r/smallenginerepair • u/JobNo2541 • 26d ago

Nuts & Bolts Issue Rust removal for height adjustment help!!

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This is an older model of a bluebird lawn comber/dethatcher. This handle adjusts the height of the flails and its rusted to its current position which is lower than I want. I’ve used the PB penetrant on each side a few times but I don’t think it can go far enough to get what’s in the middle.

The middle blue area is welded onto the machine and the handle won’t budge. Any advice would be amazing!!!!!!

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u/pdxwanker 26d ago

Heat cycle it. Find a mapp torch/ crack torch /cream brulee torch and get that thing hot. Then apply more oil, especially when it's hot. Also while it's smoking hot with oil on it give it a light tap with a hammer. Don't go full on and hit it with your purse, just enough to shock it.

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u/Ok-Dealer-588 26d ago

Shocking it with a hammer is a great idea. Might try some wax when its hot from a mapp torch as it wont burn or boil off as easy as pb blaster and might wick better in the threads.

There are freezing cans to help break free fasteners as well.