Are you ready to give your Toro Recycler Mower a new lease on life? Whether it’s been sitting idle for too long or has suffered some mechanical mishaps, rebuilding your mower is a rewarding project that can save you both time and money. With a little patience and the right tools, you can restore your trusty companion to its former glory.
Before diving into the rebuilding process, it’s crucial to gather all the necessary parts and tools. Refer to your Toro Recycler Mower’s manual for a complete list of recommended components and specialized tools. Additionally, ensure a clean and well-lit workspace to facilitate the intricate tasks ahead. Safety should always be paramount, so wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection, throughout the rebuilding process.
The rebuilding process typically involves disassembling the mower, inspecting and cleaning its components, replacing worn-out parts, and reassembling the unit. During disassembly, it’s advisable to create a labeled diagram or take photos to aid in the reassembly process. When inspecting the components, pay close attention to signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. Replace any faulty parts with high-quality replacements to ensure optimal performance. Finally, once all the components are cleaned, inspected, and replaced, carefully reassemble the mower, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Disassembling the Mower Unit
To initiate the disassembly process, disconnect the spark plug wire and allow the engine to cool thoroughly. Proceed by flipping the mower onto its side, ensuring the carburetor is facing upward.
Begin by detaching the mower deck from the chassis. Locate the bolts securing the deck and carefully remove them. Once the deck is free, lift it away from the chassis and place it aside.
Next, focus on the drive system. Remove the belt cover and detach the drive belt from the engine pulley and transmission pulley. Unbolt the transmission from the chassis and slide it out, taking care not to damage any wires or hoses. Remove the engine pulley from the crankshaft and detach the engine from the chassis.
With the engine removed, you can disassemble the blade spindle assembly. Remove the bolt securing the blade to the spindle and use a blade puller to detach the blade. Remove the cotter pin and washer from the spindle and slide the spindle out of the mower deck.
To disassemble the carburetor, remove the air filter cover and air filter. Detach the fuel line from the carburetor and remove the carburetor from the engine. Take care not to damage the gasket between the carburetor and engine.
Replacing the Cutting Deck
The cutting deck is the heart of your Toro Recycler mower, so it’s important to keep it in good condition. If the deck is damaged or worn, it can affect the performance of your mower. Replacing the cutting deck is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to replace the cutting deck on your Toro Recycler mower:
1. Gather your tools and materials.
You will need the following tools and materials to replace the cutting deck:
- New cutting deck
- Wrench set
- Socket set
- Screwdriver
- Measuring tape
- Level
2. Remove the old cutting deck.
To remove the old cutting deck, follow these steps:
- Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug.
- Turn the mower on its side.
- Locate the bolts that secure the cutting deck to the mower frame.
- Remove the bolts.
- Lift the cutting deck off the mower frame.
| **Cutting Deck Bolt Specifications** |
| Bolt Size: 3/8″ |
| Bolt Length: 1 1/2″ |
| Bolt Type: Grade 5 |
Installing New Wheels and Axles
Replacing the wheels and axles on your Toro Recycler mower is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can quickly and easily get your mower back up and running.
1. Disconnect the spark plug
Before starting any work on your mower, it is important to disconnect the spark plug. This will prevent the engine from accidentally starting while you are working on it.
2. Remove the old wheels and axles
To remove the old wheels and axles, simply unbolt them from the deck of the mower. You may need to use a wrench or socket to do this.
3. Install the new wheels and axles
To install the new wheels and axles, simply bolt them onto the deck of the mower. Be sure to tighten the bolts securely.
| Part | Quantity | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Wheels | 2 | 8 inches |
| Axles | 2 | 5/8 inches |
| Bolts | 4 | 1/2 inches |
4. Reconnect the spark plug
Once the new wheels and axles are installed, you can reconnect the spark plug. Be sure to tighten the plug securely.
5. Test the mower
Once the mower is reassembled, test it to make sure that it is running properly. If the mower is not running properly, check the following:
- The spark plug is properly connected.
- The fuel tank is full.
- The air filter is clean.
- The throttle is set to the correct position.
Reassembling the Drive System
Once the frame and transmission are reassembled, it’s time to reinstall the drive system. This involves attaching the wheels, ensuring the belts are properly tensioned, and securing the chain guard.
Installing the Wheels
It’s important to ensure that the wheels are installed correctly. Align the wheel’s mounting holes with the holes on the frame and insert the bolts. Tighten the bolts securely, but avoid overtightening as this can damage the threads.
Tensioning the Belts
The drive system relies on belts to transmit power from the engine to the transmission. Ensure that the belts are properly tensioned to prevent slipping or excess wear. Use a belt tension gauge or follow the manufacturer’s recommended tension specifications.
Securing the Chain Guard
The chain guard protects the drive chain from debris and prevents accidental contact. Reinstall the chain guard by aligning it with the mounting points on the frame. Secure it using the appropriate bolts or screws, ensuring a snug fit to prevent rattling.
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Wheel | Supports the mower and transmits power to the ground. |
| Belt | Transmits power from the engine to the transmission. |
| Chain guard | Protects the drive chain from debris and contact. |
Adjusting the Blade Height
The blade height on a Toro Recycler mower should be adjusted according to the type of grass you are cutting and the desired height of the finished lawn.
To adjust the blade height, follow these steps.
- Park the mower on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Locate the blade height adjustment lever. On most Toro Recycler mowers, this lever is located on the side of the mower deck.
- Move the lever to the desired blade height setting. The blade height settings are typically marked in inches on the mower deck.
- Engage the blade height adjustment knob. This knob is located on the top of the mower deck.
- Tighten the blade height adjustment knob. This will lock the blade height setting in place.
Here is a table of recommended blade heights for different types of grass:
| Grass Type | Recommended Blade Height |
|---|---|
| Fine-leaf grasses (e.g., fescue, bluegrass) | 1.5 – 2.5 inches |
| Medium-leaf grasses (e.g., perennial ryegrass, tall fescue) | 2.5 – 3.5 inches |
| Coarse-leaf grasses (e.g., zoysia, Bermuda grass) | 3.5 – 4.5 inches |
It is important to note that the blade height should be adjusted slightly higher in hot, dry weather to reduce stress on the grass.
Sharpening or Replacing the Mower Blade
A dull or damaged mower blade can significantly reduce the performance of your Toro Recycler mower. To maintain optimal mowing effectiveness, you should regularly check the blade and sharpen or replace it as needed.
Checking for Damage
Before sharpening or replacing the blade, inspect it carefully for cracks, chips, or other damage. If any significant damage is present, the blade should be replaced.
Sharpening the Blade
If the blade is not damaged, it can be sharpened using a bench grinder or a sharpening stone. Ensure that the blade is securely fastened to the grinder or stone and use a steady motion to sharpen the cutting edge.
Safety Precautions
| Safety Precaution |
|---|
| Wear safety glasses and gloves. |
| Unplug the mower before working on it. |
| Allow the blade to cool before handling. |
| Secure the blade firmly before sharpening. |
Sharpening Tips
| Sharpening Tip |
|---|
| Maintain a consistent angle when sharpening. |
| Avoid overheating the blade by dipping it in water frequently. |
| Sharpen both sides of the blade evenly. |
| Test the sharpness of the blade by cutting a piece of paper. |
Replacing the Blade
If the blade is excessively damaged or cannot be sharpened effectively, it should be replaced. Remove the old blade using a wrench or socket set and install the new blade in its place. Ensure that the blade is properly aligned and tightened before operating the mower.
Cleaning the Mower Deck and Housing
Before you can begin rebuilding your Toro Recycler mower, you need to thoroughly clean the mower deck and housing. This will help you identify any damaged or worn parts that need to be replaced.
Materials you’ll need:
| Bucket of warm soapy water | |
| Garden hose with nozzle | |
| Stiff-bristled brush | Putty knife or scraper |
| Rags or shop towels |
1. Unplug the spark plug wire from the spark plug.
2. Remove the mower deck from the mower body.
3. Place the mower deck upside down on a flat surface.
4. Using the warm soapy water and the stiff-bristled brush, scrub the entire mower deck, including the underside of the deck and the housing.
5. Rinse the deck thoroughly with the garden hose.
6. Use the putty knife or scraper to remove any caked-on grass or debris from the deck and housing.
7. Inspect the deck and housing for any damage or wear. If you find any damaged or worn parts, you will need to replace them before you can rebuild the mower.
8. Dry the deck and housing with rags or shop towels before reassembling the mower.
Checking and Replacing the Spark Plug
The spark plug is a vital component of your mower’s ignition system. It generates the spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber. A worn or faulty spark plug can cause difficulty starting, rough running, or even engine stalling. Regularly checking and replacing the spark plug is an essential part of mower maintenance.
8. Inspecting the Spark Plug
To inspect the spark plug, first disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug. Use a socket wrench to remove the spark plug from the engine. Examine the spark plug insulator for cracks, chips, or other damage. The center electrode should be clean and sharp, and the ground electrode should be square and perpendicular to the center electrode.
Checking the Spark Gap
The spark gap is the distance between the center electrode and the ground electrode. The correct spark gap for your mower is specified in the owner’s manual. Use a spark gap gauge to measure the gap. Adjust the gap by carefully bending the ground electrode if necessary.
| Step | Description |
| 1 | Disconnect the spark plug wire from the spark plug. |
| 2 | Use a socket wrench to remove the spark plug from the engine. |
| 3 | Examine the spark plug insulator for cracks, chips, or other damage. |
| 4 | Check the center electrode and ground electrode for wear or damage. |
| 5 | Measure the spark gap using a spark gap gauge. |
| 6 | Adjust the spark gap by carefully bending the ground electrode if necessary. |
| 7 | Screw the spark plug back into the engine by hand until it is tight. |
| 8 | Tighten the spark plug using a spark plug wrench. |
| 9 | Reconnect the spark plug wire to the spark plug. |
Testing the Mower’s Operation
Once you have reassembled the mower, it’s time to test it to ensure it’s operating properly. Start by placing the mower on a level surface and adding fuel to the tank. Choke the engine and pull the starter rope to start the mower.
Checking the Engine
Allow the engine to run for a few minutes and listen for any unusual noises or vibrations. Check for leaks around the carburetor, fuel lines, and spark plug. If you notice any issues, stop the engine and troubleshoot the problem.
Checking the Blade
Engage the blade by moving the throttle lever to the desired speed. Inspect the blade rotation to ensure it’s spinning smoothly and without wobbling. If the blade is loose or damaged, remove it and replace it with a new one.
Checking the Deck
Inspect the mower deck for any dents or damage. Ensure that the discharge chute is clear of obstructions. Adjust the deck height to the desired cutting height and engage the self-propulsion system to check for proper operation.
Checking the Handle
Test the functionality of the handle controls, including the throttle lever, blade engagement lever, and self-propulsion lever. Ensure that all controls are moving smoothly and engaging properly. If any controls are sticking or malfunctioning, adjust them or contact a qualified repair technician.
Testing on Grass
Finally, mow a small patch of grass to test the mower’s cutting and mulching performance. Observe if the mower cuts evenly and mulches the clippings effectively. Adjust the deck height or blade sharpness if necessary to achieve optimal results.
Maintaining the Toro Recycler Mower
Safety First
Before starting maintenance, always disconnect the spark plug and wear appropriate safety gear.
Regular Maintenance Tasks
Inspect the mower regularly for loose components, damaged parts, or dull blades. Clean the deck and undercarriage after each use to prevent clogging.
Spark Plug Replacement
Replace the spark plug every 100 hours of use for optimal performance and reliability.
Air Filter Cleaning
Inspect the air filter and clean or replace it as needed. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow and affect engine performance.
Oil Change
Change the engine oil every 50 hours of use or annually. Use high-quality oil recommended by the manufacturer.
Blade Sharpening or Replacement
Sharpen or replace the mower blades annually or when they become dull. Dull blades cut unevenly and increase the load on the engine.
Drive Belt Replacement
Inspect the drive belt regularly for cracks or wear. Replace it if necessary to ensure proper power transmission from the engine to the cutting deck.
Deck Leveling
Level the cutting deck periodically to ensure even cutting height and prevent scalping.
Sharpening and Balancing the Blade
Sharpen the blade with an appropriate grinding tool and balance it on a blade balancer to prevent vibrations and improve cutting performance.
| Safety Precautions |
|---|
| – Disconnect the spark plug before working on the blade. |
| – Use a blade sharpening tool designed for mower blades. |
| – Wear eye protection and gloves while sharpening. |
| – Balance the blade on a blade balancer to ensure smooth operation. |
How to Rebuild a Toro Recycler Mower
Toro Recycler mowers are popular for their mulching capabilities, which allow them to finely chop grass clippings and return them to the lawn as a natural fertilizer. However, over time, the mower’s components can wear out and require rebuilding.
Rebuilding a Toro Recycler mower involves disassembling the mower, cleaning and inspecting the parts, and replacing any worn or damaged components. This process can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and materials.
Here are the steps on how to rebuild a Toro Recycler mower:
-
Gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need a socket wrench set, a Phillips head screwdriver, a flathead screwdriver, a wire brush, a degreaser, and replacement parts as needed.
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Disconnect the spark plug. This is a safety precaution to prevent the mower from starting accidentally.
-
Drain the fuel from the mower. This can be done by removing the fuel line from the carburetor and draining the fuel into a container.
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Remove the carburetor. The carburetor is located on the top of the engine. Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts that hold the carburetor in place, and then carefully lift the carburetor off the engine.
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Clean the carburetor. Use a wire brush and degreaser to clean the carburetor. Be sure to clean all of the jets and passages in the carburetor.
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Reassemble the carburetor. Once the carburetor is clean, reassemble it in reverse order of disassembly.
-
Install the carburetor on the engine. Use a socket wrench to tighten the bolts that hold the carburetor in place.
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Reconnect the spark plug.
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Fill the mower with fuel.
-
Start the mower. The mower should start and run smoothly.
People Also Ask
How do I know if my Toro Recycler mower needs to be rebuilt?
There are a few signs that your Toro Recycler mower may need to be rebuilt. These include:
-
- The mower is difficult to start.
- The mower runs rough or stalls.
- The mower does not cut the grass evenly.
- The mower leaks oil or fuel.
How much does it cost to rebuild a Toro Recycler mower?
The cost to rebuild a Toro Recycler mower will vary depending on the parts that need to be replaced. However, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200 for parts and labor.
Can I rebuild a Toro Recycler mower myself?
Yes, it is possible to rebuild a Toro Recycler mower yourself. However, if you are not comfortable working on small engines, it is best to take the mower to a qualified repair shop.
