How to Sharpen a Lawn Mower Blade

Dull lawn mower blades don’t just result in a rougher cut, they also make your lawn mower less efficient overall. Luckily, sharpening your lawn mower’s blade isn’t that difficult once you know what to do. If you’re not sure where to start, this guide from Flieg’s Equipment will walk you through the process of sharpening your lawn mower’s blade.

Safely Remove the Blade

The last thing you want is for your lawn mower to accidentally start as you’re working to remove the blade. That’s why step one should be to remove your mower’s spark plug. Tilt your lawn mower onto its side and stick a 2x4 between the deck skirt and the lawn mower’s blade. Be sure to mark the bottom of the mower blade with paint or tape so that it’ll be easier to put back once you’re done sharpening things. Use a breaker bar or long-handled wrench to unscrew the bolt so that you can remove the mower blade. 

Inspect the Condition of the Blade

Inspect your lawn mower’s blade. It’s helpful to have a spare mower blade on hand for this step. Not only will you be able to compare your current blade against a fresh one, but it makes replacing your current blade easier if you decide that it’s time to get rid of it. As you inspect your lawn mower’s blade, make sure that the cutting edge is straight and the trailing edge is thick. A dented or chipped blade will need to be replaced. 

Sharpen the Blade

Lawn mower blades need to be sharpened using a file that is at the minimum 10 inches thick. Start at the top of the mower blade’s cutting edge and push downward in a single firm, smooth motion. Complete twenty to thirty strokes and then compare your current blade to your spare lawn mower blade to decide if further sharpening is needed. 

Balance the Lawn Mower Blade

Finally, you’ll need to balance your lawn mower’s blade. The best way to do this is by putting a nail through a board then setting the mower blade’s bolt hole onto the nail. If the blade tips to either side, file that side down. The process of balancing a lawn mower’s blade can take some time, so be patient as you slowly make adjustments. 

Shop lawn mowers at Flieg’s Equipment. Our dealerships in Leadington and Ste. Genevieve, Missouri offer convenient access to communities like Farmington and Park Hills, Missouri. We also have promotions, parts ordering, servicing, and financing.