A well-maintained lawn mower is essential for a pristine lawn. And just like any other tool, your Husqvarna mower needs regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. One crucial part that requires attention is the blades. Dull blades can leave your grass uneven, stressed, and susceptible to diseases. That’s why knowing how to change lawn mower blades on your Husqvarna is an essential skill for any homeowner. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from identifying the right blades to safely installing them, ensuring a smooth and efficient cut every time.
Overview
Changing lawn mower blades is a relatively simple task that can be accomplished with basic tools and a bit of caution. This article will outline the necessary steps, including preparing your mower, choosing the right blades, removing and installing the new blades, and final adjustments for optimal performance.
Preparing Your Husqvarna Mower for Blade Replacement
Before you begin, make sure your Husqvarna mower is turned off, the spark plug wire is disconnected, and the mower is cool to the touch. This is essential for safety and prevents accidental starting while you’re working on the blades.
1. Gather Necessary Tools:
- Wrench: A socket wrench or adjustable wrench that matches the size of the blade bolt.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from sharp edges and potential debris.
- Safety glasses: Shield your eyes from flying debris.
- New blades: Make sure you have the correct replacement blades for your Husqvarna model.
- Cleaning supplies: You’ll need some cleaning supplies for cleaning the mower deck and blades.
2. Secure the Mower:
- Position the mower on a flat, stable surface.
- If your mower has a wheel-height adjustment lever, lower the mower deck to the lowest cutting height. This will make it easier to access the blades.
Choosing the Right Blades for Your Husqvarna Mower
Selecting the correct blades for your Husqvarna mower is crucial for optimal performance.
1. Identify Your Mower Model:
- Find the model number of your Husqvarna mower. This information is usually located on a sticker or plate attached to the mower deck.
- Refer to the owner’s manual for specific blade recommendations based on your mower model.
2. Understand Blade Types:
- Mulching Blades: These blades have a unique design that chops grass clippings into fine particles, returning them to the lawn as natural fertilizer.
- Standard Blades: These blades are designed for traditional mowing with grass clippings being discharged out the side.
3. Consider Cutting Height:
- If you primarily mow at a lower cutting height, you may need blades that are designed for finer cuts.
- For higher cutting heights, a more general-purpose blade may be sufficient.
Removing the Old Blades
1. Remove the Spark Plug Wire:
- Locate the spark plug wire and disconnect it from the spark plug. This ensures that the engine cannot start accidentally.
2. Loosen the Blade Bolts:
- Use the wrench to loosen the blade bolts, which are usually located in the center of the blade.
- Important Note: Be careful not to drop the bolts as they can be easy to lose.
3. Remove the Blades:
- Once the bolts are fully loosened, you can carefully lift the blades off the spindle.
- If the blades are stuck, use a rubber mallet or wooden block to gently tap the underside of the blade while holding it from the top, to dislodge it.
Installing the New Blades
1. Clean the Spindle:
- Use a wire brush or a cleaning cloth to remove any dirt, debris, or old grass clippings from the spindle.
2. Align the New Blades:
- Line up the new blades with the spindle, ensuring the blades are properly seated.
- Make sure that the blades are mounted in the correct direction. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
3. Tighten the Blade Bolts:
- Use the wrench to tighten the blade bolts securely. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the spindle.
- Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended torque specifications.
Final Adjustments and Maintenance
1. Check Blade Height:
- Ensure that the blades are all at the same height. Use a ruler or measuring tape to verify.
- If necessary, adjust the blades to ensure a consistent cut.
2. Sharpen or Replace Blades:
- It’s recommended to sharpen or replace your lawn mower blades every 25 hours of use, or more frequently if you notice a decline in cutting performance.
3. Clean the Mower Deck:
- After installing the new blades, it’s essential to clean the mower deck thoroughly. This will remove any leftover grass clippings or debris that could affect the blades’ performance.
Safety Precautions
- Always wear safety glasses and gloves while working on your lawn mower.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire before working on the blades.
- Never run the mower without the blade guards in place.
- Use caution when handling sharp blades.
- Do not overtighten the blade bolts.
- Keep children and pets away from the work area.
Conclusion
Changing lawn mower blades on your Husqvarna is a simple but important maintenance task that can significantly enhance your lawn mowing experience. By following these steps, you can ensure that your mower cuts cleanly and efficiently, leaving you with a beautiful and healthy lawn. Remember to always prioritize safety, use the right tools and techniques, and refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions tailored to your Husqvarna model. With a little effort, you can keep your mower in top condition and enjoy a well-manicured lawn for years to come.
FAQ
1. Why should I change my lawnmower blades?
Changing your lawnmower blades regularly is essential for maintaining a healthy lawn and ensuring your mower operates safely and efficiently. Dull blades rip and tear grass, leaving brown patches and a ragged look. Sharp blades, on the other hand, provide a clean cut that promotes healthy growth. Additionally, dull blades can strain your mower’s engine, leading to premature wear and tear.
You should aim to change your lawnmower blades at least once a year or more often if you notice signs of dullness or damage. It’s also a good idea to replace your blades after hitting a solid object, as this can cause bending or damage.
2. What tools do I need to change my Husqvarna lawnmower blades?
To change the blades on your Husqvarna lawnmower, you’ll need a few basic tools:
- Socket wrench: This will be used to loosen and tighten the blade bolts. The size of the socket you need will depend on your specific mower model.
- Gloves: These will protect your hands from sharp blades.
- Work gloves: To protect your hands from the sharp blades.
- Safety glasses: This will protect your eyes from flying debris.
These tools can usually be found at your local hardware store or online.
3. How do I know if my lawnmower blades are dull?
There are a few signs that your lawnmower blades are dull:
- The grass is torn and ragged instead of being cleanly cut.
- You notice brown patches in your lawn.
- Your mower seems to be working harder than usual.
- The blades have visible nicks or dents.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to replace your blades.
4. How do I safely remove the old blades?
Before removing the old blades, it’s important to disconnect the spark plug to prevent accidental starting. Then, turn the mower on its side to access the blades. Use your socket wrench to loosen the bolts holding the blades in place. Once the bolts are loose, carefully remove the blades, being sure to keep them away from your body.
Once the blades are removed, you can dispose of them properly. Do not attempt to sharpen them, as this can weaken the metal and make them more prone to breaking.
5. How do I install the new blades?
Installing the new blades is a simple process. Simply reverse the steps you took to remove the old blades. First, ensure the new blades are properly aligned with the blade deck. Then, place the blades back on the spindle and tighten the bolts with your socket wrench. It’s important to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure the blades are securely attached.
After installing the new blades, reconnect the spark plug and test your mower to make sure it’s running smoothly. If you hear any unusual noises or vibrations, re-check the blade installation.
6. How do I dispose of old lawnmower blades safely?
Old lawnmower blades can be sharp and dangerous, so it’s important to dispose of them properly. You can typically take them to a local recycling center or metal scrap yard. Some hardware stores also offer blade disposal services.
Alternatively, you can wrap the blades securely in cardboard or heavy-duty plastic before disposing of them in your regular trash. Always ensure the blades are properly secured to prevent anyone from being injured.
7. What are some tips for keeping my lawnmower blades sharp?
Here are a few tips for keeping your lawnmower blades sharp:
- Avoid mowing over objects: Hitting rocks or other hard objects can dull your blades quickly.
- Clean your blades regularly: Remove any grass clippings or debris that may have accumulated on the blades.
- Store your mower properly: Always store your mower in a dry place to prevent rusting.
Following these tips will help your lawnmower blades stay sharp and last longer.