The Art of Backlapping: Enhancing Your ALLETT Mower's Performance

At ALLETT, we're committed to helping you maintain the perfect lawn. One of the key techniques for keeping your ALLETT mower in top condition is backlapping. This process not only extends the life of your mower's cutting cylinder but also ensures a cleaner, more precise cut for your lawn.

What is Backlapping?

Backlapping is a maintenance procedure that sharpens and refines the cutting edges of your mower's cylinder and bottom blade. This process involves applying a special compound to the blades and running the cylinder backwards, effectively grinding the blades to a sharp, even edge.

Why is Backlapping Important?

1. Improved Cut Quality: Sharp blades result in a cleaner cut, promoting healthier grass growth.
2. Extended Blade Life: Regular back lapping maintains blade sharpness, reducing the frequency of replacements.
3. Consistent Performance: Well-maintained blades ensure your ALLETT mower performs optimally throughout the season.

How to Backlap Your ALLETT Mower cylinder.

While the specific steps may vary slightly depending on your ALLETT model, here's a general guide:

NOTE: Please ensure you wear appropriate gloves and protective eyewear before back lapping your cylinder.

1. Prepare Your Mower: Ensure your mower is on a level surface and the engine is off.
2. Remove the cylinder cartridge from your mower.
3. Apply Lapping Compound: Use a brush to apply a specialised lapping compound to the cutting edges of the cylinder.
4. Run the Cylinder Backwards: Carefully operate your electric drill to run the cylinder in reverse for a few minutes.
5. Check and Clean: Stop periodically to check progress and clean off excess compound.
6. Finish and Test: Once complete, clean the blades thoroughly and test the cut on a small patch of grass.

This video shows the method for backlapping a QC, UC or RC cartridge. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mu0WLtrBMd8

When to Backlap

We recommend backlapping your ALLETT mower at least once a season, or more frequently if you mow regularly. Signs that your mower may need backlapping include:

• Uneven or ragged grass cuts - browning of grass tip
• Increased effort required to push the mower
• Visible wear or dullness on the blades

By incorporating backlapping into your regular maintenance routine, you'll ensure your ALLETT mower continues to deliver the exceptional performance you expect.

Remember, a well-maintained mower is key to achieving that perfect, manicured lawn you desire. Happy mowing!