Toro SR4 Super Recycler 159cc Owners Manual

The Toro SR4 Super Recycler is a high-performance, self-propelled lawn mower featuring a 159cc Briggs & Stratton engine, the patented Super Recycler cutting system for superior mulching and bagging, Personal Pace automatic drive system for effortless speed control, electric start capability, rear-wheel drive, 22-inch steel deck, 3-in-1 functionality (mulch, bag, side discharge), and a 2.5-bushel grass bag. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Operation Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Operating the Mower 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Instructions 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 159cc Briggs & Stratton engine, Personal Pace drive system, Super Recycler cutting deck, Electric Start (if equipped), Rear-wheel drive, 3-in-1 discharge system, Height adjustment lever, Grass bag.

FeatureDescription
Personal Pace Drive SystemAutomatically adjusts mower speed to your walking pace
Super Recycler Cutting SystemPatented deck design for finer mulch and superior bagging
159cc EngineBriggs & Stratton engine for reliable power
Electric Start (if equipped)Push-button start for easy operation
3-in-1 DischargeMulch, bag, or side discharge capability
Rear-Wheel DriveProvides traction on slopes and uneven terrain
Cutting Height AdjustmentSingle lever adjusts all four wheels (1.5-4 inches)
2.5-Bushel Grass BagLarge capacity bag with easy-empty feature
Blade Brake ClutchStops blade while engine runs for safety
Fold-Down HandleFor compact storage

Assembly Instructions

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

  1. Attach the handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and knobs.
  2. Install the grass bag: Attach bag support brackets to the deck, then hook the bag onto the brackets.
  3. Connect the drive cable: Route the Personal Pace cable through the handle and connect to the transmission.
  4. Install the battery (if electric start): Place battery in compartment, connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.
  5. Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (check dipstick). Add fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug wire before assembly or maintenance. Ensure all fasteners are tight.

First-Time Operation Setup

Before first use, complete 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. Inspect blade: Ensure blade is sharp, undamaged, and securely fastened.
  4. Adjust cutting height: Set height lever to desired position (middle setting recommended for first mow).
  5. Select discharge mode: Set deck to mulch, bag, or side discharge as needed.

CAUTION! Operate only in daylight with clear visibility. Clear mowing area of debris.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Handle Controls: Personal Pace speed control bar, Blade control lever, Height adjustment lever, Drive bail.

Engine Controls: Throttle control, Choke control, Primer bulb (if equipped), Recoil starter handle, Electric start button (if equipped).

Deck Settings: Discharge chute selector (mulch, bag, side discharge). Personal Pace: Press and hold drive bail to engage drive; release to stop. Speed adjusts automatically with pressure on control bar. Blade Control: Must be held against handle to keep blade engaged (safety feature). Height Adjustment: Single lever changes height for all four wheels simultaneously.

Operating the Mower

Starting: For electric start, insert key, set throttle to FAST, push primer 3 times (cold), press button. For recoil, set throttle/choke, prime, pull cord.

  1. Engage blade: Hold blade control lever against handle.
  2. Begin mowing: Walk behind mower; press drive bail to engage Personal Pace drive.
  3. Adjust speed: Vary pressure on Personal Pace bar. More pressure = faster.
  4. Change direction: Release drive bail, turn mower, re-engage.
  5. Empty bag: Stop engine, wait for blade to stop. Lift bag door, remove and empty bag.
  6. Switch modes: Stop engine. Install or remove mulch plug/discharge chute as needed.

Tip: Overlap passes slightly for even cutting. Mow at steady pace.

Maintenance Schedule

Supports long life with regular maintenance.

  1. Before each use: Check oil level, inspect blade, clear deck of debris.
  2. Every 25 hours: Change engine oil (or annually).
  3. Every 50 hours: Replace air filter, check spark plug.
  4. Every season: Sharpen or replace blade, lubricate wheel bearings and height adjuster.
  5. As needed: Clean underside of deck, check tire pressure, inspect drive system.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before maintenance. Use only Toro replacement parts.

Storage Instructions

End-of-season storage procedure.

  1. Add fuel stabilizer: Run engine 5 minutes to circulate stabilized fuel through system.
  2. Change oil: Drain and refill with fresh SAE 30 oil.
  3. Remove battery (if electric start): Store battery in cool, dry place; charge periodically.
  4. Clean thoroughly: Wash deck and underside; dry completely to prevent rust.
  5. Store properly: Store in clean, dry place. Fold handle down if space is limited.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank indoors or near open flame. Drain fuel if storing over 30 days.

Regulatory Information

EPA & CARB Certified: Engine meets emission standards. Safety Compliance: Meets ANSI B71.1 standards. Copyright © 2025 The Toro Company. For support, visit www.toro.com or contact Toro Customer Service at 1-888-384-9939.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine will not startFuel, spark, switchCheck fuel level; ensure fresh gas. Check spark plug connection. Ensure blade control is engaged.
Mower vibrates excessivelyDamaged/unbalanced bladeStop engine. Inspect blade for damage or debris. Replace or sharpen blade.
Poor cutting performanceDull blade, low speedSharpen or replace blade. Mow at slower pace for thicker grass.
Drive does not engageDrive cable, bailCheck drive cable adjustment. Ensure drive bail is fully pressed.
Mower leaves uncut stripsDeck clogged, overlappingClean underside of deck. Overlap passes by 1-2 inches.
Engine runs but blade stopsShear pin brokenReplace shear pin (if equipped). Disconnect spark plug first.

Reset: For electric start models, ensure battery is charged.

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

Toro SR4 Super Recycler 159cc Owners Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025