OutdoorKing Repair Forum Forums Restoring, Customising and Modifying Reel-Type Mowers Reel mower blade question on +45 TIFT and +35 and +60 and their meaning

Hi, first time posting on here.

I recently bought a very 2nd hand Scott Bonnar Queen 30" reel mower, with a Chonda 4 stroke (copy of Honda GX200 it appears) already fitted, but not running. Reel needs replacement, as does the bed knife (which I was fully aware of).
I have used reel mowers in the past, but only when in my late teens when I was the in-house gardener for my landlords......(parents)... but my memory was we only seldom checked the reel to bed knife cut, so never learnt much about its operation back then. I am not sure, but think they were a SB 45 17" and also a 14".
I intend to cut a newly established Kentucky Bluegrass to what would be the highest setting on the Queen 30".

I have some questions on the reel and bed knife. I see there are different bed knifes available for the Queen 30", that are:
+35
+45 TIFT
and have seen a +60.

What does the +35, +45, etc mean for the bed knife? I am guessing its the machined edge of the blade and the edge is ground by 0.035" (0.889mm), or b 0.045" (1.143mm), etc.

In addition to understanding how the +35, etc relates to the blade, what are the reasons for selecting +35, +45, etc over one or the other?

I have searched for said information on this forum and the general web, but have so far not located an answer.

If anyone can point me in the right direction which would explain the above, it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Guy.

I have attached a sketch of how I think the plate is.

Also, another question, what does the TIFT stand for when I've seen a blade thats +45 TIFT?

Thank you.
Guy

Hi Yuggy ,As I understand it (I have been bowling greenkeeper for 44 years).You have the sizing correct .TIFT just means for Tiftdwarf bowls greens.The thicker blades give longer life and are typically used at rennovation when more abrasive sands are present and height of cut usually starts around 4 to 5 mm.When green is in play and mowing height is 2mm or lower the thinner blade is used,the thin blade has a lower tendency to ride on the underside of the blade.

Thank you sb30inch, greatly appreciated, and Happy Friday!.

As I'm a domestic user, and will probably have the height set as high as possible on the Queen, I take it I want the +45 or thicker bottom blade?

And photo attached for anyone interested, in its current state.

Guy.

Thanks Yuggy,Yes the thick blade would be good in your situation.Remember that the cylinder is reversable on the 30 inch Queen,giving you a sharp leading edge.I only usually grind if I think the cylinder is out of shape or it has been damaged by sand etc.Cheers sb 30inch