Step 3 Electric lawnmowers have two carbon blocks, called brushes, that act as electrical conductors for the motor. The length of the carbon brushes should be longer than their width. They wear down with use, like pencil leads, Gray says. If they re more short than wide, it s time to replace them. Consult your owner s manual for specifics.
New brushes are available at lawnmower service shops.
Step 4 Time to turn the machine on its side to check the blade. If the blade is dull, it hacks at the grass instead of slicing it, Gray says, and it makes the motor run harder. First remove the blade there s usually a nut or bolt that holds it in place. You re not trying to put a knife edge on the blade, says Gray. The point is to file down any nicks so there s a straight line across the cutting edge.