How to Sharpen a Lawn Mower Blade
The more you use your lawn mower, the duller its blade will become. This is bad news since a dull lawn mower blade will result in a rougher cut and a less efficient overall mower. Luckily, all you need to do to sharpen your lawn mower’s blade is follow these simple steps from the experts at Foothills Tractor & Equipment.
Safely Remove the Blade
We recommend removing your lawn mower’s spark plug before you start just to make absolutely certain that the mower’s engine won’t start while you’re working on the blade. We also recommend marking the bottom of the blade with a dab of paint or some tape to make things easier when the time comes to put the blade back. Once the prep work is done, tilt the mower on its side so that the carburetor is facing up, and stick a 2x4 between the blade and the lawn mower deck's skirt. If you place everything correctly, the blade should resist the board when you go to take the bolt off. Use a breaker bar or long-handled wrench to unscrew the bolt and carefully remove the blade.
Inspect the Condition of the Blade
For this step, having a spare lawn mower blade will be extremely helpful. Not only will you be able to compare your current blade to one that is completely fresh and sharpened, but you won’t have to waste time looking around for a new blade if you decide it’s time to get rid of your current mower blade. As you inspect your current lawn mower blade, check that the cutting edge is straight and the trailing edge is thick. If either appears worn out or the cutting edge has any dents or chips, it’s time to make a replacement.
Sharpen the Blade
We recommend using a sharpening file at least ten inches long or longer for this step. Start your strokes at the top of the cutting edge and push downward. Each stroke should be one firm, smooth, and complete movement. After between twenty to thirty strokes, compare your current blade to your spare to see if more sharpening is required.
Balance the Lawn Mower Blade
Once you’re confident that your lawn mower’s blade is properly sharpened, it’s time to balance it out. We suggest putting a nail through a board and setting the blade’s bolt hold on the nail. If it tips towards one side or the other, file that side down. Be patient and only file a little at a time.
Shop our inventory of lawn mowers at Foothills Tractor & Equipment. Our dealerships in Alexandria and Centre, Alabama offer convenient access to communities like Birmingham. We hope to see you soon!