The Truth About Lawnmower Blade Sharpening: Test Results Exposed!

Summary

This video explores the necessity of sharpening new lawnmower blades, challenging the common belief that they are ready to use straight out of the box. The host conducts a test comparing the cutting performance of a dull, a new unsharpened, and a new sharpened blade. He also demonstrates how to balance, sharpen, and reinstall a blade effectively. The results show that a sharpened blade significantly improves the health and appearance of the grass, encouraging viewers to always maintain a sharp blade for a greener, healthier lawn.

Takeaways

• 🌱 Sharpening a lawnmower blade can significantly improve the quality of a lawn's appearance, turning it from brown to green.
• ⚔️ New lawnmower blades are often not sharp right out of the box, contrary to what one might expect.
• 📞 The reason given by manufacturers for unsharpened new blades is that the high speed of the lawnmower's rotation makes the sharpness less critical.
• 🔍 The video tests the cutting performance of a dull blade, a new unsharpened blade, and a new sharpened blade to see if sharpness makes a difference.
• 🛠️ The video demonstrates the fastest and easiest way to remove, sharpen, balance, and reinstall a lawnmower blade.
• ⚖️ Before sharpening, it's important to check the blade's balance to ensure it cuts evenly.
• 🔨 A simple trick using a washer and a nail can help balance the blade without an expensive balancer.
• 🛑 Safety first: Disconnect the spark plug before working on the lawnmower to prevent accidental start-ups.
• 🔄 A special tool can make removing the blade easier and safer, allowing for one-handed operation with an impact wrench.
• 💦 Avoid overheating the blade during sharpening as it can change the temper of the metal and make it more prone to chipping.
• 🌿 The results of the test show that a sharpened blade leaves a cleaner cut and keeps the grass greener for longer periods compared to unsharpened blades.
• ⏰ Regularly checking and sharpening the blade as needed can prevent grass from turning brown and reduce the risk of disease and fungus.

Q & A

Why does the script suggest sharpening the lawnmower blade even if it's new?

The script suggests sharpening a new lawnmower blade because, despite manufacturers' claims that new blades do not need sharpening, the author's tests showed that a sharpened blade resulted in a cleaner cut and healthier looking grass compared to both a dull and a new unsharpened blade.

What is the common misconception about new lawnmower blades according to the script?

The common misconception is that new lawnmower blades are already sharp and do not require sharpening. However, the script points out that new blades are often dull and need to be sharpened to ensure a clean cut and to prevent grass from turning brown and potentially causing disease or fungus.

What is the reason manufacturers give for not sharpening new lawnmower blades?

Manufacturers claim that the speed at which the lawnmower blade spins (over 100 miles per hour) negates the need for a sharp edge, and that a sharp blade will dull faster than a dull one.

How does the script describe the process of balancing a lawnmower blade?

The script describes using a balancer tool with a sharp point and cone to ensure the blade is balanced. It also suggests marking the blade with a sharpie to easily identify the correct positioning on the balancer. After sharpening, the balance should be checked again to ensure it's still correct.

What are some tricks mentioned in the script for balancing a lawnmower blade?

The script mentions using a regular washer as a resting point for the blade on the balancer and marking the blade with a sharpie to easily align it on the balancer. Another trick involves using a nail in a table to act as a pivot point for balancing the blade by eye.

What safety measures are recommended before working on the lawnmower blade?

The script recommends pulling the spark plug for safety to prevent the motor from accidentally starting while working on the blade.

How does the script describe the process of removing the lawnmower blade?

The script describes tilting the lawnmower on its back and using an eye hook to secure it. It also mentions using a tool that attaches to the blade and lawnmower housing to hold the blade in place while it's being removed with a wrench or an impact wrench.

What type of tool does the script recommend for sharpening the lawnmower blade?

The script recommends using a grinder with a paddle sander and 60-grit sanding paper to sharpen the blade while maintaining the same angle as the original blade.

Why is it important to avoid overheating the blade while sharpening?

Overheating the blade can change the temper of the blade, making it more susceptible to chipping and reducing its durability.

What was the outcome of the script's test comparing a dull blade, a new unsharpened blade, and a new sharpened blade?

The test showed that the sharpened blade provided the cleanest cut and the grass stayed greener for longer. The new unsharpened blade was better than the dull blade but still left tear marks and did not provide as clean a cut as the sharpened blade.

How often should one sharpen their lawnmower blade according to the script?

The script suggests sharpening the blade whenever it starts to get dull or show signs of wear. Regular checks and touch-ups after mowing over twigs, branches, rocks, or roots can help maintain the blade's sharpness.