Scotts 51519S Owner's Manual page 13

SHARPENING THE BLADE
See Figure 14
For best mowing performance, the mower blade must be
kept sharp. A dull blade does not cut grass evenly and
overloads the motor. Under normal circumstances,
sharpening the blade twice during the mowing season is
usually sufficient. However, if your lawn has sandy soil,
more frequent sharpening's may be required.
•
Following the instructions in the Replacing the
Cutting Blade section, remove the mower blade. DO
NOT attempt to sharpen the blade while it is attached
to the mower.
WARNING:
When removing, inspect the blade carefully. If blade is
bent or damaged, replace immediately with a new blade.
Failure to replace a bent or damaged blade could cause
an accident resulting in possible serious injury.
•
Using a fine tooth file or stone, sharpen cutting edges
on both ends of the blade, removing equal amounts of
material from both ends.
Fig. 14
BLADE
See Figure 15
When sharpening, care should be taken to keep the blade
balanced. An unbalanced blade will cause excessive
vibration when the mower is running. This vibration will
eventually cause damage
to the mower, especially
the motor.
To check blade balance:
•
Clamp a screwdriver
horizontally in a vise as
shown.
NOTE: If a vise is not
available, a straight nail
can also be used.
MAINTENANCE
BALANCING THE
Fig. 15
Model 51519S
•
Place the center hole of blade on the screwdriver
(or nail) shank.
•
If blade is balanced, it will remain in a horizontal
position. If either end of the blade drops downward,
sharpen the heavy side until the blade is balanced.
STORING THE MOWER
See Figure 16
•
Disconnect power supply, and store in a secure
location out of the reach of children.
•
Before storage, wipe any dirt or debris.
•
Turn mower on its side and clean grass clippings
that have accumulated on the underside of the
mower deck.
•
Wipe the mower clean with a dry cloth.
•
Check all nuts, bolts, knobs, screws, fasteners, etc.,
for tightness.
•
Inspect moving parts for damage, breakage and
wear. Have repairs made on any damaged or
missing parts. Check blade for damage, uneven or
excessive wear and replace blade if these
conditions exist.
•
Lower the handle assembly as described earlier in
this manual.
•
Store mower indoors in a clean, dry place out of the
reach of children.
•
Do not store near corrosive materials such as
fertilizer or rock salt.
Fig. 16
13