The handle of a digging fork can become brittle and burst over time. Luckily, changing the style of a spading fork isn't difficult at all. Find out below how to replace the digging fork handle step by step.
How do I replace the handle of a digging fork?
To replace the handle of a digging fork, first remove the old handle and measure the diameter of the opening. Then buy a suitable new handle, insert it and fix it to the spading fork with screws or nails.
Repair or buy a new digging fork?
A new digging fork costs between €19 and €75. A new handle for a spading fork (€27.00 on Amazon) only costs €10 to €15. So if you already have a high-quality digging fork, it is usually worth re-handling it. The time and effort required is also minimal. You can replace your digging fork handle in just ten minutes.
Replacing the handle of the digging fork step by step
- new stem
- Nails or screw
- Screwdriver or pliers
- Hammer
- Tape measure or meter rule
1. Measuring the digging fork
Before you buy a new handle, you should measure the digging fork head. To do this, remove the remaining stem (explained in the next step) and then measure the diameter of the opening that the stem goes into. When purchasing, make sure that the new handle corresponds to these dimensions. You should also pay attention to the length. It's best to measure the old handle and buy a handle with the same length.
2. Remove old stem
Remove screws or nails securing the stem to the metal head. A pair of pliers can be of great help here if the nails are already a little rusty.
Since the handle is usually so stuck that you will hardly be able to remove it by hand, turn the digging fork over and hit the protruding end of the handle with the narrow side of the hammer (the so-called fin).
3. Insert new handle
Make sure that you mount the digging fork the right way up. The stem is slightly curved, the bend must point backwards.
Place the digging fork on the handle and hit the ground several times so that the handle slides well into the opening.
4. Fix new stem
Finally, fix the new handle with a screw or one or more nails in the opening provided on the spade fork.
Tip
Store your digging fork in a dry place to preserve the stem for longer.
