Toro Recycler 21 Owners Manual

The Toro Recycler 21 is a 21-inch self-propelled walk-behind lawn mower featuring a Briggs & Stratton engine, Personal Pace® self-propulsion system, recycler cutting system that mulches clippings into fine particles, fold-down handle for storage, 6-position single-point height adjustment, washout port for easy cleaning, and SmartStow® vertical storage capability. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton engine, Personal Pace® control lever, Recycler® cutting deck, height adjustment lever, washout port, fold-down handle, rear bag attachment.

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools (included).

1. Attach handle: Insert lower handle into mounting brackets, secure with bolts and wing nuts.
2. Install control cables: Route Personal Pace® cable through handle guides, connect to transmission.
3. Attach grass bag: Slide bag frame onto rear deck hooks, ensure secure attachment.
4. Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 detergent oil (check dipstick for proper level).
5. Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded gasoline with minimum 87 octane.

WARNING! Always wear protective gloves during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation.

First-Time Operation

Complete assembly and perform pre-operation checks.

1. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
2. Add fuel: Fill tank with fresh unleaded gasoline (do not overfill).
3. Adjust cutting height: Set height lever to desired position (2.5-4 inches recommended for first mow).
4. Start engine: Set throttle to FAST, pull choke (if cold), pull starter cord firmly.
5. Engage Personal Pace®: Squeeze control lever to handlebar to begin self-propelled motion.

CAUTION! Clear mowing area of debris. Keep children and pets away during operation.

Specifications

• Cutting Width: 21 inches.
• Engine: Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV.
• Drive System: Front-wheel self-propelled with Personal Pace® control.
• Cutting Heights: 6 positions (1.5-4 inches).
• Bag Capacity: 2.5 bushels.
• Deck Material: Steel with corrosion-resistant coating.
• Wheels: 8-inch rear, 7-inch front.
• Weight: Approximately 75 lbs.
• Fuel Capacity: 0.5 gallons.
• Oil Capacity: 20 oz. SAE 30 detergent oil.

Controls and Settings

Handlebar Controls: Personal Pace® lever, engine stop lever, height adjustment lever.

Engine Controls: Throttle control, choke, primer bulb, recoil starter.

Personal Pace®: Squeeze lever to engage drive; release to stop. Speed adjusts automatically to walking pace. Height Adjustment: Single lever adjusts all four wheels simultaneously (positions: 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4 inches). Bagging/Mulching: Install bag for collection; remove bag for mulching. Washout Port: Located on deck for connecting garden hose.

Operating Procedures

Starting: Set throttle to FAST, engage choke if cold, pull starter cord. Mowing: Engage Personal Pace®, maintain steady walking pace.

1. Clear area: Remove sticks, stones, toys before mowing.
2. Choose pattern: Overlap each pass by 2-3 inches for even cut.
3. Adjust speed: Personal Pace® automatically matches your walking speed.
4. Empty bag: When bag is full, stop engine, empty clippings.
5. Slope mowing: Mow across slopes, not up and down.

Tip: Mow when grass is dry for best results. Avoid mowing in extreme heat.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. After each use: Clean underside of deck, check for damage.
2. Every 25 hours: Change engine oil, check air filter, inspect spark plug.
3. Every season: Sharpen or replace blade, check wheel bearings.
4. Storage preparation: Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean thoroughly.
5. Spring startup: Change oil, install fresh fuel, check all controls.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance. Allow engine to cool completely.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

1. Clean thoroughly: Wash deck, remove grass clippings and debris.
2. Fuel management: Either drain tank completely or add fuel stabilizer.
3. Oil change: Replace oil at end of season to remove contaminants.
4. Blade care: Sharpen blade before storage to prevent rust.
5. Storage position: Use SmartStow® for vertical storage or fold handle for compact horizontal storage.

CAUTION! Store in dry, well-ventilated area away from heat sources and open flames.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before operation.

Important: Never remove safety devices or operate with damaged guards.

Warranty & Support

Toro Limited Warranty: 3-year limited warranty for residential use. Copyright © 2025 The Toro Company. For support, visit www.toro.com or contact 1-888-384-9939. Register your product online for warranty validation. Always use genuine Toro replacement parts to maintain warranty coverage.

Troubleshooting

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Toro service center.

Support: 1-888-384-9939; www.toro.com