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Types of Lawn Mower Blades

April 5, 2013 By Mr. Weingartz Leave a Comment

Types of Lawn Mower Blades

A common misconception with lawn mowers is that they are all the same, when in fact they are all different and the different parts that these mowers contain offer different options when it come to the quality and look of your lawn. The most important function of your lawn mower is to of course cut your grass. The biggest factor in getting the results you want is which type of lawn mower blade you choose to use. I will be covering the three main types of lawn mower blades and uses for each.

Standard Medium Lift Mower Blades, High Lift Lawn Mower Blades, Mulching Lawn Mower Blades - Types of Lawn Mower Blades

Most of today’s lawn mowers (unless specified) come equipped with standard medium lift lawn mower blades. What this means is that you have a slight upward angle on the back edges of the blade which creates an airflow pattern that is best used for a standard side discharge of the grass. These blades are for those of you who have a lot of grass to cut and don’t necessarily worry about a small clump of grass here and there. I have found that these blades are not the best option when it comes to bagging however. What I have noticed is that I get a lot of customers asking “why is the chute on my bagger system clogging all the time?” That is when I have to explain that the blades that come standard on their mower do not create enough lift to propel the grass debris through the chute and into the bag. This is where a high lift blade comes in handy.

High lift lawn mower blades create a completely different airflow pattern which assist in bagging the clippings more effectively. These blades can be identified by a larger more drastic upward angle on the back end of the blade. This again helps propelling the clippings through the chute to the back of the bag, reducing clogging and frustration. If bagging is not your preferred method of cutting there is one more option where the heavy bags and annoying clumps are no longer an issue.

Our third and final option in our mower blade segment is the mulching lawn mower blades. This blade can be identified by the elongated cutting edge which usually spans a good majority of the blade. Though there are many styles of mulching blades they all have the same function, chop the grass up into extremely small particles. This makes it so you don’t have to unload heavy bags or pickup clumps of discarded clippings. Also, believe it or not, this method of cutting has a positive effect on the health and appearance of your lawn. Mulching offers a fine layer of clippings to act as a natural fertilizer that replenishes the soil with nutrients that your grass has absorbed over the season. This lead to an overall better looking lawn.

Types of Lawn Mower Blades. So there you have it, there is a different lawn mower blade for different situations and each one serves a very specific purpose. If you just need tall grass to be shorter than the standard medium lift lawn mower blade is for you, bagging the high lift lawn mower blade, and then the mulching lawn mower blade. In the end there isn’t one lawn mower blade that can do it all as effectively as the lawn mower blade specifically designed for the method you wish to use.

You can search our free illustrated diagrams to purchase your Types of Lawn Mower Blades. All you will need is your lawn mower model number or a lawn mower blade part number. If you want to search for your lawn mower blade by images or length click here.

NEED HELP FINDING TYPES OF LAWN MOWER BLADES PARTS? CALL US AT (855) 669-7278

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Types of Lawn Mower Blades

Filed Under: Lawn & Garden Help, Lawn Mower Repair & Maintenance Tagged With: high lift mower blade, lawn mower blade, mulching blade, standard medium lift mower blade, types of lawn mower blades

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Snowblower Storage

March 12, 2013 By Mr. Weingartz 2 Comments

Proper Snowblower Storage

As winter comes to an end there are many things that you have to do in order to be ready for spring. Things like spring cleaning, prepping your lawn mowers, and snowblower storage. I will explain that just pouring in some fuel stabilizer is not always enough to insure proper storage and isn’t a guarantee that your machine will start next winter. I will also explain how properly prep and store your machine so that way your next season has the potential to have a smoother start.

Fuel stabilizers are great for proper snowblower storage but they do have their draw backs. I want to emphasize, just because you add a stabilizer to your fuel that doesn’t guarantee that it will keep the gas fresh for the entire off season. In fact a large percentage of all customers that come into our stores frustrated with their snowblowers have bad fuel in their tanks, and most claim that they have used a product like Sta-bil or another glycol based stabilizers. Because the glycol separates itself from the fuel it doesn’t offer the greatest protection for your fuel. It’s usually an easy fix, all we have to usually do is flush the fuel system and change the spark plug and they’ll start up without any problems. When choosing a stabilizer try to look for something that is petroleum based so it can mix with the fuel.

When it comes to proper snowblower storage, I get asked all the time whether it’s better to store snowblowers with fuel in it or to store it dry. I always suggest running the machine dry; this avoids problems related to the expiration of your fuel such as varnish build-up in the carburetor, deterioration of you seals and fuel lines, and drawing moisture into the fuel system of your machine. The best way to drain your machine is to either run it until it runs out of fuel or tip it over and pour it into a proper container so you can take it to a recycling center where the fuel can be disposed of properly.

Proper snowblower storage can make a huge difference in the way your machine starts and runs over its life time. If you drain the fuel and you don’t put too much faith in an additive that claims to keep your fuel fresh your chances of having a machine that doesn’t give you a headache every time you go to use it is reduced. So don’t get caught in the snow next season by taking time at the end of this season to make sure that your snowblower is properly prepped for storage.

Search Snowblower Storage Parts Using Illustrated Diagrams

Filed Under: Snow Equipment Repair & Maintenance, Uncategorized Tagged With: snowblower storage

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Lawn Tractor Tire Chains

February 21, 2013 By Mr. Weingartz Leave a Comment

Lawn Tractor Tire Chains – Buying & Installing Guide

When using your lawn tractor in the snow season, you may find that the tractor tires don’t quite have the stability and traction needed to throw or plow when the pavement is covered by hard-packed snow or is icy. Under these conditions, you can increase the traction by using lawn tractor tire chains.

Uses

Most of the lawn tractor tire chains we sell are used on lawn tractors’ rear drive tires. Since manufacturers have been making snow throwers more and more powerful, they can also provide added grip to 2-stage snow thrower tires that would otherwise tend to slide around when under full power.

What are the Advantages?

Not only do tire chains add extra traction to your rear wheel drive, but they also help brake up ice on your drive and walkways. Tire chains are highly suited for driveways that are inclined.

What are the Disadvantages?

Because they are made of hardened steel, combined with the weight of the tractor, there is risk of damage if tire chains are used and operated on brick pavers. If you store the tractor in the garage, it could possibly damage weak floor surfaces.

What’s the Difference Between 2- and 4-link Chains?

2- and 4-link refers to the spacing between skipped side links. For 2-link spacing, cross chains occur between every two side link chains. For 4-link spacing, cross chains occur between every four link chains.

Which is Better?

It will depend on which chain spacing suits your needs. 2-link spacing tire chains will give more traction because there are more cross links and the tractor’s ride will be more steady (less bumpy). 4-link spacing chains are generally less expensive, and still provide a little extra traction.

How Do I Know Which Size to Order?

The chain size is the same dimension that is formed into the side of the tire wall. Tire chains are available in every size used for lawn and garden tractor wheels. Some chain sets are meant for more than one tire size, and links may have to be removed with bolt cutters or by bending the connecting links with pliers.

How Do I Install Lawn Tractor Tire Chains?

You Will Need

Tire chain set
Air compressor
Bolt cutters or strong pliers
A level area of pavement to work from

Step-by-Step

First, semi-deflate the tires that you will be installing chains on (by about 25% less than the full PSI)
Lay the chains out flat on the ground and remove any tangles
Lay the chain over the tire, cross chain hook facing up, and fastener to the outside
Tuck the first cross chain between the front of the tire and pavement
Move the tractor forward until the end fasteners are about axle high
Hook the inside fastener first, remove slack, then hook outside fastener
You want the chain to be hand tight (without use of tools) which will extend the life and performance of the tire chains
Fill tires to the proper PSI rated on tire wall – this will seat the chains to proper tension
Any remaining length can be shortened by removing one or more cross sections. Using pliers to pry the cross chain connecting link open and unhook (the connecting links are not made of hardened steel) or use bolt cutters

NOTE: It is important to check that you have enough clearance in both rear wheel wells for tire chains. There should be at minimum three inches of clearance between the tire and the inside wall and any drive components.

If you find that you still need more traction, some tractors have wheel weight kits that mount on the outside of the rim, or “suitcase” styled weights to add to a rear weight bar bracket, if available as an accessory. Contact our sales team with model information for price and availability.

Lawn Tractor Tire Chains We Carry

We carry John Deere tire chain kits, and Laclede tire chains for all other brands. Contact our parts team with your tire size, or part number from the table below, for pricing and availability.

Tire Sizes			Part Number	Weight Per Pair (lbs)	Add To Cart	Part Number	Weight Per Pair (lbs)	Add To Cart
10/10.50×2.75	10.25×3.25	10×3.50	LA3301	3		—–	-
12X3.00			LA3308	4		—–	-
4.10/3.50-4	3.40/3.00-5		LA7106	3		—–	-
4.10/3.50-5	4.10/3.50-6	12×3.50-6	LA3302	4		—–	-
5.30/4.50-6			LA3309	7		—–	-
13X5.00-6			LA7129	6		—–	-
4.00/4.80-8			LA1301	11		—–	-
16X6.50-8	15X6.00-6		LA3300	12		—–	-
18X6.50-8			LA3312	14		—–	-
18X8.50-8			LA3307	15		—–	-
18X9.50-8			LA3305	16		—–	-
20X10.00-8	20X10.00-10		LA7145	20		—–	-
20X8.00-10	20X8.00-8		LA1308	19		LA5318	11
6X12	23X7.50-12		LA5313	19		LA5312	11
8X12	23X8.50-12		LA4300	22		LA4301	13
12X12	26X12.00-12	27X12.00-12	LA5308	30		LA5306	18
23X9.50-12	23X10.50-12		LA5307	25		LA5303	15
24X12.00-12			LA7164	25		—–	-
8×15	25×8.50-14	27×8.50-15	LA1307	28		—–	-
12.04/16	31×15.50-15	33×12.50-15	LA5324	109		LA9100	66
8×16			LA1311	33		—–	-

The tire chains carried by Weingartz are not intended for use on any equipment or vehicle that has not been specified in this posting.

Filed Under: Lawn & Garden Help, Snow Equipment Repair & Maintenance Tagged With: Installing Tire Chains, Lawn Tractor Tire Chains, Tire Chains Chart

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Snowblower Tune Up Checklist – Do It Yourself or Bring Your Snowblower in for Expert Service

December 21, 2012 By Mr. Weingartz Leave a Comment

Snowblower Tune Up Checklist

Every year your snowblower needs a tune up. A snowblower tune up is slightly different for a single stage snowblower and a two stage snowblower. If you are a Do It Yourself person, below is a snowblower tune up checklist and links to parts that you may need. If you are not very handy or simply don’t have the time, we would be happy to help you with your Snowblower Tune Up Checklist. You can bring your snowblower in to one of our stores in Michigan or give the store closest to a call and we can pick it up for you.

Single Stage Snowblower Tune Up Checklist

* Flush fuel system

* Install new spark plug

* Rebuild carburetor

* Check and adjust RPM

* Check compression

* Check and adjust belts

* Lubricate and adjust bail cable (if applicable)

* Check Paddles for wear

* Check scraper bar for wear

* Inspect and test all safety features

* Power was unit

* Test overall operation of unit

* Watch video on how to replace paddle & Scraper Bar

Two Stage Snowblower Tune Up Checklist

* Change engine oil

* Flush fuel system

* Install new spark plug

* Rebuild carburetor

* Check and adjust RPM

* Check compression

* Test ignition system

* Check and adjust belts

* Check transmission fuid

* Lubricate and adjust cables

* Check scraper bar for wear

* Inspect and test all safety features

* Power wash unit

* Test overall operation of unit

* Watch video on how to replace paddle & Scraper Bar

The most common parts that you will need for a snowblower tune up checklist include: a spark plug, a carburetor kit, a primer bulb, and a paddle & scraper bar kit. In order to locate the snowblower tune up parts that you need, use our Snowblower Quick Reference Guide or Search Illustrated Parts Diagrams.

Search Snowblower Tune Up Checklist Parts Using Illustrated Diagrams

Filed Under: Snow Equipment Repair & Maintenance Tagged With: Snowblower Tune Up Checklist

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What is the difference between a Snowblower or Snowthrower?

December 21, 2012 By Mr. Weingartz Leave a Comment

Snowblower or Snowthrower?

Snowblower or Snowthrower? We tend to use the two terms interchangeably, but they are not the same. A “snowthrower” refers to a single stage snow removal machine that picks up the snow in one motion and throws it out the chute with the continuation of that movement. The term “single stage” describes the fact that the snow is thrown in one single movement.

A Snowblower refers to a two stage snow removal machine. The auger scoops up the snow, which is the first stage, and feeds it to the impeller which blows the snow out the chute for the second stage. The “blower” part seems appropriate since the impeller operates much like a fan, except is much more powerful.

Single Stage Snowthrowers - Snowblower or Snowthrower?

Snowblower or Snowthrower? Snowthrowers are smaller machines than Snowblowers. The single stage, while effective at snow removal, does not throw snow as far as a two stage model, but single stage snowthrowers are less expensive. Single stage snowthrowers are ideal for lighter use, less than 10 inches of snowfall, and are easier to maneuver due to their lighter weight. They are typically used by consumers. Single stage Snowblowers tend to have smaller clearing widths as well, so if you have large areas or deep snow to clear, it is recommended to choose a two stage Snowblower. The augers are typically made of plastic or hard rubber and will come in contact with the ground. This allows single stage snowthrowers to clear snow all the way down to the pavement. Because of this, you should only use a single stage Snowblower on a paved surface not gravel, because it can be thrown. A two stage Snowblower is recommended for gravel surfaces.

Two Stage Snowblowers – Snowblower or Snowthrower?

Two stage Snowblowers are bigger and more powerful. Some can blow snow up to 50 feet with relative accuracy. Two stage Snowblowers are also wider, lending themselves to being able to take fewer passes to clear a large area and are generally recommended for people who have more than a sidewalk to clear. They also have taller intakes, making them able to handle deep snow drifts. Their metal augers do not impact the ground, so they can be used on any surface including gravel. The width and power of a two stage Snowblower make them able to clear large areas much quicker and throw snow higher and farther. Two stage Snowblowers have wheels or tracks and can be outfitted with tire chains. Depending on the model, two stage Snowblowers are suitable for consumer and commercial use. Features on the two stage can include headlights, large tires with deep lugs with optional chains and power steering, if you want to clear your snow quickly and not worry about heavy snowfall; it is recommended that you choose a two stage Snowblower.

Looking to buy a new Snowblower or Snowthrower – Shop Online

Looking for Snowblower or Snowthrower Parts – Search Quick Reference Guides, Search Illustrated Parts Diagrams, or Search Parts Catalog.

Snowblower or Snowthrower Parts Search

Filed Under: Snow Equipment Repair & Maintenance Tagged With: Snowblower or Snowthrower

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Convert AMPS to WATTS for Generator Use

November 8, 2012 By Mr. Weingartz 1 Comment

Convert AMPS to WATTS

Q. How do I convert amps to watts?

A. Appliances frequently list their power requirements in amps. Most generators list their output in watts. Fortunately, it’s easy to convert from one to the other:

Watts = Volts x Amps

Amps = Watts/Volts

Filed Under: Product Review, Yard Equipment Repair & Maintenance Tagged With: Convert amps to watts

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Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator – What You Need To Know

November 8, 2012 By Mr. Weingartz Leave a Comment

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - A portable generator is a major purchase. Selecting the correct model can be daunting. This guide will help you get started. There are many aspects you should consider when selecting a portable generator, including:

Purpose or Application
Power Requirements
Noise Level
Portability and Weight
Fuel Efficiency & Run Time
Ease of Use

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Portable Generator Purpose or Application

Typically, applications fall into one of three categories:

Home back up or emergency power for select appliances and heating. Power requirements and noise levels are important factors for this type of generator.
Recreational use for your RV, camping, tailgating, and boating. Portability is the main concern for this generator.
Industrial use such as for construction sites. These generators tend to get more use and require longer run times.

Generators are engineered towards each of these applications. However, when selecting a generator consider your individual unique needs because some models can be used in all 3 categories.

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Portable Generator Power Requirements

Portable Generator Home Applications

To determine your basic home power needs, start with these three questions:

Do you use city or well water? A well pump may require a larger 240 volt generator (3800 watts or above).
Is your heating system electric, heat pump, or gas or oil forced air? Gas or oil forced air systems can get by with a very small generator. Electric furnaces and heat pumps typically need 15,000 watts or more to run and cannot be powered by a portable generator.
Is your hot water heater electric, gas, or oil fired? Gas or oil fired heaters use as little as 2500 watts. Electric heaters often require at least 4500 watts.

Homeowners can often power most household appliances using a portable generator between 3000 and 6500 watts. See the Wattage Estimation Chart for estimates.

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Portable Generator Recreational Applications

RVs:

The primary factor you need to consider is the size of your AC unit(s). The AC’s needs may vary based on many factors, including the ambient temperature and the efficiency of your model.

Campers, Tailgaters, and Boaters:

Light weight portable generator models of 1000-2000 watts will handle most needs. Check the power requirement of the appliances you want to use.

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Portable Generator Industrial Applications

Industrial power needs range widely, based on what kind of tools you are using. To determine your portable generator power needs, start with the Wattage Estimation Chart to build a quick estimate

Wattage requirements for starting a tool or appliance with a motor will be much higher than the watts required to run the device. See more about starting versus running wattage below.

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Starting versus Running Wattage

Some appliances require extra power to start up while others maintain the same power requirements constantly. Resistive load appliances require the same amount of power to both start and run the equipment such as light bulbs or a coffee maker. Reactive loads contain an electric motor, which requires additional power to start, but significantly less power to run once it gets going. Typically starting power is 3 times the amount of power to run the application such as a refrigerator, furnace fans, well pumps, air compressors and power tools.

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Portable Generator Noise Level

The noise level of your generator is a major factor in determining the right model. Many areas have noise ordinances that may impact generator usage, particularly at night. Noisy generators are unsuitable for many applications such as camping. Generators should be labeled with a decibel rating. Models may vary, but an inverter generator with a 6500W maximum load may typically have a 60 dB(A) @ rated load comparable to an air conditioner at 100 feet. A traditional 6500W maximum generator may produce up to 75 dB(A) @ rated load which is the same rating as standing next to a washing machine.

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Generator Portability and Weight

Consider how you will be moving and storing the generator. Larger models can weigh over four hundred pounds. Wheel kits and carts are available for both large and small models.

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Portable Generator Fuel efficiency & Run Time

Most portable generators run on gasoline. Inverter generators are generally quieter and more fuel efficient. They are becoming available in larger models ideally suited for home and commercial use. Be sure to consult the Wattage Estimation Chart and find models suitable for your application. Commercial applications may want longer run times that would require larger fuel tanks.

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Wattage Estimation Chart

Contractor	Average Running Wattage	Wattage Required for Startup
Air Compressor, 1/2 HP	975	1600
Air Compressor, 1 HP	1600	4500
Bench Grinder, 8”	1400	2500
Circular Saw, 7-1/4”	1400	2300
Drill, 4 AMP, 3/8”	440	600
Drill, 5.4 AMP, 1/2”	600	900
Electric Chain Saw, 2 HP, 14”	1100	0
Electric Welder, 200 AMP AC	9000	0
Electric Welder, 230 AMP AC, at 100 AMP	7800	0
Hand Drill, 1/2”	600	0
High Pressure Washer, 1 HP	1200	3600
Table Saw, 10”	1800	4500

Industrial Motors	Average Running Wattage	Wattage Required for Startup
Split Phase, 1/4 HP	600	1000
Split Phase, 1/2 HP	875	2300
Capacitor Start, Induction Run, 1/3 HP	720	1300
Capacitor Start, Induction Run, 1 HP	1600	4500
Capacitor Start, Capacitor Run, 1-1/2 HP	2000	6100
Fan, 1/6 HP	550	850

Farm Equipment	Average Running Wattage	Wattage Required for Startup
Battery Charger, 15 AMP	380	0
Battery Charger, 60 AMP with 250 AMP Boost	1500 / 5750	0
Battery Charger, 100 AMP with 300 AMP Boost	2400 / 7800	0
Electric Fence, 25 Miles	250	0
Grain Cleaner, 1/4 HP	650	1000
Milk Cooler	1100	1800
Milker (Vacuum Pump), 2 HP	1000	2300
Portable Heater, Kerosene or Diesel, 50,000 BTU	400	600
Portable Heater, Kerosene or Diesel, 90,000 BTU	500	725

* All ratings are estimates. Contact the manufacturer of your item for exact requirements.

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Compare Honda Generators

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator – Search For Parts

Filed Under: Lawn & Garden Help, Product Review Tagged With: Buyer's Guide to a Portable Generator, Portable Generator, Portable Generator Application, Portable Generator Buyer's Guide, Portable Generator Noise Level, Portable Generator Requirements, Wattage Estimation Chart

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Generator Maintenance

November 8, 2012 By Mr. Weingartz Leave a Comment

Q. Do you have a generator maintenance service package?

A. Yes, each of our locations provide a generator maintenance service package. The service package includes the following:

* Change the engine oil

* Replace the spark plug

* Replace or clean the air filter

* Flush the fuel system and add fuel stabilizer

* Clean and rebuild carburetor if needed

* Clean the air cooling system of the engine

* Check the coolant if applicable

Filed Under: Yard Equipment Repair & Maintenance Tagged With: Generator Maintenance, Generator Service

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Buyer’s Guide to Snowthrowers and Snow Blowers

November 7, 2012 By Mr. Weingartz Leave a Comment

In the video below a Weingartz expert discusses snow blowers (throwers) to help buyers choose what is right for them.

Electric units are good for smaller spaces such as porches and sidewalks
Small gas units are easy to use and recommended for the elderly
Larger units are preferred for heavier, wet snow
Electric starts are available
Some machines are semi self-propelled. The user must still push but doing so does not take much force
The blowers come with adjustable deflectors
2-stage blowers are recommended for heavy snows and larger spaces

Filed Under: Snow Equipment Repair & Maintenance Tagged With: commercial, electric, electric start, gas, home use, snow blower, snow thrower, snowblower, snowthrower

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Ignition Coil for Stihl BG75 Leaf Blower

October 26, 2012 By Mr. Weingartz Leave a Comment

Q. I need an ignition coil for a Stihl BG75 leaf blower. It’s been a great blower but I’m afraid to find out the price of this part.

A. The part for your Stihl BG75 leaf blower that you are looking for is 4137-400-1350. However, Stihl parts and equipment cannot be ordered online so it is best to contact a store near you.

Filed Under: Yard Equipment Repair & Maintenance Tagged With: Stihl BG75 Leaf Blower Ignition Coil Part

Expert Advice

Quick Model Guide Lookup

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Types of Lawn Mower Blades

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Proper Snowblower Storage

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Lawn Tractor Tire Chains – Buying & Installing Guide

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Snowblower Tune Up Checklist

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Snowblower or Snowthrower?

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Convert AMPS to WATTS

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Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Portable Generator Purpose or Application

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Portable Generator Power Requirements

Portable Generator Home Applications

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Portable Generator Recreational Applications

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Portable Generator Industrial Applications

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Starting versus Running Wattage

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Portable Generator Noise Level

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Generator Portability and Weight

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Portable Generator Fuel efficiency & Run Time

Buyers Guide to a Portable Generator - Wattage Estimation Chart

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