Length of Clip: 3:43
It is important to sharpen the cutting blade on your walk-behind lawn mower at least once each year to ensure your machine cuts grass as intended. Follow the steps below to remove and either sharper or replace the cutting blade.
Note that if your lawn mower or cutting blade is damaged from hitting an object in your yard, it is best to take it to a local Service Location for repairs.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare your lawn mower
Roll your walk-behind lawn mower onto a flat, level surface and disconnect the spark plug wire.
Step 2: Position your lawn mower
Carefully tip the lawn mower on its side with the air filter facing up. Make sure that the lawn mower is in a stable position.
Step 3: Attach the blade removal tool
Place the Blade Removal Tool over one end of the cutting blades and the side of the mower deck. Tighten the clamping screw onto mower deck until the blade removal tool is firmly in place.
Step 4: Remove the cutting blade
Use a socket wrench or breaker bar to loosen and remove the bolt holding the cutting blade in place. Remove blade and blade adapter parts (if equipped) - note the correct position of the cutting blade prior to removal.
Step 5: Inspect the cutting blade
Inspect the cutting blade to determine if it can be sharpened or if it needs to be replaced.
Step 6: Re-install the cutting blade
To re-install the cutting blade, insert one end of the blade into the blade removal tool. Confirm that the cutting blade is in the correct position. Line up the center hole and guides on the shaft with the holes on the cutting blade. Install the blade bolt and retention hardware. Tighten the blade bolt to the proper torque setting as noted in your owner's manual.
Step 7: Re-position your lawn mower
Remove the blade removal tool from the mower deck. Carefully tip the lawn mower to the upright position.
Step 8: Re-connect the spark plug
Re-connect the spark plug wire to the spark plug.
Fix equipment issues quickly
When you need parts for your walk-behind lawn mower, you can use the MTD Genuine Parts Part Finder to find the correct one. Common parts include:
Shop equipment and parts
- Shop Walk Behind Mower Parts
- Shop for Walk Behind Mower Accessories & Attachments
- Shop Walk Behind Lawn Mowers
Resolving outdoor power equipment problems as soon as they arise will prolong the life of your machine.
The MTD Genuine Parts Knowledge Center provides do-it-yourself instructions for performing many basic maintenance items, including replacing cutting blades, drive and deck belts, and engine oil. If you find your machine has a bigger problem, use our service locator to find a qualified MTD service provider in your area.