There are a variety of designs and sizes of lawn mower blades. Certain blades are designed specifically for certain lawn mowers. They have a stamped part number that is referred to in the instruction manual.
For instance, a high lift blade creates a powerful suction that efficiently throws clippings upwards so they can be sorted. The blade also provides an optimal air flow even in grass, preventing clogging.
Size
The length of the mower blade and the pattern of the holes must be known to correctly choose the appropriate replacement lawnmowers blades. Additionally the shear pins used to locate holes and their distance to the boss of the blade should be identified. These measurements can narrow down the results of a search because they are in line with the shape and design of a specific mower blade, preventing damage to parts of the mower and causing vibrations.
Standard blades (also called 2-in-1 blades or lift blades) are used most commonly on lawnmowers that have side discharge, and on lawnmowers with no bagging or mulching. Their back edge has a slight upturn that generates a constant cutting and suction action.
The high lift blades are made to be employed for side discharge mowing. They feature an upward-facing turn on the back. This type of blade requires more power from the engine in order to perform well. It may be a bit more expensive in fuel costs but it is good for thicker grasses that are difficult to cut with regular blades.
Material
The blade of a lawn mower is typically made from steel that is durable. It could also be constructed from iron or other metals. Steel is the most well-known choice for mower blades, since it provides a good combination of durability and strength. It is heated to make the steel harder. This process is called tempering, and it enhances the durability, toughness and resistance to corrosion.
High-carbon steel is a better choice for mowing as it has more tensile strength than low carbon steel which makes it more resistant to damage. It is strong enough to stand up to trees, rocks, and other debris that could hit the blade without breaking it.
The best way to keep a lawn mower blade is to regularly use it and ensure that it is sharpened properly. It is also crucial to make sure the blade is balanced. This is accomplished by putting a nail into the board and using an adjustment tool to move it until the nail touches the middle of the blade.
Sharpness
the secret to a well-maintained lawn mower blade sharpness of your blades is dependent on a variety of factors, including how much you utilize it as well as the dimensions of your lawn. Large lawns that are brimming with trees, rocks, pebbles, and weeds will require more frequent sharpening. A regular use of a dull mower can also make the blade wear down faster.
A sharp edge for cutting is essential for a smooth and attractive cut. A sharpening blade is a great tool to achieve this. It works like a bench grinding machine, but it’s much smaller and much less costly.
It is essential to regularly balance the blade, especially after sharpening. Sharpening process removes the metal from one part of the blade more than the other, making the blade unbalanced. Place the blade through the bolt hole onto an anchor to verify its balance. If one side is tilted higher than the other, the blade must be filed further to ensure it is balanced.
Maintenance
When you are sharpening the mower blade, you should use a tool that works similar to a drill bit, however with a specially-designed stone to be affixed to the edge of the blade leaving the least amount of room for error. This tool is much more efficient and precise than hand filing. Check the balance of the blade by placing it on a bolt that is inserted into the hole. If one side is lower than the other it needs to be filed a bit further to ensure that it is balanced.
Before you take off a blade make sure your engine is shut off. Pull the spark plug wire to prevent the engine from starting while you’re working on the blade. Block the blade with an object to hold it in place while you loosen its fastening bolt with a ratchet or wrench. When you reinstall the blade, make sure you know the direction of the blade to ensure it gets mounted in the right position. Spray WD-40, or similar lubricant, onto the bolt for mounting prior to tightening.