Hot Tools & Equipment How-Tos
How To: Use an electrical box extension
This is a video tutorial in the Home & Garden category where you are going to learn how to use an electrical box extension. Bob Schmidt shows how to use an electrical box extension during remodeling; when adding drywall, tile or wood over existing surfaces. For this you will need a PVC box extension which is designed to fit over the box that is already embedded in the wall. It extends out of the wall which will be covered by the layer of tile or drywall. Disconnect the power source to the plu...
How To: Change the blade on a Festool Kapex Compound Miter Saw
Every miter saw needs a new blade every now and then, and the Festool Kapex Miter Saw is no difference. Actually, the only difference is how easy it is to replace a miter saw blade on the Kapex, one of the most advanced sliding compound miter saws available today.
How To: Set the combination of an OnGuard lock
This video is a short tutorial to assist in setting the combination for an OnGuard Lock. In the event that a combination is compromised, it is important to change a lock to prevent from unwanted break-ins or theft. Watch this instructional video and learn how to reset the combination on an OnGuard lock.
How To: Use a Paslode impulse framing nail gun
The Paslode Framing Gun is operated by a gas cartridge and battery so an air compressor is not needed. The tool also has a large range of nails available for different job requirements from 50mm To 75mm. Watch this video tutorial for a demonstration on how to use a Paslode impulse framing nail gun.
How To: Open a bedroom or bathroom door when you're locked out
Ahhh! You're locked out of your bedroom, or your bathroom! Well, watch this video and you won't be locked out for long. Fortunately, interior privacy locks are very simple to pick. There are essentially two kinds: one that requires a blade, or knife and the other which requires a long sharp "pin" like object to insert into the handle. Check out this video and never be locked out again! You'll need something like a flat head screw driver for locks with a "slot" in them, and something long and ...
How To: Use a cordless drill and taper tap to cut a threaded hole in steel
Trapping a hole is the process by which you give them threads so that they can accommodate a screw, and doing it to a lot of holes quickly can be a major pain. Fortunately, you can actually do it with a cordless power drill much more quickly and easily than manually. This video will show you how to do it.
How To: Replace the line on a STIHL trimmer Head
In this video, we learn how to replace the line on a STIHL trimmer head. First, remove the spool from the head by stopping the engine and cutting attachment first. Then, grasp the body and insert your thumb into the tab on the head, then rotate around and press on the second tab. After this, press down on the spool and release it from the housing. Now, remove the star nut to remove the head completely. Now, you can replace it with a new one. After this, replace the parts that you took out and...
How To: Remove a stuck drill chuck
If you have a stuck keyless drill chuck and need help on to repair it, check out this next video tutorial. In it you'll find out what tools you'll need for taking out the drill chuck. It can be a difficult job if you lack the right tools and are not careful. So check out the video tutorial above and good luck!
How To: Use an engraving tool
In this tutorial, we learn how to use an engraving tool. It doesn't matter how old your engraving tool is, just make sure it has different speeds on it to help control it while in use. Now, place a piece of aluminum down and adjust your power level to the lowest level. Push down on the aluminum and write the word you want to so you can see how the pressure effects the aluminum. Now, set the tool at the highest setting and push down on a sledge hammer to see the pressure you need to push to ge...
How To: Refill a butane lighter
In this Home & Garden video tutorial you will learn how to refill a butane lighter. For this you will need any kind of butane lighter that has an opening for refill and any kind of butane refill can. Shake the butane can properly. Then remove the cap and you will see the nozzle. Now hold the lighter upside down and insert the nozzle in to the refill hole. Now press the can down and hold for about four seconds. Repeat this for three to four times. Then replace the cap on the can and try out yo...
HowTo: Remove a Stripped Screw With a Rubber Band
Apartment Therapy posts a simple household hack on removing a stripped screw without an extractor. For all our WonderHowTo Home & Garden DIYers, you never know when you might accidentally strip a screw clean. Here's how to remedy the problem.
How To: Use a multimeter as a battery tester
Thanks to How To Make Anything, you can learn how to make and do pretty much anything! In this video, learn how to use a multimeter as a battery tester for those days your battery tester is out to lunch!
How To: Use a floor sander to sand a deck
If you don't know what you're doing, sanding a deck can be many hours of back-breaking work. But in this video, Mark Donovan of HomeAdditionPlus.com demonstrates how to use a floor sander. By using a floor sander correctly, sanding a floor can be a much simpler process.
How To: Get exact measurements with a tape measure
In this how-to video, Ron Hazelton, do-it-yourself expert, shows you how to get exact measurements with a tape measure, even when the tape measure "rolls" to an inside corner. Quick and accurate measurements will make any home improvement go faster, and turn out better. Watch this video tutorial and learn how to get exact measurements with a tape measurement.
How To: Build a scrollsaw cutting jig
In this tutorial from the Scrollsaw Workshop, Steve Good will teach you how to cut metal with a DIY cutting jig. Learn the basics of metalwork with a scrollsaw while Steve walks you through making jewelry from U.S. coins. Take a look!
How To: Make an easy drill bit depth gauge
Home improvement expert Danny Lipford helps you figure out a way to get the perfect hole depth when drilling. Watch this video tutorial to see how to make an easy drill bit depth gauge.
How To: Use a gauge rake & smoothing paddles
Watch this video from Concrete Network to to learn the proper function and use of the gauge rake and smoothing paddle tools used for leveling concrete.
How To: Use a curbing machine to pour concrete
Learn how to use the Miller Concrete Landscape Curbing Machine. You will also learn the basics of making curbing mix.
How To: Tee off sprinkler lines underground
Teeing off sprinkler lines is something you'll probably have to do if you're trenching or pulling that plumbing pipe for your sprinklers underground. It allows you to run your main lines closer to the middle of your yard and then branch off to each individual head.
How To: Install a sprinkler valve box
Installing a sprinkler valve box can be made easier by using bricks to support the valve box and using crushed rock in the bottom to make it look a little neater.
How To: Assemble a sprinkler spray head
Sprinkler Daddy's Sean Stefan takes you through the steps to assembling a sprinkler spray head. He also shows how to adjust the radius of the water spray.
How To: Strop on a stropping block
In this video, we learn how to strop on a stropping block. There are two layers to the strop and they measure different lengths. On the bottom you should put two mouse pads to make sure it stays put. Now, charge the strop with a stropping compound and rubbing it against the grain until it flakes off. Next, gauge the angle of your knife and place the blade against the strop. Push against the edge of the blade and work from the top to the bottom in a long and slow arch. This is all there is to ...
How To: Repair your lawn mower's pull starter with silicone spray
You're trying to mow your lawn, but the engine on your pull-string push mower isn't turning over— why won't it power up? Well, if your lawn mower was stored outdoors for a large amount of time, chances are that the recoil has built up some corrosion or is simply sticking. This video will show you a very simple repair, where you only need to remove 2 or 3 screws to gain access to the mechanism, then grease with silicone spray.
How To: Perform gas-powered string trimmer (weed wacker) maintenance with Lowe's
A string trimmer is a handy tool, but you have to maintain it if you want it to work its best. Learn how to do maintenance on both a 2-cycle and 4-cycle gas-powered trimmer. Lowe's home improvement expert, Mike Kraft, gives helpful tips for string trimmer maintenance. Learn how to replace string, change the oil, clean the trimmer filter and more that will help keep your string trimmer working like new.
How To: Fix a slack chainsaw recoil starter
In this video, we learn how to fix a slack chainsaw recoil starter. All you need is to wind up the recoil string so the tension can be put back on. First, remove the bolts out (there will be around four of them). Next, lift the side casing off and find the nylon spool with the cable cord wrapped around it. There will be a clock spring around that. Now, wind it up with a screwdriver while holding the spool of the corn and winding up the spoon a couple of times. When you reach the correct tensi...
How To: Pick a combination lock using a soda can
In this tutorial, we learn how to pick a combination lock using a soda can. To begin, have your lock next to you and an empty soda can and scissors. When your lock won't open, cut the soda can in the middle so you have a small square. After this, cut off strips, then measure the size of your pinkie on the foil. Next, cut the foil out so it's the exact size of your pinkie and then stick this piece of foil into the lock. Move the foil around until it comes undone and you will have the lock unlo...
How To: Straight pipe your small tractor engine
In this tutorial, we learn how to straight pipe your small tractor engine. First, insert a one inch screw pipe to your exhaust, then connect pipes into it so it connects to the back of the vehicle. You will need to install several elbow pipes as well as longer straight pipes. The pipes should reach the end of your tractor out of the tires. Make sure it's secured tightly to the floor boards and screwed in on the bottom of the tractor. You can experiment with different types and shapes of pipes...
How To: Fix a slack recoil starter on your chainsaw
In this video tutorial, viewers learn how to fix a slack recoil starter on a chainsaw. Begin by removing the bolts off of the side casing. If you leave the cord hanging out, it will make the saw much more difficult to start and can be caught onto things. To put more tension on the spring, wind the cord around the nylon spool and retract the cord. Make sure not to put too much tension in the spring or else the spring will break. This video will benefit hose viewers who have and use a chainsaw,...
How To: Change the oil on a riding lawn mower
It is very important to change the oil on your lawn mower just as important as changing the oil in your car. The oil liberates, cools and cleans the engine. It is best to check your manufacturers information to know how often to change the oil. To change the oil you will need the following: a wrench, gloves, a drop cloth, a socket wrench, oil container, a brush, a new oil filter, an oil filter wrench and fresh oil.
How To: Make a dial indicator holder for your lathe tailstock
If you need help with drilling holes and need a better way to know how far you are going in, this next tutorial should help. All you need is a couple of tools and about 30 minutes of your time and you have yourself a handy tool. This is great for getting correct and consistent depth when drilling holes. So good luck and enjoy!
How To: Charge the battery on a lawn tractor
Just like a car, a lawn tractor contains a battery that is used to help make the vehicle start and move. without it, you would have a very expensive mower that is pretty difficult to move. So if your battery were to ever die, you may need to replace it, or easily charge it up.
How To: Use a Work Sharp motorized sharpener
Keeping tools in tip-top shape is important for making sure they will work properly when needed. There are many tools that can complete the job, but in this tutorial, you'll be finding out how to use a work sharp motorized sharpener. It's perfect for sharpening chisels and other tools. So check it out, be careful, and good luck!
How To: Replace a trimmer line
Trimmers, or as some people call them weed-whackers, need one important piece for it to work properly: the trimming line, of course. This helps cut off pieces of unwanted grass or weeds with just one single swipe and is easy to replace. In this tutorial, you'll find out how to replace trimmer line in three different devices easily. So sit back, pay attention, and good luck!
How To: Install and use a dado blade on your table saw
If you plan on making any kind of cabinetry or beds or anything else like that, having a dado blade is a useful and handy tool. What this does is make a u-shaped cut into your piece of wood that is perfect for combing two pieces together to form a sturdy, solid joint. So if you want to find out more about dado blades and how to install and use one check this tutorial out. Enjoy!
How To: Choose and use a power drill
Power drills are powerful tools that can help get the job done quickly and efficiently. Now there are many out there on the market that are designed with specific purposes, so it can be confusing when trying to choose the right tool for the job. This helpful tutorial will give you advice on how to choose the right drill for the job and how to use it correctly. So sit back and enjoy!
How To: Replace a damaged power cord on a Hitachi circular saw
Have an old power tool that works perfectly fine except for the fact that the power cord is shot or maybe you just bought a brand new power tool and accidentally cut off the cord? You're in luck because there is a way to replace that damaged cord. You'll need to take the part off that encases the cord on your power tool, in there you will find the switch the cord is connected to and connect your new cord to it.
How To: Remove and replace a drill press chuck
Like any machine, a drill press chuck is prone to wear and tear and with repetitive usage some parts can become unaligned. If you are going to remove a drill press chuck, keep in mind that also with any machine you work with, you'll want to clean off any gunk that accumulates so you have a properly working machine.
How To: Use hollow wall anchors
If you need to fix your plasterboard or drywall, you will probably need to use hollow wall anchors. In this tutorial, learn how to identify, buy and use hollow wall anchors with the Ultimate Handyman. Once you master this skill, you will be able to repair almost any wall easily. Hollow wall anchors are also very useful for hanging anything heavy on an otherwise weak wall. They attach to the back of the plasterboard with little legs so they are more secure than normal nails or screws.
How To: Open a locked door with Barbara K
Have you ever been locked out of a room in your own home? Well Barbara K is going to show us exactly how to open a locked door in this video. This will let you get your bedroom door open when you have locked yourself out!
How To: Bend acrylics (like Plexiglas) with a hot air gun
Have you ever wanted to bend a small piece of acrylic? Well now you can with the help of a traditional hot air gun and this informative video. Make sure to wear safety glasses and gloves before trying this project. Clamp the acrylic to a work table, and proceed to turn the gun on and heat up the piece of acrylic, using a steady back-and-forth sweeping motion. As it heats up, you can use your fingers to gently bend the acrylic upward. Leave it at 90 degrees to cool down for a couple minutes, a...