Reel Mower Cutting Bar Angle Adjustment Guide

Ensuring your reel mower operates at its peak performance hinges on several factors, with the cutting bar angle being a critical element often overlooked. A properly adjusted cutting bar guarantees a clean, precise cut, promoting a healthy and aesthetically pleasing lawn. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of setting the ideal cutting angle for your reel mower, addressing common issues, and providing step-by-step instructions to achieve a professional-quality cut.

Understanding the Importance of the Cutting Bar Angle

The cutting bar angle, or bedknife angle, plays a vital role in the overall performance and efficiency of a reel mower. It’s the angle at which the stationary blade (bedknife) meets the rotating blades of the reel. This intersection creates the shearing action that cuts the grass blades cleanly, similar to how scissors work. When the angle is incorrect, the mower may tear or bruise the grass, leading to an uneven cut and potential damage to your lawn.

Why Proper Cutting Bar Angle Matters:

• Clean and Precise Cut: A correctly set angle ensures a scissor-like cutting action, resulting in a clean and even cut. This prevents the grass blades from being torn or frayed, which can make your lawn look unhealthy and unkempt. The sharp, precise cut promotes faster healing and reduces the risk of disease.
• Optimal Mowing Efficiency: When the cutting bar angle is properly adjusted, the mower requires less power to cut the grass. This translates to increased mowing efficiency, reduced energy consumption (for electric mowers), and extended runtime (for gas-powered mowers). A well-adjusted mower glides smoothly across the lawn, making the task less strenuous for the operator.
• Extended Blade Life: An incorrect angle can cause excessive wear and tear on both the reel blades and the bedknife. By setting the angle correctly, you can minimize friction and prolong the life of these critical components. This saves you money in the long run by reducing the frequency of replacements and repairs.
• Healthier Lawn: A clean cut promotes healthy grass growth. When grass blades are torn or bruised, they become more susceptible to disease and pests. A properly adjusted reel mower ensures a healthy, vibrant lawn by minimizing stress on the grass plants. The clean cut also allows for better water and nutrient absorption, contributing to overall lawn health.
• Professional-Quality Results: If you strive for a pristine, manicured lawn, setting the correct cutting bar angle is essential. A well-adjusted reel mower can deliver a professional-quality cut that rivals the results achieved by professional lawn care services. The even, consistent cut creates a visually appealing surface that enhances the beauty of your property.

Ignoring the cutting bar angle can lead to a host of problems, including scalping, uneven cuts, and a generally unhealthy lawn. Therefore, understanding how to properly set and maintain this angle is crucial for any reel mower owner.

Identifying Common Problems Caused by an Incorrect Cutting Bar Angle

A misaligned cutting bar angle can manifest in several ways, often leading to suboptimal mowing performance and an unhealthy lawn. Recognizing these signs early on can help you address the issue promptly and prevent further damage.

Common Indicators of an Incorrect Cutting Bar Angle:

• Tearing or Bruising of Grass Blades: One of the most obvious signs of an incorrect angle is the appearance of torn or bruised grass blades after mowing. Instead of a clean cut, the mower essentially rips the grass, leaving ragged edges. This can give your lawn a dull, brown appearance and make it more vulnerable to disease and pests. Close inspection of the freshly cut grass will reveal frayed edges and a lack of clean, sharp cuts. The torn blades can also stress the grass plants, hindering their growth and overall health.
• Uneven Cut: An inconsistent cutting height across your lawn is another telltale sign of a misaligned cutting bar angle. You may notice patches of grass that are noticeably taller or shorter than the surrounding areas. This unevenness can be particularly apparent after mowing, creating an unsightly and unprofessional look. The inconsistency in cutting height can be due to one side of the bedknife not making proper contact with the reel blades, resulting in an uneven shearing action.
• Scalping: Scalping occurs when the mower cuts too low, removing excessive amounts of grass and exposing the soil. This can be caused by an improperly set cutting bar angle that forces the blades to cut below the desired height. Scalping damages the grass plants, making them susceptible to disease and weeds. It also creates unsightly bare patches in your lawn that can take a long time to recover. The exposed soil is also more vulnerable to erosion and weed infestation.
• Difficulty Pushing the Mower: If you find yourself struggling to push the mower, it could be a sign that the cutting bar angle is too tight. This creates excessive friction between the reel blades and the bedknife, making it harder to move the mower across the lawn. The increased resistance also puts more strain on the motor (in powered mowers) or requires more physical effort (in manual mowers). Over time, this can lead to premature wear and tear on the mower components.
• Excessive Noise: A scraping or grinding noise during mowing can indicate that the reel blades are rubbing against the bedknife with too much force. This is often a result of an overly aggressive cutting bar angle. The excessive friction not only creates an unpleasant noise but also damages both the blades and the bedknife. Ignoring this noise can lead to costly repairs and reduced mower performance.
• Poor Cutting Performance, Especially in Thicker Grass: If your mower struggles to cut thicker grass effectively, it could be due to an incorrect cutting bar angle. The blades may not be making proper contact with the bedknife, resulting in a weak or incomplete cut. This is particularly noticeable when mowing dense or overgrown areas. The mower may leave behind uncut patches or tear the grass instead of cutting it cleanly.

By paying attention to these signs, you can identify potential issues with your cutting bar angle and take corrective action before they escalate into more significant problems. Regular inspection and adjustment of the angle are essential for maintaining optimal mowing performance and a healthy lawn.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting the Cutting Bar Angle

Adjusting the cutting bar angle on your reel mower is a relatively straightforward process that can significantly improve its performance. This step-by-step guide provides clear instructions to help you achieve the perfect cut.

Tools and Materials You'll Need:

• Wrench or Socket Set: The size and type of wrench or socket required will vary depending on your mower model. Consult your owner's manual for specific recommendations.
• Screwdriver (usually a flathead): A screwdriver is typically needed to adjust the bedknife mounting bolts.
• Feeler Gauge: A feeler gauge is essential for accurately measuring the gap between the reel blades and the bedknife. This ensures consistent contact across the cutting surface.
• Work Gloves: Gloves will protect your hands from sharp blades and potential injuries.
• Owner's Manual: Your owner's manual is the most valuable resource for understanding your specific mower model and its adjustment procedures.
• Safety Glasses: Safety glasses are crucial for protecting your eyes from debris and potential hazards during the adjustment process.
• Wire Brush or Cleaning Cloth: A wire brush or cleaning cloth will help you remove dirt and debris from the cutting surfaces, ensuring accurate measurements and adjustments.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Safety First: Before you begin, always disconnect the spark plug wire (for gas-powered mowers) or unplug the power cord (for electric mowers) to prevent accidental starting. Wear safety glasses and work gloves to protect yourself from injury. Secure the mower on a stable surface to prevent it from moving during the adjustment process.
2. Locate the Adjustment Points: Refer to your owner's manual to identify the cutting bar angle adjustment points on your mower. These are typically located on the bedknife mounting brackets. The adjustment mechanism may involve bolts, screws, or a combination of both. Understanding the specific location and type of adjustment mechanism for your mower model is crucial for successful adjustment.
3. Inspect the Bedknife and Reel Blades: Before making any adjustments, thoroughly inspect the bedknife and reel blades for any signs of damage, such as nicks, cracks, or excessive wear. If the blades are damaged, they may need to be sharpened or replaced before you can achieve a proper cutting bar angle. Clean the cutting surfaces with a wire brush or cleaning cloth to remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the adjustment process.
4. Loosen the Adjustment Bolts/Screws: Using the appropriate wrench or screwdriver, carefully loosen the bolts or screws that secure the bedknife mounting brackets. Do not remove them completely; simply loosen them enough to allow for slight movement of the bedknife. Loosening the fasteners allows you to make precise adjustments to the angle between the bedknife and the reel blades.
5. Adjust the Cutting Bar Angle: The goal is to achieve light contact between the reel blades and the bedknife across the entire cutting surface. Use a feeler gauge to check the gap between the blades and the bedknife. A typical gap setting is between 0.001 and 0.002 inches, but refer to your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended setting. Adjust the bedknife by slightly moving the mounting brackets until you achieve the desired contact. The feeler gauge should slide smoothly between the blades and the bedknife with slight resistance. If the gap is too large, the mower will not cut cleanly. If the gap is too small, the blades will rub against the bedknife, causing excessive wear and tear.
6. Tighten the Adjustment Bolts/Screws: Once you have achieved the correct cutting bar angle, carefully tighten the adjustment bolts or screws. Ensure that they are snug but not overtightened, as this could damage the mounting brackets or strip the threads. Tighten the fasteners in a sequential pattern, such as alternating between bolts, to ensure even pressure distribution and prevent misalignment.
7. Test the Adjustment: After tightening the bolts, rotate the reel blades by hand to check for smooth, consistent contact with the bedknife. There should be a slight shearing action as the blades pass over the bedknife. If you feel any binding or excessive resistance, recheck the cutting bar angle and readjust as needed. A proper adjustment will result in smooth, effortless rotation of the reel blades with a clean, scissor-like cutting action.
8. Perform a Test Cut: The best way to verify your adjustment is to perform a test cut on a small section of your lawn. Observe the cut grass closely. It should be clean and even, without any tearing or bruising. If the cut is not satisfactory, repeat the adjustment process until you achieve the desired results. A test cut will reveal any remaining issues with the cutting bar angle and allow you to fine-tune the adjustment for optimal performance.

By following these steps carefully, you can successfully adjust the cutting bar angle on your reel mower and achieve a professional-quality cut for your lawn.

Additional Tips and Considerations

Beyond the basic adjustment process, several additional tips and considerations can help you maintain your reel mower and achieve optimal cutting performance.

Tips for Optimal Reel Mower Performance:

• Regular Sharpening: Keeping your reel blades and bedknife sharp is crucial for a clean cut. Dull blades will tear the grass, leading to an unhealthy lawn. Depending on usage, you may need to sharpen the blades once or twice a year. Professional sharpening services are available, or you can purchase a reel mower sharpening kit and do it yourself. Sharp blades reduce the effort required to push the mower and ensure a clean, precise cut.
• Proper Lubrication: Lubricate the moving parts of your reel mower regularly to reduce friction and wear. This includes the reel bearings, drive chains, and other moving components. Use a high-quality lubricant specifically designed for lawn equipment. Regular lubrication extends the life of your mower and ensures smooth, efficient operation.
• Consistent Maintenance: Follow a regular maintenance schedule, including cleaning, lubrication, and inspection. Refer to your owner's manual for specific maintenance recommendations. Regular maintenance prevents minor issues from escalating into major problems and keeps your mower in top condition. This includes checking the blade alignment, belt tension, and overall condition of the mower.
• Correct Cutting Height: Set the cutting height according to the type of grass you have and the desired lawn appearance. Cutting too low can scalp the lawn, while cutting too high can leave it looking shaggy. Most grass types thrive when cut at a height of 2 to 3 inches. Adjusting the cutting height is crucial for maintaining a healthy and attractive lawn.
• Cutting Frequency: Mow your lawn frequently enough to prevent it from becoming overgrown. As a general rule, never remove more than one-third of the grass blade length in a single mowing session. Regular mowing promotes healthy grass growth and prevents the buildup of thatch.
• Store Your Mower Properly: When not in use, store your reel mower in a dry, protected area. This will prevent rust and corrosion and extend the life of your mower. Clean the mower thoroughly before storing it for the off-season and consider covering it to protect it from the elements.
• Consider Professional Servicing: If you're not comfortable performing adjustments or repairs yourself, consider taking your reel mower to a professional service center. A qualified technician can diagnose and fix any issues and ensure that your mower is operating at its best. Professional servicing is particularly beneficial for complex repairs or when dealing with specialized equipment.

Addressing Specific Issues Mentioned by the User:

The user mentioned that the previous owner(s) had reworked the blades like a knife blade and that the cutting bar was damaged. These issues require specific attention:

• Reworked Blades: If the blades have been improperly sharpened or reworked, they may not have the correct angle or shape for optimal cutting. In this case, it's best to replace the blades with new ones that meet the manufacturer's specifications. Trying to reshape the blades yourself can be risky and may not produce satisfactory results. New blades will ensure a clean, precise cut and prevent damage to your lawn.
• Damaged Cutting Bar (Bedknife): A damaged bedknife can significantly affect the mower's performance. If the bedknife is bent, cracked, or excessively worn, it should be replaced. A damaged bedknife will not make proper contact with the reel blades, resulting in a poor cut. Replacing the bedknife is essential for restoring the mower's cutting ability and ensuring a healthy lawn.

By addressing these specific issues and following the general tips and considerations outlined above, you can ensure that your reel mower operates at its peak performance and delivers a beautiful, healthy lawn.

Conclusion

Setting the correct cutting bar angle is paramount for achieving a clean, precise cut and maintaining a healthy lawn. By understanding the importance of this angle, recognizing the signs of misalignment, and following the step-by-step adjustment guide, you can ensure that your reel mower operates at its best. Remember to perform regular maintenance, sharpen the blades as needed, and address any specific issues promptly. With proper care and attention, your reel mower will provide years of reliable service and help you create a lawn that you can be proud of.