Lawn mower blades are available in a wide range of designs and sizes. Certain blades are designed specifically for particular lawn mowers. They come with a stamped part number that is referenced in the manual.



For example, a high lift blade generates a strong suction that effectively sends clippings up so that they can be bagged. It also allows for optimal air flow in dense grass conditions to prevent clogging.


Size


The length of the mower blade and the pattern of the holes must be figured out to ensure that you pick the correct replacement lawnmower blades. The shear pin location holes, and their distance from the blade boss, must be likewise known. These measurements help narrow the results of a search because they are in line with the style and shape of a particular mower blade in order to prevent damaging parts of the mower and causing vibrations.



Standard blades (also known as 2-in-1 blades or lift blades) are used most commonly on lawnmowers with side discharge, and on lawnmowers with no mulching or bagging. Their back edge is a slight upturn that generates an ongoing cutting and suction action.



The high lift blades are made to be used to cut side discharges. They feature an upward-facing turn on the back. This type of blade requires more power from the engine to function well. They can be somewhat more expensive in terms of fuel, however it is great for thicker grasses that are difficult to cut with standard blades.


Material


The lawn mower's blades are generally made from a durable type of steel. It could also be constructed from iron or other metals. Steel is the most popular choice for mower blades, since it provides a good combination of strength and toughness. It is heated to harden the steel. The process of tempering increases the strength and durability of the material as well as the resistance to corrosion.



It is more beneficial to employ high carbon steel for mowing over low carbon steel as it's more durable. It can withstand stumps, trees and other things that could strike the blade.



The best way to maintain the mower's blade is to use it regularly and maintain it at a high-quality sharpness. It is also important to make sure the blade is balanced. It is possible to do this by putting a nail in the board and then using a file over it to move the nail until it touches the middle of the blade.


Sharpness


Sharpness of blades depends on various factors, including the dimensions of the lawn as well as the frequency of use. Sharpening is more frequent when large lawns have lots of pebbles, rocks, tree roots and weeds. Regular use of a dull mower could also make the blade wear down more quickly.



For a neat and pleasing cut an edge that is sharp is crucial. A sharpening blade will help achieve this. It functions like a bench grinding machine, however, it is smaller and less expensive.



The blade should be balanced frequently, especially after having been sharpened. Sharpening can cause the blade to be imbalanced since it takes more metal off one side than from the other. To determine the balance, hang the blade on an anchor through its bolt hole and see whether it is like it is level. If one end tilts higher than the other, the blade needs to be filed further to ensure it is balanced.


Maintenance


If you want to sharpen a mower's blade, make use of a tool that functions similar to drill bits, but using a stone that is designed to hug the edge of the blade, leaving little room for errors. This tool is faster and precise than hand filing. Check the balance by hanging the blade over a bolt that is inserted into the hole. If one side is lower than the other, it's time to be filed a bit further to ensure that it is balanced.



To stop an engine from starting while you are working on a cutting blade, turn off the engine, and then remove the spark plug cable. Block the blade in order to hold it in place while you loosen the fastening bolt with a wrench or ratchet set. After reinstalling the blade be sure to note boost the cutting efficiency of your lawn mower blade side that is marked downward to ensure that it is placed in the correct location. Spray a little WD-40 or a similar lubricant onto the mounting bolt before tightening it.