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How to sharpen a mower blade video

by The Handyguys

In this video The Handyguys show you how to sharpen and balance a mower blade. Three different sharpening techniques are shown.

Sharpening

Sharpening your mower bladeThree different sharpening techniques are shown

  • Using a file
  • Using a sander
  • Using a grinder

We didn’t discuss using things like a dremel attachment or purpose built tools for sharpening.

Blade Balancing

When you sharpen it is also important that you “balance” your blade. If the blade is not balanced it can shorten the life of your mower and even be unsafe. We show you a very simple technique for balancing the blade in the video.

PS – Sorry the shop is sooo messy

Related shows:

  1. Mower Blade Removal, Metal Bending Brakes And DIY Mistakes
  2. Tractor and Mower Maintenance Video – Oil, Fuel, Air, Grease and Spark
  3. Mower Starting Tips
  4. Vehicle Choices, Air Conditioning Leaks And Mower Carb Repair
  5. John Deere LA115 Lawn Tractor Controls Overview Video

{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }

pausleal June 11, 2010 at 6:29 am

nice post. thanks.

Reply

Jon June 30, 2010 at 1:09 pm

Great post as usual guys.

I recommend sharpening blades once a month. I find it easier to remember sharpening as a part of a regular maintenance program than to let the grass tell me if it’s time to sharpen my blades.

One word of caution to your readers. You mentioned, in passing, that if you don’t balance your mower blades they can damage your mower. You really should think of replacing your mower blades at least every three seasons. Every other season would be better.

Reply

The Handyguys June 30, 2010 at 1:29 pm

John, Thanks for the tips. A sharp blade does keep the grass looking nicer. What did you think of my DIY technique of balancing the blade using a nail? Its always worked well for me. People can also buy commercially made balancing tools. I have an old tractor I use at a campground. Some years I replace those blades more than once a season because of hitting rocks, stumps, roots or other debris. I’m going to give the Deere a workout over the Independence Day weekend and see how it does at the Campground.

Reply

Robert February 24, 2011 at 1:19 pm

I recommend you use at least a cone blade balancer they are not that expensive and the nail does not work well on the newer splined blades.

Reply

The Handyguys February 24, 2011 at 3:00 pm

Yes, the cone balencers are not expensive at all. I’m not sure what a splined blade is but have always had good success with the nail trick. Thanks for the comments.

Reply

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