Are you frustrated with your lawnmower creating an uneven cut in your once-perfect lawn? The key to a well-maintained yard is keeping your mower blades sharp. But are you wondering whether you should sharpen the blades or get a replacement for your blade lawn mower in Ryland Heights? If your lawnmower is experiencing blade issues, it's important to take action. We have compared both options to help you make the right decision.
Why Do Lawnmower Blades Matter?
Lawn mower blades are one of the most essential components of any lawnmower. They are in charge of cutting the grass and can make a significant impact on the quality of your lawn. If your mower blades are worn and dull, they will cause a ragged cut and tear in the grass, resulting in brown spots and an unhealthy lawn. A sharp blade, on the other hand, will result in a tidy cut and make your lawn seem its finest. When it comes to maintaining your lawn mower blades, you have two options: sharpening or replacing them. So, what should you choose?
Benefits of Sharpening the Mower Blades
Lawn Health
One of the reasons people put so much time and hard work into their lawns is so they can flourish and look good. Sharpening and replacing lawn mower blades helps you to deliver clean cuts every time. When used, both options reduce stress on the grass and promote a healthier lawn.
Optimal Mower Efficiency
Bend or dull blades puts strain and stress on the mower’s engine. Regular sharpening and timely replacement can keep the mower operating efficiently. This will also save you on fuel costs.
Superior Mowing Results
The last advantage is that sharp or replaced blades provide a clean and sharp cut that keeps the law consistently neat and attractive. The well-maintained blades make the mowing process faster and more efficient, saving you a lot of time and money.
How To Know If They Should Be Sharpened or Replaced?
To determine if you need to sharpen or need a replacement of the blade lawn mower in Ryland Heights, you must examine its existing state. To do so, angle your lawn mower so that the front wheels point upwards and the handle is flat on the ground or bench. This ensures that no oil runs where it shouldn't, perhaps generating even worse problems.
For many people, the simplest solution is to have your mower blades checked by a professional. If you are unsure or short on time, your best bet is to drop your lawn mower off at your local mower shop. It's a good idea to have your mower serviced every 12 months or so, and it's ready to use when you need it during the warmer months.
Here are some of the signs you must look out for:
- Cracks: Any degree of cracking is unsafe for the mower and user. The blades must be replaced.
- Chips: A few small chips, rocks, or other debris are typically not an issue and can be ground out with a file.
- Bends: Place your blade on a level surface to see if it's still straight. A bent or dented blade will be poorly balanced, resulting in inefficient grass mowing. The blades should be replaced.
- Thin Edges: A new blade will have a thick fin that is slightly bent upward to provide lift. The fin will wear down with use, becoming thin and sensitive. If your blade's fin is thin and corroded, it could be time to replace it.
How To Replace Your Mower Blades?
You may need tools like a socket wrench and socket, an Allen key set, and a new blade kit when going for the replacement of the blade lawn mower in Ryland Heights.
Step 1
Disconnect the spark plug lead from the spark plug.
Step 2
Tilt the mower upwards, with front wheels in the air and the handle on the bench or ground.
Step 3
Using the wrench, remove the main bolt that secures the base plate to the cutting deck. Then, take off the blade bolts. Alternatively, you can remove the blade bolts while the plate is still attached to the mower. To keep the blade bolt head from spinning while removing the nut, you may need to use an Allen key.
Step 4
Remove the old blades and set the new blades on the bottom of the base plate. The base plate will spin anticlockwise, so make sure the cutting edge of the new blades is facing the direction they will spin.
Step 5
Install your new washer and bolts and tighten them securely. If you apply enough force, the blades should continue to move. This allows them to absorb a strike from a large obstacle or boulder without causing damage to other components.
How to Sharpen Your Lawn Mower Blades
If you want your lawnmower to operate smoothly and last longer, you should sharpen the mower blades regularly as part of your lawnmower maintenance. Here's how to sharpen your lawn mower blades:
- Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug to keep the engine from starting accidentally.
- Turn the mower on its side with the air cleaner facing up.
- Remove the blade bolts with a wrench or socket and ratchet.
- Remove the mower blade.
- Use a file or rotary tool to remove any nicks or burrs from the blade's cutting edge. Be sure to work slowly and carefully to avoid damaging the blade.
- If the blade is severely dull, you may need to use a grinding wheel to restore its sharpness. Again, proceed gently and cautiously.
- After you have restored the blade's sharp edge, use a honing stone to sharpen it even further. This ensures that your lawnmower cuts cleanly and effectively.
- Install the sharpened blade. Make sure the bolt holes are lined up correctly.
- Tighten the bolts firmly with a wrench or socket and ratchet.
- Re-connect the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
Final Thoughts
Maintaining your lawn mower blades is critical to maintaining your lawn in top condition. Whether you sharpen or go for a replacement of the blade lawn mower in Ryland Heights, the most important thing is to ensure that your mower is in great operating order. Sharp and replaced blades produce a cleaner cut, improve the health of your lawn, and make mowing a smoother, more efficient task. Regularly examining, servicing, and replacing your mower blades will help you avoid the dangers of inconsistent cuts and safety issues.
