16
Inspecting the Blade
Carefully examine the blade for sharpness and wear,
especially where the flat and the curved parts meet
(Fig. 24A). Because sand and abrasive material can wear
away the metal that connects the flat and curved parts of
the blade, check the blade before using the lawn mower. If
you notice a slot or wear (Figs. 24B and 24C), replace the
blade; refer to Removing the Blade on page 16.
270
1
1
1
2
3
4
A
B
C
Figure 24
1. Sail
2. Flat part of blade
3. Wear
4. Slot formed
Note:
For the best performance, install a new blade before
the cutting season begins. During the year, file down any
small nicks to maintain the cutting edge.
Danger
A worn or damaged blade can break, and a piece
of the blade could be thrown into the operator’s
or bystander’s area, resulting in serious personal
injury or death.
•
Inspect the blade periodically for wear or
damage.
•
Replace a worn or damaged blade.
Removing the Blade
1.
Grasp the end of the blade using a rag or a thickly
padded glove.
2.
Remove the blade bolt (Fig. 25).
m-2507a
1
2
3
Figure 25
1. Blade bolt
2. Blade
3. Blade driver
3.
Remove the blade and the blade driver (Fig. 25).
4.
Examine the blade cutting edges for nicks, cutting
angle, and sharpness. Sharpen or replace the blade if
necessary.
5.
Examine the blade driver for bent or sheared drive
lugs. Replace it if necessary.
Sharpening the Blade
1.
Sharpen only the leading edge of blade with a file or
grinder. Do not sharpen beyond the recommended
area.
Note:
Blade should not be ground more than 5 inches
(127 mm) from outside ends and no less than 2 inches
(51 mm) from trailing edge (Fig. 26).
990
2” (51 mm)
5”
(127 mm)
Figure 26
