tutorial blade sharpening ,freehand grind
- Thread starter motoman
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Lawnranger
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Go for it! You got my vote. Watcha got?
Blade Runner
Active Member
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- May 13, 2012
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Lets see it. I need to sharpen my blades soon. I found out that when new blades hit bits of brick left from tornado damage, there are no winners.:biggrin:
OK peeps, give me some time to get the pics ready, etc. I plan to say something about "walking pedestal grinders," and show "two way tool" easily made from lowly pieces you have on hand or can easily get.:smile:
Craftsman DYT 4000 , Intek 24 , 48" deck, 400 hrs , Bought new 2004 , Original blades still in use
This will proceed the tedious way due to limitations in these text blocs, by contnuation.
GRINDING: The grinder a good lifetime friend, but... (1) Wear a full face shield,no exceptions. (2) Don't drink and grind (3)Dropped grinding wheels crack-check 'em and pitch 'em if any doubt. Good wheels should ring when lightly tapped. (4) Leave paper washers on as received. (5) Grind on outer circumference. (6) Clean wheel periodically (below)
MACHINES: A bench top should work if the outer wheel radius is accessible. Motor sizes vary. A smaler (1/4 HP) may be better for beginners . The metal comes off slower, wheel speed is lower from 6" wheels , burning is less likely, and stallout may also help in developing the right touch. Used here is the H-Frt 1/2 HP with 8"" wheel. It doesn't stall and removes metal quickly. Pedestal is not secured to floor.
This will proceed the tedious way due to limitations in these text blocs, by contnuation.
GRINDING: The grinder a good lifetime friend, but... (1) Wear a full face shield,no exceptions. (2) Don't drink and grind (3)Dropped grinding wheels crack-check 'em and pitch 'em if any doubt. Good wheels should ring when lightly tapped. (4) Leave paper washers on as received. (5) Grind on outer circumference. (6) Clean wheel periodically (below)
MACHINES: A bench top should work if the outer wheel radius is accessible. Motor sizes vary. A smaler (1/4 HP) may be better for beginners . The metal comes off slower, wheel speed is lower from 6" wheels , burning is less likely, and stallout may also help in developing the right touch. Used here is the H-Frt 1/2 HP with 8"" wheel. It doesn't stall and removes metal quickly. Pedestal is not secured to floor.
WHEELS Shown later is the H-Frt grey wheel, 60 grit ($8-$9) 8" dia Like many chinese products quality is spotty. Sometimes the arbor hole is slightly undersize requiring drilling and/or not centered. Such wheels must be heavily "trued." (later). You can spend a lot on better wheels. I am not making furniture here. You will not hear about honing . (wheel balancing tip later).
REMOVE BLADES The owner's manual gives severe safety warning about accidental starting. As you know a tuned engine starts quickly. I only remove /install blades on cold tractor. You could be turning a propeller. :thumbdown:
Jack, Secure blade, Loosen/remove,outside first. A jackstand if you want.
CLEAN BLADE Try a duller wood chisel to loosen the "dried spinach," both sides. Wire brush.
REMOVE BLADES The owner's manual gives severe safety warning about accidental starting. As you know a tuned engine starts quickly. I only remove /install blades on cold tractor. You could be turning a propeller. :thumbdown:
Jack, Secure blade, Loosen/remove,outside first. A jackstand if you want.
CLEAN BLADE Try a duller wood chisel to loosen the "dried spinach," both sides. Wire brush.
