Hi Grumpy, you're spot on there, mate, and good advice.
When I first started tinkering with reel mowers, I didn't have a clue on how to set the cutter clearances correctly, so I enlisted the help of the head greenskeeper at my local Bowling Club. He suggested I bring the complete machine down to his workshop, and very patiently guided me through the set-up. My SB, at that time, was very much in need of a sharpen, so he got me to remove the reel and bottom blade complete with it's holder and oganised to have it sharpened. We replaced the bearings as well and (under instruction) got me to do the final adjustments.
Grumpy, you're right about the sound, my machine just
humms when it is set correctly.
The advice of that chap has been invaluable over the years, and I am indebted to him for his knowledge and patience.
