Toro 20351 Quality Guide - Page 14

Inspecting and Sharpening the Blade Inspecting the Blade Carefully examine the blade for sharpness and wear, especially where the flat and curved parts meet (Figure 5). The appearance of this part of the blade varies according to the model and type of blade. Sand and other abrasive materials can wear away the metal that connects the flat and curved parts of the blade. Check the blade before using on the mower. If you notice a slot or wear, replace the blade. Sharpening the Blade File or grind the top of the blade to maintain it's original cutting angle and inner cutting edge radius. To keep the blade balanced, remove the same amount of material from both cutting edges (Figure 6). Figure 6 sharpen.TIF 1. Sharpen at this angle only. 2. Maintain the original radius here. Balancing the Blade 1. Check the balance of the blade by placing the center hole of the blade over a nail or a screwdriver shank clamped horizontally in a vise (Figure 7). Figure 5 bladewear.TIF 1. Sail 2. Flat part of blade 3. Wear 4. Slot formed ! Danger ! A worn or damaged blade can break, and a piece of the blade could be thrown into the operator's or bystander's area, resulting in serious personal injury or death. • Inspect the blade periodically for wear or damage. • Replace a worn or damaged blade. Figure 7 balance1.TIF Note: You can also check the balance using a commercially-manufactured blade balancer such as the Magna-Matic MAG-1000 Professional Blade Balancer (Figure 8). 3 - 2 Figure 8 mag1000.jpg Photo used with permission. 2. If either end of the blade rotates downward, file that end (not the cutting edge or the end near the cutting edge). The blade is properly balanced when neither end drops. Service Dealer's Guide to Great Quality of Cut