Have you noticed your Husqvarna lawnmower struggling to cut through the grass? Maybe it’s leaving uneven patches or simply not providing the clean cut it once did. The culprit might be a dull or damaged blade. Replacing a lawnmower blade is a simple maintenance task that can significantly improve your mowing experience. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from choosing the right blade to safely installing it.
A Brief Overview
Replacing a lawnmower blade on a Husqvarna is a relatively straightforward process that requires basic tools and a few minutes of your time. The following steps will guide you through the process of safely removing the old blade, installing the new one, and ensuring proper blade sharpness.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies. This will make the process smoother and prevent any delays. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A new, compatible lawnmower blade: Make sure to purchase the correct blade for your specific Husqvarna model. Check the user manual or consult with a Husqvarna dealer for the right size and specifications.
- A wrench: You’ll need a wrench that fits the nut securing the blade to the mower.
- Work gloves: Protect your hands from sharp edges while working on the blade.
- Eye protection: Safety glasses are essential to protect your eyes from flying debris.
- A Phillips screwdriver (optional): You may need this to loosen the blade bolt if the nut is too tight.
- A piece of wood or cardboard: This will be used to support the mower deck while removing and installing the blade.
Step 2: Safely Disengage the Mower
Your safety is paramount. Before starting any work on your lawnmower, ensure it’s completely disconnected from the power source. If it’s a gas-powered mower, make sure the engine is completely cool and the spark plug wire is disconnected.
Step 3: Prepare the Mower for Blade Removal
- Turn the mower over: Carefully flip the mower onto its side, making sure to position it so the blade is facing upwards. Use a piece of wood or cardboard to support the mower deck.
- Remove the mower’s spark plug wire (gas models only): This will prevent the engine from accidentally starting while you’re working on the blade.
Step 4: Remove the Old Blade
- Locate the blade bolt: The blade bolt is usually located in the center of the blade. It might be covered by a small metal cap that you’ll need to remove first.
- Loosen the blade bolt: Use the wrench to loosen the blade bolt by turning it counterclockwise. The bolt may be very tight, so you may need to use a wrench extension or a pipe to help you. If you have difficulty loosening the bolt, try using a Phillips screwdriver to hold the blade in place while you turn the bolt.
- Remove the blade: Once the bolt is completely removed, carefully lift the blade off the mower deck. Be cautious as the blade is sharp.
- Inspect the blade for damage: Check for any signs of wear, cracks, or bends. If the blade is damaged, it’s essential to replace it with a new one.
Step 5: Install the New Blade
- Align the new blade: Make sure the blade is properly aligned with the mower deck. Most blades will have a mark or indentation on one side that should align with a similar mark on the mower deck.
- Insert the blade onto the mower shaft: Carefully align the blade hole with the mower shaft and gently slide the blade onto the shaft.
- Secure the blade bolt: Replace the blade bolt and tighten it by turning it clockwise. Use the wrench to tighten the bolt securely, but do not overtighten.
Step 6: Sharpen the Blade
Once the new blade is installed, it’s a good practice to sharpen it. This will ensure a clean cut and improve the overall performance of your mower. You can sharpen the blade with a file or a sharpening stone.
- Use a file or sharpening stone: Hold the blade at a slight angle and use the file or sharpening stone to create a slight bevel on the edge.
- Maintain a consistent angle: Make sure to maintain a consistent angle throughout the sharpening process.
- Test the sharpness: After sharpening, test the blade’s sharpness by running your finger lightly across the edge.
Step 7: Reassemble the Mower
- Reattach the spark plug wire (gas models only): Once you’ve finished sharpening the blade, reattach the spark plug wire to ensure the engine can start properly.
- Flip the mower back onto its wheels: Carefully return the mower to its upright position.
Step 8: Test the Mower
Start the mower and run it for a few minutes to ensure everything is working correctly. Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations. If everything seems fine, you’re ready to mow!
Choosing the Right Blade
When choosing a new blade for your Husqvarna lawnmower, consider the following factors:
1. Blade Size:
The most important factor to consider is the size of the blade. Always refer to your Husqvarna lawnmower’s manual to determine the correct blade size for your model. Using a blade that’s too small or too large can affect the mower’s performance and potentially damage the engine.
2. Blade Type:
There are several different types of lawnmower blades available, each designed for a specific type of cutting.
- Standard blades: These are the most common type of blades and are suitable for general-purpose mowing.
- Mulching blades: These blades have a special design that helps to chop grass clippings into fine particles, which then fall back onto the lawn as fertilizer.
- High-lift blades: These blades are designed to lift grass clippings up and away from the lawn, allowing for better airflow and a cleaner cut.
3. Blade Material:
Most lawnmower blades are made of high-carbon steel. However, some blades are made of hardened steel or even titanium, which are more durable and can last longer.
Safety Precautions
Replacing a lawnmower blade is a relatively simple task, but it’s crucial to prioritize safety throughout the process. Here are a few additional safety tips to keep in mind:
- Wear work gloves and eye protection: Always protect your hands from sharp edges and your eyes from flying debris.
- Disconnect the spark plug wire (gas models): Make sure the mower is completely disconnected from the power source before working on the blade.
- Handle the blade carefully: The blade is sharp; handle it with care and always keep your fingers away from the cutting edge.
- Avoid overtightening the blade bolt: Overtightening the bolt can damage the mower deck.
- Never use a damaged blade: Replace any damaged or cracked blade immediately.
Tips for Extending Blade Life
Here are some tips for extending the life of your lawnmower blades:
- Regularly inspect the blade: Check the blade for signs of wear and tear, including dullness, cracks, or bends, and replace it as needed.
- Sharpen the blade regularly: Sharpen the blade after every 10-15 mowing sessions for optimal performance.
- Avoid mowing over hard objects: Hitting hard objects can damage the blade.
- Store the mower properly: Cover the mower when not in use to prevent rust and corrosion.
Conclusion
Replacing a lawnmower blade is a simple but essential maintenance task that can significantly improve your mowing experience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily replace the blade on your Husqvarna lawnmower and ensure it cuts through the grass with ease. Remember to prioritize safety and choose the correct blade for your model. With a little care and attention, you can keep your Husqvarna lawnmower running smoothly for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What tools do I need to replace my Husqvarna lawn mower blade?
A: You’ll need a few basic tools to safely and effectively replace your Husqvarna lawn mower blade. These include a wrench that fits the blade bolt (usually 13/16″), a pair of work gloves, and a blade balancer. While not mandatory, a torque wrench is helpful for tightening the bolt to the correct specification. If you are using a mulching blade, you might need a special wrench or socket that fits the specific design of the blade.
Q2: How do I know when it’s time to replace my Husqvarna lawn mower blade?
A: The need to replace your Husqvarna lawn mower blade can be determined by a few factors. Visual inspection is key: look for signs of wear, chipping, or bending on the blade. Dullness or uneven cuts also indicate the blade needs replacement. Another telltale sign is if the mower starts to vibrate excessively during operation. If any of these signs are present, it’s time to replace the blade.
Q3: Is it difficult to replace a lawn mower blade on a Husqvarna mower?
A: Replacing a lawn mower blade on a Husqvarna mower is a relatively simple process, even for beginners. The entire procedure can be completed within 30 minutes. However, safety is paramount. Always disconnect the spark plug, wait for the blade to completely stop spinning, and wear protective gear like gloves and safety glasses.
Q4: What type of lawn mower blade should I choose for my Husqvarna?
A: Choosing the right blade for your Husqvarna mower depends on your lawn type and desired cut. For a standard cut, a standard blade is suitable. Mulching blades chop grass clippings into fine particles, returning them to the lawn as fertilizer. High-lift blades are best for taller grass and thick weeds. Consult your Husqvarna owner’s manual for recommended blade types.
Q5: What are some safety precautions to take when replacing a lawn mower blade?
A: Replacing a lawn mower blade requires utmost caution. Always disconnect the spark plug and wait for the blade to stop spinning completely before starting any work. Wear thick work gloves to protect your hands, and use safety glasses to shield your eyes from flying debris. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
Q6: How do I properly balance a lawn mower blade?
A: A properly balanced blade ensures smooth operation and prevents excessive vibration. Use a blade balancer to check for uneven weight distribution. If the blade is unbalanced, you can adjust it by adding or removing material from the heavier side. Follow the instructions provided with the balancer.
Q7: What should I do with the old lawn mower blade?
A: Once you’ve replaced your Husqvarna lawn mower blade, dispose of the old one properly. Wrap the blade in cardboard or thick paper to protect yourself from sharp edges and take it to a local recycling center. Do not discard it in your regular trash, as it can pose a danger to waste handlers.