How to Sharpen a Lawn Mower Blade

As with any other cutting implement, your lawn mower’s blade will naturally get dull through continuous usage. While sharpening it is fairly easy, it still requires that you closely follow the correct steps in order to be safe. That is why the experts at Morgan Power Equipment have put together this easy-to-follow guide to sharpening your lawn mower blade.

Safely Remove the Blade

Once you are absolutely sure that the lawn mower’s engine is off, you can start to remove the blade. To be absolutely sure that the mower won’t start unexpectedly, consider removing the spark plug. Before removal, mark the bottom of the blade with tape or a little bit of paint. This will make determining which side is which when you put the blade back in much easier. 

You should then tilt the lawn mower on its side with the carburetor facing up. Put a 2x4 between the blade and the lawn mower deck's skirt to help the blade resist the board when you take the bolt off. Unscrew the bolt using a breaker bar or a long handle wrench and remove the blade. 

Inspect the Condition of the Blade

Your next step is to inspect the blade itself. For this step, we highly recommend that you have a replacement blade on hand. Not only will you be able to compare the condition of your current blade with a new one, but you will not have to waste time searching for and ordering a new blade if a replacement is necessary. 

During your inspection, make sure that the cutting edge is straight and the trailing edge is thick. If either appears to be worn, it is time for a replacement. The cutting edge should also be free of dents and chips, as these are also signs that the blade is ready for replacement. 

Sharpen the Blade

Your sharpening file should be at least ten inches long. Begin your strokes at the top side of the cutting edge and push downwards in a firm, smooth movement. Remember that oversharpening the blade can unbalance it. Do twenty to thirty strokes, then compare it to the replacement blade to see if it needs more sharpening. 

Balance the Lawn Mower Blade

To balance the lawn mower’s blade, put a nail in a board and then use the blade's bolt hole to set it on the nail. If the blade tips to one side, file it down on that side. You will only want to file a small amount at a time, so be patient as you balance things out. 

To view our selection of lawn mower models, visit Morgan Power Equipment in Halifax, Massachusetts. We also offer parts, financing, and servicing, so visit us for all your power and agricultural equipment needs. We are proud to serve communities like Brockton and Taunton, Massachusetts, and we hope to see you soon.