Maintenance for my Scotts Classic 20" reel mower

So you purchased a new reel mower, how do you keep it like new? These are the things I do to keep my mower in 100% operating condition.

Step 1 is to clean the mower. I use a brush and just clear off the grass. If you've been mowing in the wet, the grass will stick to the mower. Either let it dry and brush it off or do what I do and hose it off, avoiding spraying the ends and dry it with a rag, then proceed to the next step.

Step 2 rotates the mower so you can see the belly and use a rag or paper towel soaked in some WD-40. Wipe down the blades removing anything sticking to the reel. This also provides some lubrication and keeps the bare steel from rusting. Do both the spinning reel and the stationary blade.

THAT'S IT! I put it away and I'm ready to go next time.

The second part of the video is something you'd do once a season. It just involves removing the wheels and making sure things are clean and lubricated. It also shows how mechanically simple this machine is.

Of course I'm sure 95% of all reel mowers will not see this kind of care, but I enjoy doing maintenance and I know this will greatly extend the life of this machine.

Category:

Howto & Style

Tags:

• Scotts
• Classic
• 20
• lawn
• mower
• Maine
• reel
• maintenance

[specialoperation]

This Might Be A Weird Question, But Since The Blades Are Flat And Suppose To Be Flat For A Cleaner And Sharper Cut, To Sharpen The Blades Could You Possibly Use A File To Sharpen Or Would You Think That Would Ruin The Blades I Just Feel Theres An Easier Way Then Buying A Sharpening Kit.

[Turbo231]

@specialoperation A sharpening kit actually runs the reel against the blade, making it a perfect cutting edge. You don't need a sharpening kit however, just a power drill and grinding compound will do it. Just spread it on the reel, run it with the drill for a few minutes, you'll see a huge difference. Make sure your tolerances between your blade and reel are still correct and you're set.

[c0wz]

what kind of lubricant do you use? just wd-40?

[Turbo231]

@c0wz Yes, although any light oil will do, wd-40 is just very convenient.

[steve89z]

what are the blades supposed to look like when sharpened? flat edge or on an angle?

[Turbo231]

@steve89z as I replied earlier, flat.

[peteacher52]

Good points made - with that kind of treatment your mower will last until you have to walk with a Zimmer frame! Cheers.

[steve89z]

@Turbo231 ok thanks

[Turbo231]

@steve89z They do make a sharpening kit, check amazon for availability or a local hardware store. blades on edge are very flat, almost the entire surface of the reel runs across the blade. Very often they are done right on the machine.

[steve89z]

@Turbo231 olive oil!