Maya Ellison
Keeping your lawn mower blades sharp and well-maintained is essential for a healthy lawn. Dull or damaged blades can cause ragged cuts, leading to unsightly patches and even diseases in your grass. Replacing plastic lawn mower blades is a straightforward task that can be done at home with relative ease. This guide will take you through the process of identifying when your blades need replacing, removing the old blades, and fitting new ones safely and securely.
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What You'll Learn
How to identify when your lawnmower blades need replacing
A sharp lawnmower blade is essential for a healthy lawn. Over time, even the best mower blades need to be sharpened or replaced for effective mowing. Knowing when to replace your blades can make a huge difference in maintaining a healthy lawn. Here are some signs that indicate when your lawnmower blades need replacing:
Inspect the grass
If the grass blades have a lot of split ends instead of being cleanly cropped, you probably have a dull blade. Brown-tipped grass blades, ragged tips, and a widespread yellow hue over the lawn are also signs of a dull blade. A dull blade can cause grass tips to appear frayed or shredded, making the lawn look untidy and vulnerable to diseases and pests. If your grass tips appear brown or frayed shortly after mowing, it's likely a sign that the blade needs replacing.
Inspect the blade
Check the blade for nicks, bends, dents, cracks, or severe wear. A blade with small nicks can often be sharpened, but major damage usually means you'll need new blades. Repeated sharpening weakens blades, making them brittle and more susceptible to dangerous damage. Deep dents, gouges, and missing pieces are a major safety hazard. If there is any damage, it's time to replace your blade.
Inspect the mower
Increased noise or vibration from the mower points to problems. Unusual sounds or excessive vibrations during mowing can indicate that the blade is imbalanced or improperly aligned due to wear or damage. Longer mowing times are also a sign of blade issues.
Frequency of use
The frequency of blade replacement depends on various factors, including usage patterns, the type of mower, and lawn conditions. The more often you mow, the quicker the blade will wear out. If you mow your lawn weekly, especially during the peak growing season, you might need to replace the blades more frequently compared to someone who mows less often. Mowing on rough terrain, such as lawns with rocks, roots, or uneven ground, can also cause faster wear and tear on the blades.
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Step-by-step guide to removing old blades
First, ensure your lawnmower is switched off and unplugged from the mains. For a gas model, run the mower dry or siphon out the gas to prevent a fuel spill when the mower is tipped on its side. Remove the gas cap, cover the opening with a plastic bag, and screw the cap back on. For an electric lawnmower, open the main compartment by the engine and remove the battery.
Next, disconnect the spark plug to prevent accidental starting. You can find the spark plug near the front of the lawnmower's engine, housed in a thick black cord. Cover the end of the spark plug with a small plastic bag for added safety.
Now, tilt the mower over to access the blade. For a push mower, tipping it on its side should be sufficient. For riding mowers, you may need a lawnmower jack to safely access the blades. Weigh the mower down so it doesn't fall.
Before removing the blade, put on thick work gloves to protect your hands from injury. Then, wedge a piece of wood between the blade and the deck to prevent the blade from spinning. You can also use a C-clamp to hold the block in place.
Finally, use a socket wrench to loosen and remove the mounting bolt. Turn the wrench counter-clockwise to loosen the bolt enough so that the blade pulls straight off. If the bolt is stuck, lightly tap the handle of the wrench with a hammer to loosen it.
Once the blade is removed, take a picture of the blade assembly for reference when putting the new blade back together.
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How to choose the right replacement blades
When choosing a replacement lawnmower blade, there are several factors to consider to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Here are some guidelines to help you select the right blade:
Compatibility
Compatibility is crucial when choosing a replacement blade. Using an incompatible blade can lead to poor performance and potential damage to your lawnmower. Check the Original Equipment Manufacturing (OEM) number, which will tell you exactly which blade is designed for your machine. If you cannot find the OEM number, you can use the lawnmower's model number to find the correct blade. The manufacturer's website or your owner's manual can be helpful resources for locating this information.
Blade Length and Center Hole Design
Blade length and center hole design are critical dimensions that ensure the blade fits securely. The blade length should be measured diagonally from the opposite tip on each side. An overly long blade will not fit under the deck, and a short blade will leave grass uncut. The center hole is where the blade attaches to the spindle assembly under the mowing deck. Various center hole patterns exist, including circles, rounded rectangles, H-patterns, Y-patterns, and star patterns.
Blade Type
There are several types of lawnmower blades, each designed for specific mowing needs. High-lift blades create stronger suction and are ideal for bagging applications, while low-lift blades are better suited for dry, short lawns, especially in dusty or sandy conditions. Standard blades offer a basic design for well-manicured lawns but struggle with wet or tall grass. Mulching blades are designed to kick up grass clippings for smaller pieces, providing environmental benefits and nutrients for the lawn.
Blade Material
The material of the blade impacts its performance and durability. High alloy steel and carbon steel are commonly used, each offering unique pros and cons. MARBAIN® blades are known for their toughness and strength, providing a premium option.
Cost vs. Quality
While cost is a factor, remember that a low-quality blade may require frequent replacements and impact the health of your lawn. A sharp, high-quality blade will produce clean, precise cuts, promoting quick grass recovery. Consider balancing cost with quality to make the best choice for your needs.
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Installing new blades
Prepare the Work Area:
Start by disconnecting the power source to prevent accidental startups. For electric lawn mowers, unplug the power cord and remove the battery. For gas-powered mowers, remove the spark plug and cover the end with a small plastic bag or tape to prevent the contacts from accidentally touching. It is also recommended to run the gas tank dry or siphon out the gas to avoid spills when tilting the mower.
Remove the Old Blades:
Turn the lawn mower over and inspect the blades. Remove any grass buildup or debris from the underside of the mower deck using a putty knife or plastic scraper. Once the area is clear, proceed to remove the old blades by unscrewing the mounting bolt or nut assembly. You may need to use a wrench or socket wrench to loosen the fasteners. Be cautious of sharp edges during this process.
Install the New Blades:
Obtain replacement blades that match the size and specifications of the old blades, including the mounting holes and length. Position the new blade onto the mower deck, ensuring that the raised wings are pointing upward toward the deck. Follow any instructions or markings on the blade to determine the correct orientation. Hold the blade securely in place and tighten the mounting bolt by turning it clockwise with a wrench or torque wrench. Avoid over-tightening or under-tightening the bolt, as this can lead to cracking or the blade coming loose during operation.
Final Steps:
Before flipping the mower back upright, take a few minutes to clean the underside of the deck and apply a light coating of silicone spray to prevent grass buildup and maintain airflow. Reinstall the spark plug or batteries, and remove any plastic bags or covers. Wait 30-60 minutes for the oil to return to the motor before mowing, and always check the oil and air filter before use to prevent damage to the motor.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your new plastic lawn mower blades are installed correctly and safely, allowing you to achieve a clean and efficient cut on your lawn.
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Tips for blade maintenance
To keep your lawnmower in top shape, blade maintenance is critical. Here are some tips to help you maintain your plastic lawn mower blades:
- Regularly inspect the blades for any signs of wear and tear. Turn the lawnmower over and examine the blades for dents, dullness, or any other damage. If the blades appear worn down, it's time to replace them.
- Keep the blades sharp. Sharp blades cut grass efficiently, promote healthy grass growth, and reduce mowing time. Depending on usage, sharpen the blades at least once or twice per mowing season. You can sharpen them yourself with a file or grinder, or have them professionally sharpened.
- Change the blades regularly. Many homeowners change blades after 25 hours of use or before the first mow of the season. Refer to your owner's manual for specific recommendations.
- Clean the blades and the underside of the mower regularly. Use a garden hose to wash off any grass clippings and a plastic scraper or brush to remove stubborn debris. This prevents grass buildup, which can compromise airflow and affect the mower's performance.
- When replacing blades, ensure you get the correct size and type. Measure the old blade and match the size, mounting holes, and length. Follow the instructions for installation, ensuring the blade is secure and installed correctly.
- Store your lawnmower properly when not in use. Keep it in a dry place and cover it to protect it from the elements.
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Frequently asked questions
Turn your lawnmower over and inspect the blades. If they are dented, worn down or have lost their sharpness, they will need replacing. You can also check the state of your lawn. If the grass appears patchy or uneven after mowing, this is an indicator that your blades need to be replaced.
First, make sure your lawnmower is switched off and unplugged from the mains. Disconnect the spark plug or batteries. Then, turn the lawnmower over and remove the old blades by sliding them out of their holes. Get a replacement blade that is the same size as the old one and slide it back into the same holes. You will know they are secure when they click into place. Finally, tighten the mounting bolt.
Many homeowners and pro landscapers change blades after 25 hours of use, or before their first mow of the season. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific recommendations for your mower.
