Fiskars hedge shears are a popular choice for pruning and trimming hedges and bushes around the home. Like all tools, hedge shears require proper maintenance and adjustments to keep them working well for many seasons. Learning how to adjust Fiskars hedge shears is easy with some basic tips.
Introduction
Hedge shears are essential tools for keeping hedges neat and tidy. Fiskars is a leading brand known for quality and innovation. Their hedge shears range from basic manual models to power-assisted tools.
Over time, any hedge shears can get out of alignment. This affects cutting performance and can be unsafe. Adjusting the blades and tension systems on Fiskars hedge shears helps restore optimal function. With simple home maintenance, Fiskars hedge shears will snip cleanly for years.
Why Proper Adjustment Matters
Sharp, well-aligned blades make hedge trimming easier. Adjusting Fiskars hedge shears ensures:
- Clean cuts: Aligned blades slice cleanly through branches instead of crushing them. This promotes healthy plant growth.
- Easier cutting: Well-adjusted shears cut smoothly without excessive hand fatigue.
- Safety: Loose or misaligned blades can be dangerous. Proper adjustment avoids injury.
- Longevity: Keeping hedge shears adjusted maximizes their working life. This saves money and hassle.
- Performance: Adjustments maintain the optimal cutting action for neat, professional results.
Taking a few minutes to adjust Fiskars hedge shears pays off with easier trimming and healthy hedges.
How to Tell if Fiskars Hedge Shears Need Adjusting
With regular use, Fiskars hedge shears can get knocked out of proper alignment. Here are signs it’s time to adjust them:
- The blades don’t line up correctly at the tips. There should be no gap between top and bottom blades.
- Cutting requires extra effort or feels awkward. Properly aligned shears cut smoothly.
- The blades crush or tear branches rather than cutting neatly.
- The blades exhibit side-to-side looseness or wiggle.
- The locking mechanism doesn’t hold the blades closed.
- The lower blade doesn’t sit parallel to the upper blade.
- The blades don’t cut all the way to the tip.
Any of these issues indicate it’s time to tune up Fiskars hedge shears with adjustments. Catching problems early makes correction easier.
How to Adjust Fiskars Hedge Shears – Adjusting Standard Manual Fiskars Hedge Shears
Fiskars manual hedge shears are simple but effective tools. With basic care, they’ll stay that way for years. Here’s how to adjust standard manual Fiskars hedge shears:
Step 1: Clean the Blades
- Remove any debris, sap, or dirt buildup. Use a wire brush and wipe down with a clean rag.
- Check for sticky residue. Remove it with mild dish soap and water.
- Dry the blades thoroughly before adjusting or using.
Step 2: Align the Blades
- Examine blade alignment. The cutting edges should meet precisely tip-to-base when closed.
- If there’s a gap at the tip, use an Allen wrench to loosen the screw behind the pivot point.
- Carefully realign the blades until their edges match up.
- Tighten the screw just enough to hold the setting. Don’t overtighten.
Step 3: Set Proper Blade Tension
- Test the blade tension by making test cuts in soft wood or thick stems.
- If blades don’t close tightly, increase tension: Use an Allen wrench to tighten the tension screw clockwise. Make adjustments gradually.
- If too much effort is required to cut, reduce tension: Turn the tension screw counterclockwise to loosen slightly.
- Find the sweet spot where blades close firmly but cut smoothly.
Step 4: Lubricate Moving Parts
- Put a drop of light machine oil on the pivot point and tension screw. Avoid getting oil on blade surfaces.
- Open and close the shears a few times to distribute lubricant. Wipe off any excess.
Step 5: Check Results and Retighten
- Make a few test cuts in scrap wood or branches. Adjust tension as needed until satisfied.
- Firmly tighten tension screw and pivot screw while blades are closed. Don’t overtighten.
- Examine blade alignment again and readjust if needed before using the shears.
With these basic steps, Fiskars manual hedge shears will cut like new. Perform adjustments promptly when problems arise to maximize their lifespan.
Adjusting Fiskars Geared Hedge Shears
Fiskars geared hedge shears build mechanical advantage into the design. Adjusting gear mechanisms takes a few extra steps. Here’s how to tune up geared Fiskars hedge shears:
Clean and Inspect
- Disassemble: Release the latch and remove any protective covers.
- Clean all parts with a wire brush, mild soap and water. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
- Inspect: Check for damaged, bent or misaligned parts. Replace if needed.
Adjust Blade Alignment
- With shears closed, check blade edges for gaps at tip or base.
- If not perfectly aligned, loosen the pivot screw and realign.
- Close shears and tighten screw while holding blades in proper position.
Set Blade Tension
- Test tension by cutting some branches. The gearing should provide clean cuts without crushing.
- If more tension is needed, turn the adjustment knob 1/4 turn clockwise at a time until optimal.
- For less tension, gradually turn knob counterclockwise. Find the sweet spot.
Lubricate Gears
- Put several drops of machine oil or lubricant on the gear teeth.
- Work mechanism several times to distribute lube. Wipe away any excess dripping.
Reassemble
- Return all covers and guards to original positions. Secure with screws.
- Double check blade alignment. Give tension knob final tweak if necessary.
Proper maintenance keeps Fiskars geared hedge shears cutting smoothly season after season. Follow adjustment steps promptly when problems arise.
Adjusting Fiskars Power-Assist Hedge Shears
Fiskars power-assist hedge shears use a spring-loaded mechanism to reduce cutting effort. The added power still requires care and adjustments. Here’s how to adjust Fiskars hedge shears with power-assist mechanism:
Clean and Inspect
- Remove battery pack before cleaning or adjustments.
- Use a small brush and mild soap solution to clean housing, blades, gears. Avoid getting water into internal parts.
- Dry all components thoroughly before proceeding.
- Visually inspect for any worn, bent or damaged parts. Replace if needed.
Adjust Blade Alignment
- With shears closed, check the blade edges for gaps at tip or base.
- If alignment is off, locate the pivot screw(s) and loosen slightly.
- Realign blades so edges match perfectly when closed.
- Retighten pivot screws while holding blades in aligned position.
Check Blade Tension
- Power on shears and make some test cuts in scrap wood. Watch out for moving blades!
- If blades crush branches or don’t close tightly, increase tension via the adjustment dial or screw.
- If too much hand pressure is needed, reduce blade tension gradually. Find optimal tension.
Lubricate Components
- Put 1-2 drops of light machine oil on pivot points and tension adjustment screw.
- Avoid getting oil on blade surfaces to prevent slippage.
- Run shears to distribute lube. Wipe away excess dripping.
Reinstall Battery Pack
- Confirm blade alignment and tension are set correctly.
- Reinstall battery pack once adjustments are complete.
- Make final test cuts and tweak tension dial as needed before resuming trimming.
With periodic adjustment, Fiskars power-assist hedge shears will retain their edge. Address issues promptly to maximize performance and lifespan.
Troubleshooting Guide
Here are solutions for common issues when adjusting Fiskars hedge shears:
Problem: Blades won’t align correctly.
Solution: Loosen pivot screw further. Check for bent or damaged tips. Replace blades if needed.
Problem: Excessive blade looseness or sloppiness.
Solution: Tighten pivot screw more. If persists, internal washers or springs may need replacement.
Problem: Blades still crush branches when closed.
Solution: Increase tension via adjustment screw or dial. If fully tightened, blades may need sharpening or replacement.
Problem: Locking latch won’t keep blades closed.
Solution: Clean latch mechanism. Adjust or replace worn latch parts.
Problem: Shears are hard to control during cuts.
Solution: Reduce blade tension. Realign blades if slightly bent. Lubricate pivot points.
Problem: Gears slip or grind.
Solution: Clean gear teeth thoroughly. Apply fresh lubricant on gears. Adjust tension. Check for damaged gear teeth.
Problem: Cutting power seems weak.
Solution: Fully charge batteries if powered. Sharpen or replace dull blades. Make sureblade tension isn’t set too loose.
Problem: Blades feel loose even when pivot screw is tight.
Solution: Internal washers or tension springs may need replacement. Disassemble and inspect.
With close inspection and the right adjustments, most Fiskars hedge shears issues can be corrected at home. For complex repairs, seek assistance from a professional tool repair shop.
Maintenance Tips
Here are some extra maintenance tips for keeping Fiskars hedge shears performing their best:
- Sharpen blades regularly with a quality sharpening stone and lubricating oil.
- Use compressed air to blow out dust and debris from gears, pivots and latch mechanisms.
- Apply fresh blade lubricant such as bike chain lube periodically to prevent rust. Wipe off residues before cutting.
- Store hedge shears in a dry place when not in use. Avoid exposure to weather and moisture.
- Consider replacing old or heavily used hedge shear blades rather than perpetually sharpening thin blades.
- Disassemble, clean and lubricate all components at least once a year.
- Check adjustment and test cut performance before intensive seasonal use.
A few minutes of preventative care goes a long way for dependable Fiskars hedge shears. Promptly address any performance issues that arise before they worsen.
Conclusion
Fiskars makes high-quality hedge shears that will last for years when properly maintained. Learning how to adjust Fiskars hedge shears is simple when you follow the brand’s design. Basic adjustment steps restore optimal blade alignment, tension and ease of cutting.
Well-adjusted Fiskars hedge shears cut cleanly and prevent torn branches. This encourages healthier bushes and neat edges. Sharpening, lubricating and protective storage also keeps hedge shears in good working order. Address problems promptly to avoid more extensive repairs down the road.
With just occasional home maintenance, Fiskars hedge shears will provide reliable service season after season. Neatly manicured hedges and effortless trimming make caring for your garden tools worthwhile.
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Michael Glenn is a certified arborist and horticultural expert with over 15 years of experience in the landscape industry. His passion for plants and trees has led him to become a sought-after authority on pruning and trimming techniques. Glenn’s in-depth knowledge of proper pruning methods, timing, and tools has helped countless homeowners and professionals maintain healthy, aesthetically pleasing gardens and landscapes.
In addition to sharing his pruning expertise through practical tips, step-by-step guides, and expert advice, Glenn is also a respected author of pruning tool buying guides. His comprehensive reviews and comparisons ensure readers can make informed decisions when investing in quality loppers, pruning shears, saws, and other essential equipment. With a deep understanding of plant biology and sustainable practices, Glenn’s writing empowers audiences with the knowledge needed to properly care for green spaces.
