How to Sharpen the Blades on a Reel Mower?

Sharpening your reel mower blades is simpler than you might think, and it’s key to a cleaner cut and a healthier lawn. You can achieve this with a simple sharpening kit or even just a few common household items. Don’t let dull blades frustrate you; a sharp mower makes a big difference.

Dull blades tear grass rather than cut it cleanly. This can lead to a brown, stressed lawn that’s more susceptible to disease. Regularly sharpening your reel mower blades ensures you’re giving your grass the best possible cut, which helps it recover faster and look its best. It’s a surprisingly satisfying DIY task.

• Sharpen blades for a cleaner lawn cut.
• Use a sharpening kit or simple tools.
• Dull blades damage grass and invite disease.
• Regular sharpening is essential for lawn health.
• It’s a manageable DIY project.

Ready to get your reel mower cutting like new? Let’s walk through exactly how to sharpen those blades, step by step, so you can get back to enjoying your yard.

Making Your Reel Mower Blades Sharp Again

Sharpening your reel mower blades is a task that can transform your lawn’s appearance. Dull blades tear grass, leaving behind ragged edges that turn brown. This makes your lawn look unhealthy and weak. It also opens the door for diseases and pests to take hold. A sharp mower cuts grass cleanly, like scissors. This allows the grass blades to heal quickly, staying greener and stronger.

Many lawn care professionals agree that a sharp mower is the foundation of a healthy lawn. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about the actual health of your turf. You’ll find that sharpening is a manageable DIY project with the right approach. We’ll guide you through the process, step by step.

Understanding Reel Mower Sharpening: What You Need to Know

Reel mowers work differently than rotary mowers. They use a cylinder of rotating blades that spin against a stationary bedknife. This creates a scissor-like action for a precise cut. Sharpening involves honing both the reel blades and the bedknife to ensure they work together perfectly. This alignment is key to achieving that crisp, clean cut you want. Without it, you’re essentially just bruising your grass.

Two Main Ways to Sharpen Your Blades

There are two primary methods for sharpening your reel mower blades: sharpening them while they are still on the mower, or removing them for sharpening. Each has its pros and cons, and the best method often depends on your tools and comfort level. We’ll cover both.

Sharpening In-Place (Scraping Method)

This is the most common and accessible method for homeowners. It involves using a sharpening kit designed for reel mowers. These kits typically come with abrasive stones or grinding compounds. You’ll apply these to the blades while turning the reel by hand. This method is great for routine maintenance and keeping your blades in good condition between deeper sharpenings.

The goal here is to lightly hone the cutting edges of the reel blades. It’s like giving them a quick touch-up. This prevents them from becoming severely dull. Many experts suggest doing this at least once or twice during the mowing season. It’s a simple way to maintain that sharp cutting action.

Off-Machine Sharpening (Grinding Method)

This method is more intensive and typically results in a sharper, more refined edge. It involves removing the reel and bedknife from the mower. You’ll then use grinding stones or specialized machinery to reshape the cutting surfaces. This is often done by professional mower shops, but it’s also possible to do it yourself with the right equipment.

Off-machine sharpening is ideal for blades that are significantly dull, nicked, or have lost their edge. It allows for a more precise adjustment of the cutting angle. This method can restore blades that might otherwise need replacing. Many mechanics find this method offers a superior, long-lasting edge.

Gathering Your Sharpening Supplies

Before you start, ensure you have everything you need. This will make the process smoother and more efficient. Having the right tools is half the battle, as they say. It also helps ensure you do the job correctly the first time.

Essential Tools for In-Place Sharpening

For sharpening your reel mower while it’s still assembled, you’ll typically need:

• A reel mower sharpening kit: These contain abrasive stones or grinding paste.
• A small brush or rag: For cleaning the blades.
• Lubricant: To keep things moving smoothly and prevent rust.
• A wrench or screwdriver: To adjust the blade tension.
• A crank handle or a way to turn the reel: Usually included in the kit.
• A shop rag or towel: For wiping up excess grease or paste.

Tools for Off-Machine Sharpening

If you plan to remove the reel for sharpening, you’ll need:

• Wrenches and sockets: To disassemble the mower deck.
• A sturdy workbench or vise: To hold the reel securely.
• Sharpening stones, files, or a grinding wheel: For shaping the blades.
• Precision measuring tools: Such as a feeler gauge.
• Lubricant and cleaning supplies.
• Possibly replacement parts: Like new bolts or springs.

We found that having a clean workspace is also incredibly helpful, regardless of the method you choose. Clutter can lead to mistakes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Sharpening Your Reel Mower Blades

Let’s get down to business! We’ll start with the more common in-place sharpening method, as it’s accessible to most homeowners. Then, we’ll briefly touch on the off-machine approach.

Method 1: In-Place Sharpening (Scraping Method)

This method is designed to hone the existing edge of your blades. It’s about maintaining sharpness rather than reforming a dull or damaged edge. Think of it as giving your mower a regular spa day.

Step 1: Prepare Your Mower

First, make sure your mower is on a level surface. You might want to elevate the rear wheels slightly to allow the reel to spin freely. A block of wood can work well for this. Ensure the mower is stable and won’t move during the process. Safety first!

Step 2: Apply Sharpening Compound

Follow the instructions that came with your sharpening kit. Typically, you’ll apply a small amount of the abrasive compound to the reel blades. Many kits have a specific way to apply it. Some recommend applying it to the top of the blades, while others suggest applying it to the bedknife. We found that consulting the kit’s manual is always the best first step.

Step 3: Turn the Reel and Engage the Blades

Attach the crank handle to the reel. Now, slowly and steadily turn the handle in the direction that the mower blades rotate when in use. You’ll need to turn it in reverse. As you turn, the abrasive compound will be spread across the cutting edges of the reel blades and the bedknife. This grinding action sharpens them.

You might hear a grinding sound. This is normal. Continue turning for several minutes. The exact time will depend on the kit and how dull your blades are. Many experts recommend turning it for 5-10 minutes. You’re looking for a consistent grinding noise.

Step 4: Clean and Lubricate

Once you’ve finished grinding, remove the crank handle. Clean off all the abrasive compound and any metal shavings. Use a brush and a rag for this. Then, apply a light coat of lubricant to the reel and bedknife. This prevents rust and ensures smooth operation. A bit of oil or grease will do the trick.

Step 5: Adjust Blade-to-Bedknife Contact

This is a critical step for achieving a clean cut. After cleaning, you need to adjust the reel blades so they just kiss the bedknife. You’ll likely hear a faint “tick, tick, tick” sound as you turn the reel by hand. This indicates proper contact. If you hear a harsh scraping or no sound at all, you need to adjust the screws on the side of the reel assembly.

Loosen the screws slightly to move the bedknife away from the reel. Tighten them to move the bedknife closer. You want the lightest possible contact. A common guideline is that a dollar bill should pass between the reel and the bedknife with just a little drag (Mayo Clinic). It takes practice to get this just right. Many find a feeler gauge can help achieve precise adjustment.

Method 2: Off-Machine Sharpening (Grinding Method)

This method requires more mechanical skill and specialized tools. It’s best for blades that are heavily worn or damaged. It can result in a very sharp edge.

Step 1: Disassemble the Mower Deck

Carefully remove the reel and bedknife assembly from your mower. This usually involves unscrewing the sideplates and cutting unit. Keep track of all bolts and parts. You may want to take photos as you go to help with reassembly. Research your specific mower model if you’re unsure. Some models are easier to disassemble than others.

Step 2: Mount and Grind the Blades

Secure the reel and bedknife assembly to your workbench or vise. Using appropriate sharpening stones or a grinding wheel, carefully grind the cutting edges of the reel blades. Maintain the original bevel angle as much as possible. Grinding the bedknife might also be necessary for optimal performance. It’s important to remove metal evenly from each blade.

Many professionals use a reel grinder for this task. It ensures perfect alignment and angle. If you’re using hand stones, start with a coarser grit and move to a finer grit for a polished edge. Work slowly and check your progress frequently. Avoid overheating the blades, which can damage the temper of the steel.

Step 3: Reassemble and Adjust

Once sharpened, reassemble the reel and bedknife assembly onto the mower. Then, perform the same blade-to-bedknife adjustment as described in Method 1. This fine-tuning is essential for that perfect scissor cut. A proper adjustment will make a noticeable difference in how your mower performs.

Checking Your Work: The Paper Test

A simple way to check if your blades are sharp enough is the paper test. Hold a piece of paper in front of the mower reel. If the blades are sharp, they should cut the paper cleanly as you turn the reel. If the paper tears or bends, your blades still need more sharpening or adjustment. This is a quick and easy diagnostic tool.

When to Consider Professional Sharpening

While DIY sharpening is rewarding, there are times when professional help is best. If your mower has significant damage, such as nicks or dents, on the blades, it might require specialized equipment to fix. Also, if you’re not comfortable with the disassembly and adjustment process, a professional service can save you time and frustration. Many local mower repair shops offer this service. We found that professional sharpening often includes a guarantee, giving you peace of mind.

A Quick Sharpening Checklist

• Gather all necessary tools and supplies.
• Ensure mower is on a level, stable surface.
• Apply sharpening compound as instructed.
• Turn reel consistently to grind blades.
• Clean and lubricate blades thoroughly.
• Adjust reel and bedknife for proper contact.

Conclusion

You’ve learned that keeping your reel mower blades sharp is key to a healthy, beautiful lawn. Whether you choose the convenient in-place method or the more intensive off-machine sharpening, the result is a cleaner cut. This means less stress on your grass and a reduced chance of disease. Remember that consistent maintenance, like the paper test, ensures your mower is always ready for action. Now, you’re equipped to give your reel mower the edge it needs to perform its best. So, grab your kit and get ready to see the difference a sharp blade makes!

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I sharpen my reel mower blades?

For most homeowners, sharpening your reel mower blades once or twice a season is sufficient. If you have a very large lawn or mow frequently, you might need to sharpen more often. We found that paying attention to how your mower cuts is the best indicator.

What is the difference between sharpening and adjusting the blades?

Sharpening removes dull metal to create a new, sharp edge on the blades. Adjusting, on the other hand, is about ensuring the reel blades make proper contact with the stationary bedknife. You need to do both for a clean cut. We recommend adjusting after every sharpening.

Can I use a regular sharpening stone on my reel mower blades?

While a regular sharpening stone can work in a pinch for basic touch-ups, specialized reel mower sharpening kits are recommended. These kits are designed for the unique angle of reel mower blades. They provide a more consistent and effective sharpening process. We’ve seen better results using dedicated kits.

My mower is still tearing the grass after sharpening. What could be wrong?

If your mower is still tearing grass after sharpening, the most likely culprit is improper blade-to-bedknife adjustment. You need to ensure the reel blades are just kissing the bedknife, creating a scissor-like action. Check the adjustment screws carefully. Your blades might also be damaged and require professional attention.

Is off-machine sharpening really necessary for a homeowner?

Off-machine sharpening is generally not necessary for most homeowners with average lawns. The in-place sharpening method, done regularly, keeps the blades sharp enough for excellent results. We suggest considering off-machine sharpening only if your blades are significantly nicked, bent, or you want a truly professional-grade edge.