Hello hdon and Bruce.
A lot has been written about the Diplomats on these great forums.
The set adjustment (reel to bedknife) is a very poor design.
It was - best guess - a result of bean-counting, rather than designers' intention.
The blades should be sharpened by a company qualified to do so.
Do not go through an agency.
Both reel and bottom blade should be sharpened.
Most probably, the bottom blade will need replacing.
On these machines, keeping the 'set' will require good habit.
Copper washers on the set bolts (4) should be in good condition,
and not work hardened through age.
The Diplomats are rewarding machines - if understood.
They won an Australian Design Award in the day.
They are greatly misunderstood!
Hope this helps.
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Jack
