Removing The Blade; Inspecting The Blade; Sharpening The Blade; Balancing The Blade - Toro 22176TE Operator's Manual

Figure 31
1. Blade
2. Blade bolt and lock washer

Inspecting the Blade

Carefully examine the blade for sharpness and
wear, especially where the flat and the curved parts
meet (Figure 32A). Because sand and abrasive
material can wear away the metal that connects the
flat and curved parts of the blade, check the blade
before using the lawn mower. If you notice a slot
or wear (Figure 32B and Figure 32C), replace the
blade; refer to Removing the Blade.
Figure 32
1. Sail
2. Flat part of the blade
Note: For the best performance, install a new
blade before the cutting season begins. During
the year, file down any small nicks to maintain the
cutting edge.
3. Accelerator
3. Wear
4. Slot formed
A worn or damaged blade can break, and a
piece of the blade could be thrown into the
operator's or bystander's area, resulting in
serious personal injury or death.
• Inspect the blade periodically for wear
or damage.
• Replace a worn or damaged blade.

Removing the Blade

Grasp the end of the blade using a rag or a thickly
padded glove. Remove the blade bolt, the lock
washer, the accelerator, and the blade (Figure 31).

Sharpening the Blade

File the top side of the blade to maintain its
original cutting angle (Figure 33A) and inner
cutting edge radius (Figure 33B). The blade will
remain balanced if you remove the same amount
of material from both cutting edges.
Figure 33
1. Sharpen at this angle only. 2. Maintain the original radius

Balancing the Blade

1. Check the balance of the blade by placing
the center hole of the blade over a nail or
screwdriver shank clamped horizontally in a
vise (Figure 34).
Figure 34
26
here.