Rotary Cutter Bushhog Blades, replace or just sharpen?

[CHF4]

Just curious your opinion..to replace the blades or just sharpen? I’ll try posting the picture next. It’s on a bushhog 296.

There is a small thin sliver area not being cut even if I overlap the area just mowed when the grass is a little thicker. Each side of the bushhog is about 6 or so inches from being wider than the back tires.

 

[CHF4]

The blades

 

[CHF4]

The blades

 

[shovelmike]

Sharpen the blades, they are surface hardened. You should be able to sharpen them as needed. Eventually you will get past the depth of the hardening and will find that they won't hold an edge as long, at that point....years from now, it might be new blade time.

 

[ericm979]

Those look worn way past any surface hardening. If it was me, since they're already off I'd probably replace them because the job's already half done. Unless they're expensive.

 

[CHF4]

Thank you both for the follow up. The blades from the dealer are only about $42 each..plus a set of new bolts/nuts it’s around $130 total. I figure it’s worth the $ for sure if I don’t have the issue cutting anymore..I would rather buy a chipper & grapple vs larger cutter!

I’m guessing the blades are original from around 2012.

Next question is how tight is tight enough when putting the nut back on..

 

[Oldoak]

Those look worn way past any surface hardening. If it was me, since they're already off I'd probably replace them because the job's already half done.

I agree 100%

 

[4570Man]

Those are worn pretty bad. I’d replace them.

 

[shovelmike]

Aha....My internet is very slow, I couldn't see the pictures. I agree that you should replace them in that case.Regarding how tight to tighten the bolts....do the have castle nuts? If so I don't know a ft. lb torque value for you. Snug them down, install the cotter key, and they will be fine.

 

[countrybumpkin]

Manual calls for 600 ft lbs