Total Landscape Care Digital Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/85694
equipment matters Here are five steps for main- taining and extending blade life: the blades or replace them with- out taking the machine out of service. Consider stocking blades with different lift or mulching characteristics for varying turf requirements. and re-installation. Give particu- lar attention to parking, block- ing, preventing accidental engine ignition and getting the correct blades in the correct position – especially on decks with counter- rotating blades. 1 2 a clear view. Watch for abrasion wear in shiny areas, cracks, dents and bends. A bent blade can be difficult to spot unless checked against a new blade that is mea- sured while on the spindle. En- sure operators have a procedure for inspecting blades on site. If in doubt, they should double check with a supervisor. Remember, "If you don't know, don't mow." Do not attempt to weld or straighten a damaged blade. 3 January 2012 / TOTAL LANDSCAPE CARE 43 Inspect Blades. Carefully examine blades for damage. Scrape off debris for Ensure Safety. Use your owner's manu- als to learn and teach proper blade removal Have a Spare. Keep extra blades available for each mower. This gives you time to tune Write 373 on Reader Service Card or visit TotalLandscapeCare.net/info Exmark