Now that fall has arrived, those blades of green glory are growing slower and slower. Yes, reality tells you that soon they will wither and die, until next spring of course. Instead of packing away the reel mower for a long winter hibernation just yet, why not take a few minutes to get it ready to tackle spring’s turf rejuvenation next year? You just may find time for such a task now that you don’t have to cut the lawn every week!
Of course, the reel mower is so efficient it actually sharpens itself to an extent as you push it along. Every year or two though, depending on your model, you should sharpen it to facilitate better cutting, which in turn will make it easier to push, meaning less effort on your part.
The following outlines the few simple steps of the do-it-yourself sharpening process.
- Start by propping up the mower so you can turn the reel by hand. File flat any nicks or rough edges. Check that the cutting bar meets each blade. When you turn each wheel forward it should make a whispery noise as it scraps over the cutting bar. Adjust any bars out of alignment by using the screws at the ends of the bar.
- To actually sharpen the machine, cover the blades with a thin coat of automotive valve grinding compound (purchased from Canadian Tire).
- Now turn each wheel backward to squeeze the compound between the blades and the cutting bar. Do each bar about a dozen times, adding grinding compound as needed.
- When the blade edges look sharp, wash off the compound thoroughly. Watch your fingers! If the blades can cut a piece of paper the same as a pair of scissors would, you have succeeded in sharpening your mower.
Now, acquaint yourself with the whereabouts of your snow shovel. Yes, as the grass turns brown, a soft white blanket of snow will cover it and keep its roots alive till spring. And when that time comes, you’ll be ready to cut.
