Learning how to sharpen lawnmower blades is simple when you have the right equipment and a specialist guide.
If you’re worried about possible blade dullness after long-term use of your lawnmower, Hayter always recommends you specify this to your engineer when your mower undergoes its yearly service.
However, if your mower is desperate for lawnmower blade sharpening, you can undertake the task yourself.
Read on to learn how to sharpen lawnmower blades, suitable for battery mowers, petrol mowers and professional mowers.
Please note: Before undertaking any personal maintenance on your mower, check this does not affect the mower’s warranty. Warranty varies by model.Lawnmower blade-sharpening equipment
Before we begin, make sure you have the following tools and equipment:
• Heavy-duty gloves.
• Wrench.
• Blade removal tools.
• Vice.
• Wedge.
• Wire brush.
• Metal file.
Before removing any part of your lawnmower for maintenance, always refer to your mower’s manual for any variations in the process.
For the purposes of a general guide, we will be operating on a Harrier model.
How to take a lawnmower blade off
First, you need to make sure your lawnmower blade is safely removed from the rest of the chassis.
Follow our simple step-by-step guide:
- Safely disconnect: Remove the spark plug lead so the engine cannot accidentally start by any means. Additionally, if you have recently mowed, make sure the engine has properly cooled before starting blade removal.
- Prep the mower: Gently tip the mower onto its side, making sure the air filter is facing upward and is not pressed against the floor. Use a wedge to prop the mower, now on its side, slightly off the ground. This can also be done upright if using a Hawk mower in its compact storage formation. Use a wooden block to hold the blade steady.
- Carefully remove the mounting nut: Keep your heavy-duty gloves on during this next step. Firmly grip the cutter blade with one hand, using a wrench in the other to loosen the centre nut that holds the blade in place. Once the nut is removed, simply unscrew the bolt, and the blade should detach easily.
Sharpening lawnmower blades
Now it’s time to sharpen the lawnmower blade.
To complete this safely, follow this step-by-step guide:
- Clamp your dull blade: Using a vice, make sure your blade is securely clamped. Do not tighten too far as this can cause damage and bends in the blade.
- Clean the blade: Using a wire brush or die grinder, be sure to clean the blade of any dry grass, dirt or debris that might impede your ability to sharpen.
- File the blade: Grab the file with two hands, filing with even strokes, following the angle of the blade as closely as possible. Continue this process until you have clean, sharp edges.
- Balance the blade: Slide a screwdriver through the blade’s centre hole and hold the blade horizontal. If the blade is balanced, it will remain horizontal.
How to replace a lawnmower blade
Replacing a lawnmower blade is simple – here’s how:
- Order a replacement blade: Use the Hayter Spare Parts Enquiry form to ensure your replacement lawnmower blade is the right one for your mower’s model number.
- Remove your current blade: Once your new part has arrived, repeat the same steps as found in the ‘How to take a lawnmower blade off’ guide to remove the old blade.
- Attach your new blade: To do this, simply reverse the steps described in the same guide above, making sure the curved edges of the blade point toward the machine housing.
Lawnmower blade sharpening services
If you don’t feel 100% comfortable sharpening your lawnmower blade, leave it to the professionals.
Find a Hayter-authorised dealer near you that can service your Hayter mower and sharpen your lawnmower blades.
For more general mower maintenance tips, be sure to read 5 Ways to Keep Your Petrol Mower Running Like a Dream and watch our visual maintenance guide below.
Need more mower maintenance tips? Watch our guide.