toro sr4 super recycler manual model 20381

The Toro SR4 Super Recycler Model 20381 is a high-performance, self-propelled lawn mower featuring the innovative Super Recycler® cutting system, Personal Pace® speed control, a 190cc Briggs & Stratton engine, electric start capability, and a durable 22-inch steel deck. This manual covers essential safety instructions, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and storage procedures to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Safety Information 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Starting & Stopping Procedures 7. Cutting & Mulching System 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage Guidelines 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 22-inch steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton 190cc engine, Personal Pace® drive system, Super Recycler® bagging/mulching system, electric start (if equipped), height adjustment lever, and rear-wheel drive.

Feature	Description
Super Recycler® System	Advanced mulching technology cuts clippings finely for a healthier lawn
Personal Pace® Drive	Automatically adjusts mower speed to your walking pace
Briggs & Stratton Engine	190cc, 4-cycle engine for reliable power
Electric Start (Optional)	Key-start convenience (on select models)
22-inch Steel Deck	Durable construction for even cutting
Height Adjustment	Single-lever control for 1-4 inch cutting height range
Rear-Wheel Drive	Provides traction on slopes and uneven terrain
Folding Handle	For compact storage
Bagger Attachment	Included for grass collection (optional side-discharge)
Blade Brake Clutch	Stops blade while engine runs for safety

Assembly Instructions

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

Attach Handle: Align lower handle sections with deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and knobs.
Install Upper Handle: Connect upper handle to lower sections, tighten knobs securely.
Attach Bagging System: Connect bagger frame to rear deck hooks, install grass bag.
Add Engine Oil: Check oil level; add SAE 30 detergent oil as specified in engine manual.
Add Fuel: Use fresh, unleaded gasoline with minimum 87 octane. Do not overfill.
Install Battery (if electric start): Connect battery cables to terminals (red to positive, black to negative).

WARNING! Keep hands and feet clear of cutting blade during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tight.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operating. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

Clear Area: Remove stones, toys, and debris from lawn before mowing.
Check Equipment: Inspect blade, bolts, and guards for damage before each use.
Refuel Safely: Stop engine and allow to cool before refueling outdoors only.
Operate in Daylight: Ensure good visibility of cutting area.
Keep Bystanders Away: Especially children and pets.
Use on Slopes: Mow across slopes, not up and down, to prevent tipping.

DANGER! Never insert hands or feet under deck or into chute while engine is running. Disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Specifications

Model: 20381 (SR4 Super Recycler)
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 190cc, 4-cycle, OHV
Cutting Width: 22 inches
Cutting Height: 1 to 4 inches (adjustable in 1/4-inch increments)
Drive System: Personal Pace® rear-wheel drive
Starting System: Recoil (standard); Electric (optional on some units)
Fuel Tank Capacity: 0.95 gallons (3.6 liters)
Oil Capacity: 20 oz (0.6 liters) SAE 30
Deck Material: Powder-coated steel
Weight: Approximately 85 lbs (38.6 kg)
Warranty: Limited 3-year residential warranty

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Handle Controls: Personal Pace® control bar (squeeze to go, release to stop), Height Adjustment Lever, Blade Control (Bail) Handle.

Engine Controls: Throttle/Choke Control, Recoil Starter Handle, Electric Start Key Switch (if equipped), Fuel Shut-Off Valve.

Operation: To mow, start engine, engage blade control, then squeeze Personal Pace® bar to move forward. Release bar to stop forward motion. Release blade control to stop blade. Adjust cutting height as needed for grass conditions.

Starting & Stopping Procedures

For recoil start models:

Check oil and fuel levels.
Move throttle/choke control to CHOKE position (cold engine) or FAST (warm).
Prime engine (if equipped) by pressing primer bulb 3 times.
Pull recoil starter handle briskly until engine starts.
Move choke to RUN after engine starts.

For electric start models: Insert key, turn to START position. Release when engine starts.

Stopping: Release Personal Pace® bar, release blade control, move throttle to SLOW, then turn key to OFF (or use engine stop switch).

Cutting & Mulching System

The Super Recycler® system uses a specialized blade and deck design to cut grass clippings into fine particles that decompose quickly, returning nutrients to the soil.

For Mulching: Install mulch plug (included) in rear discharge chute. Ensure grass is dry and not too tall for best results.
For Bagging: Attach bagger assembly. Empty bag when full to maintain airflow and cutting performance.
For Side Discharge: Remove mulch plug and bagger; install side-discharge chute (optional accessory).
Blade Care: Keep blade sharp and balanced. Dull blades tear grass, causing brown tips.

Tip: Overlap cutting passes by 2-3 inches for even results. Mow when grass is dry.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures safety and extends mower life.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check blade for damage, check oil level, inspect for loose fasteners
Every 25 hours	Sharpen or replace blade, clean underside of deck, check tire pressure
Every 50 hours	Change engine oil (more frequently in dusty conditions), clean/replace air filter
Every 100 hours	Replace spark plug, check drive system lubrication
Seasonally	Drain fuel or add stabilizer for storage, inspect cables and controls

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

Storage Guidelines

Prepare mower for storage at season's end to prevent damage.

Clean: Thoroughly clean mower, especially underside of deck.
Fuel: Run engine until tank is empty, or add fuel stabilizer and run for 5 minutes.
Oil: Change oil if not done recently.
Battery (if equipped): Remove and store in cool, dry place; charge periodically.
Store: In a clean, dry place. Fold handle for compact storage.
Blade: Consider removing, sharpening, and coating with light oil before storage.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable. Store mower away from open flames, sparks, or heat sources.

Warranty Information

Toro offers a limited 3-year warranty for residential use against defects in materials or workmanship when used for normal lawn care. Commercial use warranty is 90 days. Proof of purchase is required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, neglect, or improper maintenance. For warranty service, contact an authorized Toro service dealer. Keep this manual and your receipt as proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Empty fuel tank, old gasoline, clogged fuel line, faulty spark plug	Add fresh fuel, check fuel line, clean/replace spark plug, check oil level (low-oil shutdown may be engaged).
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, water in fuel, clogged carburetor	Clean/replace air filter, drain fuel tank and refill with fresh gas.
Uneven cutting	Dull or bent blade, uneven tire pressure, deck not level	Sharpen or replace blade, check tire pressure (12-14 PSI), level deck.
Mower won't self-propel	Drive cable out of adjustment, worn drive belt	Adjust drive cable tension, inspect and replace drive belt if worn.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, bent blade spindle, debris stuck in blade	Stop engine immediately. Check blade tightness and condition. Remove debris.
Grass clumps under deck	Wet grass, cutting too low, dull blade	Mow when grass is dry, raise cutting height, sharpen blade.

For Service: Contact an authorized Toro service dealer or call Toro Customer Support at 1-888-384-9939. Visit www.toro.com for more information.