How To Sharpen A Mower Blade
To sharpen your lawn mower blade you will need the following tools:
- A wrench for removing the blade bolt
- A double cut file
- A torque wrench
- A bench vise or clamping device
We do not recommend the use of power tools to sharpen your mower blade. Grinders and other power tools in the hands of inexperienced users can quickly take too much material from the mower blade causing it to become out of balance. A reasonably sharp file will do the job quickly and safely.
Instructions* (power push mowers)
- Disconnect the wire from the spark plug
- Turn the mower on it's side - grass discharge side up in most cases.
- Use a block of wood to prevent the blade from moving then use the appropiate size socket or wrench to remove the blade bolt.
- Clamp the blade securely in a vise.
- Run the file across the top side of the blade a couple of times to remove any bumps, burrs, and damaged spots
- Run the file up the backside of the blade a couple of times just to remove any bumps or burrs jutting out from damage to the blade.
- Run the file across the angled part of the blade in one smooth stroke until damage spots are improved and the blade feels sharp, but not razor sharp.
- Repeat steps 4 - 7 on the other side of the mower blade.
- Remove the blade from the vise then clamp a nail into the vise leaving several inches sticking out one side.
- Remove hardened grass and flaky rust from the mower blade with a sharp scraper then gently place the mower blade on the nail. If the blade tends to drop to one side it may be out of balance (heavier on one end). If required, re-clamp the blade, remove additional material from the heavy end of the blade then re-test balance.
- Put the blade back into position on the mower and hand tighten the blade bolt.
- Using your torque wrench, re-tighten the bolt to the manufacturers recommended torque specifications.
- Turn your mower upright, reconnect the spark plug, then WAIT 15 minutes before starting to ensure all engine oil has drained back into the engine crankcase.
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