On Mon, 12 May 2014 13:47:23 -0700 (PDT), jamesgang
wrote:

On Tuesday, July 6, 2010 3:07:50 AM UTC-4, James H. wrote:
On Mon, 5 Jul 2010 23:53:26 -0700 (PDT), terry wrote:
Couple of years ago used to cost $3 to $4 around here.
Biggest job is often getting the blade off!

This video is from a very experienced lawnmower mechanic who advises
against removing the blade to sharpen it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDQ0e...eature=channel

The owners manual recommends removing the blade if it's gonna be sharpened.
Why?

Why do all the manuals recommend removing the blade to sharpen it while
this admittedly very experienced mechanic says not to bother?

It's a safety thing. You can accidentally start the motor by turning the blade if the ignition is not grounded by an off switch of some sort. It's very uncommon but you know corporations have to make safe recommendations.
No, it is not an engine start issue - simply pulling the plug wire
eliminates that. It is so you don't skin knuckles, and so you can
balance the blade.