You already know that there a few steps and considerations you need to take to make sure that your mower is running like it should. But one of the most important is one of the most often overlooked: keeping your mower blades sharp and pristine. And you might be wondering how to sharpen your mower blades—but there’s no need to fret. Exmark has done the hard part for you with these step-by-step instructions on blade sharpening.
Do Sharp Mower Blades Really Make a Difference?
There’s a reason why Exmark is known for its legendary cut quality—and it all starts with properly maintained, and sharpened, blades. Dull blades can leave your grass looking ragged and torn. The sharper the blade, the cleaner the cut! However, without that sharp edge, your grass becomes more susceptible to pests and disease, and an unsightly yellow-brown tip on the grass blades can start to develop.
Blade Sharpening Steps
- Don’t Overdo It: You don’t need a razor-sharp edge to get the cut you’re looking for.
- Angles, Angles, Angles: You want to maintain a 27-30° angle on your blade when you sharpen. If you sharpen it down too much, you can take the temper out of the blade—increasing how often you need to sharpen and reducing the blade’s lifespan.
- Safety Is Key: Whether you’re using an angle or bench grinder, you want to ensure you’re using the proper PPE (such as eyewear and gloves) to keep yourself protected.
Reattaching Your Blades
First and foremost, you want to consult your manual before putting the blades back on. It has all the information you need on what to do for your particular mower. Be sure to reattach the blades with the blade bolt at the proper torque with a torque wrench—this keeps the blades from loosening up. In case of impact, the proper torque prevents the bolt from tightening up too much, which might make it difficult to remove. And, before tightening, ensure you have the blade oriented correctly, with the angled cutting edge pointing toward the lawn.
Additional Tips for Blade Sharpening
- Use a putty knife to take off some of the built up dust and debris before sharpening.
- The blade’s performance will tell you when it has reached the end of its useful life. You’ll know when it’s time to change it out!
- Keep multiple blades on hand: one that’s sharpened and ready to go, alongside the blades that you’re already running.
If your blades have reached the end of their run, visit the Exmark online parts store, or make sure to visit Exmark.com to find your local dealer. They have all the know-how you’ll need to help you find your next set!
