Toro 20351 Quality Guide - Page 13

Inspecting and Sharpening the Blade Overview This section describes how to remove, inspect, sharpen, balance, and install a blade. Blade condition is a key factor in quality of cut. The blade should always be straight and sharp. A sharp blade produces a clean, neat cut and helps ensure healthy grass plants. A dull blade tears and shreds grass, producing a poor quality of cut and damaging the grass plants. Note: For best performance, install a new blade before the cutting season begins. During the year, file down any small nicks to maintain the cutting edge. Removing the Blade Note: On walk behind mowers, while the blade is attached to the mower, move the blade as little as possible to avoid future starting problems. 1. Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop. 2. Disconnect the wire from the spark plug. 3. Walk behind mowers: Drain the fuel and oil from the engine. Tip the mower on its side, air filter up. Riding mowers: Remove the mower attachment, or raise and block the tractor to allow access to the underside of the mower. 4. Loosen the blade fastener(s). The blade fasteners differ from mower to mower. Some mowers use a bolt and a lock washer; some use a bolt or a nut with a locking patch or locking material in the threads. Bolt size varies by mower model and size of blade. Always use the proper size wrench to remove the bolt or nut. An adjustable wrench can easily open and slip. 5. Grasp the end of the blade using a rag or a thickly padded glove. Remove the blade bolt (or nut) and the other component (Figure 3 and Figure 4). 1. Blade bolt 2. Curved washer Figure 3 remove1.TIF 3. Blade 4. Spindle shaft 1. Blade bolt 2. Lock washer 3. Accelerator Figure 4 4. Blade 5. Blade driver remove2.TIF Service Dealer's Guide to Great Quality of Cut 3 - 1