What we use for these made in keys is coarse valve grinding compound. The grit bites into both the shaft and the flywheel. Just as long as the nut is put on there pretty tight.
We've used this trick many times, and never had an issue. This usually happens on chainsaws though, not sure how it would work on a trimmer or in this case a pole saw.
I think you made the best and long lasting choice for the machine in question. Why spend $20 on a new flywheel when you don't know if the machine is a "keeper". At the end of the repair, should everything else be running well, you can always order one. Keep up the good work - we love your videos in Australia!
You did the right thing. The original design (integrated flywheel/key) is awful to begin with. I consider your "fix" an engineering improvement. Great work!
I had the same thing happens with a Craftsman trimmer. I did the same fix, but with a small square file and worked my up to the key size. It worked perfectly. It did take more time, but the fix was permanant.
🤔🤔🤔, i am pretty sure you found it by now or I missed something from last time you worked on this but it seems to be missing a fuel hose. I only saw 1 connected, you can see this here at @8:05 When you primed it fuel shoot out behind @5:40. Just a return line. There still could be fine sediment left in the bearings, even after cleaning. In place of a Ultra Sonic Cleaner, put the bearing in a sealable plastic jar and some cleaner like old gas or some 2 stoke fuel and shake it vigorously to get any fine sediment out. Wipe it dry and apply 2 stoke oil before assembly. The carb could have some sediment blockage as well. The last thing i can think of is your key fix may have slightly changed the timing. You could losen the coil, move it a little to each side, and then tighten it down. Tough choices. Good luck my friend, looking forward to seeing what you decide to do next. 👍👍
thanks Anime Red, I addressed the fuel lines in the video. A line that's not connected to the Return line, going back to the tank, is okay, to run the machine.
Very good repair, I had a friend’s chainsaw once and I used a round file like you did but I used a small piece of # 12 or 14 solid copper wire and it fit nice and tight and because copper is softer it will shear off like the original key. The saw still running to this day . 👊🏼
No because as I mentioned before I did the same thing to my dads neighbours McCullough hedge trimmer by making a new key for the flywheel and cutting a new keyway into the flywheel. I would replace the crankshaft bearings which have likely become pitted from being submerged in water,I would overhaul or replace the carburetor which appears to be flooding the engine !
its a lawnmower fix so whats the problem? nothing. its a easy fix just for a small polesaw and a neat one. i like the way you fixed it. no cost no buying new parts so its a good fix for no money.
I hope to see the diagnosis for the marble sound. I have a ryobi chainsaw that does the same thing. It too must have been in a flood or more likely left out in the rain. It too was seized. I also might have to lube up the bearings. Love what you did with the pole saw. Quick intuative and cheap. Im sure that fix will last as long as the life of the engine. Its professional to always check the carb imo. You wouldnt want it coming back for a reason like that.
I think you did a fine job! A-PLUS! I might've tried to round up a flat file that'd go in the bore on the flywheel but that would have been it. I know my old 45 Super saw was 'degreed' in by lapping the flywheel and doing away with the key like go cart 5 horse Briggs used to have done bvefore the McYellow took all the honors. My pal at his shop has it and can NOT get the flywheel loose. So be it. Happy weekend and Blessings!
I think that was pretty smart idea you doing with that with the file that is awesome I think you did do everything right I mean that was really good what you did I when I watch your videos you are really good at what you do and I appreciate you making the videos I can't say something bad about what your decision is cuz your decision is your decision and I think it was a good decision I mean I would have never thought of doing that was a real good idea and thank you again for the video and a Merry Christmas and happy New Years
I noticed at 3:11 you pulled the spark plug with the “E” on it and replaced it with a champion. I too have a plug like that and was wondering what the difference is? It looks like the length of the plug is a tad bit longer coming out of the cylinder, and the piece that arc’s spark on the inside of the cylinder is almost like a “Y” shape. I know you would have good feedback, thank you for this channel and your time.
As long as there is minimal movement from the flywheel key repair itself, I don't see any issue. Even if it moves a little out of time, the saw will likely just shut off or not run. If whoever buys it has that problem right away, then re-do it with a new flywheel.
What I would have done is put that flywheel in a vice and then use an angle grinder to make a new groove for the key. It would definitely come out better that way than with a file.
I have a problem and wounded you maybe able to help... I have a sthil fs55 strimmer combie unit. I have replaced the clutch and clutch drum and lubricant on the shaft which fitted but when I put it on the engine they are tight and spins when the engine is idileing which I'm sure is not right... any idea on how to sort this?
I would have done the same thing except I would have boogied down to Harbor Freight or a hardware store and picked up a small square edged file to make my slot. If the fit has any slop at all it might shear the key again.
well for me i would have tried out the first option and if that did not work out if done correctly i would have simply replaced the Flywheel as proper way as it,s very easy to do on those units etc.
I tried this fix when I sheered the imbedded flyweel key off my poulan pro rebuild leaf blower. It didnt work for me. The homemade key ended up slipping out of the new cut groove on the flywheel and the flywheel ended up spinning freely on the crankshaft. Whos idea was it to inbed a flywheel key into the flywheel itself was an absolute itiot. I guess that is planned oboselence in small engines
Since the pole saw doesn't belong to you and you caused the issue with the sheared key, I would have replaced the flywheel, but that is just me. Your fix may last forever or it may break down the next use, who knows.
what kind of tractors? I can do ride on tractors like craftsman, poulan, John deere, and those kinds. 12-22 hp, single or two cylinders. I don't have room or the time, for larger farm tractors.
@@HomeGaragechannel You should show some videos of you fixing a John Deer, Troybuilt, Cub Cadet or Craftsman Tractors. It would be good to see you fix bigger equipment. 😊👍🏿
![ILLSLICK - KILLSHOT REMIX [FULL VERSION]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/RIK8RrqIAzE/mqdefault.jpg)
What we use for these made in keys is coarse valve grinding compound. The grit bites into both the shaft and the flywheel. Just as long as the nut is put on there pretty tight.
We've used this trick many times, and never had an issue. This usually happens on chainsaws though, not sure how it would work on a trimmer or in this case a pole saw.
@@donaldbower4097 That's how my Stihl Super 45 was set up probably 40 years ago. And STILL won't come loose!
nice idea.
I appreciate the information
@@HomeGaragechannel Sure! My saw was HOT and it ran like that for YEARS!
I think you made the best and long lasting choice for the machine in question. Why spend $20 on a new flywheel when you don't know if the machine is a "keeper". At the end of the repair, should everything else be running well, you can always order one. Keep up the good work - we love your videos in Australia!
thank you Dee Bee for understanding, I know some have already shown their displeasure with my choice.
You did the right thing. The original design (integrated flywheel/key) is awful to begin with. I consider your "fix" an engineering improvement. Great work!
thanks I appreciate that.
Absolutely nothing wrong with what you did, great fix.
thanks I appreciate it
Pretty smart idea on the key fix. Not sure I would have thought of it honestly. The JB weld was a good touch as well. Nice fix!
thank you covishen!
I had the same thing happens with a Craftsman trimmer. I did the same fix, but with a small square file and worked my up to the key size. It worked perfectly. It did take more time, but the fix was permanant.
nice work! thank you Ken Konter
I thought you did a awesome job fixing the key. I was impressed.
thank you William Snow.
Had the same thing happen on my craftsman leaf blower. Did the same repair you did and it still runs great after 4 years
nice, glad to see this type of repair will hold.
🤔🤔🤔, i am pretty sure you found it by now or I missed something from last time you worked on this but it seems to be missing a fuel hose. I only saw 1 connected, you can see this here at @8:05 When you primed it fuel shoot out behind @5:40. Just a return line.
There still could be fine sediment left in the bearings, even after cleaning. In place of a Ultra Sonic Cleaner, put the bearing in a sealable plastic jar and some cleaner like old gas or some 2 stoke fuel and shake it vigorously to get any fine sediment out. Wipe it dry and apply 2 stoke oil before assembly.
The carb could have some sediment blockage as well.
The last thing i can think of is your key fix may have slightly changed the timing. You could losen the coil, move it a little to each side, and then tighten it down.
Tough choices. Good luck my friend, looking forward to seeing what you decide to do next. 👍👍
thanks Anime Red, I addressed the fuel lines in the video. A line that's not connected to the Return line, going back to the tank, is okay, to run the machine.
Nice, so glad you were able to fix it.
Me too! thank you Homestead Apes.
You know my thoughts on it... You did a fantastic job, as you always do! Another one saved from the trash! 🕺
Yes! Thank you!
The key mod on the fly is good. The unit may be worthy of the proper key upon further testing.
I see what you mean.
Very good repair, I had a friend’s chainsaw once and I used a round file like you did but I used a small piece of # 12 or 14 solid copper wire and it fit nice and tight and because copper is softer it will shear off like the original key. The saw still running to this day . 👊🏼
nice work and thanks for the idea about that key!
No problem!! Like wise!! Have a safe holiday with your family and friends.
My mower doesn't work anymore, but I still support you 😇
thanks
No because as I mentioned before I did the same thing to my dads neighbours McCullough hedge trimmer by making a new key for the flywheel and cutting a new keyway into the flywheel.
I would replace the crankshaft bearings which have likely become pitted from being submerged in water,I would overhaul or replace the carburetor which appears to be flooding the engine !
good idea!
I Like it anything you do to fix things
I appreciate that.
its a lawnmower fix so whats the problem? nothing. its a easy fix just for a small polesaw and a neat one. i like the way you fixed it. no cost no buying new parts so its a good fix for no money.
thank you Manuel Hernandez
I hope to see the diagnosis for the marble sound. I have a ryobi chainsaw that does the same thing. It too must have been in a flood or more likely left out in the rain. It too was seized. I also might have to lube up the bearings. Love what you did with the pole saw. Quick intuative and cheap. Im sure that fix will last as long as the life of the engine. Its professional to always check the carb imo. You wouldnt want it coming back for a reason like that.
ah,, I see, more than likely the main bearing is the problem. IF it comes back, I'll take a better look again. thanks darrenoftheNorth.
I attempted to try that on a 4 cycle Toro trimmer, but gave up as I had no small files.
Made great video, though.😊
thank you Jim
That was a great idea and repair👍🙏👍🙏
Thank you RayFpv
Nice keyway fix👍
thank you Aaron Powell.
I think it was a pretty clever fix. In my opinion as long as it works that's all that matters. Great job as always Merry Christmas good Sir
Happy holidays Gary Allen!
I think you and I think along the same lines on these repairs. The cheaper the grape, the sweeter the taste of the wine.
oh I like that saying!
I think you did a fine job! A-PLUS! I might've tried to round up a flat file that'd go in the bore on the flywheel but that would have been it. I know my old 45 Super saw was 'degreed' in by lapping the flywheel and doing away with the key like go cart 5 horse Briggs used to have done bvefore the McYellow took all the honors. My pal at his shop has it and can NOT get the flywheel loose. So be it. Happy weekend and Blessings!
yes, after this experience I've got some changes in mind too. thank you Lewie McNeely
@@HomeGaragechannel That's what we're here for, Pal! BLESSINGS!
@@HomeGaragechannel Gopher it, Pal!
The home made key works, therefore is a good fix. I would have done this myself. I think I suggested to do this.
yes you did and I appreciate it a lot!
Great stuff
thanks! I appreciate it.
I HAVE TO SAY ON THE CHEAP IS BEST WAY TO DO IT. GREAT IDEA...
You got that right!
I think it was a good fix to get the pole saw backup and running
me too, it was quite useful
I think that was pretty smart idea you doing with that with the file that is awesome I think you did do everything right I mean that was really good what you did I when I watch your videos you are really good at what you do and I appreciate you making the videos I can't say something bad about what your decision is cuz your decision is your decision and I think it was a good decision I mean I would have never thought of doing that was a real good idea and thank you again for the video and a Merry Christmas and happy New Years
thank you and the same to you!
To be honest it's your TH-cam channel so you shouldn't worry about what other people think about the way you do things LOL 😆 😅 😄
hey I appreciate that
👍
I noticed at 3:11 you pulled the spark plug with the “E” on it and replaced it with a champion. I too have a plug like that and was wondering what the difference is? It looks like the length of the plug is a tad bit longer coming out of the cylinder, and the piece that arc’s spark on the inside of the cylinder is almost like a “Y” shape. I know you would have good feedback, thank you for this channel and your time.
I'm a firm believer in using a stock plug if possible. The E3's work fine, I just prefer not to use it.
Good job, I probably would have waited to find another engine to take the key off of though
that was my second option.
that key was my idea :) great fix
Yes it was!
As long as there is minimal movement from the flywheel key repair itself, I don't see any issue. Even if it moves a little out of time, the saw will likely just shut off or not run. If whoever buys it has that problem right away, then re-do it with a new flywheel.
you are absolutely right, thank you Matt Wicker.
Another great video mate soz for not commenting for a while😊😊😊
No worries
What I would have done is put that flywheel in a vice and then use an angle grinder to make a new groove for the key. It would definitely come out better that way than with a file.
how small is your angle grinder? the opening for the crank is about .75" at the widest point?
I have a problem and wounded you maybe able to help... I have a sthil fs55 strimmer combie unit. I have replaced the clutch and clutch drum and lubricant on the shaft which fitted but when I put it on the engine they are tight and spins when the engine is idileing which I'm sure is not right... any idea on how to sort this?
interesting problem, tell me can you spin the clutch drum freely?
I would have done the same thing except I would have boogied down to Harbor Freight or a hardware store and picked up a small square edged file to make my slot. If the fit has any slop at all it might shear the key again.
you are correct
Would have the link to purchase that piston ring for this pole saw ?
amzn.to/3YnCkbc
Thanks!
Wow, thank you so much for the super thanks!
Hey bro what's up? I think that you did a sensible thing by repairing this machine the way you did. What type of glue did you use bro?
it was a 2 part epoxy, and I was using to just hold the key, while installing the flywheel.
@@HomeGaragechannel okay cool. I was wondering if the glue won't be affected by the heat of the engine tho?
nah it's just temporary, If had super glue, I would have use it, instead.
@@HomeGaragechannel kool. Thanks bro
well for me i would have tried out the first option and if that did not work out if done correctly i would have simply replaced the Flywheel as proper way as it,s very easy to do on those units etc.
makes sense thank you Patrick Stapleton.
@@HomeGaragechannel my pleasure mate.
If it works
thank you Richard Boggs.
What site do you use to find free machines?
I use Craigslist and FB marketplace
No mistake. I think you have to repair things the easiest way you can at the time. Its a small engine not the space shuttle.🤔😜
you got that right, thank you Andrew Orli!
Wouldn't a broken flywheel cause a decrease in compression
not that I've seen, have you seen that happen before then?
Nice!
Thanks!
I tried this fix when I sheered the imbedded flyweel key off my poulan pro rebuild leaf blower. It didnt work for me. The homemade key ended up slipping out of the new cut groove on the flywheel and the flywheel ended up spinning freely on the crankshaft. Whos idea was it to inbed a flywheel key into the flywheel itself was an absolute itiot. I guess that is planned oboselence in small engines
I know right, the only thing I could think was that it was for simplicity for manufacturing
I'd check that muffler for mud or debris from the flood.......
ah, you make a good point
@@HomeGaragechannel Also the black plastic intake manifold under the carb too. It has a vac port in it that could have gotten mudding...
Since the pole saw doesn't belong to you and you caused the issue with the sheared key, I would have replaced the flywheel, but that is just me. Your fix may last forever or it may break down the next use, who knows.
thank you Jeff Snodgrass, I understand what you're saying.
do you like poulan
not my preference at all.
Thankfully it wasn’t to expensive but time wouldn’t have been worth it at a dealer.😊
you are correct
👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
thanks
Do you know how to fix tractors???????🤔
what kind of tractors? I can do ride on tractors like craftsman, poulan, John deere, and those kinds. 12-22 hp, single or two cylinders. I don't have room or the time, for larger farm tractors.
@@HomeGaragechannel You should show some videos of you fixing a John Deer, Troybuilt, Cub Cadet or Craftsman Tractors. It would be good to see you fix bigger equipment. 😊👍🏿
thanks
Why does it look like a milk jug 🤣😂🤣
does doesn't it!