In tough economic times people who love their lawns might ask how to sharpen lawn mower blades. Lawn mowers can take a real beating from use, but because most were built for this by keeping up simple maintenance the can last for years and years. By keeping fresh gas in the tank, checking air and oil filters, scrubbing away accumulated debris and keeping the mower blade sharp and clean the life of the mower will be extended as well as keep the lawn looking its best. Most of this maintenance can be done at home, which saves money. Sharpening the blade is a very important thing to do and mower repair shops do provide this service, but this would mean leaving the mower there and during the busy season this could be for a week or more.http://www.weekendgardener.net/lawn-mowers/sharpen-lawnmower-blade-70607.htm

Knowing why sharpening the lawn mower blade is important can be great incentive for getting it done. When or how often the blade needs sharpening depends on how much use it is getting. The process of removing and replacing the blade on the lawn mower should be handled with care to avoid hurting oneself or damaging the mower. Sharpening the blade can be done with a few simple tools or taken to a repair shop. Read on for detailed steps on how to sharpen lawn mower blades.

With each use the lawn mower blade will be dulled at least a little. This is because things like rocks, brush, branches and other random debris that are hit will leave nicks and digs on the blade’s edge. The result of this is a dull and nicked up blade that will not properly cut grass. A lawn mower blade should leave a nice clean crisp ct, but a dull blade is going to rip the grass instead of cut it. This causes the tips of the grass to turn white and become hardened. The ripping will also leave the lawn more open to diseases.http://www.bladeslawncare.com/mowers/lawnmowersharpening.html

Some people like to sharpen their lawn mower blades once a month, but this could be excessive if it is not needed. A good test to see if the blade should be sharpened or not is to take a look at the grass after it has been cut. If there is a nice clean cut the blade is fine, but if the grass is torn and ragged the blade needs sharpening.http://www.weekendgardener.net/lawn-mowers/sharpen-lawnmower-blade-70607.htm Many people only sharpen their lawn mower blades one a year. This is often done at the end of the season, so that when Spring comes and the grass needs cutting the lawn mower will be ready to use.http://www.bladeslawncare.com/mowers/lawnmowersharpening.html

Removing the lawn mower blade can be dangerous if the person is not being careful. The blade is most still sharp enough to cut human flesh.

1. Start by squirting some penetrating oil on the blade bolt and nut. This is to help loosen them.
2. While letting the oil stand for a few minutes remove the spark plug or battery of the lawn mower to make sure it does not accidentally start.
3. The blade should be blocked in a way so that it will not turn while the nut is being removed. There are blade holders available, but if one is not around a block of wood under the deck and a C-clamp will work as well.
4. If more than one blade is being removed number them so that they can be placed back in the correct spot after sharpening.
5. Once the blade is off use a scraper to get rid of grass build up around the center hole. This will ensure a nice tight fit and will help keep the mounting bolt from coming loose.

After removing the blade it can be taken to a mower repair shop where they will properly sharpen and balance the blade. The wait will not be nearly as long if done this way instead of taking the entire lawn mower.http://www.grounds-mag.com/mag/grounds_maintenance_sharpen_rotary_mower/

Now that the blade is removed the real work will begin. If a sharpening kit came with the mower use that, but if not the following tools will be needed: A steel brush or steel wool and a grinding wheel or file.

1. Place blade into a stable holding or vice to keep it from slipping or moving while sharpening.
2. Use the steel brush or wool to remove any rust on the blade. #The blade should be sharpened down to the point where it has a nice smooth edge.http://www.weekendgardener.net/lawn-mowers/sharpen-lawnmower-blade-70607.htm
3. Try to follow the angle of the blade that is there. The angle is important as too little will not cut well and too much angle will dull very quickly.
4. If using a grinder do not force the blade on the grinder as this will heat the blade too much. This will cause the metal to lose it temper or hardness. A blade that is too hot will turn a straw color. #Check the blade for balance by supporting it at the center. If not balanced sharpen heavier side a little more until fixed.
5. The last step is to remount it. The blade is very sharp now and should be remounted with care.http://www.grounds-mag.com/mag/grounds_maintenance_sharpen_rotary_mower/