Lawn mower blades come in a range of styles and sizes. Some are designed specifically for specific mowers and come with a part number stamped into them that can be referenced in the list of parts in the manual for the mower.
For instance, a high lift blade creates a powerful suction that effectively throws clippings upwards so they can be sorted. It also offers optimum air flow to prevent clogging in conditions with dense grass.
Size
The length of the mower blade as well as the pattern of the holes must be identified to select the right replacement lawnmower blades. Also, the shear pin locating holes and their distance to the boss of the blade must be known. These measurements narrow down search results because they match the style and shape of the specific mower blade to avoid damaging components of the mower and causing vibrations.
Standard blades (also known as 2-in-1 blades or lift blades) are used most commonly on lawnmowers with side discharge, and on lawnmowers with no bagging or mulching. The back of the blades has a slight upward incline that results in a constant cutting and suction action.
High lift blades are designed to be employed for side discharge mowing. They feature sharp upward turns on the back. This blade type requires more power from the engine for optimal performance. They can be a bit more expensive in terms of fuel, however it is perfect for thicker grasses which are hard to cut with standard blades.
Material
The illuminating lawn Mower blade sharpeners mower’s blades are typically made of an extremely durable steel. Metals like iron or other can be utilized. Steel is a very popular material for mower blades as it provides durability and strength. Heat is used to harden the steel. The process of tempering improves the strength and durability of the material as well as the resistance to corrosion.
It is recommended to employ high carbon steel for mowing rather than low carbon steel since it’s more durable. It can withstand stumps, trees and other items that could hit the blade.
For a lawnmowers blade to last it is important to keep it sharp, and to use it often. It is also important to ensure that the blade is balanced. This can be done by inserting a tiny nail into the board, and after that, using a file on it to adjust the nail until it is in the center of the blade.
Sharpness
The sharpness of your blades depends on many factors including how much you use it and the dimensions of your lawn. Sharpening is more frequent for large lawns with lots of pebbles, rocks, tree roots and weeds. A dull blade wears out more quickly if you are using it regularly.
A sharp cutting edge is required for a neat and attractive cut. This is possible with a sharpening drill bit that functions similar to the bench grinder, but is much smaller and less expensive.
It is essential to balance the blade regularly particularly after sharpening. Sharpening may cause the blade to be unbalanced because it removes more metal from one side than from the other. To test the balance, place the blade on a nail through its bolt hole, and check whether it is even. If one side is tilted higher than the other, the blade must be filed further to ensure it is balanced.
Maintenance
When sharpening a mower blade, you should use a tool that functions similar to a drill bit, however with a stone designed to hug the edge of the blade leaving very little space for error. This tool is much faster and more precise than hand filing. Examine the balance by hanging the blade on an anchor through the hole. If the blade isn’t balanced, you will need to file it a little more.
Before you remove a blade, ensure that the engine is turned off. Pull the spark plug wire to prevent the engine from accidentally starting while you’re working on the blade. Then, block the blade in order to hold it in place while loosening the fastening bolt with the help of a ratchet or wrench. After reinstalling the blade remember which side is marked downward to ensure that it is mounted in the proper position. Spray a bit of WD-40 or another lubricant on the bolt that holds it in place prior to tightening it.