How to Replace Broken Garden Tool Handles

It's bound to happen eventually: If you work with tools long enough, they will break, especially if you push them to the limit. Broken handles on shovels, rakes and hoes are easy to replace.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Electric Drill/assorted Bits
• Hammers
• Punch
• Replacement Tool Handles
• Wood Files
• Wrenches
• Punch
• Hammers

1. Purchase a new hardwood handle to replace the broken one. Ash is a very strong and durable wood. So is maple, but it's also very expensive.

2. Remove the pin that held the old handle in place with a punch and a hammer. If the pin was a nut and bolt, remove it and set aside.

3. Gouge out the old handle from the metal sleeve. Use a drill or a chisel to remove as much of the old wood as possible.

4. Fit the new handle into the metal sleeve. You may need to use a wood file to modify the handle to get a perfect fit.

5. Firmly tap the new handle into the metal sleeve. Use a hammer to secure the new handle deep into the metal sleeve. There should be no movement between the handle and the sleeve at this point.

6. Drill a hole through the old pin hole. The new handle should be in place. You will drill through the wood to the hole in the metal sleeve on the other side.

7. Use a rivet or the reserved nut and bolt to hold the new handle in the sleeve. Tighten the bolt or flatten the rivet and you're done!

Tips & Warnings

• Replacement tool handles are available at garden centers and hardware stores.