speed up blades on craftsman riding mower
#1
06-15-12, 02:01 PM
speed up blades on craftsman riding mower
I have an older craftsman mower (model # 917.273070) and sometimes it just won't cut the grass on one pass even if I am in granny gear. It usually happens when the grass has tall seed heads, like bahia grass, or tall weeds. I was wondering if there is any way to change out a pulley in order to make the blades turn faster, that way I could mow faster and still cut the grass uniformly.
The blades were replaced last season and it cuts shorter grass just fine so I don't think sharpening the blades will do any good. Besides, even if it did I would probably have to sharpen them every time I mow and I don't want to get into that.
Thanks.
The blades were replaced last season and it cuts shorter grass just fine so I don't think sharpening the blades will do any good. Besides, even if it did I would probably have to sharpen them every time I mow and I don't want to get into that.
Thanks.
#2
06-15-12, 02:04 PM
Group Moderator
I swap out the blades on my mower a couple times a year (and then sharpen the ones I just took off), I can believe your's are pretty dull if this is the second season since they've been sharpened.
Not the answer you wanted but sharpening them would be my first step. That or don't let things get so tall between mowings.
Not the answer you wanted but sharpening them would be my first step. That or don't let things get so tall between mowings.
#3
06-15-12, 02:58 PM
Super Moderator
You also need to run the engine at a high RPM. My FIL and my neighbor used to idle around while mowing and always complained it clumped and didn't cut well. They didn't get that blade speed was related purely to engine speed...not ground speed.
I also did like Mitch...I normally swapped to a sharp set at least twice a season.
I also did like Mitch...I normally swapped to a sharp set at least twice a season.
#4
06-15-12, 07:46 PM
Forum Topic Moderator
I agree... if they were new last season, they are probably fairly dull now. Especially if you have dirt/sand in your yard. They may even be worn out by now.
