%#!!@*&? pedal fell off! Pedal operated trash cans were a great idea. It seems though that either people have gotten stronger (not bloody likely) or that trash cans have become cheaper in craftsmanship. My grandmother's old white can still works like a charm after over 65 years with nary a repair. What used to be solid cast pedals have been replaced with a bent steel rod. Different companies use different means to activate this rod but they all use it.

I have gone through a few of these, some better than others and all with the same end, pedal first falling off and then disintegrating after many repairs. Either the ears break and the pedal falls off or the rod eats it's way through the flimsy metal pedal. I have attempted several inadequate solutions, mostly replacing the old parts with homemade replicas of harder steel, but to no permanent avail.

Huzzah, for I have found the best solution, simple and easy to make. Select a piece of hardwood. Cut it to length at least an inch beyond the measured length of the steel lever, seen in photo, 2 months later.

Drill two holes into the end, parallel to each other and very close to one another. Using the drill or drill press (preferred) clean out the area between the two holes, making a slot. A slot is important as the rod has a bend at the end which will not allow you to insert the pedal all the way down.

Try the piece on the lever for fit and keep cleaning the hole until you get a good fit that will not turn around on the lever. Push the covered lever to the floor and draw a line on it parallel to the floor. Remove the waste from above the line and sand smooth. Tap the cover onto the lever and step on it. Isn't that better? When you are happy with the fit, drive a thin slip of wood into the hole next to the rod to tighten it all up.

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