Keeping your reel lawn mower blades sharp is key to a healthy and beautifully manicured lawn. Dull blades tear grass instead of cutting it cleanly, which can lead to brown tips and increased vulnerability to disease. Sharpening your blades regularly ensures a precise cut and helps your mower work efficiently.
You don’t need to be a professional to sharpen your reel mower blades. With the right tools and a bit of know-how you can easily restore your blades to their peak performance. This not only extends the life of your mower but also gives your lawn the care it deserves.
Understanding Reel Lawn Mower Blades
Reel lawn mower blades consist of multiple cylindrical blades arranged around a central axis. Knowing their types and how sharp blades impact your lawn helps maintain mower performance and grass health.
Types of Reel Mower Blades
- Manual reel blades: Simple steel cylinders designed for hand push mowers. They require minimal maintenance but need regular sharpening to cut cleanly.
- Powered reel blades: Found in electric or gas-powered mowers, these blades are made of hardened steel for durability and faster cutting.
- Floating bed knives: Feature adjustable blades that create close cuts by floating near the cylinder blades. These need precise sharpening to maintain cutting accuracy.
- Fixed bed knives: Stationary blades mounted firmly, requiring careful alignment and sharpening to avoid uneven cuts.
Importance of Sharp Blades for Lawn Care
- Sharp blades cut grass cleanly, preventing torn or ragged edges that cause brown tips and stress.
- Clean cuts reduce disease risks by minimizing open wounds on grass blades.
- Efficient blades require less mower power, enhancing fuel economy and motor lifespan.
- Sharp blades promote a uniform cut, improving lawn appearance and encouraging even growth.
- Dull blades increase turf damage, leading to patchy, unhealthy lawns vulnerable to pests and weeds.
Tools and Materials Needed for Sharpening
You need specific tools and safety equipment to sharpen reel lawn mower blades effectively. Preparing these in advance ensures a smooth and safe sharpening process.
Essential Sharpening Tools
- Flat File: Use a fine-toothed flat file to remove burrs and reshape the blades.
- Blade Calibration Gauge: Measure blade sharpness and alignment for precision.
- Whetstone or Sharpening Stone: Hone edges for a finer, sharper finish.
- Socket Wrench or Adjustable Wrench: Detach and reattach blades securely.
- Screwdrivers: Loosen screws or fasteners holding the blade assembly.
- Lubricating Oil: Reduce friction and protect blades after sharpening.
- Cleaning Cloth and Brush: Remove dirt, grass clippings, and rust before sharpening.
Safety Equipment to Use
- Protective Gloves: Guard your hands from sharp edges and accidental slips.
- Safety Goggles: Shield your eyes from metal filings and debris.
- Dust Mask: Prevent inhalation of fine particles during cleaning and sharpening.
- Closed-toe Shoes: Protect feet from dropped tools or blades.
- Long-sleeve Shirt and Pants: Minimize skin exposure to sharp edges and flying debris.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Sharpen Reel Lawn Mower Blades
Sharpening reel lawn mower blades requires careful preparation, precise techniques, and thorough testing. Follow this guide to restore blade sharpness and improve mowing performance.
Preparing the Mower for Sharpening
- Clean the Blades by removing grass clippings, dirt, and debris using a brush or cloth.
- Disconnect Power Source if using an electric or gas-powered mower to prevent accidental startups.
- Secure the Mower on a stable surface or workbench to keep it steady during sharpening.
- Remove the Blades using the appropriate wrenches or screwdrivers. Note the blade position for correct reassembly.
- Inspect Blades for damage like cracks, bends, or excessive wear before sharpening.
Sharpening Techniques and Tips
- Use a Flat File to maintain the original bevel angle while removing metal from each blade edge.
- Sharpen in One Direction from the base to the tip of each blade for a consistent edge.
- Employ a Whetstone to hone each blade edge after filing for a smoother, sharper finish.
- Rotate Each Blade evenly to ensure balanced sharpening and avoid uneven cutting.
- Wear Safety Gear such as gloves and goggles to protect against metal filings and sharp edges.
Testing Blade Sharpness After Sharpening
- Use a Blade Calibration Gauge to measure the sharpness and ensure the bevel angle meets manufacturer standards.
- Perform a Paper Test by slicing a sheet to verify sharpness; a clean cut indicates adequate sharpening.
- Check Blade Balance by mounting and spinning blades; balanced blades reduce vibration and improve cut quality.
- Reassemble Blades carefully, tightening bolts to the specified torque to prevent looseness during operation.
- Test Mowing Performance on a small lawn area to confirm improved cutting efficiency and lawn appearance.
Maintenance Tips to Prolong Blade Sharpness
Maintaining sharp reel lawn mower blades requires ongoing care beyond sharpening. You can extend blade life and preserve cutting efficiency with consistent cleaning, lubrication, and proper storage.
Regular Cleaning and Lubrication
Clean blades immediately after each use to prevent grass buildup and rust formation. Use a brush or cloth to remove clippings, dirt, and debris from the blades and cutting reel. Apply a light coat of machine oil or a specialized lubricant to all moving parts, including the reel and bed knife, to minimize friction and corrosion. Lubricate at least once a month during the mowing season or more frequently if you mow damp grass. Avoid using excessive lubricant as it attracts dirt.
Proper Storage Practices
Store your reel lawn mower in a dry, sheltered area to protect blades from moisture and damage. Elevate the mower off the ground or place it on a protective mat to prevent blade contact with concrete or soil. Before long-term storage, clean and lubricate the blades thoroughly and cover the mower with a breathable cover. If storing outdoors temporarily, ensure the blades face upward to avoid water accumulation and rapid rusting. Regular inspection during storage helps detect and address early corrosion or dullness.
Conclusion
Keeping your reel lawn mower blades sharp is one of the best ways to protect your lawn and get the most out of your mower. With the right tools and techniques, sharpening becomes a straightforward task you can handle yourself.
By staying consistent with blade maintenance and following safe sharpening practices, you’ll enjoy cleaner cuts, healthier grass, and a mower that runs smoothly season after season. Taking these steps ensures your lawn always looks its best while extending the life of your equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it important to keep reel lawn mower blades sharp?
Sharp blades cut grass cleanly, promoting a healthy lawn by preventing brown tips and reducing disease risk. They also improve mower efficiency and extend the mower’s lifespan.
What are the types of reel lawn mower blades?
Common types include manual and powered blades, with either floating bed knives or fixed bed knives. Each type requires specific maintenance and sharpening techniques.
What tools do I need to sharpen reel lawn mower blades?
You’ll need a flat file, blade calibration gauge, whetstone, wrenches, screwdrivers, and safety gear like gloves, goggles, and a dust mask.
How do I prepare my reel mower blades for sharpening?
Clean the blades, disconnect the power, secure the mower, and inspect blades for any damage before starting the sharpening process.
What is the basic process of sharpening reel mower blades?
Use a flat file to maintain the blade’s bevel angle, hone edges with a whetstone, check sharpness with a gauge and paper test, and ensure the blades are balanced.
How often should I sharpen my reel mower blades?
Sharpen blades at least once per mowing season or whenever you notice ragged cuts or increased effort required while mowing.
How can I maintain blade sharpness after sharpening?
Regularly clean and lubricate blades, store the mower in a dry, sheltered place, and avoid grass buildup to prolong sharpness and prevent rust.
What safety precautions should I take when sharpening blades?
Wear protective gloves, safety goggles, a dust mask, and appropriate clothing. Always ensure the mower is powered off before working on blades.
