Accessories

LetbThe Mower Do The Work!
This is a recent purchase, but I had used it in the past and was delighted with what an excellent job it did. My mower has been caught up in the system-the seller neither shipped it nor responded to my enquirers. Amazon closed the order now and will arrange credit toward another purchase. Under Order status, they indicated that I shoud have received within the projected time frME

A definite necessity
This sharpening kit is a definite necessity for reel mower users. The directions are easy to follow, and it makes sharpening the blades easy and convenient. I was brand new to reel mowers, and had never seen a anyone sharpen or use one before, but I had no problems with this kit at all. Using this kit, I have been getting a great cut.

blade sharpener
This is a simple low teck product that does exactly what it is supposed to do. It sharpens the blades on a reel type mower. My mower's blades were not in horrible condition and I cannot comment on how this product would perform on severly damaged blades. I was satisfied with the product, the instructions and the price.

Convenient kit - traditional approach made simple
This kit is essentially what anyone can do on their own but it is conveniently packaged. The goop everyone is referring to is essentially the same as automotive valve grinding compound (which you can get at most auto parts stores). I like the idea of using a power drill to turn the reel while it sharpens - so here's an alternative for anyone who feels like taking a DIY approach:

1. Prop up the lawn mower so you can turn the reel by twirling the wheels.

2. Check the blades for nicks and burrs. If you find any, remove them with a file (hold file flat against blade and push away from spindle). I use a sharpening stone that fits my power drill but that's b/c I'm lazy.

3. Check your bar alignment, it'll be obvious if it's off - it will hit the guide bar. If alignment is off, you need to fix the alignment with the screws at the end of the bar but hopefully it's fine (if it turns with that cool whispy sound, then you're fine).

4. Spread a thin & even coat of auto valve-grinding compound.

5. Take off a wheel and affix your power drill so that the blade turns and the grinding compound squeezes between the blades and the cutting bar. Go a few dozen times.

6. I reapply the grinding compound and do it again.

7. Check out the blades, which should be sharper then rinse the valve compound off the blades.

This is EASY and quick. I really like how the kit makes it a no brainer exercise and if you're going to use a reel mower, use one with sharp blades.

Crank sharpener for manual reel mowers.
I only gave it three stars and perhaps I'm not being fair but here's why I'm not pleased with it: I bought the Gilmour 20" reel mower from Amazon.com and at the time of my purchase, they suggested I buy the sharpening kit too. Well, the hand crank from the sharpening kit does not fit the Gilmour mower. I'm sure it fits all the rest and probably works fine but I'm a bit ticked off at Amazon suggesting that I buy it. PS: The Gilmour did a great job for 15 - 20 cuts and then since then it seems like it needs to be sharpened because it's missing too much of the grass.