It’s a common worry for anyone new to reel mowers: Why does my reel mower jam or stop turning in taller grass? You’re out enjoying a nice day, and suddenly, your mower grinds to a halt. It can feel a bit frustrating, especially when you’re just trying to keep your lawn looking neat.
Don’t worry, though! This happens to many people, and it’s usually not a big deal. We’re going to walk through exactly why this happens and give you simple steps to fix it.
Let’s get your mower running smoothly again.
Key Takeaways
- Tall grass puts extra strain on a reel mower’s cutting action.
- The blades can get bogged down by the sheer volume and thickness of the grass.
- Dull blades or improper mower adjustment make jamming more likely.
- Consistent maintenance is key to preventing reel mowers from stopping.
- Learning how to manage taller grass ensures a cleaner cut and less frustration.
Understanding Reel Mower Mechanics
Reel mowers work a bit differently from the rotary mowers most people are used to. Instead of a spinning blade that chops grass, a reel mower uses a set of curved blades that spin against a stationary bedknife. This action is like a scissor cutting grass.
It’s a very clean cut, which is great for grass health. However, this scissor action needs a certain amount of space and less resistance to work well. When grass gets too long or thick, it can push the spinning blades back, causing them to stop or jam.
This is especially true if the blades aren’t perfectly sharp or aligned.
How the Cutting Action Works
The spinning reel is made up of several helical blades that rotate. As they turn, the tips of these blades pass very close to the bedknife. This creates a precise cutting motion.
Think of it like running your finger along the edge of a comb – each tooth of the comb acts like the bedknife and your finger acts like the reel blade. The grass blades get caught between the reel blade and the bedknife and are sliced cleanly. This is a more delicate process than the brute force of a rotary mower.
- Precision Cutting: The scissor-like action provides a clean, precise cut. This helps grass heal faster and look healthier.
- Blade-to-Bedknife Gap: The distance between the reel blades and the bedknife is critical. It needs to be very small for effective cutting.
- Rotational Force: The spinning reel needs consistent force to overcome the resistance of the grass.
When grass is short and sparse, there’s little resistance. The reel spins freely, and the blades slice through the grass with ease. But when grass grows long and dense, it forms a thick mat.
This mat resists the spinning blades. The blades have to push through a larger volume of material. This increased resistance requires more force from the user and the mower’s mechanism.
If the force isn’t enough, or if the grass is particularly tough, the blades can get stuck.
Factors Affecting Cutting Performance
Several things affect how well your reel mower cuts. The sharpness of the blades is a big one. Dull blades can’t slice through grass cleanly.
Instead, they tend to bend and tear it, which requires more force and can lead to jamming. The adjustment of the bedknife is also very important. If the gap between the reel and the bedknife is too wide, the mower won’t cut effectively at all, and grass might just get pushed over.
If it’s too narrow, it can create excessive friction, which also hinders performance.
- Blade Sharpness: Sharp blades are essential for a clean cut and less resistance. Dull blades tear grass and increase jamming risk.
- Bedknife Adjustment: The gap between the reel and the bedknife needs to be precise. Too wide, and it won’t cut; too narrow, and it creates friction.
- Mower Cleanliness: Grass clippings and debris can build up and impede the moving parts.
The type of grass you have also plays a role. Some grasses are tougher and grow more densely than others. For example, thick fescue or certain types of bahiagrass can be more challenging for a reel mower than softer, finer grasses.
When these tougher grasses grow tall, they present a significant obstacle. The weight of the grass itself can also contribute to the problem. A thick carpet of long grass can be surprisingly heavy.
Why Taller Grass Causes Problems
When grass gets tall, it becomes much thicker and denser. Think about it: each grass blade is essentially a small, flexible stem. When you have thousands of these stems growing close together and reaching a significant height, they create a substantial barrier.
A reel mower’s cutting action relies on a clean, swift slicing motion. In tall grass, this motion is disrupted. The blades can’t get a clean “bite” into the grass.
Instead, they might push through it, or the grass might bend and mat over the blades.
The Physics of Resistance
The main reason why does my reel mower jam or stop turning in taller grass is increased resistance. The spinning reel needs a certain amount of torque, or turning force, to cut through grass. In short grass, this resistance is low.
As grass height increases, so does the total mass of grass the mower has to cut. This mass creates more friction against the blades and requires more energy to sever.
- Increased Blade Load: More grass means the blades have to cut more material with each rotation.
- Grass Pushing Force: Tall grass can bend over and push against the reel blades, slowing them down.
- Friction Buildup: Dense grass can get packed between the blades, increasing friction and resistance.
Imagine trying to push a thin piece of string through a thick bush. It’s difficult because the bush resists. Now imagine trying to do it with scissors.
The scissors can cut the string easily if it’s alone. But if the string is tangled in the bush, the scissors have a much harder time. The reel mower is like the scissors, and the tall grass is like the thick bush.
The cleaner the cut, the less force is needed.
Impact of Grass Density and Type
The density of the grass is as important as its height. A lawn with tall, sparse grass will be easier to mow than a lawn with tall, dense grass. Dense grass forms a thick mat that the reel blades have to penetrate.
Different grass species also have varying stem strengths. Stiff, thick-stemmed grasses will offer more resistance than softer, finer grasses. For instance, some of the best lawn grasses, like Kentucky bluegrass, tend to be finer and more forgiving for reel mowers.
However, when they grow tall, they can still present a challenge.
- Density Matters: Thick, compacted grass creates more resistance than scattered tall grass.
- Stem Strength: Grass with tougher stems is harder to cut cleanly.
- Grass Matting: Tall grass can bend and mat, essentially cushioning the impact for the blades but making it harder to cut.
A common scenario is mowing a lawn after a period of rain when grass grows rapidly. The grass blades are often full of moisture, which can make them heavier and more prone to sticking together. This adds to the density and resistance the mower faces.
Even a well-maintained reel mower can struggle if the conditions are just right for jamming.
Troubleshooting Common Jamming Issues
When your reel mower jams, don’t panic. Most of the time, it’s a simple fix. The first thing to do is stop the mower immediately.
Then, carefully inspect the reel and the area around the blades. Look for tangled grass, debris, or anything that might be obstructing the rotation. Often, a few minutes of cleaning can get things moving again.
If the problem persists, you’ll need to look at the mower’s setup and maintenance.
Step-by-Step Clearing Instructions
Clearing a jammed reel mower is usually straightforward. Always ensure the engine or drive system is off before reaching near the blades.
- Stop the mower: Turn off the engine or disengage the drive mechanism. If it’s a manual mower, just stop pushing it.
- Inspect the reel: Gently look for thick clumps of grass or debris wedged between the reel blades and the bedknife.
- Remove obstructions: Use a stick, brush, or gloved hand to carefully pull away any tangled grass or foreign objects. Be cautious of the sharp blades.
- Test rotation: Try to manually rotate the reel by hand (if it’s a manual mower) or check if the motor can spin it (if powered). It should move relatively freely.
- Resume mowing: If cleared, you can resume mowing. Consider cutting taller grass in shorter passes or at a higher setting if your mower allows.
It’s important to be patient. Sometimes, a stubborn piece of grass can be difficult to dislodge. Using a small brush can be very helpful for getting into tight spots.
Never use your bare hands to pull out jammed grass. The blades are extremely sharp, and an accidental slip could lead to injury.
Adjusting for Taller Grass
If your mower jams frequently in taller grass, there are adjustments you can make. The most common adjustment is to raise the cutting height. This allows the mower to cut off less grass at once, reducing the load on the blades.
Some reel mowers have adjustable cutting heights. If yours doesn’t, you might need to make multiple passes.
- Raise the cutting height: If your mower has adjustable wheels or a height adjustment mechanism, set it to a higher position. This is the most effective immediate solution.
- Mow in shorter passes: Instead of trying to cut a full swathe of tall grass, take narrower strips. This means less grass is cut at any one time.
- “Scalping” the lawn: For extremely tall grass, you might need to cut it down in stages over a few days. First, cut it high, then lower the mower slightly every day or two until you reach your desired height.
This gradual approach prevents overwhelming the mower and stressing the grass too much. Cutting grass too short all at once can shock it, making it more susceptible to disease and drying out. So, a little patience when dealing with overgrown areas is beneficial for both your mower and your lawn.
Maintenance for Optimal Performance
Regular maintenance is the best way to prevent your reel mower from jamming. A well-maintained mower will handle taller grass much better and provide a cleaner cut. This includes keeping the blades sharp, ensuring proper adjustment, and keeping the mower clean.
These simple steps can save you a lot of frustration.
Sharpening and Alignment
The sharpness of the reel blades is arguably the most important factor for smooth operation. Dull blades cause tearing, increase resistance, and lead to jamming. Sharpening can be done in a couple of ways.
The most common is “backlapping,” where a special abrasive compound is used with the mower’s own rotation. For a truly sharp edge, professional grinding is recommended.
- Backlapping: This is a DIY method using a valve grinding compound mixed with oil. Apply it to the reel blades, then run the mower in reverse for a short period. This hones the blades against the bedknife.
- Professional Grinding: For the best results, have the reel and bedknife ground by a professional. This is often called “reel grinding” or “crank grinding.”
- Bedknife Adjustment: After sharpening, the bedknife needs to be precisely aligned with the reel. This is usually done with small adjustment screws. The goal is a very slight contact that creates a clean scissor action without excessive friction.
The gap between the reel and the bedknife should be so small that you can barely slide a piece of paper between them. If the gap is too large, the grass will bend and escape the blades. If it’s too tight, the increased friction will cause the mower to drag and potentially jam.
Cleaning and Lubrication
After each use, it’s important to clean your reel mower. Grass clippings, dirt, and moisture can build up. This buildup can dry and harden, creating friction and hindering the movement of the reel.
A stiff brush is excellent for removing debris. For more stubborn material, a hose can be used, but make sure to dry the mower thoroughly afterward to prevent rust.
- Remove Debris: Always brush off grass clippings from the reel, bedknife, and chassis after mowing.
- Clean the Underside: Pay special attention to the underside of the mower where grass tends to pack.
- Lubrication: Moving parts, especially the roller bearings and any pivot points, should be lubricated according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This ensures smooth operation and prevents wear.
Proper lubrication reduces wear and tear on the mower’s components. It also helps to displace moisture, which is crucial for preventing rust. A clean, well-lubricated mower will perform better and last longer.
Storing Your Reel Mower
How you store your mower can also affect its performance. Ideally, it should be stored in a dry place. If you store it outdoors, consider using a cover to protect it from the elements.
Before storing for an extended period, like over winter, it’s a good idea to clean it thoroughly and apply a rust inhibitor to the metal parts.
- Dry Storage: Keep your reel mower in a shed, garage, or covered area to protect it from rain and dew.
- Protective Cover: A tarp or specialized mower cover can add an extra layer of protection against dust, dirt, and moisture.
- Winterizing: For long-term storage, clean the mower, lubricate all moving parts, and consider a light coating of oil or wax on the blades and bedknife to prevent rust.
Proper storage helps maintain the condition of your mower, ensuring it’s ready to go when the mowing season starts again. It also prevents minor issues like rust from becoming major problems.
When to Seek Professional Help
While many reel mower issues are simple fixes, there are times when it’s best to consult a professional. If you’ve tried basic troubleshooting and the mower continues to jam, or if you notice significant damage or wear, a repair shop can diagnose and fix the problem. They have specialized tools and knowledge that can be invaluable.
Signs You Might Need a Professional
There are several indicators that suggest professional help is needed. If the mower makes grinding noises beyond normal operation, or if the reel spins very unevenly even after cleaning, it could point to a more serious mechanical issue. Bent reel blades, damaged bearings, or worn-out drive components are not easily fixed by a home user.
- Unusual Noises: Persistent grinding, squealing, or clicking sounds can indicate internal damage.
- Uneven Rotation: If the reel doesn’t spin smoothly by hand, even after clearing debris, something may be bent or broken.
- Excessive Wear: Visible damage to the blades, bedknife, or other moving parts warrants professional attention.
Also, if you’re unsure about any of the maintenance tasks, like sharpening or adjusting the bedknife, taking it to a professional is a safe bet. They can ensure these critical adjustments are made correctly, saving you potential headaches down the line.
Benefits of Professional Servicing
A professional service can revive your reel mower. They can perform a more thorough sharpening and alignment than is typically possible at home. They can also identify and replace worn parts before they cause further damage.
This not only fixes the current jamming problem but also extends the life of your mower.
- Expert Sharpening and Alignment: Professionals have the equipment for perfect reel and bedknife sharpening.
- Component Replacement: They can quickly identify and replace worn bearings, gears, or drive systems.
- Extended Lifespan: Regular professional servicing can significantly prolong the useful life of your mower.
Think of it like taking your car to a mechanic for regular check-ups. It helps catch small problems before they become big, expensive ones. The same applies to your reel mower.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: How often should I sharpen my reel mower blades?
Answer: It depends on how often you mow and the type of grass. For regular use on a well-kept lawn, sharpening might be needed once or twice a year. If you frequently encounter tough grass or debris, you might need to sharpen more often.
Backlapping can be done more frequently as a maintenance step.
Question: Can I use a reel mower on uneven ground?
Answer: Reel mowers generally perform best on relatively flat, even lawns. Uneven terrain can cause the mower to scalp certain areas or miss others, and it can put extra stress on the cutting mechanism, increasing the risk of jamming.
Question: Is a reel mower better for grass health than a rotary mower?
Answer: Yes, generally. The scissor-like cutting action of a reel mower creates a cleaner cut, which helps grass blades heal faster and reduces the risk of disease. Rotary mowers tend to tear the grass, which can lead to browning tips.
Question: What should I do if my reel mower is making a clicking noise?
Answer: A clicking noise often indicates that something is hitting the reel blades. This could be a small stone, a twig, or even a piece of debris caught in the mechanism. Stop the mower immediately, inspect the reel carefully, and remove any foreign objects.
If the noise persists, it might signal a more serious internal issue.
Question: My reel mower leaves uneven patches. What could be wrong?
Answer: Uneven cutting can be caused by several things. The reel blades might be dull, the bedknife might be out of adjustment, or the mower could be going over uneven ground. Ensure your blades are sharp and the bedknife is properly aligned with the reel.
Also, check if your lawn has high spots or low spots causing the mower to bounce or dig in.
Summary
Reel mowers jamming in taller grass is often due to increased resistance from dense, long grass. Keeping your blades sharp, the bedknife adjusted correctly, and the mower clean are key to preventing this. Simple steps like raising the cutting height or mowing in shorter passes can help when grass is overgrown.
Regular maintenance ensures your reel mower cuts cleanly and efficiently, giving you a beautiful lawn without the hassle.
