Anyone here good with antique tools? My long arm lopper[? I want to call it a billhook] is in dire need of a sharpen, but I'm hesitant to undo the bolt without knowing how to properly retension it.
this post was submitted on 22 Mar 2025
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Couple options i'd look at. I'll put them in different comments though.
Looks like you could disconnect the blade with the 'steel adjuster pole' by loosening the hex nut and flat head bolt connecting the blade to the hook's head.
If that comes off looks like you can pull the 'steel adjuster pole's' small hook out by turning it perpendicular, down at the handle.
I'd use a correctly sized flat head screwdriver, and a socket wrench with the correct size socket for that nut. Everything looks quite rusty so i'd be circumspect about using off-sized tools because you don't want to strip or round the screw or bolt.
Thanks! I'm pretty sure I've already got all I need to take it apart (much of your suggestions) it's the back together bit
Oh right yeah, i sorta lost track of your intial question there.
I can't see re-tensioning as an issue. This is because the spring is set in two un-adjustable holes/rings. Its the motion of the handle that looks like it adjusts the length of the spring. In the picture that springs looks like theres zero, or near zero tension on it.
But as u say, i'm just goin off the pictures.