✅Click here for a common air filter ➜ amzn.to/3iLNFwr ✅Click here for a proper blade balancer ➜ amzn.to/2BmvxUO For more videos like this, check out: 👉Straighten A Bent Lawn Mower Crankshaft With A Pipe ➜ th-cam.com/video/w2Ro9GmEyOE/w-d-xo.html 👉Fastest Way To Tell If The Crankshaft Is Bent On A Mower ➜ th-cam.com/video/3up57DHiCqs/w-d-xo.html 👉Here's Why Your Lawn Mower Is Leaking Gas - Honda Style ➜ th-cam.com/video/tp67AzWNbI4/w-d-xo.html 👉How To Adjust the RPM Speed on a Lawn Mower ➜ th-cam.com/video/7YrA3QEIFnE/w-d-xo.html 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
Steve i was cleaning my lawnmower and didn’t know this trick so when I put it on ground again and pulled the rope it smoked my hole garden and there was a lot of smoke I tell ya🤣
Hey Steve, I have one for you. I have a Stihl SH-85 Blower. This thing has been indestructible, had it for many years, have taken good care of it. Replaced the plug, the little lever that goes to choke to run, the push priming bulb, I’ve taken it in a couple times to see if I’ve missed anything. It starts great and runs great for a whole tank full of fuel. But when it runs out and I fill the tank again to keep going, I prime it a couple times to get the fuel back into the line and I have a hell of a time starting it back up again. I have to wait practically until the next day to use it again. Any suggestions. Thanks So Much.
Hi Steve, this is not related to the mower . I have a question concerning my ms 170 chain saw. It keeps leaking oil from the bottom of the engine case. And I have no oil coming out on chain when running. Any ideas?
I am not a mechanic..just an elderly lady with common sense. Since my spouse has dementia and has done NO maintenance for years on anything...the job is mine. Thank you for giving such basic, but vital information. It is life-saving for some of us.
If hydrolocked surely you can just remove the spark plug and pull the starter cord a few times. Waste of oil and messy but it'll clear the cylinder won't it? Or am I missing something?
I'm almost 70 years old. I passed auto mechanics because the instructor told us (me) at the end of the quarter, "If you turn in a piece of paper with your name on it, I will pass you." So I did. And he kept his promise. Now that you know who you're dealing with, then you will know how thankful I am, that in the last five minutes, I've learned more about mechanics that I have in the first 69 years of my life. Thank you! Trust me, this is barely exaggerating at all, just so that you know. Thank you!
I tipped mine over to clean out the grass, I don't know which way, I think gas tank down but then it wouldn't start..I tried till I was pooped and a total stranger, young man , stopped and asked if I was having a problem..I said yes..he told me to take the thing that covers the exhaust off and he started it and said I had flooded it..he let it run awhile and then put the cover back on..I haven't cleaned it since and know I should of done so but now I'll try it again..I think that guy was an angel, I've never seen him around my small town since.
I wanted to thank you for your videos. I'm 60 and didn't really know anything about my lawn mower other than putting gas in it. I now keep up with my air filter, oil and blade changes as well. I had a carburetor issue and thanks to you I took it off, cleaned it and put it back on. My son was impressed. He said he doesn't know anything about mowers. I was not going to give up, so I am very happy and like I always say, "you're never too old to learn". Thanks again for sharing your knowledge.
dont mow the lawn at your age youll have a heart attack, number 1 cause of heart attacks is mowing the lawn or washing the car, pay a honest good hearted kid you can trust to mow your lawn, i don't know why people think its time to mow the lawn when it's hot and sunny, thats the worst time to mow the lawn, washing the car is easy, don't do it when its hot and sunny, give it a quick wetting with the hose and have a spray bottle with soapy water spray a panel of the car then brush the area with a soft bristled broom then hose off the dirty soapy water do this to each panel until all the panels are done
I’m a 73 yo widow. Thanks for the info about the best way to overturn my B&S Craftsman lawn mower. I’m going to try it. I’m doing this one task at a time and by God, one day that engine is going to turn over! And btw thanks, comment ladies for unwittingly encouraging me to continue to attempt to do my own repairs. Off topic, my favorite bit of advice when it came to a new man in my life is to ask myself, “does he want a nurse or a purse?” I don’t need neither, thankyouverymuch! Just like my machines, I want a reliable self sufficient self starter with low maintenance and who is easy to figure out! (Btw, this is NOT a personal ad!)
I’m a 65 year old woman that doesn’t have anyone to do things like mow the yard and this kind of knowledge is what I need to be self sufficient! Thank you so much! Looking forward to more knowledge from you and yes, I have clicked subscribed! 😁👍👏🏻✌🏻
I was wondering about how you would use up 8 minutes to tell me how to turn the mower over. Thanks! I'm glad I watched the whole deal. Interesting stuff!
Many years of grass cutting and needing to tip my lawn mower over occasionally, only to flood my mower with oil and gas and be frustrated. This was a great video i really needed. Great video Steve! Well done Sir.
Intelligent comment; recently I incorrectly tipped my new lawnmower purchased in 2021 to discover I had to pull string multiple times to start lawnmower. Aedin
@@tomjones2121 You are joking, right? Let me make a note. From now on, every time I finish cutting the grass I should drain the oil before flipping it on its side to clean the clippings under the deck. Then put the oil back in. That seems much easier than pulling the rope until I feel the most resistance and then flipping it up so the muffler is facing down. Did you even watch the video?
Further to my husband tipping the mower over on the air filter side today and oil pouring out, I’ve been investigating utube. This is a wonderful video for me. Thanks. Now if he’ll just believe me.🤷♀️
I'm happy you came on I'm a 60 year old widow and my husband had cancer 5years now but he always did all the man stuff fixed everything he was good at it. But if he would have known utube has gotten me by from watching how to fix it my self He would have been proud and drank a cold one with you just for being one of the reasons I count on utube to show me how to fix it so Thank You Steve.have one for us☺
68 years old ... seeing something like this for the first time..... Thank you so much Steve ... didn't save me money but it did save me from a lot of frustration .... people should share knowledge just as you have ....
68 years of age - NOT 68 years old. People and animals live through the 'ages' it is THINGS that become OLD == Your Lawnmower - car - clothes - appliances etc. Did you not live through the teen-age years? The clues are in front of your eyes yet you are blind. For your homework make a list of all the ages ManKind has lived through.
I get my mowers for free from the neighbors giving up on the equipment when it fails to start or dies while running. Seeing your video taught me more lessons on the maintenance and operation of power tools. We live in a throwaway society so much that we fail to appreciate what our equipment does for us IF we just take the time to change the oil, sharpen OR replace blades, change the spark plugs, clean or replace the air cleaner (some have paper elements, god I hate those cause they need to be replaced if worn out) and just keep the deck clean (be careful washing around the fuel cap air cleaner area as you don’t want water to enter and contaminate the fuel or block air cleaner. I was skittish bout putting mower on its side and went out of my way to point it spark plug-skyward. Now armed with your info, I’ll follow what you demonstrated to effectively get under and repair my equipment with (hopefully) less mess!😊
Speaking of the modern "throw it away"society we live in, I just picked up a nearly new mower being given away because it would start but not stay running. I took the cheap plastic carburetor apart, using TH-cam videos as guides, and got it working. I don't know where the fuel was blocked in it, but I blew air through places I couldn't see, and whatever I did evidently dislodged the itty bitty beaver dam in the channels somewhere. I would have paid $350 for this mower new. The last one I bought new in the early 1990s wa+s starting to leak oil underneath at the shaft seal, so this was perfect timing. I'm now set for another 2 or 3 decades!
I love how Steve really goes into detail on his explainations in his videos. I'm the kinda guy who likes detailed instructions and guidance. Probably why I love this channel!
As home owner in Michigan, I have watched 100s of do it you selfer videos around the house and garage. This channel is the best on being informed on a particular matter. Definitely a TH-cam Oscar channel.
As a Kid, my father showed me many things, but when it came to mechanical things specifically combustion engines, he had little to teach. He just took his power equipment to a repair shop and let them do their work. I got to the point 25 years ago, where I got too frustrated to haul my gear to a mechanic and then wait endlessly for them to complete their tasks and present me with a bill that came close to motivating me just to buy a new unit. I have watched many how videos in the 17 years that youtube has been around (and before that saw tutorials on VHS) Your videos are so well done! Your personable way of speaking and expressing all the nuances of how various small engine problems are solved on so many different types of machines and make, well they really turn the lightbulbs on for me and make me eager to tackle the repairs and maintenance that go with the advantages and benefits they provide. Your body of work here is superior and so broad, it truly makes you one of my heroes. Today I salute you for sharing, producing, planning, performing and broadcasting by taking full advantage of youtube and the internet! You have inspired me to join your channel as a member and support your great work here.
Been working on small engines for forty years, but I learned something from this video. You are the man! Love your shop, especially the beer can collection.
I always turned the mower with the carburetor up when I changed the blade because it seemed logical that the oil would pool and make it difficult to start. Great to hear your explanation of the valve and piston position and how to “feel” that position. Good info!
@@StevesSmallEngineSaloon I learned the hard way years ago. My mower was sputtering and fighting to start and to keep running ... after a day or two I put my troubleshooting mind to work and took out the air filter. Completely clogged with oil.
Good idea. I’ve always just tipped my mowers carb side up, not paying much attention to the TDC issue, and never, ever had an issue with oil leaks or hydro-locking the engine after cleaning the underside of the deck. Like you demonstrated, the mowers always start first or second pull, no smoke. (Toro Recycler and 2 Honda mowers) I can understand what you’re saying and it makes perfect sense Steve, so, I’ll it a try next time. I don’t see mention of placing the engine at TDC center in the owner’s manuals, maybe they should! LOL. Stay safe buddy! 👍👍
@Tman NC. What's a owner's manual??? Just kidding. I'm one of those few that actually takes the time to read and go back over my user's manuals when I need to look up info. Just think of the tech writer whose job it is to get all the info and write a manual. That person needs some love too. Hope you and your family stay safe and well.
Never had an issue with tilting mower with carburetor up. But never left it on its side for more than a few minutes. Seen neighbors doing some crazy things and then they are wondering why oil is low and it won't start,had to intervene before catastrophe happened, then informed them of what you taught me and told them to follow your TH-cam channel for more small engine tips and repair videos 😉 Thank you Steve!
If you get problems with hydrolocking due to oil in just a few minutes then it's likely that the engine is in bad shape anyway. Only rule of thumb I can consider is to have less than half tank of gas, At least on those where there's no float bowl but the carburetor takes fuel directly from the tank. Not sure if they make them anymore, they existed in the 70's/80's.
Never had hydro lock ever when tipping carb side up, not a single time, but a good tip to be at TDC so oil doesn't get past the rings, i remedy this issue by simply taking the plug out and pulling a few times to blow out the cylinder.
My goodness. I accidentally came across this channel trying to get my generator to start. Since then, I've made it through 4 of your playlists. You Sir are a gift to all of us. Your procedures and step-by-step instructions along with your tips of how to make things easier are just fantastic. Most people want to charge us mortals to fix these things, but you empower us to do it ourselves. I am a Senior Software Engineer and always considered that I just wasn't "mechanically inclined". It turns out that I was just fine. What I was missing was an instructor that spoke my language. Thank you Steve, you've really changed my knowledge and way of thinking.
Your performance (a caliber step up from presentation) style is engaging, well organized, non- condescending, inspiring, cognitively brilliant, and entertaining. You obviously are very intelligent, but your charming delivery makes your videos stand out from others that may have correct facts, but are tedious to watch. You show us how to figure things out. Your script is free and conversational without the all too often pitfalls of the unprepared. "Ah, um, I think...." Video production is well framed, well lighted, and well segmented with close-ups. No drifting (motion sick generating) changes in focus or zoom. Yeah! And my biggest pet peeve. "There's always a sound issue!" You always have perfect sound even when loud sounds happen, you dampen them so we don't get our ears blasted. And you don't mumble, deminuendo at the end of a word or phrase! Natural story teller and performer. FULL MARKS! - Professor of Education, Dr. Charles O.
20 years ago I was small engine tech at sears service and we always laid our mowers over to the oil filler side. Even the big 3 engine suppliers would tell us do it that way, but never mention tdc, wish I would of known that back then, great advice. Thanks.
Thankyou for making this simple and clear 🥰 I’ve watched 4 videos before this and was just as confused after as before. I’m nearly 59yo lady and my hubby doesn’t clean my 20 year old mower after use and I’d like to clean it up and save it’s life before it’s to late.
Thank you! I just replaced the blade on my 12 yr old mower and not a drop of oil or gas spilled out! I’m a 63 yr old woman and this video helped me do it myself!! The grass looks fantastic with that new blade!
I absolutely love that your "buffer" time is actually useful explanation of what's going on. Most channels spend 5 minutes saying nothing before finally "revealing" what should have taken 10 seconds. Love this channel.
I rebuilt transmissions for almost 50 years and to this day I understand small engine repair less than anything mechanical I’ve ever done. They never fail to make me crazy when trying to repair them. Thank you Steve for helping me keep some sanity!
Real environmentalism is "Right to Repair" laws and culture of purchasing only products designed to last lifetimes (with maintenance, repairs, upgrades) rather than throw-away culture.
Never knew about that. Just always put up with a little dripping and got the job done. That's why the grass has little brown spots next to the garage 😁 Thanks 👍👍👍
Ok, I’ve seen a few of your vids now, I’m going to subscribe because you provide no bullshit intro, no shit music, excellent content, with sound advice backed up with years of experience. Thank you sir, I learn something every time I watch.
Same here, its refreshing to have strait to the point information. I'm subscribing for that reason. His advice checks out from what I've researched so far.
Reporting back from Japan. I followed your instructions for hydrolock and it worked! Yesterday I couldn't get it to turn over and cord was so stiff. Today I left the mower on its muffler side for about 4 hours. Third pull of the recoil and it spluttered back to life. Some white smoke came out of the muffler and then it worked just fine and I got the whole job done. Last time I used it about a month ago I had flipped it on its side and front after mowing for cleaning. Plow mulch mower with Yamaha engine. Thankyou!!
My 85-year-old mother still mows her yard. Bags the grass too. She likes to life the mower to clean the under side, especially when the grass is a little damp. I'm sending her this video because she has made the mower un-startable more than once. You described this better than I could have.
Thank you Steve! I'm a 68 yr old female and I; too; always thought there was a right way and a wrong way to tip the mower. My old one had a hose port for cleaning, but the new one doesn't. Setting on mulch, not bagging always causes packing under the deck, no matter how dry the grass. Now I don't have to worry about "Am I doing this the right way?" Way to go!
Steve, I watched several of your "how to" videos and have enjoyed learning your tips and tricks that genuinely save time. Thanks for that. There is one video I viewed a few weeks ago after watching how to replace a mower blade that outlined the proper way to tip a lawnmower over to avoid problems with oil flooding. I've owned 4 or 5 mowers and have never once experienced any of the problems you pointed out. I'm a believer in maintaining my power equipment and tools. For years, I've made a habit to clean out the underside of the deck after every 2 or 3 uses - especially after cutting damp grass. Maybe I'm just a lucky 76 year old. Except for dripping a little gas from the filler cap when the tank side is low to the ground, no problems. Once I've got grass debris cleared out with my hose and/or the deck washout fitting, I always make a point of starting the engine in the upright position and let it run for a few seconds. Keep up the great work!
Nice work. The same advice my grand dad told me 45 years ago. You sir are a national treasure. Bravo to the camera person and editor. Nice quality work.
Thanks Steve, setting the engine to TDC before tipping the mower over is an excellent tip. Something that Honda unfathomably neglected to mention in their mower user manual.
I always used to just go for it and tip my mower on the muffler side down. I didn't know about pulling the rope to align the piston and close the valves. Thanks Steve!
I checked with all the small engine repair folks in town and everyone was booked out 5 weeks. So I decided I would try to do my own repairs/maintenance. This video was a HUGE help! I got lost in the technical part about the inner working of the motor but it was still simplified enough for me. Many thanks from Dayton Ohio!!
You're better off doing it yourself. I was short on time and decided to take my mower to a shop, and instead of cleaning my carb, they just replaced my good carb with a shitty plastic one from ebay. WTF?
Thank you, Steve! I don't know how many times I had to clean up the oil spill from tipping my lawn mower on the wrong side. The piston at top dead center solves all this! Thanks again for another excellent teaching lesson.
Thank you so much for your videos, my mower accidentally got Hydro locked and I went online and saw your video on how to Repair my mower. It worked and it is because with your video and how you explain everything so well and so clearly I was able to do this!! Thank you Steve
Great info. I usually just lift (brute force hernia time) my mower up onto a set of saw horses and get underneath it for deck washing. I use a blade clamp to take the blade off for sharpening and balancing. Regular maintenance is the key! Oil change, sparkplug change w/ proper gap, self-drive belt as needed, and air filter change every season. Maybe overkill but I've been doing this for years and I've only had 2 mowers in my life (i'm 62) and they've always started on the first pull. Keep on mowin'!!
Oh, you like to shower in all that cat and dog poop that's stuck on the bottom of the mower, huh? You realize that when you pass a lawnmower over a dog turd that hasn't turned white yet, the poop hits the fan, literally, don't you? If it's white and the wind's blowing right, your wife won't have to powder her nose! If it's still brown and squishy, it gets slung all over the bottom of your mower.
Steve is my "go to" guy for lawnmower stuff. His videos are fantastic - clear instructions and he always explains the why's and how's of proper mower maintenance/repair. With the help of his videos, I overhauled the carb, replaced the pull cord and set the gap on the coil of my mower. And it starts on the first pull - every time. You're The Man, Steve!!! 🍻🍻
Steve you teach in a way that helps the home mechanic say I can do that. You are great at being practical and to the point. Thank You for teaching we the weekend warriors.
Steve thanks to your advice has kept my fleet of lawn mowers and chainsaws in great condition ,I have saved them all from being scrapped not the most modern lawnmower but certainly the best cheers from Ireland
I was given a '92 Craftsman mower that spent years exposed to the elements..cord would not pull, filter crumbling away, rain water in gas tank and oil like tar..thanks to Steve got that baby working and now for that edger!
Love your videos. Super helpful. I work on small engines a lot, and I knew not to tip it over with the carb down, but I never thought about moving the piston to TDC to make sure the valves are closed. Makes total sense, but it's nice that you you explain it, and show an easy way to do it. Thanks for all your hard work. Much appreciated. Keep it up!
I've been working on cars and small air cooled engines for almost 50 years now, and have never before heard this tip about putting the mower engine at TDC before draining the oil out the side as I now need to do with my Honda mower, the first machine I've ever owned without a conventional oil drain plug. Kudos to you, and I am now subscribed to your channel.
As a weekend warrior on small engines - I come across you from time to time. I really appreciate the clear, focused but also subjective messaging and clarity. Thanks for producing these!
And you can get an electric mower and not have to shoot trouble anymore. Still, I did enjoy this video very much and with I watched it back when I still had my regular mower.
You are right! I found the sweet spot for the piston and turned it over to work on it... and no oil drops--- none! Worked on it easily and it started on first pull with no smoke. Thanks!!!
I have to say, I’ve been using push mowers regularly for “at least” 35 years. I tip them over (in any and all positions/directions) for blade removal/sharpening, for washing/cleaning and any other reason I deem necessary. I have never had a single problem from one, due to this behavior/handling. Yes, I have had oil drip out on occasion, but never had a single mechanical issue (hydro-lock, fouled-plug, failure-to-start, etc.) occur due to this… I always flip them back upright, check the oil, check the gas, pull the cord and they fire right up. I believe some people just overthink this issue and get nervous/scared…. After all, it’s a push-mower not fuel-injected, turbocharged, rotary engine .. great video though 👍🏼👍🏼
Me too, I don't see a path where the engine oil can get into the cylinder TBH, unless the rings are completely shot: but would it run with those rings? If I want to remove the blade, I tip it, take the blade off, and then rest it back: perhaps the answer is not to leave it for days on one side?
@@G-ra-ha-m correct, it is a matter of time, of how long one leaves it on its side. also temperature, the hotter, the more potential for a mess. i tip the one i use just to get wet grass stuck in the blades and all is good. but the same mower got transported on its side for a couple of hours, big mess in the engine.
Dang! I have been working on cars for 56 yrs. and I have been doing this wrong because I did not think it through. Thanks for the slap on the back of my head. I really appreciate it.
Thank you!!!!!! Hydro locked my rotor tiller one time after tipping it. Thought I ruined the engine until I figured it out. Won’t ever happen again after seeing your video. Thanks again. Be safe. Dan
Thanks for the TDC tip! Also, tipping the older style Briggs engines with the carb/tank set up is a bit different, if you tip it with carb/tank up, gas may get into the cylinder and possibly the crankcase, so what I do is put a plastic sandwich bag, or a piece of a plastic grocery bag between the fuel cap and the tank opening, tighten the cap, and then I tip it over with the carb/tank facing down to avoid the leakage into the engine. And also, tipping a newer style mower the proper way as you showed works great, but if your gas tank is filled right up, the fuel may leak out of the vented fuel cap, Thanks again, and keep up the good work!
Great video Steve, I have been tipping my mower on its side with the air filter to the sky for years and have had pretty good luck doing just that (emphasis on luck) but now that you explained the additional need to set the piston at top dead center beforehand well I will certainly add that step to the routine. Great explanation!!! You empower a lot of us to take on small engine challenges that we would otherwise not have the confidence to try. Thanks again for all of your publications, I love em!!!
I’m a more mature lady, that is a very hands-on do it yourself, figure it out, kinda girl I went to mow my lawn nights ago, and it smoked so badly. I thought some of my neighbors might fear for their homes… My son, who is now in a wheelchair and unable to, take care of my lawn for me, told me not to worry that we would fix whatever was the problem. He found your videos sent them to me and we are both going to work on this together tomorrow. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge.
Thanks Steve this helps a lot. In the past I just raised the lawnmower with the wheels on ramps high enough to do my work. That way I do not have to worry about oil and gas draining from the mower.
@Steve's Small Engine Saloon. Thanks for these tips. I have a Honda push mower and when I need to tip my Honda on its side to either clean under the deck or remove the blades for sharpening, I always keep the gas tank neck up so I don't leak gas. It also happens to keep the carburetor facing up. But I now I also know to pull the cord until I reach TDC. Been lucky I haven't had any problems so far. Hope you and your family stay safe and well.
I tipped my push mower over for the first time a couple weeks ago and was shocked to see the oil that drained out! Now I know how to do it the right way, thanks!!!
Great informative and helpful video . I have an older Honda self propelled lawn mower that I bought used from a local lawn equipment sales and repair company. The instructions clearly show what you just so throughly explained. The instructions doesn’t mention the top dead center tip though. My mower has started on the first pull from the day I bought it 5 years ago. I run only ethanol free gas and turn the fuel valve off and empty the carb after each use. Thank You for the well posted video showing the correct way to lay the mower on its side.
That’s happened to me before, unfortunately, I was young and didn’t know what I know now. You guys guys out there watch and re-watch this and make sure you understand what it is he’s talking about. It will save you from taking your mower in to get serviced when you don’t need to. Excellent video. -Stephen, Ohio
Good idea! I knew from experience that I shouldn't tip it toward the carb side. But I never thought of putting the piston at TDC on the compression stroke. A little oil in the exhaust isn't so bad. It'll burn off. But if you go the other way, you might have to wash your air filter or replace it prematurely. And that's time and money lost! BTW, my dad and brother have tipped their lawnmower a few times without getting off first -- definitely the wrong way. You realize that while you're pushing the mower off you and getting up out of the ditch!
Finally a complete explanation! I can’t wait to teach my son-in-law’s this will give them confidence in the ability to maintain their equipment properly thank you!
Mate, I have a Honda mower. I have never put it at TDC. I have tipped it on its side (carb up) a hundred times, never had oil come out of the muffler and never hydro-locked it. I will however, follow your guidance as you are the guru!
I figured this out on my own as a kid. I had taken small engines in 4-H, and understood the workings of interval combustion engines and then some. I have been blowing them up and rebuilding then ever since 😁
Excellent advice Steve regarding how to avoid Hydro-locking the engine by leaving the piston in it’s top position with the valves fully closed so oil cannot escape into the top of the piston chamber. Thankyou 👍🏻
Hi Steve, I live in Australia, and I have started doing lawns and gardening, and I just want to say a big thankyou mate. You are teaching me a lot of good info that I really need to know.
I changed the oil in a jeep recently. Was the ghost time I've ever changed out despite years of seeing to be shown how. Well today is first time I've changed a spark plug on a push mower. I'll let you know how it goes!! Thank you so much. I would've screwed something up for sure had I not watched this video prior to putting new spark plug in. Thanks so much you were very clear and great instruction!!
Hey Steve - My lawn mower is a Hayter and has a Briggs and Stratton engine, is 45 years old and all original ( apart from the points and condenser ). I've been tipping it over on the muffler side every year to clean the underside and sharpen the blade and never had oil seep out. I have never bothered to get the piston to top dead centre but it always starts 1st time with just a little puff of smoke. Just shows if you look after a machine it will look after you. Great video!!
Thank you!! I've been tipping my mower on the side to clean it, then just saw a video saying I should never do that, but should tip it up, which I could tell would totally limit my access. I'm so thankful that I saw you video and got your opinion, and your safety tips (no pun intended).
✅Click here for a common air filter ➜ amzn.to/3iLNFwr
✅Click here for a proper blade balancer ➜ amzn.to/2BmvxUO
For more videos like this, check out:
👉Straighten A Bent Lawn Mower Crankshaft With A Pipe ➜ th-cam.com/video/w2Ro9GmEyOE/w-d-xo.html
👉Fastest Way To Tell If The Crankshaft Is Bent On A Mower ➜ th-cam.com/video/3up57DHiCqs/w-d-xo.html
👉Here's Why Your Lawn Mower Is Leaking Gas - Honda Style ➜ th-cam.com/video/tp67AzWNbI4/w-d-xo.html
👉How To Adjust the RPM Speed on a Lawn Mower ➜ th-cam.com/video/7YrA3QEIFnE/w-d-xo.html
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Steve i was cleaning my lawnmower and didn’t know this trick so when I put it on ground again and pulled the rope it smoked my hole garden and there was a lot of smoke I tell ya🤣
HEY STEVE. THANKS FOR THE INFO. VERY INFORMATIVE.
Hey Steve, I have one for you. I have a Stihl SH-85 Blower. This thing has been indestructible, had it for many years, have taken good care of it. Replaced the plug, the little lever that goes to choke to run, the push priming bulb, I’ve taken it in a couple times to see if I’ve missed anything. It starts great and runs great for a whole tank full of fuel. But when it runs out and I fill the tank again to keep going, I prime it a couple times to get the fuel back into the line and I have a hell of a time starting it back up again. I have to wait practically until the next day to use it again. Any suggestions. Thanks So Much.
Hi Steve, this is not related to the mower . I have a question concerning my ms 170 chain saw. It keeps leaking oil from the bottom of the engine case. And I have no oil coming out on chain when running. Any ideas?
Nice work good info n u prove it too
I am not a mechanic..just an elderly lady with common sense. Since my spouse has dementia and has done NO maintenance for years on anything...the job is mine. Thank you for giving such basic, but vital information. It is life-saving for some of us.
Who needs a mechanic when you've got common sense, right? You're doing an amazing job taking charge of the maintenance. Keep it up, superwoman!
Your a good partner 👍🫡💪
I feel for you 🙏
@@barbaraellis6637 Thank you . Your words are uplifting. Appreciate it.
If hydrolocked surely you can just remove the spark plug and pull the starter cord a few times. Waste of oil and messy but it'll clear the cylinder won't it? Or am I missing something?
Mine usually gets tipped over when I pick it up and throw it across the yard cuz it won't start
After a 6pk of beer and 30mins pulling the rope and cussing. I throw it in the Creek behind the house. Thanks Steve Steve great video.
Buy a deere
😂😂😂😂
wince moeron 😂
Does that make it start though? Asking for a friend.
I'm almost 70 years old. I passed auto mechanics because the instructor told us (me) at the end of the quarter, "If you turn in a piece of paper with your name on it, I will pass you." So I did. And he kept his promise. Now that you know who you're dealing with, then you will know how thankful I am, that in the last five minutes, I've learned more about mechanics that I have in the first 69 years of my life. Thank you! Trust me, this is barely exaggerating at all, just so that you know. Thank you!
Lol
I tipped mine over to clean out the grass, I don't know which way, I think gas tank down but then it wouldn't start..I tried till I was pooped and a total stranger, young man , stopped and asked if I was having a problem..I said yes..he told me to take the thing that covers the exhaust off and he started it and said I had flooded it..he let it run awhile and then put the cover back on..I haven't cleaned it since and know I should of done so but now I'll try it again..I think that guy was an angel, I've never seen him around my small town since.
Beautiful ❤️
I wanted to thank you for your videos. I'm 60 and didn't really know anything about my lawn mower other than putting gas in it. I now keep up with my air filter, oil and blade changes as well. I had a carburetor issue and thanks to you I took it off, cleaned it and put it back on. My son was impressed. He said he doesn't know anything about mowers. I was not going to give up, so I am very happy and like I always say, "you're never too old to learn". Thanks again for sharing your knowledge.
Great job!
Now that's rad!
Nice job julie!!!!
dont mow the lawn at your age youll have a heart attack, number 1 cause of heart attacks is mowing the lawn or washing the car, pay a honest good hearted kid you can trust to mow your lawn, i don't know why people think its time to mow the lawn when it's hot and sunny, thats the worst time to mow the lawn, washing the car is easy, don't do it when its hot and sunny, give it a quick wetting with the hose and have a spray bottle with soapy water spray a panel of the car then brush the area with a soft bristled broom then hose off the dirty soapy water do this to each panel until all the panels are done
@@351clevelandmodifiedmotor4 🤣 OMG. You think 60 is on brink of heart attack and death. I'm 62, and I bet I can out exercise you.
I’m a 73 yo widow. Thanks for the info about the best way to overturn my B&S Craftsman lawn mower. I’m going to try it. I’m doing this one task at a time and by God, one day that engine is going to turn over! And btw thanks, comment ladies for unwittingly encouraging me to continue to attempt to do my own repairs. Off topic, my favorite bit of advice when it came to a new man in my life is to ask myself, “does he want a nurse or a purse?” I don’t need neither, thankyouverymuch! Just like my machines, I want a reliable self sufficient self starter with low maintenance and who is easy to figure out! (Btw, this is NOT a personal ad!)
We think alike! 71 yo here. So glad I found this dude, tho.
Madelyn : your skill and energy got my engines goin! Steve is a nothin' if he's not racy guy.
Been doing it for 20 years never thought of tipping mower over with piston at tdc ! cheers Steve never too old to learn
@@mgomez5606 how is gas going to leak out carburetor when it is at the top?
M Gomez it didn’t seem to leak from these 2 examples after 75 hours so...
M Gomez I guess Steve didn’t show us that step. He must have shut it off or clamped it because these two didn’t leak.
@@mgomez5606fuel doesn't usually leak (or only what's in carb)because fuel in tank is lower than carb when tipped over with carb uppermost
Before I tip the mower over,I clamp the fuel line and start the engine and run it until the mower dies.Now I will put it on TDC.
TH-cam is like the dad I never had growing up.
A little sad, but maybe the best TH-cam comment ever.
Sad, no dad. There are many young people today who don't even want to learn how to do simple things....
This comment is hits hard
Or the dad that doesn't know how to explain things right either out of ignorance or laziness
Ill be your dad
I’m a 65 year old woman that doesn’t have anyone to do things like mow the yard and this kind of knowledge is what I need to be self sufficient! Thank you so much! Looking forward to more knowledge from you and yes, I have clicked subscribed! 😁👍👏🏻✌🏻
TH-cam and the internet has made husbands no longer needed! 🤣
@@JesusSaves827 but a good one is wonderful to have !!
@@JesusSaves827 Hey now! We must be good for something?!? ;)
I'm with you, sister!! 60 yr old Grammy here, have rural property, and it's all on me
My mother could fix anything from a microwave to an A/c. All it takes is knowledge. That how most of us men learned how to do it. By learning.
I was wondering about how you would use up 8 minutes to tell me how to turn the mower over. Thanks! I'm glad I watched the whole deal. Interesting stuff!
Glad I could help!
I was thinking the same but then I couldn’t stop watching. Great video
1. What the hell? 2. What’s this? 3. Hmmmm 4. Suddenly can’t stop watching... 5 what has happened to me? 6 addicted
I quit at 40 seconds after it's clear he means a petrol mower and not electric.
@@PMA65537 that’s funny 😆
Many years of grass cutting and needing to tip my lawn mower over occasionally, only to flood my mower with oil and gas and be frustrated. This was a great video i really needed. Great video Steve! Well done Sir.
Thank You...
Intelligent comment; recently I incorrectly tipped my new lawnmower purchased in 2021 to discover I had to pull string multiple times to start lawnmower. Aedin
What would you do once you flooded it? Did this yesterday and started spitting oil and smoke like crazy. Still
got the yard to do
trying to reinvent flipping a lawn mower LOL, drain your oil , problem solved , then do whatever you want .....
@@tomjones2121 You are joking, right? Let me make a note. From now on, every time I finish cutting the grass I should drain the oil before flipping it on its side to clean the clippings under the deck. Then put the oil back in. That seems much easier than pulling the rope until I feel the most resistance and then flipping it up so the muffler is facing down. Did you even watch the video?
Further to my husband tipping the mower over on the air filter side today and oil pouring out, I’ve been investigating utube. This is a wonderful video for me. Thanks. Now if he’ll just believe me.🤷♀️
I'm happy you came on I'm a 60 year old widow and my husband had cancer 5years now but he always did all the man stuff fixed everything he was good at it. But if he would have known utube has gotten me by from watching how to fix it my self He would have been proud and drank a cold one with you just for being one of the reasons I count on utube to show me how to fix it so Thank You Steve.have one for us☺
68 years old ... seeing something like this for the first time..... Thank you so much Steve ... didn't save me money but it did save me from a lot of frustration .... people should share knowledge just as you have ....
Glad to help
68 years of age - NOT 68 years old.
People and animals live through the 'ages'
it is THINGS that become OLD == Your Lawnmower - car - clothes - appliances etc.
Did you not live through the teen-age years?
The clues are in front of your eyes yet you are blind.
For your homework make a list of all the ages ManKind has lived through.
You are a hero to this old 75 yr old great grandma - I know so much more and you told it in such clear terms. Thank you, thank you!
You are so welcome
I get my mowers for free from the neighbors giving up on the equipment when it fails to start or dies while running. Seeing your video taught me more lessons on the maintenance and operation of power tools. We live in a throwaway society so much that we fail to appreciate what our equipment does for us IF we just take the time to change the oil, sharpen OR replace blades, change the spark plugs, clean or replace the air cleaner (some have paper elements, god I hate those cause they need to be replaced if worn out) and just keep the deck clean (be careful washing around the fuel cap air cleaner area as you don’t want water to enter and contaminate the fuel or block air cleaner. I was skittish bout putting mower on its side and went out of my way to point it spark plug-skyward. Now armed with your info, I’ll follow what you demonstrated to effectively get under and repair my equipment with (hopefully) less mess!😊
Admit it, you love that people throw stuff away. Sounds like youre doing your part 🎉
Speaking of the modern "throw it away"society we live in, I just picked up a nearly new mower being given away because it would start but not stay running.
I took the cheap plastic carburetor apart, using TH-cam videos as guides, and got it working. I don't know where the fuel was blocked in it, but I blew air through places I couldn't see, and whatever I did evidently dislodged the itty bitty beaver dam in the channels somewhere. I would have paid $350 for this mower new. The last one I bought new in the early 1990s wa+s starting to leak oil underneath at the shaft seal, so this was perfect timing.
I'm now set for another 2 or 3 decades!
I love how Steve really goes into detail on his explainations in his videos. I'm the kinda guy who likes detailed instructions and guidance. Probably why I love this channel!
Right on Kenny! Thank You...
As home owner in Michigan, I have watched 100s of do it you selfer videos around the house and garage. This channel is the best on being informed on a particular matter.
Definitely a TH-cam Oscar channel.
Wow, thank you!
Say yes to Michigan! 👋
At first I was annoyed thinking you needed to get to the point but your knowledge is GOLD! Thank you.
You're welcome!
Finally someone has set the record straight, with video to prove it! Great job Steve!
Thank You...
As a Kid, my father showed me many things, but when it came to mechanical things specifically combustion engines, he had little to teach. He just took his power equipment to a repair shop and let them do their work. I got to the point 25 years ago, where I got too frustrated to haul my gear to a mechanic and then wait endlessly for them to complete their tasks and present me with a bill that came close to motivating me just to buy a new unit. I have watched many how videos in the 17 years that youtube has been around (and before that saw tutorials on VHS) Your videos are so well done! Your personable way of speaking and expressing all the nuances of how various small engine problems are solved on so many different types of machines and make, well they really turn the lightbulbs on for me and make me eager to tackle the repairs and maintenance that go with the advantages and benefits they provide. Your body of work here is superior and so broad, it truly makes you one of my heroes. Today I salute you for sharing, producing, planning, performing and broadcasting by taking full advantage of youtube and the internet! You have inspired me to join your channel as a member and support your great work here.
WOW! Thank you so much Randall...
Hi Randall, I am 65 and I totally concur with your post. Keep on keeping on!
Canadians are so helpful and good natured! Thanks from a neighbor to the south!
Our pleasure!
Made my day! Thank you sir!
Been working on small engines for forty years, but I learned something from this video. You are the man! Love your shop, especially the beer can collection.
Cool, thanks
It's so good to know that there's somebody out there who actually knows a thing or two about a thing or two.
Thank You...
Someone NOT SomeBODY. He is not DEAD yet
Your knowledge of the English language is poor.
Please, get off your high horse. No-one needs a lecture from you, a stranger on the internet. @@andrew_koala2974
I always turned the mower with the carburetor up when I changed the blade because it seemed logical that the oil would pool and make it difficult to start. Great to hear your explanation of the valve and piston position and how to “feel” that position. Good info!
Thank You...
@@StevesSmallEngineSaloon I learned the hard way years ago. My mower was sputtering and fighting to start and to keep running ... after a day or two I put my troubleshooting mind to work and took out the air filter. Completely clogged with oil.
Great info,well presented.
A lot of people in this country don't work on logic. Just read some of the questions they ask.
Good idea. I’ve always just tipped my mowers carb side up, not paying much attention to the TDC issue, and never, ever had an issue with oil leaks or hydro-locking the engine after cleaning the underside of the deck. Like you demonstrated, the mowers always start first or second pull, no smoke. (Toro Recycler and 2 Honda mowers) I can understand what you’re saying and it makes perfect sense Steve, so, I’ll it a try next time.
I don’t see mention of placing the engine at TDC center in the owner’s manuals, maybe they should! LOL. Stay safe buddy! 👍👍
@Tman NC. What's a owner's manual???
Just kidding. I'm one of those few that actually takes the time to read and go back over my user's manuals when I need to look up info. Just think of the tech writer whose job it is to get all the info and write a manual. That person needs some love too.
Hope you and your family stay safe and well.
@@ccadama And then there are the "Engrish" manuals. "Please set that thing cylindrical at the top of the expired central"
Never had an issue with tilting mower with carburetor up. But never left it on its side for more than a few minutes. Seen neighbors doing some crazy things and then they are wondering why oil is low and it won't start,had to intervene before catastrophe happened, then informed them of what you taught me and told them to follow your TH-cam channel for more small engine tips and repair videos 😉 Thank you Steve!
I had a guy buy a mower from me. He tested it everything worked great, then he tipped it and it wouldnt start. Lol
If you get problems with hydrolocking due to oil in just a few minutes then it's likely that the engine is in bad shape anyway. Only rule of thumb I can consider is to have less than half tank of gas, At least on those where there's no float bowl but the carburetor takes fuel directly from the tank. Not sure if they make them anymore, they existed in the 70's/80's.
Never had hydro lock ever when tipping carb side up, not a single time, but a good tip to be at TDC so oil doesn't get past the rings, i remedy this issue by simply taking the plug out and pulling a few times to blow out the cylinder.
My goodness. I accidentally came across this channel trying to get my generator to start. Since then, I've made it through 4 of your playlists. You Sir are a gift to all of us. Your procedures and step-by-step instructions along with your tips of how to make things easier are just fantastic.
Most people want to charge us mortals to fix these things, but you empower us to do it ourselves.
I am a Senior Software Engineer and always considered that I just wasn't "mechanically inclined". It turns out that I was just fine. What I was missing was an instructor that spoke my language.
Thank you Steve, you've really changed my knowledge and way of thinking.
Awesome comment! Thank You...
Hi Steve, I've always tipped my mower with the carb up. But I didn't even think about top dead center, great tip! My hat off to the master!
Thank You...
Explains everything. Never had any problems before but now I know Im doing it right, including the beer after and not before.
You really know how to explain and prove what you say.
Thank You...
FINALLY SOMEONE WHO GIVES YOU A STRAIGHT TO THE POINT VIDEO 👍
Right on Buddy! Thank You...
Your performance (a caliber step up from presentation) style is engaging, well organized, non- condescending, inspiring, cognitively brilliant, and entertaining. You obviously are very intelligent, but your charming delivery makes your videos stand out from others that may have correct facts, but are tedious to watch. You show us how to figure things out. Your script is free and conversational without the all too often pitfalls of the unprepared. "Ah, um, I think...."
Video production is well framed, well lighted, and well segmented with close-ups. No drifting (motion sick generating) changes in focus or zoom. Yeah! And my biggest pet peeve. "There's always a sound issue!" You always have perfect sound even when loud sounds happen, you dampen them so we don't get our ears blasted. And you don't mumble, deminuendo at the end of a word or phrase! Natural story teller and performer. FULL MARKS!
- Professor of Education,
Dr. Charles O.
WOW! Thank you so much....
20 years ago I was small engine tech at sears service and we always laid our mowers over to the oil filler side. Even the big 3 engine suppliers would tell us do it that way, but never mention tdc, wish I would of known that back then, great advice. Thanks.
Right on
Thankyou for making this simple and clear 🥰 I’ve watched 4 videos before this and was just as confused after as before. I’m nearly 59yo lady and my hubby doesn’t clean my 20 year old mower after use and I’d like to clean it up and save it’s life before it’s to late.
Thank you! I just replaced the blade on my 12 yr old mower and not a drop of oil or gas spilled out! I’m a 63 yr old woman and this video helped me do it myself!! The grass looks fantastic with that new blade!
Great job!
I absolutely love that your "buffer" time is actually useful explanation of what's going on. Most channels spend 5 minutes saying nothing before finally "revealing" what should have taken 10 seconds. Love this channel.
I appreciate that!
Thank you. I am a senior citizen living alone. I must do my yard and weekly mower maintenance myself. This was very helpful!
Glad it was helpful!
I rebuilt transmissions for almost 50 years and to this day I understand small engine repair less than anything mechanical I’ve ever done. They never fail to make me crazy when trying to repair them. Thank you Steve for helping me keep some sanity!
You're Welcome...
Transmissions are EZ
Real environmentalism is "Right to Repair" laws and culture of purchasing only products designed to last lifetimes (with maintenance, repairs, upgrades) rather than throw-away culture.
Thanks Steve great video. For years I have avoided flipping my lawn mower for fear of F***ing it up. Now I know how to do it correctly!
You're Welcome...
Never knew about that. Just always put up with a little dripping and got the job done. That's why the grass has little brown spots next to the garage 😁
Thanks 👍👍👍
You're Welcome...
Ok, I’ve seen a few of your vids now, I’m going to subscribe because you provide no bullshit intro, no shit music, excellent content, with sound advice backed up with years of experience. Thank you sir, I learn something every time I watch.
WOW! Thank You...
maybe that's why this guys videos are not irritating, no shit music, some videos i can not even watch because of the music
Just the facts sir, just the facts.(and no shit music)😉
Same here, its refreshing to have strait to the point information. I'm subscribing for that reason. His advice checks out from what I've researched so far.
Absolutely!!
Reporting back from Japan. I followed your instructions for hydrolock and it worked!
Yesterday I couldn't get it to turn over and cord was so stiff. Today I left the mower on its muffler side for about 4 hours. Third pull of the recoil and it spluttered back to life. Some white smoke came out of the muffler and then it worked just fine and I got the whole job done. Last time I used it about a month ago I had flipped it on its side and front after mowing for cleaning. Plow mulch mower with Yamaha engine. Thankyou!!
My 85-year-old mother still mows her yard. Bags the grass too. She likes to life the mower to clean the under side, especially when the grass is a little damp. I'm sending her this video because she has made the mower un-startable more than once. You described this better than I could have.
Right on Marky...
Your gonna make grandma take the plug out ?
Hopefully stop her from screwing up the mower and having to call someone.
Steve has never failed to give proper advice and showing us how to properly do maintenance on our machines,
Thank You...
Thank you Steve! I'm a 68 yr old female and I; too; always thought there was a right way and a wrong way to tip the mower. My old one had a hose port for cleaning, but the new one doesn't.
Setting on mulch, not bagging always causes packing under the deck, no matter how dry the grass.
Now I don't have to worry about "Am I doing this the right way?"
Way to go!
Right on Leslie! Thank You...and You're Welcome...
Steve, I watched several of your "how to" videos and have enjoyed learning your tips and tricks that genuinely save time. Thanks for that. There is one video I viewed a few weeks ago after watching how to replace a mower blade that outlined the proper way to tip a lawnmower over to avoid problems with oil flooding. I've owned 4 or 5 mowers and have never once experienced any of the problems you pointed out. I'm a believer in maintaining my power equipment and tools. For years, I've made a habit to clean out the underside of the deck after every 2 or 3 uses - especially after cutting damp grass. Maybe I'm just a lucky 76 year old. Except for dripping a little gas from the filler cap when the tank side is low to the ground, no problems. Once I've got grass debris cleared out with my hose and/or the deck washout fitting, I always make a point of starting the engine in the upright position and let it run for a few seconds. Keep up the great work!
Nice work. The same advice my grand dad told me 45 years ago. You sir are a national treasure. Bravo to the camera person and editor. Nice quality work.
Wow, thanks
Thanks Steve, setting the engine to TDC before tipping the mower over is an excellent tip. Something that Honda unfathomably neglected to mention in their mower user manual.
Agreed!
Hope you come home soon
I always used to just go for it and tip my mower on the muffler side down. I didn't know about pulling the rope to align the piston and close the valves. Thanks Steve!
Glad to help
I love listening to people who know what they’re talking about! Learned how to do this in a matter of minutes. Thanks.
You're Welcome...
I checked with all the small engine repair folks in town and everyone was booked out 5 weeks. So I decided I would try to do my own repairs/maintenance. This video was a HUGE help! I got lost in the technical part about the inner working of the motor but it was still simplified enough for me. Many thanks from Dayton Ohio!!
Right on Tanya! I am glad to help you...
Good for you!
You're better off doing it yourself. I was short on time and decided to take my mower to a shop, and instead of cleaning my carb, they just replaced my good carb with a shitty plastic one from ebay. WTF?
I've just always expected to drip some fuel or oil. Never thought much about moving the piston TDC and carb up. Great idea. Will use that next time.
Right on
Thank you, Steve! I don't know how many times I had to clean up the oil spill from tipping my lawn mower on the wrong side. The piston at top dead center solves all this! Thanks again for another excellent teaching lesson.
You're Welcome...
Thank you so much for your videos, my mower accidentally got Hydro locked and I went online and saw your video on how to Repair my mower. It worked and it is because with your video and how you explain everything so well and so clearly I was able to do this!! Thank you Steve
You're Welcome...
Great info. I usually just lift (brute force hernia time) my mower up onto a set of saw horses and get underneath it for deck washing. I use a blade clamp to take the blade off for sharpening and balancing. Regular maintenance is the key! Oil change, sparkplug change w/ proper gap, self-drive belt as needed, and air filter change every season. Maybe overkill but I've been doing this for years and I've only had 2 mowers in my life (i'm 62) and they've always started on the first pull. Keep on mowin'!!
Oh, you like to shower in all that cat and dog poop that's stuck on the bottom of the mower, huh? You realize that when you pass a lawnmower over a dog turd that hasn't turned white yet, the poop hits the fan, literally, don't you? If it's white and the wind's blowing right, your wife won't have to powder her nose! If it's still brown and squishy, it gets slung all over the bottom of your mower.
I haven't been doing repairs but a couple of years but after watching your video it has taught me a lot. Well worth the time to view it. Thanks Steve!
Great to hear!
Finally a video that gets straight to the point!!! Then goes into detail!
Thank You...
Steve is my "go to" guy for lawnmower stuff. His videos are fantastic - clear instructions and he always explains the why's and how's of proper mower maintenance/repair. With the help of his videos, I overhauled the carb, replaced the pull cord and set the gap on the coil of my mower. And it starts on the first pull - every time. You're The Man, Steve!!! 🍻🍻
WOW! Thank You...
Steve! You are a life-saver. I love your videos. I’m an “engine idiot” and I’ve learned a lot watching your stuff. Thanks!
You're Welcome...
Steve you teach in a way that helps the home mechanic say I can do that. You are great at being practical and to the point. Thank You for teaching we the weekend warriors.
Good video.
Steve thanks to your advice has kept my fleet of lawn mowers and chainsaws in great condition ,I have saved them all from being scrapped not the most modern lawnmower but certainly the best cheers from Ireland
Fantastic!
I was given a '92 Craftsman mower that spent years exposed to the elements..cord would not pull, filter crumbling away, rain water in gas tank and oil like tar..thanks to Steve got that baby working and now for that edger!
Right on
Love your videos. Super helpful. I work on small engines a lot, and I knew not to tip it over with the carb down, but I never thought about moving the piston to TDC to make sure the valves are closed. Makes total sense, but it's nice that you you explain it, and show an easy way to do it. Thanks for all your hard work. Much appreciated. Keep it up!
Glad to help
I've been working on cars and small air cooled engines for almost 50 years now, and have never before heard this tip about putting the mower engine at TDC before draining the oil out the side as I now need to do with my Honda mower, the first machine I've ever owned without a conventional oil drain plug. Kudos to you, and I am now subscribed to your channel.
Right on Gary! Thank You...
I agree, at 65 years old Steve's explanation and demonstration of putting in TDC is the first I had heard about it. Steve is a master of common sense!
As a weekend warrior on small engines - I come across you from time to time. I really appreciate the clear, focused but also subjective messaging and clarity. Thanks for producing these!
You're Welcome...
Love to hear from you as a woman I tried to troubleshoot my lawnmower so I came across your channel which was very good 👍 thanks 🙏
Awesome! Thank you!
And you can get an electric mower and not have to shoot trouble anymore. Still, I did enjoy this video very much and with I watched it back when I still had my regular mower.
You are right! I found the sweet spot for the piston and turned it over to work on it... and no oil drops--- none! Worked on it easily and it started on first pull with no smoke. Thanks!!!
Glad it helped!
I have to say, I’ve been using push mowers regularly for “at least” 35 years. I tip them over (in any and all positions/directions) for blade removal/sharpening, for washing/cleaning and any other reason I deem necessary. I have never had a single problem from one, due to this behavior/handling. Yes, I have had oil drip out on occasion, but never had a single mechanical issue (hydro-lock, fouled-plug, failure-to-start, etc.) occur due to this… I always flip them back upright, check the oil, check the gas, pull the cord and they fire right up. I believe some people just overthink this issue and get nervous/scared…. After all, it’s a push-mower not fuel-injected, turbocharged, rotary engine .. great video though 👍🏼👍🏼
Me too, I don't see a path where the engine oil can get into the cylinder TBH, unless the rings are completely shot: but would it run with those rings?
If I want to remove the blade, I tip it, take the blade off, and then rest it back: perhaps the answer is not to leave it for days on one side?
@@G-ra-ha-m correct, it is a matter of time, of how long one leaves it on its side. also temperature, the hotter, the more potential for a mess. i tip the one i use just to get wet grass stuck in the blades and all is good. but the same mower got transported on its side for a couple of hours, big mess in the engine.
Dang! I have been working on cars for 56 yrs. and I have been doing this wrong because I did not think it through. Thanks for the slap on the back of my head. I really appreciate it.
Thank you!!!!!! Hydro locked my rotor tiller one time after tipping it. Thought I ruined the engine until I figured it out. Won’t ever happen again after seeing your video. Thanks again. Be safe. Dan
You're Welcome...
Here in 2024, and this video is unmatched. Thank you Sir.
You're welcome
Thanks for the TDC tip! Also, tipping the older style Briggs engines with the carb/tank set up is a bit different, if you tip it with carb/tank up, gas may get into the cylinder and possibly the crankcase, so what I do is put a plastic sandwich bag, or a piece of a plastic grocery bag between the fuel cap and the tank opening, tighten the cap, and then I tip it over with the carb/tank facing down to avoid the leakage into the engine. And also, tipping a newer style mower the proper way as you showed works great, but if your gas tank is filled right up, the fuel may leak out of the vented fuel cap, Thanks again, and keep up the good work!
Great video Steve, I have been tipping my mower on its side with the air filter to the sky for years and have had pretty good luck doing just that (emphasis on luck) but now that you explained the additional need to set the piston at top dead center beforehand well I will certainly add that step to the routine. Great explanation!!! You empower a lot of us to take on small engine challenges that we would otherwise not have the confidence to try. Thanks again for all of your publications, I love em!!!
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I've been doing this for years without the compression stroke and never had a problem.
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You are the Wizard!
Entertaining and straightforward.
Found you here long ago but got sidetracked. Glad I stumbled back here.
Nice honest Guy🤗
This really did help me. My old man always said airbox up, but never mentioned the cylinder to top center. Cheers!
Glad it helped
I’m a more mature lady, that is a very hands-on do it yourself, figure it out, kinda girl I went to mow my lawn nights ago, and it smoked so badly. I thought some of my neighbors might fear for their homes… My son, who is now in a wheelchair and unable to, take care of my lawn for me, told me not to worry that we would fix whatever was the problem. He found your videos sent them to me and we are both going to work on this together tomorrow. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge.
Thanks Steve this helps a lot. In the past I just raised the lawnmower with the wheels on ramps high enough to do my work. That way I do not have to worry about oil and gas draining from the mower.
@Steve's Small Engine Saloon. Thanks for these tips. I have a Honda push mower and when I need to tip my Honda on its side to either clean under the deck or remove the blades for sharpening, I always keep the gas tank neck up so I don't leak gas. It also happens to keep the carburetor facing up. But I now I also know to pull the cord until I reach TDC. Been lucky I haven't had any problems so far.
Hope you and your family stay safe and well.
Right on!
Thank you sir. I was going to change my blade out but was worried about how not to mess things up. PERFECT timing for me.
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I tipped my push mower over for the first time a couple weeks ago and was shocked to see the oil that drained out! Now I know how to do it the right way, thanks!!!
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Thank you Steve! You are the tech teacher I needed when I was 18. I'm 61 now. Its never too late to learn. Subscribed!
Awesome, thank you!
Steve, I started watching your channel a few months ago. You have taught me so much and saved me a lot of headache and money. Thank you so much !!
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OMG! I just learned more from this one video than I ever did in my 40 years of cutting grass. Thankyou!
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Great informative and helpful video . I have an older Honda self propelled lawn mower that I bought used from a local lawn equipment sales and repair company. The instructions clearly show what you just so throughly explained. The instructions doesn’t mention the top dead center tip though. My mower has started on the first pull from the day I bought it 5 years ago. I run only ethanol free gas and turn the fuel valve off and empty the carb after each use. Thank You for the well posted video showing the correct way to lay the mower on its side.
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That’s happened to me before, unfortunately, I was young and didn’t know what I know now. You guys guys out there watch and re-watch this and make sure you understand what it is he’s talking about. It will save you from taking your mower in to get serviced when you don’t need to. Excellent video. -Stephen, Ohio
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Men, women, children, we must protect Steve at all costs.
Sir yes Sir Rank up people
😅
Amazing! I’ve been repairing engines for about 3 years and I couldn’t find out why this keeps happening it’s such a pain in the ass and a mess
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Hi Steve, first timer here, I have a question how can I stop wet grass from sticking to the sides of my lawnmower? Love your video BTW. Thanks
Good idea! I knew from experience that I shouldn't tip it toward the carb side. But I never thought of putting the piston at TDC on the compression stroke. A little oil in the exhaust isn't so bad. It'll burn off. But if you go the other way, you might have to wash your air filter or replace it prematurely. And that's time and money lost! BTW, my dad and brother have tipped their lawnmower a few times without getting off first -- definitely the wrong way. You realize that while you're pushing the mower off you and getting up out of the ditch!
Finally a complete explanation! I can’t wait to teach my son-in-law’s this will give them confidence in the ability to maintain their equipment properly thank you!
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Hmmm, I never did the TDC thing before. One extra precautionary measure!
Mate, I have a Honda mower. I have never put it at TDC. I have tipped it on its side (carb up) a hundred times, never had oil come out of the muffler and never hydro-locked it. I will however, follow your guidance as you are the guru!
I figured this out on my own as a kid. I had taken small engines in 4-H, and understood the workings of interval combustion engines and then some. I have been blowing them up and rebuilding then ever since 😁
Excellent advice Steve regarding how to avoid Hydro-locking the engine by leaving the piston in it’s top position with the valves fully closed so oil cannot escape into the top of the piston chamber. Thankyou 👍🏻
Hi Steve, I live in Australia, and I have started doing lawns and gardening, and I just want to say a big thankyou mate. You are teaching me a lot of good info that I really need to know.
Right on Mate! You're Welcome...
I changed the oil in a jeep recently. Was the ghost time I've ever changed out despite years of seeing to be shown how.
Well today is first time I've changed a spark plug on a push mower. I'll let you know how it goes!! Thank you so much. I would've screwed something up for sure had I not watched this video prior to putting new spark plug in.
Thanks so much you were very clear and great instruction!!
Hey Steve - My lawn mower is a Hayter and has a Briggs and Stratton engine, is 45 years old and all original ( apart from the points and condenser ). I've been tipping it over on the muffler side every year to clean the underside and sharpen the blade and never had oil seep out. I have never bothered to get the piston to top dead centre but it always starts 1st time with just a little puff of smoke. Just shows if you look after a machine it will look after you. Great video!!
Thank you!! I've been tipping my mower on the side to clean it, then just saw a video saying I should never do that, but should tip it up, which I could tell would totally limit my access. I'm so thankful that I saw you video and got your opinion, and your safety tips (no pun intended).
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I change my blade only when my mower is out of fuel and i have emptied the oil in preparation for an oil change. But, this was very helpful for sure 👍