SHARPENING THE BLADE
9
Before taking the time and effort to sharpen the blades, make sure that it needs
sharpening. Most of all issues can be solved by ensuring the blades are properly
adjusted (ADJUSTMENTS section).
1. Prop up the push reel mower so that the blade reel can be rotated by turning
the wheels.
2. Check the blades for nicks and burrs. If any damage is found, it usually can be
removed by holding a file flat against the blade and pushing away from the edge.
3. Examine the cutting bar. It should just meet the blades along their entire
length. (To make sure the cutting bar is located correctly, grasp a wheel and
turn it forward; you should hear a whispery sound as the blades pass the
cutting bar).
4. If the bar is out of alignment, adjust using the adjustment nuts on the ends of
the bar (ADJUSTMENTS section).
5. Using your fingers or a soft paintbrush, cover the blades with a thin, even coat
of automotive valve-grinding compound (available at automotive stores).
6. Grasp a wheel and turn it slowly backward so the grinding compound is
squeezed between the blades and the cutting bar, thereby sharpening both
cutting edges as they pass each other. Be sure that each blade touches the
bar as the wheel is rotated.
7. Make about a dozen turns, applying more grinding compound when necessary.
8. Examine the blade edges. If they look sharp, wash off all the valve compound
with soapy water and rinse thoroughly.
9. Test for sharpness. Insert a sheet of newspaper between the blades and the
cutting bar, and rotate the reel forward. When the blades cut the paper as
easily and as cleanly as a sharp pair of scissors would, the task is complete.
Note:
After each use, hose the mower clean and wipe it dry. Wipe all the metal
parts with a thin film of WD-40 or mineral oil.
Warning!
Sharpen blades only by hand. The heat generated by a power
grinder or an electric drill with a grinding wheel attached can destroy the
temper of the metal. Wear thick leather gloves when handling the blade
reel and cutter bar and make slow, precise movements to avoid cutting
or jamming your fingers.
!!
Summary of Contents for LMP-301
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