weight were spot on, though. And if someone took a LITTLE care and cleanded under the deck like you would, it should last a long time.
Lighter moweres are great for elevated lawns as they have to be lifted. Also great for trimming Put anything with an engine on it on a street that James Condon drives down and it gets a ride
Amazing how many of these opportunities are out there. At one time I had 6 of these and none required much to get them running. There wasn't much of a market for them and no one really needs 6 mowers. So I have fewer now. :)
That mower looks like it was run over by a car. I've seen it before. My mom had one for 2 days before she backed over it with her car. She gave it to my grandfather. He fixed it somewhat and used it for a few years, and then abandoned it in his back yard after it quit running. It sat in his back yard for a few years before my grandmother gave it to my neighbor after my grandfather passed. It sat in my neighbor's back yard for a few years before he eventually gave it to me. I've had it for a few years now, and I just got it 100% operational yesterday. It only took a carburetor, bail cable, kill switch, primer bulb, and blade, along with basic maintenance and damage repair. The damage was very similar. The wheel is still not perfect, but it's good enough to use.
Amazing how cheaply made this mower is. For minimal added cost they could have used thicker sheet. Of course, their press would have to have the capacity to form it so maybe that's the limiting factor. At my age I won't be buying another mower so remembering to check the gauge of metal used won't be necessary. I look forward to each of your videos.
Yeah, or only a bit thicker on the places that have a load, like the wheels and engine. But that goes for so much stuff, a little bit of extra on critical parts or spots goes a long way. But I guess the lawn mower market is highly competitive, things like this are a result of that probably.
Thank you for another very smart video James. I was having overheating trouble with my 1973 IH Cub Cadet last summer and it was stumping me. So I started to look for a cheap push mower to finish the mowing season. There is a family and farm type chain store called Rural King right near me, who were clearing out summer equipment so I bought a Pulsar 200 cc no frills push mower for $100 from them. It's about like that one you have there. The deck is super thin steel. The push handle and depth setting controls are flimsy and it has no throttle and no choke control. All it has is a primer bulb and bail controlled shut off and flywheel brake. I runs at 2,800 rpm and is kind of loud, but it has a lot of vacuum and it mows pretty good. I've run at least 20 tanks of gas thru it so far, so it doesn't owe my anything. I did get my Cub Cadet figured out and have been towing the Pulsar around behind it. The only thing I've encountered so far is: I left gasoline in it over the winter and it hunted real bad when I got it out this spring. My fix was to pour about 1/4 cup Chevron brand Techron in the fuel tank with fresh fule then pump the primer bulb again and again to keep it running until it straightened up. I must have mowed 10 times befor it messed up again. So again I put the Techron in it and it straightened up. Now I keep mowing until it runs out of gas every time I use it. Hopefully that will fix the carb issue. OK FB, ben/ michigan
For repairs like that, they make what is called a fender washer. It's a blarge diameter washer with smaller holes. That would add considerable strength to the deck if used on the inside along with the outside patch. Actually if the mower manufacturer used them, the deck may still be intact. Good work, as always.
Talk about light weight! My dad had a very old Craftsmen mower with a magnesium-aluminum alloy deck and a "smallish" engine. That thing was feather weight. He finally had to get rid of it after 40 or 50 years because repair parts became impossible to get. He always worked on his own stuff and was a meticulous maintenance guy. The thing still had a light brown paint or perhaps anodizing on it when he scrapped it. Amazing mower!
Nice job as usual! I always spray some "Fluid Film" on the underside where the nuts are to give them some moisture protection. I just finished a John Deere mower that had been to another shop for months and they had done the parts swap routine. It was a hodge podge of unknown stuff. It cost him a bit to put it back to original condition. Thanks Jim!
Well done James another saved great repair I always watch your videos they are great watch you are amazing at showing how to repair different things very informative taking us through the stages to repair the things you repairing thank you for sharing your videos from England.
Thanks James for my weekly dose of small engine magic. I have one of these engines on one of my mowers. It is great apart from the plastic carb that needs annual attention. You got a good bargain there 👍It's amazing what those that can't throw away for those that can to make good.
Aloha James. As a repair plate design, I would have done plug welds by just drilling holes in the repair plate and filling in the hole with weld as well as some welds around the edges of the repair plate. It would give a better attachment to the mower deck, and it would also be an easy thing to do. I have successfully repaired lots of sheet metal using this process. I am also surprised that you didn't check the rear wheels for the same existing condition on the bolt to deck attachments. They have the same amount of time to rust, and they may fail quickly. The mower deck on my 48" Craftsman mower deck is made from 10 gauge metal just for this reason. It is much thicker and will probably not rust through in my lifetime. Great repair and you are a wizard at getting non-functioning equipment back into reliable service. Way to go...
Coulve just welded that "5 position height adjustment plate" (15:25) to that deck. Its located with that tang to that deck anyway and doesnt have to move. Couldve saved you some time.
I picked up a ten year old Poulan mower at the local dump a couple of years ago. Engine had compression and I was thinking is may be just a clogged carb jet. Took it home and one of the carb jets was clogged. I sharpened the blade and put in a new air filter and it fired right up on first pull. Runs great and all I have invested in it is $6.
I notice you have a lot of RYOBI tools. I like their tools as well. Oh, I believe your patch job looks fine! 👍 It's always amazing how people don't want to fix their devices, nor do many have the tools to do so. The manufacturers love these people! Wouldn't it have made since to copy this piece before welding this one? --- Another freebie saved! WIN! WIN! Jim, (pun intended)!
James, when I worked at the dealer, we had miniature colored warning cones that we’d place on the dash of cars we had in the service lot, or in the shop during repairs, no brakes, no oil, etc. It was mandatory to use them where needed.
I wonder if the folks in your general area bring their unwanted mowers to the curb hoping you will take them away? I also wonder if the former owner of this mower has seen your repair video. This is a great video, I enjoyed watching and I learned from you. I have to say -- as an older guy -- that you have tools which simply never existed back in the 1960s and 1970s, and you seem to pick excellent quality tools as well. That is good -- a high quality tool is a great help in getting tasks done safely.
Hi, just an advice on welding thin steel. You can bump up the amps a bit and put quick tacks. It will have better penetration and less likely to burn through. You can cool it with compressed air if needed
Fantastic job! I don’t know why but I feel like mowers like these should come with a dedicated high lift mulching blade for the best cut quality. We had one last year where the hit something and bent the blade. I think a new high lift gator blade was around $50. That’s half the resale value. I pulled the blade adapter and installed an MTD blade adapter with high lift gator blade for significantly less! Never seen these style rot out the MTD versions all the time! People never clean the decks to the nylon lock nut is rusted to beyond trying to get off. Repairs add up real quick on these little $300 mowers. MTDS, I have had a few wheee the front is really weak. I make plates on the inside and outside (Sandwhich the compromised metal…what’s left of it. When welding thin metal you just have to tack all the way around. To reduce cool down times take your blow gun and cool down the metal. I can ever get them to look good so I use JB-Weld as a filler to make it look “perfect”. Happy Friday!
When Lowes had an assembly department, I always hated putting these cheapo mowers together for sale. You had to assemble everything. Wheels, handle, you name it. It took longer assemble it than many lawn tractors. Plus people would buy them at the start of the mowing season then return them and say they stopped working at end of the season. Never cleaned and with no oil in them.
Very nice repair james. About the only suggestions I have Is to first apply a coat of primer before you paint because it improves the quality and durability of the repair. Also, I don't know if you pulled and inspected the spark plug, but I also recommend that be done. I have The same mower and very thick grass accumulates in these two front corners, Which I clean out each time I use the mower. One of the nice features of the mower is because the deck material is so thin, it is lightweight and an excellent cut in mower. But the downside is the durability, especially around the wheels as you discovered. Another way to get around this problem is to install fender washers on both the inside and outside of the connection points on all four wheels. By the Way james, what torque setting did you use to connect the blade please? Thanks again and take care. 👍👍👍
Great repair. I can second how flimsy the Poulon decks are. There's one at my father-in-law's house. Blade was bent, so I replaced it. The new one was about 1/16" bigger in radius. No worries, said I. There's easy clearance. But then when I was mowing over uneven ground, the deck would flex enough for the blade to strike. Scared the bejezuz out of me. Had to grind off that sixteenth.
Ka-chow! I’m thinking that somebody backed into it with a car to cause the wheel to fail like that. Yeah. It’s thin and cheap, but the whole deck would’ve been similarly rusty… Well done.
![BOWKYLION - วิงวอน (ex-change) [Official MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/cLdnZWDaO-w/mqdefault.jpg)
This guy is the lockpicking lawyer of small engine repairs. Great job.
Doctor, I'd say.
You know, that's accurate.
It's so satisfying to see a piece of equipment saved, that doesn't cost more than a new replacement to fix . Another great save.
My recently retired brother has taken up repairing lawnmowers. He was bored and his wife said he needed a hobby. He has been super busy and the mowers just keep coming.
That's what I want to do, but I think when everything goes battery, small engine repair will be a thing of the past. Then, we're back to making disposable machines.
I think there will be a need for a lawn mower repair service for a long time even with the advent of electric mowers. There are thousands of gas mowers out there both in Canada and the US. I’m retired as well as it’s something I’m interested in and love doing so it would be a good hobby for me as well.🎉
@@richardmorse5307 I agree. I'm retired as well and like tinkering with small engine machines like tillers, snowblowers, lawnmowers, etc. Existing gas powered yard machines - if taken care of properly - will be around for many years to come. I have a 1992 Honda SP lawnmower that I purchased new and while it has needed some preventative maintenance items and new front wheels I'm sure it''ll out last me and become a hand-me-down.
@@milfordcivic6755 They have had battery mowers forever, I gave one away ten /twelve years ago that must have been thirty years old, lead acid is best, just get a new battery when it won't cut for long enough. Most electric mowers are not powerful enough to cut long grass, so not everybody loves them.
Waitik you have one hand to do it
Yay! Something to feed my Mustie1 withdrawals! He’s been sick two Sundays in a row! Oh the humanity!
WTF are you talking about
@@inthedarkwoods2022 Mustie1 look him up, you may enjoy. But like he said he has been sick on his last 2 uploads (on sunday) and hasn't been wrenching.
Mustie1 and Deisel Creek both have been offline. Really jonesing here...
Mustie1 is a well-known TH-camr whom James is acquainted with. Many of us regularly watch both James and Mustie1. To address your rather blunt comment (WTF), withdrawals refer to a form of emotional or biochemical distress experienced when one is deprived of something. I was mitigating my withdrawal symptoms by indulging my addiction to Mustie1 through a proxy (James). Recently, Mustie1 has been unwell due to kidney stones and other medical issues. The phrase ‘Oh, the humanity!’ was famously exclaimed during a live radio broadcast on May 6, 1937, during the Hindenburg disaster, and it has since entered popular culture as an expression of sorrow.
I have been going through Mustie1 withdrawal. Kidney stones are not fun. Had one earlier this year and another last year.
"for once, I don't have to clean the carb!" Yeah, I was thinking the same thing! I say the same thing myself when I get that lucky, It's a rare occasion.
Sometimes there’s nothing wrong with lawnmowers when people throw them away sometimes they have a few extra lawnmowers in their garage or shed and when they clean them out they throw the lawnmowers away
I found a lawnmower at a yard sale. Beside the road. The person running the sale told me it wouldn't start. Got it home and found out why it want start. It was out of gas! Used it for four years before it quit running.
I think James has been practicing his welding or possibly getting a bit of expert training somewhere.... Welding mending plates onto 22 gauge sheet metal with zero blow outs is something to be proud of!! Great save.
My sentiments and congratulations 👏 as well! Not an easy repair on such thin material!
With all that rust on the underside, it might not have been 22ga anymore, maybe 23.
Very poor welds, actually. No penetration, but he isn't a welder, and it's a lawn mower, so....
Well that must have been one of you quickest and easiest repairs I've seen you do.
Watching TH-cam has made me realize when ever I see lawn equipment on the side of the road to always grab it asap! Last month I found a weed trimmer and all it needed was a good carb clean and I pressure washed it and was good to go. I put it on Facebook marketplace and within an hour I got it sold for 150 bucks! I put absolutely no money into it other than some carb spray and a couple quarters for the pressure washer. You never know what condition one of these are in unless you stop and grab them. Yeah sometimes their really beat up and to far gone to try fixing but most the time it's usually a really good machine that just was put away for to long. I enjoy fixing stuff and if I can make a buck or two on it that's a win win. Thanks for people like you and all the others on TH-cam I have so much knowledge on fixing equipment I really appreciate you for doing what you do👍💯❤
James, Thanks for the video on fixing the Poulan. I have learned over the years how to weld thin metal. You are correct on the stitch method to welding however here is a little trick to ensure a positive weld. On your project you used a thicker material for the mend job. First thoroughly clean all surfaces to the bare metal. Next, use a low setting on the welder but start the weld on the thicker material and then continue the arc to the thinner portion. You want to see the flow of the bead continue from the thicker to thinner to make sure the 2 metals bond to each other. I noticed a few cold welds as they look beaded up on the mower deck. If you blow a hole in the metal just tap fill the hole. Better yet practice makes perfect. Just practice on some scrap to get the process to work in your favor. Thanks for the video's... Thanks for watching....
Thanks for the tips. If not obvious, I have very little experience/practice and no training using a welder.
@@jcondon1 Slow the wire feed speed down a bit too, it looked like the wire was getting crammed into the puddle. Wire feed speed is your amp control.
Have you ever considered using "weld thru primer" between the metal deck and patch. It will prevent rust jacking between layers and make your patch last longer.
I was wondering the same thing about rusting in there, but didn't know such a thing exists. Will try to remember that one, if I ever need it.
These are nearly always great finds. I usually fix them up and donate to start up landscaping companies.
It’s satisfying to watch skilled & careful workmanship ✊👍🙏
I've been repairing FORD (found on road dead) mowers for a number of years. When my friend Liz was laid off, sales really picked up. Once repaired she does the hair and make-up. Narragansett Bay
That carb had alot of Iowa ethanol gel in it! I think you got it cleaned pretty well. The engine seems to be strong. Alex , I think you may have a winner. Part 2 will tell the tale. Goodluck and thanks for a great video my friend! 👏🇺🇸
Good job Doc, you saved another one in a throwaway society
Better than a hording society.....
@@seymoarsalvage
Hordes of hoarders?
Good save!! That engine in the landfill would have been a real shame.
The damage that was done to the deck shell is an example of why you don't clean the built up grass that is under the deck by pushing down on the handle bar and letting up on the handle bar and banging the front wheels on the ground. This is a common method people use to loosen wet grass that bogging down the engine. The damage shown here is the long term effect of banging the front wheels on the ground. Another great repair video James. Robin in Philippi, WV
James, if it were me, I think I would have pressure washed the underside of that deck and hit it with some primer.
James, in this ever increasing and chaotic world, just a simple repair video settles us down! We’re all called to “occupy “ till the lord comes for us, and you’re really helping with that! I pray for you and your family to have blessings and peace!
Having prayed for James and his family before, I can appreciate your words Robert. I hope you don't mind me saying this, but re: "To occupy" or "Do business" [Luke 19v13] this speaks to *what we do* or *don't do* with what we've been entrusted with before Christ returns. This parable and that of Mat 25v14-30 both illustrate the tragedy of wasted opportunity-and that true believers *will bear fruit* with what they've been entrusted with. God bless.
@@DanKoning777 True!! I was mostly referencing what Paul said, but agree we’re supposed to be true disciples and “producing fruit”!! Even disciples can recharge at times, and fellowship can a does come from simple things when hanging out with people you might want to witness to!!
I have always enjoyed watching someone that goes above and beyond a repairing equipment that people can Trust have much care in repairs !
@@robertrettig7110 // 👍
I still have my Craftsman riding lawn mower and my first push mower I bought when I bought my first house in 1992 just normal tune up stuff I drain it every yr 32 yrs still running like the day I brought it home I was so proud lmao
This video was published 3 days ago. Today when I was driving to a store and passing by bunch of houses, I saw a small lawnmower at a house with a free sign on it. Right away I thought of you, and if I had a truck, and lived near you, I could have picked it up for you.
Love love love your channel and your videos don't matter if 30 minutes long or 2 hrs long, keep them coming, Have taught me so much. Thx for sharing🙂
James is out there picking up old gas powered equipment like a stray animal lol. As always, thanks for sharing with us
Love your videos...I dream of having all the right tools.
That's a fine mower. They broke the wheels and tossed it. Nice find!
Great repair! Only recommendations I would give are:
1. A bandsaw makes cutting metal stock much quicker, easier, and clean compared to a grinder. Grinder will cut through anything, but the dust and sparks and finish aren't so much fun. would highly recommend getting a 'portaband'. They are very versatile, and you can get stands to make them easier to use in vertical mode (or simply clamp them in a vise, that totally works).
2. Lastly, very impressive the stitch welding you did with MIG on that thin sheet metal. If you ever plan on welding sheets together like that again though, I would highly recommend looking at getting the cheap 240V spot welder from Harbor Freight (or equivalent). You can get it for real cheap during a sale or coupon, and it makes welding sheet metal together an absolute dream. Much cleaner and quicker job with that tool in the arsenal.
Great videos as always!
Thanks for the tips. A band saw would be a good add to the shop for sure as well as a spot welder.
Where I live, there is never a mower or anything that is sitting on the curb. Must be nice. Another great repair.
It’s something I have never seen in Texas ever 😢😢😢, it’s all for sale 😮
Another great Thursday! My coffee is almost ready and then I'll be ready for another mower rescue! Thanks, Jim.
Well, that was a change. The engine sounds great and without carburetor service. Good repair. If it gets taken care of it should last a long time. Thanks for another excellent video.
Nice fix on the little Poulan James . Sure was a thin deck . It will make someone a nice inexpensive mower . Thanks for the video , Scott 🌵
God Bless you James, but me and other half have got Covid 19. Keep up the good humour, and remember to cuddle your kids, and treat your wife like a Princess (which I'm sure you do).
Over and out.
Nina
🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡🫡❤️❤️❤️❤️👏👏👏👏👏🫂🫂
Some deserving person is looking for a functional and affordable mower. Here's hoping Providence sends them your way. 🙏 ✌️
The variety of repairs offered here is amazing. Goes to show how often even the simplest of maintenance effort is neglected!!
Well, that was an easy one, James! Great job at giving it a new life and I’d say it’s better than new deck wise.
Your extra time to clean it up is impressive and I love I t.
I'm glad You were able to pick this up before it got away. As always You did a Great job,
James, who knew you also have to be a blacksmith to repair engines ? -- Nice Job !
I have one of these. Love it tbh. Lightweight easy to push and maneuver.
Glad it ran well after the wheels were repaired. Made it worth it.
Nice save! I need to get myself a welder and do some practicing with it, I need one every once in a while. Usually when I find a mower like that I save the engine and scrap the deck, but it was great to see a proper repair job.
That could have been fixed without a welder>>larger plate bolted on. Did a similar repair on my brother-in-law's a few years ago. He then got rid of it and bought a Poulan 'Pro' 4wd mower. Bigger p.o.s. than the previous push mower. Had to replace all the idlers and belt on it this year so it would move under its own power. Spent $65 on it in parts. STUPID design.
I have recently taught myself to weld and it's one of the best things I've ever done. So far my flux core welding is actually pretty good! TIG and Stick are not so good but they're getting better. Definitely worth getting one and having a go
The best part of the new Briggs engines is the carburetor are very easy to clean most of the time you don’t need to take it off the lawnmower to clean it you can clean it on the lawnmower I can’t believe someone threw away a lawnmower cause a small piece of the deck needed to be fixed I knew it was going to start right up it was nice of them to put that note on it I love finding lawnmowers in the trash I have a few in my yard I found recently I found a Troy bilt from 2022 with a Honda engine they threw it away cause they put the new blade on backwards I been using it in my yard and it cuts nice
A great idea for you would be to make stickers that say “Repaired in America by J. Condon.”
I saw a comment once that stated that all the machines fixed by you will run better than they were ever built to and in this case especially that is very true! Thanks James!
"Come on little guy, I'll help you out". Awesome as always.
Thin metal deck😮😮 glad you got it from being hope the back wheels are in better shape great repair James Condon
Iam sure the video helped someone thanks for making it !!!!!!
Hi James Randy here
Well first off I really enjoy watching what you're gonna fix next! Anyway I had kind of a question slash video request...I recently was given a Craftsman 5.5hp mower. during troubleshooting noticed it was running kinda rough ( sputtering, loss of power, noisy), Compression around 50 😮 (exhaust valve packed with carbon not closing), checked air filter and was so dirty i cant even tell you how bad it was but after removing it it would run but rough and with little power. I removed the head and cleaned and lapped the valves, I removed the blade since it was bent and in bad, bad shape, wheels worn to hubs. Anyway, I fixed everything and got the compression up to 90 from fixing the valves but it still ran really rough and I couldn't figure it out man I was so frustrated cuz u make it look so easy lolz. anyway fixed and balanced the blade and torqued it down like you show and low and behold it ran perfect. Can you maybe do a video on how significant the blade is for the mower to run correctly. I guess it balances out the motor kinda like a counterbalance...thought it was really cool and wanted to hear your thoughts about that
thanks Randy
I would love to have all of the useful gadgets that you have. It would make life much easier.
Me too,, he has the money because of utube and he skills 😊😊❤
Wow! 22 gauge deck? Most valuable part of that mower is definitely the engine.
Not really>>newer Briggs and Scrap 'Em.
Yeah "Thursday, James Day!" Thanks for my weekly Zen!!
Nice work repairing the broken deck on that mower, it sure runs good for a mower that was thrown away, obviously they just went and bought a new mower since the wheels broke on that one. I just recently found a very nice Husqvarna riding mower on the curb in my neighborhood with free written on it, they just ran the engine out of oil and it threw a rod. It has a Briggs and Stratton 21HP v-twin engine and a 48" deck, the mower is very clean and the deck still looks almost brand new for being a 2003 machine. I'm repairing the blown up engine, I ordered a good used replacement engine block for $60 off Ebay to replace the block with a big hole in it, also ordered 2 new rods, 2 sets of new piston rings, a good used crankshaft, gasket set. Just waiting on the parts to come in so I can repair the engine!
That's Worth it 😊 good save.
That pink hydrangea is beautiful!
Hydrangeas, purple or pink are beautiful. 😊
Great save. The push mower i have is close to 15 years old and about half the deck has been welded back. Found it in the garbage with the deck cracked
Greetings from Australia James...Love your skills/patience and presentation.....Its only a 2018 and they put it to the kerb!!! I suppose even if you didnt have a welder you could have pop riveted the plate into position....People are so wasteful....WD40 Rub down and it looks mint!!! Cheers Gary.
I was a little surprised to see you do all the wheel repair, etc. BEFORE attempting to determine if the engine was good. Always interesting to watch your videos.
Just on case he can't get it running he can just roll it back out.
Just A Little Prep And Cleaning makes nuts and bolts come a part much better.
Good job James, you did a great job welding that very thin metal, I have brazed thin metal before but can't seem to weld it as good as you did. Thanks for the video.
This was fun to watch.
It's hard to tell on camera when you mow grass if it looks better. I know it does...but hard to see.
This is my entire business model! Mostly donate these to needy neighbors tho.
I’m stupid because I pay a hundred dollars and then put other 100 in it and give it to family members or friends
Just can’t make any money????😮
fixed a few other brand/models with the same issue. I just welded the adjuster itself right to the deck, figuring it will be ready for scrap before the adjuster ever gets broken or fails.
I can smell the rotten burning grass scent in my mind. 🤣
Imo there's no better channel to find information/details for DIY small engine repairs. For those looking for that info, this is a good choice. One day I hope to see James tackle small appliance repairs-from washer/dryers to coffee pots, which always seem to be in need of repair. Thanks for another great video James. God bless.
@14:00 - This is the way Mustie1 does all of his sheet metal welding. I imagine it takes some skill to blast beads like this.
I'm glad that carb didn't have to be cleaned, empty gas tank or not. Glad you brought this cheap-o push mower back to life.
Fairly simple repair. It's good the engine works.
Well, excellent short video. I chuckled when you said "the deck is 100%" But 100% of what??? Your comments at the end about weight were spot on, though. And if someone took a LITTLE care and cleanded under the deck like you would, it should last a long time.
100% Playdonium.
James is the "lawnmower whisperer". We've become a throwaway society, but hate to see good equipment thrown away. Fix it and use it.
Lighter moweres are great for elevated lawns as they have to be lifted. Also great for trimming Put anything with an engine on it on a street that James Condon drives down and it gets a ride
Or taking to cemetery to mow 😊😊😊
Good day Dr.Condon.
Amazing how many of these opportunities are out there. At one time I had 6 of these and none required much to get them running. There wasn't much of a market for them and no one really needs 6 mowers. So I have fewer now. :)
That mower looks like it was run over by a car. I've seen it before. My mom had one for 2 days before she backed over it with her car. She gave it to my grandfather. He fixed it somewhat and used it for a few years, and then abandoned it in his back yard after it quit running. It sat in his back yard for a few years before my grandmother gave it to my neighbor after my grandfather passed. It sat in my neighbor's back yard for a few years before he eventually gave it to me. I've had it for a few years now, and I just got it 100% operational yesterday. It only took a carburetor, bail cable, kill switch, primer bulb, and blade, along with basic maintenance and damage repair. The damage was very similar. The wheel is still not perfect, but it's good enough to use.
Amazing how cheaply made this mower is. For minimal added cost they could have used thicker sheet. Of course, their press would have to have the capacity to form it so maybe that's the limiting factor. At my age I won't be buying another mower so remembering to check the gauge of metal used won't be necessary. I look forward to each of your videos.
Yeah, or only a bit thicker on the places that have a load, like the wheels and engine.
But that goes for so much stuff, a little bit of extra on critical parts or spots goes a long way.
But I guess the lawn mower market is highly competitive, things like this are a result of that probably.
Thank you for another very smart video James. I was having overheating trouble with my 1973 IH Cub Cadet last summer and it was stumping me. So I started to look for a cheap push mower to finish the mowing season. There is a family and farm type chain store called Rural King right near me, who were clearing out summer equipment so I bought a Pulsar 200 cc no frills push mower for $100 from them. It's about like that one you have there. The deck is super thin steel. The push handle and depth setting controls are flimsy and it has no throttle and no choke control. All it has is a primer bulb and bail controlled shut off and flywheel brake. I runs at 2,800 rpm and is kind of loud, but it has a lot of vacuum and it mows pretty good. I've run at least 20 tanks of gas thru it so far, so it doesn't owe my anything. I did get my Cub Cadet figured out and have been towing the Pulsar around behind it. The only thing I've encountered so far is: I left gasoline in it over the winter and it hunted real bad when I got it out this spring. My fix was to pour about 1/4 cup Chevron brand Techron in the fuel tank with fresh fule then pump the primer bulb again and again to keep it running until it straightened up. I must have mowed 10 times befor it messed up again. So again I put the Techron in it and it straightened up. Now I keep mowing until it runs out of gas every time I use it. Hopefully that will fix the carb issue. OK FB, ben/ michigan
For repairs like that, they make what is called a fender washer. It's a blarge diameter washer with smaller holes. That would add considerable strength to the deck if used on the inside along with the outside patch. Actually if the mower manufacturer used them, the deck may still be intact.
Good work, as always.
Thank you for saving that push mower brother you have a new subscriber
Talk about light weight! My dad had a very old Craftsmen mower with a magnesium-aluminum alloy deck and a "smallish" engine. That thing was feather weight. He finally had to get rid of it after 40 or 50 years because repair parts became impossible to get. He always worked on his own stuff and was a meticulous maintenance guy.
The thing still had a light brown paint or perhaps anodizing on it when he scrapped it. Amazing mower!
Nice save, I've gotten a lot of power equipment this way. Amazing what people throw out.
Nice job as usual! I always spray some "Fluid Film" on the underside where the nuts are to give them some moisture protection. I just finished a John Deere mower that had been to another shop for months and they had done the parts swap routine. It was a hodge podge of unknown stuff. It cost him a bit to put it back to original condition. Thanks Jim!
Well done James another saved great repair I always watch your videos they are great watch you are amazing at showing how to repair different things very informative taking us through the stages to repair the things you repairing thank you for sharing your videos from England.
Thanks James for my weekly dose of small engine magic. I have one of these engines on one of my mowers. It is great apart from the plastic carb that needs annual attention. You got a good bargain there 👍It's amazing what those that can't throw away for those that can to make good.
Great preventative call on implementing the repair on both sides of the front end. Another excellent video James.
Aloha James. As a repair plate design, I would have done plug welds by just drilling holes in the repair plate and filling in the hole with weld as well as some welds around the edges of the repair plate. It would give a better attachment to the mower deck, and it would also be an easy thing to do. I have successfully repaired lots of sheet metal using this process. I am also surprised that you didn't check the rear wheels for the same existing condition on the bolt to deck attachments. They have the same amount of time to rust, and they may fail quickly. The mower deck on my 48" Craftsman mower deck is made from 10 gauge metal just for this reason. It is much thicker and will probably not rust through in my lifetime. Great repair and you are a wizard at getting non-functioning equipment back into reliable service. Way to go...
Coulve just welded that "5 position height adjustment plate" (15:25) to that deck. Its located with that tang to that deck anyway and doesnt have to move. Couldve saved you some time.
I picked up a ten year old Poulan mower at the local dump a couple of years ago. Engine had compression and I was thinking is may be just a clogged carb jet. Took it home and one of the carb jets was clogged. I sharpened the blade and put in a new air filter and it fired right up on first pull. Runs great and all I have invested in it is $6.
Reminds me of the old lawn-boy mowers that had cast decks. Would pretty much last a lifetime if not several.
Can confirm 50 years of cast ali deck life....
It just makes my day when I see a new upload. Best English wishes.😊😊
What a great repair. Thanks for sharing.
Perfect Fix, and....perfect short video !!! love shorter videos, yours usually too long, 35 min perfect !!!=)
I notice you have a lot of RYOBI tools. I like their tools as well. Oh, I believe your patch job looks fine! 👍 It's always amazing how people don't want to fix their devices, nor do many have the tools to do so. The manufacturers love these people! Wouldn't it have made since to copy this piece before welding this one?
---
Another freebie saved! WIN! WIN! Jim, (pun intended)!
James, when I worked at the dealer, we had miniature colored warning cones that we’d place on the dash of cars we had in the service lot, or in the shop during repairs, no brakes, no oil, etc. It was mandatory to use them where needed.
I wonder if the folks in your general area bring their unwanted mowers to the curb hoping you will take them away? I also wonder if the former owner of this mower has seen your repair video. This is a great video, I enjoyed watching and I learned from you. I have to say -- as an older guy -- that you have tools which simply never existed back in the 1960s and 1970s, and you seem to pick excellent quality tools as well. That is good -- a high quality tool is a great help in getting tasks done safely.
Hi, just an advice on welding thin steel. You can bump up the amps a bit and put quick tacks. It will have better penetration and less likely to burn through. You can cool it with compressed air if needed
Fantastic job! I don’t know why but I feel like mowers like these should come with a dedicated high lift mulching blade for the best cut quality. We had one last year where the hit something and bent the blade. I think a new high lift gator blade was around $50. That’s half the resale value. I pulled the blade adapter and installed an MTD blade adapter with high lift gator blade for significantly less!
Never seen these style rot out the MTD versions all the time! People never clean the decks to the nylon lock nut is rusted to beyond trying to get off. Repairs add up real quick on these little $300 mowers. MTDS, I have had a few wheee the front is really weak. I make plates on the inside and outside (Sandwhich the compromised metal…what’s left of it.
When welding thin metal you just have to tack all the way around. To reduce cool down times take your blow gun and cool down the metal. I can ever get them to look good so I use JB-Weld as a filler to make it look “perfect”.
Happy Friday!
When Lowes had an assembly department, I always hated putting these cheapo mowers together for sale. You had to assemble everything. Wheels, handle, you name it. It took longer assemble it than many lawn tractors. Plus people would buy them at the start of the mowing season then return them and say they stopped working at end of the season. Never cleaned and with no oil in them.
What was your shop policy?
Did they buckle and refund them the money
or replace the mower
or turn them away for their stupidity?
That wasn’t two broken wheels, that was one broken deck. ✌️
Very nice repair james. About the only suggestions I have Is to first apply a coat of primer before you paint because it improves the quality and durability of the repair. Also, I don't know if you pulled and inspected the spark plug, but I also recommend that be done. I have
The same mower and very thick grass accumulates in these two front corners, Which I clean out each time I use the mower. One of the nice features of the mower is because the deck material is so thin, it is lightweight and an excellent cut in mower. But the downside is the durability, especially around the wheels as you discovered. Another way to get around this problem is to install fender washers on both the inside and outside of the connection points on all four wheels. By the
Way james, what torque setting did you use to connect the blade please? Thanks again and take care. 👍👍👍
Another great video and a piece of equipment saved. I thought you might break out the power washer and clean the underside.
Great repair. I can second how flimsy the Poulon decks are. There's one at my father-in-law's house. Blade was bent, so I replaced it. The new one was about 1/16" bigger in radius. No worries, said I. There's easy clearance. But then when I was mowing over uneven ground, the deck would flex enough for the blade to strike. Scared the bejezuz out of me. Had to grind off that sixteenth.
Nice welding job. Great find too.
Ka-chow!
I’m thinking that somebody backed into it with a car to cause the wheel to fail like that. Yeah. It’s thin and cheap, but the whole deck would’ve been similarly rusty…
Well done.
Loved the "mower cam".
You should patent it.