Sharpen lawnmower blades

Why It Matters

Dull blades tear grass instead of cutting cleanly, leaving brown tips and stressing the lawn.

Tools

• Socket wrench or blade removal wrench
• File or bench grinder
• Blade balancer

How to Do It

1. Disconnect the spark plug wire and secure it away from the plug so the engine can't start.
2. Tip the mower onto its side with the air filter and carburetor facing up to prevent oil from flooding them.
3. Use a socket wrench to remove the blade bolt and take the blade off.
4. Sharpen the blade with a file or bench grinder, following the original bevel angle along the cutting edge.
5. Check the blade's balance by resting its center hole on a nail or balancer; remove a small amount of metal from the heavier end until it hangs level.
6. Reinstall the blade and tighten the bolt securely, then reconnect the spark plug wire.

Related Tasks

• Add fuel stabilizer and run mower for 5 minutes Once a year
• Change lawnmower oil Once a year
• Clean and remove grass clippings from mower Once a year
• Reinstall lawnmower battery Once a year
• Remove and store lawnmower battery indoors Once a year