Are you tired of your reel lawnmower leaving behind an uneven, ragged cut? Perhaps you’ve noticed your once-sharp blades are now struggling to slice through grass, resulting in a dull, unkempt lawn. It’s time to tackle the issue head-on – sharpening your reel lawnmower blades! This comprehensive guide will take you step-by-step through the process, ensuring you achieve a razor-sharp edge for a flawless, professional-looking cut. From understanding the importance of sharpening to the tools and techniques involved, we’ll cover everything you need to know to bring your reel mower back to life.
Why Sharpen Reel Mower Blades?
Sharpening your reel lawnmower blades is crucial for achieving a clean, even cut. Dull blades will tear and shred grass, leaving behind an unsightly mess. This not only affects the appearance of your lawn but can also damage the grass itself, making it more vulnerable to disease and pests. Sharpened blades provide a precise cut, promoting healthy growth and a beautiful, manicured lawn.
Preparing for the Task: Gathering Your Tools and Supplies
Before diving into the sharpening process, you’ll need to gather the essential tools and supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Reel Lawn Mower: Ensure the mower is clean and free of debris.
- Sharpening Stone: Choose a stone specifically designed for reel mower blades. A combination stone with coarse and fine grits is ideal for achieving a sharp edge.
- Flat Surface: A sturdy, flat surface is essential for proper blade sharpening. A workbench or table will do.
- Protective Gear: Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and hands from potential injury.
- Cleaning Supplies: A brush and rag are useful for removing debris and cleaning the blades during the process.
Disassembling the Reel Mower
Once you have your tools assembled, it’s time to disassemble the reel mower. This step allows for easier access to the blades and ensures a more efficient sharpening process. Follow these steps:
1. Remove the Cutting Unit
a. Locate the cutting unit, which typically houses the reel and blades. The specific method for removing it will vary depending on your mower model. Consult your owner’s manual for detailed instructions.
b. Often, you’ll need to loosen or remove screws or bolts that secure the cutting unit to the mower’s frame.
2. Separate the Reel from the Blades
a. Once the cutting unit is removed, carefully separate the reel from the blades.
b. Again, the process will vary depending on your mower. You might need to loosen screws or bolts that hold the reel and blades together.
c. Take care not to damage the delicate parts during this process.
Assessing the Blades for Sharpening
Now that you have the blades exposed, it’s time to assess their condition. This will help you determine how much sharpening is needed.
1. Visual Inspection
a. Carefully inspect the blades for signs of wear and tear.
b. Look for any nicks, chips, or uneven wear patterns.
c. If the blades are severely damaged, they might need to be replaced rather than sharpened.
2. The “Paper Test”
a. A simple test to determine if your blades need sharpening is the “paper test.”
b. Hold a piece of paper against the edge of the blade.
c. If the blade easily slices through the paper without any resistance, it’s sharp.
d. If the blade struggles to cut or tears the paper, it’s time for sharpening.
Sharpening the Reel Mower Blades
With your blades ready, you can begin the sharpening process. This requires patience and a steady hand, but the results are well worth the effort.
1. Preparing the Sharpening Stone
a. Start by wetting the sharpening stone with water or honing oil. This helps to lubricate the stone and prevent overheating.
b. Place the sharpening stone on a flat, stable surface.
2. Sharpening the Blades
a. Place the blade on the sharpening stone with the cutting edge facing down.
b. Start with the coarse side of the stone, if using a combination stone.
c. Using a smooth, consistent motion, draw the blade across the stone at a slight angle.
d. Maintain a consistent pressure and avoid pressing too hard.
e. Repeat this motion several times on both sides of the blade, ensuring that you’re sharpening both edges evenly.
f. As you sharpen, you should feel the burrs or rough edges gradually disappearing.
3. Using the Fine Side (if applicable)
a. Once you have achieved a reasonably sharp edge on the coarse side, switch to the fine side of the sharpening stone (if you’re using a combination stone).
b. Repeat the same sharpening motion on the fine side, but with lighter pressure.
c. This step will refine the edge and create a smoother, more polished finish.
4. Checking the Sharpening
a. After sharpening, use the paper test again to check if the blades are sufficiently sharp.
b. If the blade cuts through the paper effortlessly, you’ve successfully sharpened your blades.
c. If you need to sharpen more, repeat the process on the coarse and fine sides of the stone.
Reassembling the Reel Mower
Once your blades are sharpened, it’s time to reassemble your reel mower. Here’s how:
1. Cleaning the Blades
a. Before reassembling, carefully clean the blades with a brush and rag.
b. Remove any metal shavings or debris that may have accumulated during the sharpening process.
2. Reattaching the Blades and Reel
a. Align the blades with the reel, ensuring that they are properly positioned.
b. Secure the blades and reel together using the screws or bolts that you removed earlier.
3. Reattaching the Cutting Unit
a. Carefully place the cutting unit back onto the mower frame.
b. Secure it with the screws or bolts that hold it in place.
4. Testing the Mower
a. After reassembling your reel mower, it’s essential to test it before using it on your lawn.
b. Run the mower on a small area of grass to ensure that the blades are cutting evenly and that the mower is operating correctly.
Maintaining Sharpened Blades
To maintain a sharp edge and keep your lawn looking its best, it’s crucial to sharpen your blades regularly. How often you need to sharpen depends on various factors, including:
- Frequency of Use: The more you use your reel mower, the more frequently you’ll need to sharpen the blades.
- Type of Grass: Certain types of grass can wear down blades faster than others.
- Soil Conditions: Rocky or sandy soil can cause more wear and tear on the blades.
It’s generally recommended to sharpen your blades every 10-20 hours of use. Regular inspection and sharpening will ensure a clean, efficient cut and keep your reel mower performing at its best.
Alternative Sharpening Options
While sharpening your reel mower blades yourself is a great way to save money and maintain a healthy lawn, there are alternative options for those who prefer professional service.
- Professional Sharpening Services: Many lawnmower repair shops and garden centers offer blade sharpening services. This can be a convenient option, especially if you’re unsure about the process or lack the necessary tools.
- Replacement Blades: If your blades are severely damaged or worn down, replacing them is the best solution. Replacement blades are readily available at most lawn and garden retailers.
Conclusion
Sharpening your reel lawnmower blades is essential for maintaining a healthy, beautiful lawn. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smooth, even cut and enhance the overall performance of your reel mower. Remember to check your blades regularly and sharpen them as needed for optimal results. A little effort now can result in a lush, manicured lawn you can be proud of.
FAQs
1. How Often Should I Sharpen My Reel Mower Blade?
You should sharpen your reel mower blade every 10-15 hours of use. However, this is just a general guideline. You should sharpen your blade more frequently if you notice the following:
- The grass is being torn instead of cut
- The lawn mower is leaving an uneven cut
- You have to push the mower harder than usual
2. What Tools Do I Need to Sharpen a Reel Mower Blade?
To sharpen your reel mower blade, you’ll need a few basic tools:
- A sharpening stone or file
- A flat surface to work on
- A measuring tool like a ruler or caliper
- A vise or clamp to hold the blade securely
- Safety glasses and gloves
3. How Do I Remove the Reel Mower Blade?
Before you can sharpen your reel mower blade, you need to remove it from the mower. This will vary depending on the model of your mower, so check your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
Most reel mowers have a mechanism to release the blade, usually a pin or lever. Once you release the blade, you can gently pull it out of the mower.
4. How Do I Sharpen the Reel Mower Blade?
To sharpen your reel mower blade, start by cleaning it thoroughly with a wire brush or steel wool. Once it’s clean, use a sharpening stone or file to create a smooth, even edge.
Remember to maintain a consistent angle as you sharpen the blade. You can also use a guide or jig to help you maintain a uniform bevel.
5. What Angle Should I Sharpen the Reel Mower Blade?
The angle you sharpen your reel mower blade at is crucial for achieving a clean, even cut. Most reel mowers have a blade angle between 20 and 30 degrees.
You can determine the angle by looking at the existing bevel on the blade. If you’re unsure, consult your owner’s manual or a local lawn mower repair shop.
6. How Do I Know When the Reel Mower Blade is Sharp?
There are a few ways to tell if your reel mower blade is sharp enough. You can run your finger lightly over the edge of the blade.
If it feels smooth and consistent, your blade is likely sharp enough. You can also test the blade on a piece of paper. If the blade cuts cleanly through the paper without tearing, then it’s sharp enough.
7. What Safety Precautions Should I Take While Sharpening a Reel Mower Blade?
Sharpening a reel mower blade is a dangerous task, so it’s essential to take proper precautions to avoid injury.
Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris and wear gloves to protect your hands. Make sure the blade is secured in a vise or clamp before you begin sharpening.