A dull blade doesn’t deliver a clean cut, instead it actually rips the grass, leaving ragged tears and possibly leaving to fungal growth and/or disease.
Meanwhile, a sharp blade gives your lawn a chance to heal quicker plus it allows you to work more efficiently because the mower does its job smoother.
It’s not a difficult process and the more you do it, the quicker you’ll get. However, before you try it yourself, check out these tips to make sure your walk-behind mower is safe and doing the job the correct way.
First, decide if the blade needs sharpened or replaced. It’s important you inspect the blade twice a year. If the blade is badly damaged, bent, cracked or too thin, it’s time to for a new one.
If not, all you need to do is sharpen it.
Second, make sure you have the right tools. You’ll need a socket and rachet set, a hand file, a spark plug socket, some rags and a vise. It might also be a good idea to wear gloves and have some WD-40 on hand.
Third, follow these steps to remove the blade.
- Remove the spark plug by pulling off the wire and either tying it back or unscrewing the spark plug altogether with a plug socket. Not doing this could result in the motor accidentally starting.
- Tip the mower to its side with the carburetor and air filter on top so nothing leaks out.
- Mark your blade with spray paint or chalk or something identifiable so you don’t install it upside down after sharpening it.
- You can wedge a 2-by-4 piece of wood between the deck and blade so it doesn’t move as you unloosen the bolt and the blade.
Four: Once the blade is removed, clamp it in a vise and use a file to sharpen the cutting edge of the blade. You want it as sharp as a butter knife, this should not take more than 50 strokes. You can also use a grinder if you have one, but make sure you use it carefully. Don’t overheat or ruin the blade by not controlling it properly.
Five: Check the blade’s balance. If a blade isn’t balanced, it can damage your mower. You can use a plastic balancer or simply hang the blade on a nail and see if one side dips. If the blade is off-balance, simply file more off the heavier side until it’s balanced.
When you replace the blade, make sure you tighten the bolt as much as possible. It’s very hard to over-tighten, so make sure it’s firm. Under-tightening a bolt is dangerous and can throw off the engine timing.
A sharp blade is important to the overall maintenance of your mower, so make sure you’re checking it at least twice a year and either sharpening or replacing your blade. The result is a fresher, greener, healthier lawn.
And for all your maintenance needs, parts and the best lawn mowers and landscaping equipment on the market, make sure Snappy’s Outdoor Equipment is your go-to. Call us at 419-879-1196 or stop out to the store at 2120 N. Dixie Highway, Lima, OH 45801.
