How to Sharpen a Lawn Mower Blade

A lawn mower’s blade isn’t that different from other kinds of cutting implements. Namely, without proper care and maintenance, a mower’s blade will start to dull and not cut as well. While the process of sharpening a lawn mower blade isn’t really that difficult or complex, it’s important that you follow all of the steps exactly in order to ensure your safety. That’s why Southern York Turf & Tractor has created this guide to sharpening your lawn mower’s blade.

It’s vital that you make sure your lawn mower’s engine is off before you attempt to remove the blade. You might even want to remove the spark plug before you start, just to be sure. We suggest marking the bottom of the blade with tape or a dash of paint to make things easier when it is time to put the blade back on. 

Your next step will be to tilt your lawn mower on its side so that the carburetor is facing up. Place a 2x4 between the blade and the mower deck’s skirt. This will force the blade to resist against the board when you remove it. Finally, use a breaker bar or long-handled wrench to unscrew the bolt. 

Next, inspect the blade itself. If you have a replacement blade on hand, compare your current blade to the replacement. Ideally, the blade should have a straight cutting edge and a thick trailing edge. If either edge appears worn or the cutting edge has any dents/chips, it’s time to replace the blade. 

A proper sharpening file should be ten inches or longer. Start at the top of the cutting edge and push downwards in firm, smooth strokes. Avoid oversharpening, as this will unbalance the blade. Perform twenty to thirty strokes and then pause so that you can compare your current blade to the replacement blade. 

Now it’s time to balance the mower’s blade. Start by putting a nail in a board and setting the blade’s bolt hole on the nail. If the blade tips to one side, file that side down. Be sure to only file down a little at a time. This process can take some time, so be patient. 

We here at Southern York Turf & Tractor hope you found this guide helpful. To shop our selection of lawn mower models, visit us online or in person. We have dealerships in both Shrewsbury and York, Pennsylvania. We also offer financing, parts ordering, and servicing. We are proud to serve communities like Hagerstown and Wilmington, Pennsylvania. We hope you’ll visit us soon!