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Inspecting and Sharpening the Blade
Inspecting the Blade
Carefully examine the blade for sharpness and wear,
especially where the flat and curved parts meet
(Figure 5). The appearance of this part of the blade
varies according to the model and type of blade.
Sand and other abrasive materials can wear away the
metal that connects the flat and curved parts of the
blade. Check the blade before using on the mower. If
you notice a slot or wear, replace the blade.
A
1.
2.
B
C
O
--"-_)
"
4 /
27o
Figure 5
bladewear.TIF
Sail
3.
Wear
Flat part of blade
4.
Slot formed
Sharpening the Blade
File or grind the top of the blade to maintain it's original
cutting angle and inner cutting edge radius. To keep
the blade balanced, remove the same amount of
material from both cutting edges (Figure 6).
A
/
B
2
I
m_4783
Figure 6
sharpen.TIF
Sharpen at this angle
2.
Maintain the original
only.
radius here.
Balancing the Blade
,
Check the balance of the blade by placing the
center hole of the blade over a nail or a
screwdriver shank clamped horizontally in a vise
(Figure 7).
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.
Figure 7
balance1 .TIF
Note: You can also check the balance using a
commercially-manufactured
blade balancer such
as the Magna-Matic MAG-1000 Professional
Blade Balancer (Figure 8).
,
Figure 8
magl000.jpg
Photo used with permission.
If either end of the blade rotates downward, file
that end (not the cutting edge or the end near the
cutting edge). The blade is properly balanced
when neither end drops.
3 - 2
Service Dealer's Guide to Great Quality of Cut
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