How to Sharpen Lawn Mower Blades with an Angle Grinder

How to Sharpen Lawn Mower Blades with an Angle Grinder

Maintaining a lawn requires regular cutting, and for that, a sharp lawn mower is necessary. If your lawn mowers blades are dull, you risk damaging your lawns aesthetics and causing undue stress on the machines engine. Some people opt to replace dull blades with new ones, but that can be expensive. Instead, you can opt to sharpen old blades with an angle grinder since its inexpensive and easy to do. This article will walk you through the steps you need to take to sharpen your lawn mower blades using an angle grinder.

1) Assess the Blades Condition

Before you begin, its important to assess the blades condition. Look out for cracks or chips on the blade, as these cannot be repaired with an angle grinder. If the blade is irreparably damaged, consider replacing it altogether. Also, ensure that the blade is securely attached to the mower before removing it.

2) Prepare the Blades for Sharpening

To sharpen the blades, you need to detach them from the mower. Begin by unplugging the spark plug wire to avoid accidental start-ups in case you touch the blades by mistake. After that, remove the blade by loosening the bolts or nuts that hold it in place. As you remove the blade, note its orientation so that youll put it back the same way. Make sure to place the blade on a flat surface before proceeding.

3) Get Your Angle Grinder Ready

Once you have a flat surface to work on, put on safety gloves and glasses before beginning. You dont want any sparks flying into your eyes. Then, grab your angle grinder and remove the lock nut using a wrench. This nut is typically found in the center of the blade, and its removal will allow you to remove the blade from the grinder.

4) Sharpen the Blades

Once the angle grinder is ready, hold it at an angle to the blade and push steadily on the grinders trigger. Ensure that you apply consistent pressure and keep the angle between the blades edge and the grinders face constant. Aim for a sharp angle of around 35-45 degrees. Work on one blade edge, then flip the blade and work on the other side. Repeat this until both sides have been sharpened.

5) Re-attach the Blades

After sharpening, make sure to clean the blade with a soft cloth to remove any debris. Once its clean, return it to the same position and orientation as before. Tighten the bolts or nuts securely to keep the blade in position and restore the spark plugs connection. This ensures your mower will run smoothly and efficiently the next time you use it.

Conclusion

Sharpening lawn mower blades with an angle grinder is an effective and inexpensive way to keep your lawn looking immaculate. By following the steps outlined above, you can achieve a sharp, effective blade that will not harm your lawn and prolong the lifespan of your mower. Remember to take safety precautions when using this equipment and to check the blades condition before beginning. With a little practice, youll soon be able to sharpen your mowers blades effortlessly.