Review of American Lawn Mower Company SK-1 Reel Mower Sharpening Kit

If you have a reel mower, you need to sharpen the blades every couple of years, depending on how much you use it (just like with a power mower). If you used to have a power mower, you might be tempted to try to find someone to do it for you. Although I heard of someone in my area who *might* be able to do it, I decided to try this kit first.

The directions are straight-forward and clearly described in the manual. In short: turn the mower upside-down, use the brush to "paint" the compound (a thick goop) along the end of each blade, pop off a wheel, slip on the crank, and have your son turn it for a couple of minutes. (If you don't have children, you'll have to do it yourself.) Finally clean off the compound and re-assemble the mower. You should be able to complete this chore in 30-45 minutes. (The alternative is to pack it up, drive it to someone else, and come home; then later drive over, pick it up, and drive it home again. Oh yeah, and you'd have to pay for it too.)

The manual also describes how to adjust the blades for the optimal cut, which is something you need to do occasionally. I use strips of newspaper to ensure an even cut along the entire width of the reel.

I estimate there's enough compound in this kit for about six or eight sharpenings, which means it could last up to ten years--quite a deal compared to paying someone else to do this simple chore--and you'll have the satisifaction of knowing you did a great job.

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Product Description:
The American Lawn Mower Company reel mower sharpening kit is an easy way to keep reel blades in top cutting form. This do-it-yourself kit allows users to sharpen their own mowers at home. The kit contains everything you need for safe and effective sharpening, including a detailed instruction manual, grinding compound, application brush, and a special back-lapping crank. The kits is designed for use with 1705-16 and 1815-18 push mowers. Cutting down on mowing time, this sharpening kits gives you an environmentally-friendly, perfectly cut lawn.

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Review of MTD/Marshall 11A-02MG000 Mastercut 20" Push Mower

On my mower, the fuel primer and the pull cord quickly died during the first season of use, which for me was a summer with a severe drought and not much use. Parts are difficult to find and are expensive.

Home Depot started selling these mowers last Summer (2008) and quickly withdrew them from their inventory. I recommend spending a few more bucks and getting a better mower.

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Product Description:
Powred by an MTD OHV 123 cc engine with recoil start. 20" deck with side discharge. 7" front and rear wheels with 3 position manual height adjusters. Some assembly required. 1 year limited warranty.

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Review of Murray Drive Wheel 8-Inch X2-Inch #7771133MA

I entered a search with Amazon.com for a lawnmower wheel with a model number from a 2001 Murray lawnmower. The result was a new model number (the old number had superseded)the picture and dimension matched what I needed, so I ordered it. Product was received in 5 days and it was exactly what I needed. I am totally satisfied.

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Review of All Power America APT1216 GoMow 16-Inch 24 Volt Cordless Reel Lawn Mower With Grass Catcher

The item came broken; the top broken; cracked on the side; screws bolts cracked; It was packed very badly; I called the company; no help at all; Customer service of All Power America does not exist; Horror item; I have never seen anything so bad; I immediately return it;

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Review of Briggs & Stratton 190cc 675 Series Push Mower Engine with 7/8-Inch x 3-5/32-Inch Length Crankshaft #126L02-1015-F1

The engine is exactly what you expect & with super saver shipping this is the best deal you're going to find. Includes a brake lock to keep the brake off if not used for mowing, & has a manual throttle adjustment lever that can accept a cable.

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Product Description:
Briggs & Stratton 190cc 675 SeriesVertical Engine produces 6.75 ft.-lbs. Gross Torque. Engine has Prime N Pull Easy Starting System that delivers the right amount of fuel to the carburetor for consistent one-pull starts. Aluminum alloy bore for cooler operation. Mechanical governor controls the throttle to deliver more power for heavy mowing conditions. Large rewind starter reduces pulling effort for easy starting. Lube Power Lubrication System uses a gear-driven system to continuously supply oil to all internal engine parts for extra protection and long life. U.S.A.

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Review of McCulloch MCM2011 16-Inch Push Reel Mower

I actually bought this about 6 years ago to mow my little condo yard. I was leary, as it looked like something Great Grampa might have used, but it's been extremely handy over the years. Now that I have a yard of my own I use it all the time to get into tight places where I don't want to wrestle with my gas mower. The construction is all steel, very sturdy. Just don't try to use it on very high (over 4 inches) grass, or where there's a lot of twigs; it will get bogged down and you'll get frustrated fast! But if you're keeping up with the grass, and you use it in small areas, it works great!

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Review of McLane 17-Inch Reel Mower Grass Catcher For Push And Powered Models #17-C

I had been looking for this type of grass catcher for quite some time and at the right price. Each time I found it, it was close to $100.00 and so I thought that I'd try second-hand stores and yard sales but never found any and plus, 17" grass catchers were tricky to find. I tried Ebay and still nothing. Finally, I found it on Amazon for half the price of local gardening stores. It was initially out of stock but Amazon informed me by email when they had it availiable. The catcher fits perfectly on my McLane lawnmower and does it's job of grass catching superbly. It seems very durable and I hope that it lasts for a long time. The shipping was very fast and I am very satisfied with my product and would recommend this item and my experience with Amazon to anyone. Thanks.

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Review of Poulan 22-Inch Side Discharge Push Mower with 4.75 HP Briggs & Stratton Engine and 5 Height Settings (Non-CARB Compliant) #PO500N22S

I have this mower and it came with an insert beneath the side discharge vent. This plastic plate keeps the grass clippings or leaves from being discharged and chops them into tiny particles. I removed my plate or 'plug' as the grass kept causing the mower to shut off as it was very thick grass.

As to the complaint about the mower not starting after the first time please check to insure there is adequate fuel/oil in their respective tanks (and not oil in the gas tank and vise versa). Next, check to be sure the foam air filter isn't blocked with dirt and grass. If it is, remove and wash it. Next, if all else fails, remove the spark plug and check for fouling. If the contacts are not clean and sharp, replace the plug. Plugs are inexpensive and not covered by warrenty. This should do the trick. The plug the manufacturer installed lasted me eight hours. Eight. The manual says to replace spark plugs after 100 hours. Don't believe it. And the spark gap for this machine is .03

If you have done all of this and the mower still won't start, go to www.briggsandstratton.com for a dealer near you and call ahead to make certain they do warrenty repairs and, if so, under what circumstances in case there is a hidden cost to you. There is a two year warrenty, you know. I enjoy using my mower to cut nearly an acre of grass and, while the mower and I got off to a bad beginning, we're doing great now.

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Product Description:
Poulan, 2 N 1, Push Lawn Mower, 148CC Briggs & Stratton 475 Series Engine, 22" Stamped Steel Deck, Side Discharge/Mulch Capable, Mulch Kit Included, 7" Front & Rear Wheels, 5 Position Fingertip Height Adjusters, Fully Assembled With Folding Handles, Oil Included In Carton, Optional Side Discharge Bag Available True Value # 577-264, 2 Year Limited Warranty.

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Review of Great States 404-16 16-Inch Standard Push Light Reel Lawn Mower With T-Style Handle

I recently moved to a rental house from an apartment building.There was no sheltered outside space to store a gas mower, and after reading reviews on Amazon, I got this one.After mowing, I just carry it down to the basement.

Set up is a snap.It took me literally 5 minutes and then....thats it!Just mow!

If your grass is rather long, you will have to do it twice the first time to get everything.The cut is not a perfect uniform cut, as you would expect from a gas powered mower.When done, the lawn looks like it was mowed a couple days ago. As other reviewers said, you will have to do some trimming, as the mower leaves about a 2 inch gap between the wheel and the cutting reel.I picked up a little cordless electric trimmer for that duty.

Beware!If you do not want attention from your neighbors don't buy this mower!!!Within 2 times mowing, I had met most of my neighbors, and also figured out which ones were jerks and who the unruly kids in the area were.You will attract attention with your brand new"antique" mower.

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Product Description:
16", 4 spider, 5 blade ball bearing reel. Tempered alloy steel reel and bed knife blade. Unbreakable steel side plate and 3 4" formed torsion tube. 10" durable composite wheels with radial tread tires. Cutting height 1 2" to 1 3 4" with a 4 section, adjustable roller. Corrosion resistant, zinc plated handle with plastic grips.

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Review of McCulloch MCM2013 20-Inch Push Reel Mower

I can't believe how much bogus information is out there on reel mowers. Let me say that I read every single review on every single 20 inch reel mower on every site that sells them and one still finds it difficult to decide. Even the manufacturers' sites are horrible in terms of product information. Many of the retailers (not Amazon) push the Brill's and you have to question their advice when that's all they sell. The Brill's and other "high-end" no contact mowers are a lot more expensive, made of a lot of plastic, and are too small. Anyway, back to the McCulloch. First, I was attracted to reel mowers due to their simplicity, durability, and for some, their price. I'm not an enviro wheenie, just someone who appreciates a good, solid, product that works. Next, and after reading a ton of reviews, I decided I wanted a 20 inch mower. No matter what brand or model, most people complained that they which they bought a bigger model. Buying the 20" models limits your choices. The big seller is the Scotts and by most accounts it's a decent product. However, I was turned off by the fact that the gears in the wheels are made of plastic. To me, that was a deal breaker, especially after reading how some user's broke only after one season. Not a good design. The Gimour was next, but I've read a good bit of unfavorable reviews on it to. The big selling point is that it comes with a grass catcher that most users said was totally useless. So, the other choice I saw was the McCulloch. It had the 20" cut, all steel gears, and I read it was US made. I can vouch that it is 20", does have steel gears, but it is made in Taiwan, not the US. Also, that manufacturer site say it has 4 blades, nope - this has 5 blades. I got it today, put it together in 5 minutes, and then used it (it was real easy and the instructions were fine). I used to take me 30 to 45 minutes with my gas mower (I really move though) and it took me about the same time, maybe 5 minutes more. In terms of difficulty mowing, I just didn't see it. My gas mower was a 5.5hp, non self propelled Yardman (a Walmart special that ran fantastic I might add). It was different-I think this mower uses more arms, but less back (a good thing for me-I'm a fit 37 yo male). In terms ofcut, I pulled it right outside of the box, attached the handle and mowed - no adjustments, and it mowed fine. I was preparing for the worst and was really surprised at how well it mowed and my yard is a mess of every crab grass, dandelion, chickweed, you name it, I have it. My yard is not flat either. Mowing was really easy and fun. I don't know if the fun will wear off, but it was. What kills me, is that I mowed in flip flops - something I never would have done with my gas mower. It was great, my 2 year old daughter was even out playing on the swing set. Overall, I'm happy with this purchase. When compared to the Scotts, it seems like a better deal - same cutting width, same 5 blades, all steel gears vs plastic on the Scotts, and this handle is quite sturdy - no flimsy at all. Even though it looks like a Scotts (made by American Lawn, but built in China), I called American Lawn Mower and asked their customer service and the girl said "No, it isn't made by us". If you are thinking about getting one of these, I wouldn't hesitate to make the jump - at this price and with Amazon's backing, this is a great mower I'm glad I bought. Sorry for the run on, but there is a lot of bad info out there and I want to help out. Good luck.

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Product Description:
The environmentally friendly McCulloch MCM 2013 20 inch Push Reel Mower has ball bearing blade spindles making it easy to push and safe to use.

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Review of Husqvarna 7021P 21-Inch 160cc Honda GCV Gas Powered Lawn Mower

I admit I have a rather large back yard, but it is still under 1/2 acre.Lots of heavy duty weeds.If I can keep them mowed, no problem. However, my 15 year old gas powered mower finally bit the dust this year.I attempted to fix it, but metal parts kept falling off.(I have lived here 3 years.)So, from past experience, I decided to just buy a brand new lawn mower. Of all the mowers I looked at, most of the ones I wanted were way over-priced for my budget.It was almost by accident that I found the Husqvarna mower. I'd never heard of the company, but I looked it up on the web and it seemed to have good credentials. Lots of people know about their chainsaws. The saleslady was very knowledgeable. The price was right. I liked the idea of the Honda engine, the larger rear wheels, the mulching vs rear bagging, vs side shooting options. I was very careful to read the instructions when I got the mower home. It even has a gas line that shuts off.The choke is great.. just slide the lever and pull the cord.No problem. The blades are nice and sharp.I started out at the tallest setting I could since the weeds had, by now, invaded the back yard. I got about 1/2 way through that first night before it got too dark to see.The second time, I continued on with the tall weeds removal.No problem.Since I had MOST of the tall weeds defeated, I decided to go back over the lawn with a lower blade setting.The mower was doing GREAT!! I was so thrilled I'd made this purchase!!I got about 1/10 of the yard mowed when I heard a metallic CLANG sound.I pulled up on the mower, thinking I had inadvertentaly mowed over something.I couldn't see anything so I started mowing, again. Same thing.I shut off the mower and tipped it up enough so I could see the underside of the mower deck.The blades looked fine. Then I saw that a metal strip at the front of the mower, underneath the deck, had come off on one side and it was rubbing against the mower blades.SIGH.Since I have only had the mower a couple of weeks.. and since it had a 2 year warranty .. I am hoping to get the part welded back on so it will stay there for eternity!!But, even though (knock on wood) the engine seems to be doing very well, I hope the rest of the mower doesn't fall apart whenever I attempt to mow my lawn.I noticed they didn't say WHERE the mower, itself, was made.The Honda engine is made in Canada.I'll report back if/after the mower is repaired and remark as to whether or not this was just a freak thing.Maybe I should buy a couple of goats.

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Product Description:
Loaded with innovative features not usually found in its class, the Husqvarna 7021P Lawn Mower combines value with reliable performance. Powered by a premium Honda engine, this easy-to-use three-in-one mower makes it easy to create and maintain a manicured yard, and it is durable enough to last season after season.

The 7021P Lawn Mower
At a Glance:

• 3-in-1 design for fast and easy mowing, mulching, and collection
• 21-inch cutting width; 1.5" to 3.5" cutting height; 6 cutting height increments
• 6.9-gross-torque Honda engine
• Dust-resistant rear bagger for easy grass collection
• Adjustable, fold-down handle for easy transport and storage

Complete with mulching, rear-bag, and side-discharge capabilities. View larger.
12" rear wheels provide maneuverability in a variety of terrains. View larger.Three-in-One Cutting System
Ideal for medium-duty, seasonal, or occasional use, the 7021P provides a 21-inch cutting width, 1.5- to 3.5-inch cutting height, six cutting height increments, and four-point cutting height adjustment. Its 21-inch steel deck, easy-starting 6.9-gross-torque Honda engine--ensuring smooth, efficient operation--and the combined versatility of the three-in-one mulch, bag, and side discharge cutting system means you can meet all your lawn-care needs with just one machine.
Great Maneuverability
Uneven terrain, bumps, and tight areas around trees and bushes are no problem with the 7021P. 12-inch rear wheels and double ball bearings keep things smooth and stable, even when the ground isn't.
User-Friendly Features
Designed to be user friendly, the 7021P includes a dust-resistant rear bagger that makes grass collection easy, as well as a handle with adjustable height for more comfortable pushing. The handle can also be folded down for quick and easy storage and portability.
The 7021P is backed by a two-year warranty.
Husqvarna: Exceptional Products for Exceptional Yards
Great yards demand equipment that is as dedicated and hardworking as you are. Fortunately, Husqvarna's range of garden equipment offers everything from lawnmowers and snow blowers to trimmers and chainsaws that let you master your slice of the great outdoors. With Husqvarna, it's easy to make your yard the envy of the neighborhood.
What's in the Box
7021P Lawn Mower and manual.


The 7021P Lawn Mower has a foldable handle for simplified transport and storage.


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Review of Eazy Mow New Lawn Mower Swivel Wheel Kit Makes Any Push Or Self-Propelled Mower A Zero-Turn

Company's web site said it would fit my model mower but it did not. I had to fab up my own solution to make it fit. However, it's a good idea and now that I have it installed it works well. It is well constructed. However, if you are not adept at mechanical work and you do not see your exact model of mower on the companies web site I would not recommend that you make this purchase. I my case I had to add a separate metal plate to both sides, drill holes to mount it to the mower as well as holes for the kit in order to make the kit fit my Toro.

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Product Description:
If you like the factory swivel wheel mowers, but not their cost, then you'll really like our Eazy Mow swivel wheel accessory. It is the only product that allows anyone quickly and inexpensively to upgrade their push or self-propelled mower from a standard wheel mower to their very own zero-turn, swivel wheel mower. Better yet, you'll save hundreds of dollars compared to any factory mower with swivel wheels. Mowing the lawn is basically a dreaded chore, but with Eazy Mow you can zip around trees, flower beds or any obstacle with little or no effort. Eazy Mow eliminates strain, struggle and over exertion because there's never any need to lift your mower to make a turn or to reverse your mowing. Even the tightest turns are all very simple with a quick and easy 180 degree turn. Our customers say they can't imagine anyone not needing this product if they own a walk-behind mower. Being universal, our swivel wheel system replaces one set of standard wheels and height adjusters (front or rear) on walk-behind push and self-propelled mowers. In all cases you will be replacing the non-drive wheels. Our product installs using your factory mounting holes and in most cases there's only need to remove one bolt and nut per wheel assembly. It's very simple and only takes a few minutes. Easy to read instructions and illustrations are provided. Simply put, Eazy Mow saves you time, money, greatly reduces your workload and is compatible with practically every mower brand and model from 1981 to date 2007. Some of those are: Craftsman, AYP, Toro, Honda, Ariens, Huskee, Murray, Yard Man, Yard Machine, White, Troy-Bilt, Bolens, Husqvarna, John Deere, Stanley, Poulan, Southland, Power Pro, Weedeater, K-Pro and many others.

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Review of Great States 705-16 16-Inch Specialty Push Reel Lawn Mower For Low Growing Creeping Grasses With T-Style Handle

I purchased this mower from a local retailer to cut my bermuda grass lawn. I don't want to have to break out the big mower anytime the grass needed mowing, and my neighbors like to play in the pools and have barbecues a lot, so I needed something quieter that I could use even in the early hours of the morning.

I think this mower is a little more difficult to push than a regular gas or electric mower, but not much. The main problems with a mower like this are:

1. It doesn't work well when the grass has grown tall. You'll need to mow more often. In return, you'll have a nice, green lawn.

2. Sometimes you have to go over the same patch of grass twice to get it all. I think this is pretty standard for manual reel mowers, but nevertheless this is why I'm giving it only 4 stars out of 5.

3. It doesn't get the edges very well. You'll need a weed trimmer more than you would have otherwise. But I use one even with my regular mower, so it doesn't matter to me.

Contrary to what some sources say, manual reel mowers are fine for dense grasses like bermuda, provided you get the right type. The 7-bladed reel mowers like this one are designed for bermuda and other "bent" grasses.

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Product Description:
16" Special Reel Mower, Equipped With 7 Blade Reel Assembly, Designed Specifically To Cut Low Growing, Creeping Grasses Such As Bent & Bermuda Type Grasses, 4 Spider, 7 Blade Ball Bearing Reel Assembly, Tempered Alloy Steel Reel & Bed Knife Blade, Unbreakable Steel Side Plate & 1" Welded Torsion Bar Frame Assembly, 10" Durable Composite Wheels With Radial Tread Tires, 2-3/4" Molded Hub Caps, Cutting Height 1/2" To 2-1/4" With Adjustable 7 Section Roller, Powder Coated Handle With Flare.

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