How to Sharpen Lawn Mower Blades

Lawn mower blades need to be sharpened every once in a while to ensure the machine’s cutting efficiency. With sharp lawn mower blades, mowing will be a lot easier and a lot faster. During the grass growing season, the lawn mower blades will be put used extensively and therefore need to be in good condition. The great thing about this maintenance is that it is quite easy even for the do-it-yourselfer. Sharpening the blades does not require extensive procedures. Here is how it is done.

Step 1 – Determine if the Blades Need Sharpening

An easy way to determine if sharpening is needed is to observe how the machine cuts the grass on the lawn. If the grass is cut nice and clean, then the blades are still as sharp as ever. But if the top of the grass that are cut are ragged and dull, then the blades need to be removed and sharpened.

Step 2 – Turn off the Machine

Before removing the blades from the machine, make sure that the mower is turned off. Another way to ensure that the machine does not accidentally turn on is to empty the gas tank or have the machine running until all gas is consumed. Afterward, find the spark plug on the engine. It can be located at the front, the side or the rear. It can also be covered with a piece of metal plate. Remove the spark plug, unplugging the wire that connects to it by using a wrench with spark plug adapter socket to loosen it.

Step 3 – Remove the Blades

The blades will be secured onto the machine using different types of mounting hardware. Use a wrench or pliers to loosen the nuts and remove any mounting equipment. Pull out the blade for sharpening.

Step 4 – Sharpen the Blades

If the blades are rusty, remove the rust by using either steel wool or steel brush. The blades can be sharpened in a number of ways. One is by using a sharpening kit that comes with the machine. Another is by using a grinding wheel. If the two are not available, then a file can be used instead. Make sure to sharpen the blade at the thin sharp edges. Use the sharpening kit or the grinding wheel according to manufacturer’s instructions. Simply follow the angle and allow the sharp edge to be evenly sharpened inch by inch. The blade can also be taken to a mower shop where a skilled staff can sharpen it for you.

Step 5 – Clean the Sharpened Blade

Before reinstalling the blade back to the machine, make sure that it is cleaned properly. Use a clean cloth to wipe away the rust that has been removed or wash it with water and soap. Allow the blades to dry before putting it back to the mower.