There are numerous styles and sizes of lawn mower blades. Some are specifically designed for particular mowers, and include an identification number engraved into the blades that are able to be referenced in the list of parts in the Manual lawn mower blade sharpener of the mower.
A high-lift blade for instance, creates a strong suction that efficiently lifts the clippings up so that they can be stored. The blade is also able to provide the best air flow in grass to avoid the clogging.
Size
The overall length of the mower blade and the pattern of the holes must be known to correctly select the right replacement lawnmower blades. Additionally the shear pins that locate holes as well as their distance from the boss of the blade must be known. These measurements aid in narrowing search results as they match the design of a specific mower blade and make sure that they are not damaging the mower’s components and creating vibrations in the mower.
Standard blades (also called 2-in-1 blades, also known as lift blades) are typically used on lawnmowers with side discharge and lawnmowers without mulching or bagging. Their back edge features a slight upturn that generates an ongoing cutting and suction action.
The high lift blades are designed to be employed for side discharge mowing. They feature an upward-facing turn on the back. This type of blade requires more power from the engine to work well and can cost a little extra in fuel, however it is good for grasses with thicker blades that are difficult to cut using normal blades.
Material
The blades of lawn mowers are usually made from the most durable form of steel. It is also made out of iron or other types of metals. Steel is the most popular choice for mower blades because it offers a great combination of strength and durability. Heat is used to make the steel harder. This process is called tempering. It enhances the durability, toughness and resistance to corrosion.
It is recommended to make use of high carbon steel for cutting rather than low carbon steel since it’s more durable. It can withstand stumps, trees and other items that can strike the blade.
For a lawnmowers blade to last it is important to keep it sharp and use it regularly. The blade should also be balanced. It is possible to do this by placing a small nail on the board and then using a file over it to move the nail until it touches the center of the blade.
Sharpness
The quality of your blades depends on several factors, like how much you utilize it as well as the dimensions of your lawn. Large lawns that are brimming with rocks, tree roots, pebbles, and weeds will require frequent sharpening. A regular usage of a dull mower could also make the blade wear down quicker.
For a neat and pleasing cut an edge that is sharp is essential. A sharpening blade will accomplish this. It functions like a bench grinding machine, however, it is smaller and much less costly.
The blade needs to be balanced on a regular basis, especially after having been sharpened. The process of sharpening removes the metal from one part of the blade more than other, which can leave the blade unbalanced. Hang the blade through the hole in the bolt on a nail to check its balance. If one end tilts higher than the other, the blade needs to be filed more in order to make it level.
Maintenance
Utilize a tool specifically designed to sharpen a mower blade. It works like a drill, however it has an edged stone designed to grip the edge and leave no space for errors. This tool is much faster and more precise than hand filing. Examine the balance of the blade by placing it on a bolt that is inserted into the hole. If one side is lower than the other it will need to be filed a bit more to be properly balanced.
Before you take off a blade ensure that the engine is off. Then, pull the spark plug wire to stop the engine from beginning while working on the blade. Then, block the blade to hold it in place while loosening the bolt that fastens it using the help of a ratchet or wrench. When you reinstall the blade, remember which side is marked downward to ensure that it is placed in the proper position. Spray a little WD-40 or similar lubricant on the bolt that holds it in place prior to tightening it.
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