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Explore the functions, risks, and alternatives when you’re considering to run mower without blade, including maintenance and legal considerations.
For more information on the working of lawn mower blades, read our article on how lawn mower blades work.
Image credit: Magda Ehlers/Pexels
‘Reasons for Running a Mower Without Blades
Diagnosing issues with the engine
The central reason often revolves around diagnosing issues with the mower’s engine. When you operate your mower, both the engine and blade contribute to its overall function. By choosing to run without the blade, you isolate and perform a check on just the engine.
Repurposing the engine
An additional reason for this unconventional approach might be an attempt to repurpose a discarded or old lawnmower engine for another use. When doing so, removing the blade attachment becomes necessary.
Turning the lawn mower into a leaf blower or pressure washer
Some folks might have misconceived ideas about using their lawnmowers as leaf blowers after removing their spinning blades. In fact, this concept is more often than not impractical due to design limitations of mowers which are specifically engineered for cutting rather than blowing debris away.
Also worth noting is that running a lawnmower without its blade could potentially give rise to another situation. That is: using it as a makeshift pressure washer or pump!
You want to diagnose an issue with your mower’s crankshaft? Go ahead and run without that blade!
Repurposing an old mower’s engine? Remove that spinning blade!
But if you’re thinking of turning your lawnmower into a leaf blower or pressure washer…well, you might want too reconsider!
Possible Downsides of Running a Lawn Mower Without a Blade
Issues with balance
First up is the issue of balance. The blade isn’t only there to cut grass, it also functions as a balancer of the lawn mower, and if it’s removed it can end bad. Mowers are designed and tested with all their parts intact and removing any component could have unexpected consequences.
Wear and tear
Your lawn mower could be up for a lot of wear and tear if you’re thinking about running it without the blade. Running without that all-important blade attachment can somewhat unfairly overwork other components within your machine.
The other parts were never meant to bear such burdens alone. This could result in premature wear on these parts and potentially cost you big money in repairs.
Alternatives to Running a Mower Without Blades
While it might be tempting to run your mower without a blade for a variety of reasons, there are some safer and more effective alternatives you might want to consider.
Test the engine by elevating the lawn mower
Instead of removing the blade, you can test the lawn mower’s engine by ensuring the mower is placed on a firm, flat surface and elevating the mower slightly so the blade does not touch the ground or any objects. This way, you can observe the engine’s performance without removing the blade entirely.
Buy the real equipment
Sometimes people think about running their mowers without a blade to use them as makeshift leaf blowers in the fall. Please don’t do this. Just buy a leaf blower instead.
Use a string trimmer
If you’re worried about safety while mowing steep slopes or uneven terrain, consider using a string trimmer instead of trying to run without a blade on your mower. String trimmers are specifically designed for tackling tricky terrains safely and effectively so there is no need to go through dangerous maneuvers with an ill-suited machine.
Tips When Removing Blades
So, you’ve decided to engage in the unusual practice of running your mower without its blade. Before proceeding, there are a few tips that you’ll need to be mindful of.
Safety
Firstly, when removing the blade from your lawnmower, ensure that you do so carefully. A good pair of thick gloves may serve as a shield against cuts or scrapes.
Different mowers have differet attachements of the blades
When it comes to running without blades, remember that different lawnmowers have different systems for blade attachment and detachment. Some may require a specialized wrench while others might just need some good old elbow grease and standard tools.
Check on your mower engine at all times
It’s also prudent to regularly check on your mower engine during this whole endeavor. An engine running without its regular load (the resistance from the grass against the spinning blade) might run at higher RPMs than usual. This could lead to overheating issues.
Manufacturer and Legal Considerations
It’s important to recognize the legal and manufacturer considerations that come into play.
The manufacturers’s warranty
One of the prime issues here lies with the manufacturer’s warranty. Most, if not all, warranties become void if any modifications are made to your machine outside those suggested by the manufacturer. A removal of a spinning blade certainly qualifies as such.
In fact, manufacturers construct mower engines with a specific balance in mind. This balance includes the weight and motion of a blade attachment. Removing it can put undue stress on certain parts, like the crankshaft.
Legal
Moreover, there are legal implications around modifying machinery like mowers. If an accident occurred resulting from you using an altered machine (like when you run mower without blade), you may leave yourself open to liability issues.
FAQ
Can you sharpen the blade while it is still attached to the lawn mower?
It is not recommended to sharpen the blade while it is still attached to the lawn mower, but you can do it. Just be extra careful.
Will running a lawn mower without the blade affect fuel efficiency?
Yes, running a lawn mower without the blade can negatively impact fuel efficiency. The blade’s flywheel effect helps maintain a consistent engine speed, promoting efficient fuel consumption. Without it, the engine might run less efficiently and consume more fuel.
How do you properly reinstall the blade after removing it?
To properly reinstall the blade, first ensure the mower is turned off and disconnected from any power source. Align the blade with the mounting holes, and secure it with the appropriate bolts, tightening them to the manufacturer’s specified torque. Double-check that the blade is securely attached before operating the mower.
Can you use a different type of blade when reinstalling?
Always use the blade type specified by the lawn mower’s manufacturer. Using a different type of blade can affect the mower’s performance, safety, and may void the warranty. Refer to the owner’s manual for the correct blade specifications.
How often should you inspect and maintain the lawn mower blade?
You should inspect and maintain the lawn mower blade at least once per mowing season or more frequently if you notice a decrease in cutting performance. Regular maintenance includes sharpening, balancing, and checking for any signs of damage or wear.
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