Toro Recycler 22 Owners Manual 20378

The Toro Recycler 22 is a 22-inch walk-behind lawn mower featuring a recycler cutting system that mulches grass clippings into fine particles, a 6.75 ft-lbs gross torque engine, single-lever height adjustment (1-4 inches), personal pace self-propel system, fold-down handle for storage, washout port for easy cleaning, and a 3-in-1 capability (mulch, bag, side discharge). Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting & Height Adjustment 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Safety Information 10. Warranty & Support 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Recycler cutting deck, Personal Pace self-propel system, single-lever height adjustment, fold-down handle, washout port, 3-in-1 versatility.

FeatureDescription
Recycler Cutting SystemMulches grass clippings into fine particles for natural fertilization
Personal Pace Self-PropelAutomatically matches mower speed to your walking pace
Single-Lever Height AdjustmentAdjusts all four wheels simultaneously (1-4 inches)
Fold-Down HandleReduces storage space requirements
Washout PortConnect garden hose to clean underside of deck
3-in-1 CapabilityMulch, bag, or side discharge clippings
Engine6.75 ft-lbs gross torque, 163cc
Cutting Width22 inches
Fuel Tank0.95 quart capacity
WarrantyLimited residential warranty

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

  1. Attach lower handle: Secure to deck using provided bolts and washers.
  2. Install upper handle: Connect to lower handle, secure with knobs.
  3. Attach grass bag: Hook bag onto rear deck brackets.
  4. Install side discharge chute (if needed): Attach to discharge opening.
  5. Add engine oil: Use SAE 30 detergent oil (check manual for capacity).
  6. Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded gasoline with minimum 87 octane.

WARNING! Always wear protective gloves during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tightened securely.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, complete these steps.

  1. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
  2. Fill fuel tank: Use fresh unleaded gasoline.
  3. Adjust cutting height: Set single lever to desired position (2.5-3 inches recommended for first mow).
  4. Test Personal Pace system: Engage drive control and walk at different paces.
  5. Test safety features: Verify blade control lever must be held to keep engine running.

CAUTION! Never operate mower without proper oil level. Always mow in dry conditions for first use.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Main controls: Blade control lever, Personal Pace drive control, height adjustment lever, fuel cap, primer bulb, recoil starter.

Starting Procedure:

  1. Check oil and fuel levels.
  2. Push primer bulb 3 times (cold engine).
  3. Set throttle to FAST position.
  4. Hold blade control lever against handle.
  5. Pull recoil starter briskly.

Operation: Engage Personal Pace by pushing drive control forward. Release to stop movement. Always keep blade control lever engaged during operation.

Cutting & Height Adjustment

Single-lever adjusts all four wheels simultaneously.

  1. Stop engine and wait for blade to stop completely.
  2. Pull height adjustment lever outward and move to desired position (1-4).
  3. Release lever to lock in position.
  4. For best results: Never cut more than 1/3 of grass height at one time.
  5. Change cutting mode: Install mulch plug for mulching, bag for collection, or chute for side discharge.

Tip: Keep blade sharp for clean cuts. Dull blades tear grass, causing brown tips.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

IntervalTask
Before each useCheck oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hoursChange engine oil, clean or replace air filter
Every 50 hoursReplace spark plug, check drive system
Every seasonSharpen or replace blade, clean underside of deck
As neededCheck tire pressure (12-14 PSI), lubricate wheel bearings

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system issues.

  1. Add fuel stabilizer to tank and run engine for 5 minutes.
  2. Change engine oil at end of season.
  3. Clean underside of deck thoroughly using washout port.
  4. Remove spark plug, add 1 oz of oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat.
  5. Store in clean, dry place with handle folded down.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before operation.

Warranty & Support

Toro Limited Warranty: Residential use warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Proof of purchase required. For support, contact Toro Customer Service at 1-888-384-9939 or visit www.toro.com. Model 20378 parts and manuals available through authorized Toro dealers.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startOld fuel, clogged filter, spark plugUse fresh fuel; clean/replace air filter; check/replace spark plug.
Poor cutting performanceDull blade, low engine speedSharpen or replace blade; set throttle to FAST position.
Self-propel not workingDrive cable adjustmentAdjust drive cable per manual; check for debris in drive system.
Excessive vibrationDamaged blade, loose partsStop engine immediately; check blade balance and tightness.
Grass clumping under deckWet grass, deck cloggedMow when grass is dry; clean deck thoroughly.

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

Parts: Use only genuine Toro replacement parts.

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