The Toro Recycler 20334 is a self propelled mower available from
Toro.
The Recycler 20334 typically costs
$420 .
Consumer Reports recommends that you match the features on a model to the needs you have. Here's
our take on some of the specifications and features that are commonly available on self propelled mower
models like the Recycler 20334.
Forward speeds:
Some self-propelled mowers have one speed, usually about 2 1/2 mph; others have several; still others have a continuous range, typically from 1 to 3 mph. Two or more speeds let you adjust to the terrain and grass.
Drive wheels:
Front-wheel drive allows you to make U-turns by pushing down on the handlebar and swinging the mower around without disengaging the drive. The penalty is less traction than rear-wheel drive mowers.
Deck size (in.):
Most models have a deck size, or cutting swath, of 20 to 22 inches. There is no significant advantage from one size to another. A larger deck can cut more grass in a single pass, but in this size range the difference is negligible.
Tested Model
The Ratings of Toro Recycler 20333 were applied to untested model Toro Recycler 20334, which in our judgment is enough alike in its performance, features, and specs that our test results apply to both.
Toro makes and markets lawn mowers and zero-turn riders under the Toro and Lawn Boy names. The Toro and Lawn Boy brands are considered premium. Most Toro and Lawn Boy lawn mowers are self-propelled, fully featured, and have Briggs & Stratton and Honda engines. Some models in the line comply with California emissions. Toro and Lawn Boy mowers are sold through dealers and at Home Depot. Toro also markets a line of lawn tractors made by MTD.
Forward speeds Some self-propelled mowers have one speed, usually about 2 1/2 mph; others have several; still others have a continuous range, typically from 1 to 3 mph. Two or more speeds let you adjust to the terrain and grass.
Forward speeds
Variable
Drive wheels Front-wheel drive allows you to make U-turns by pushing down on the handlebar and swinging the mower around without disengaging the drive. The penalty is less traction than rear-wheel drive mowers.
Drive wheels
Rear
Deck size (in.) Most models have a deck size, or cutting swath, of 20 to 22 inches. There is no significant advantage from one size to another. A larger deck can cut more grass in a single pass, but in this size range the difference is negligible.
Deck size (in.)
22
Electric start Starts a gasoline-powered engine with the turn of a key by the operator. An electric start is powered by an on-board battery that requires periodic charging.
Electric start
No
Blade brake clutch Allows the gasoline engine to continue to run when the operator leaves the area behind the handlebar to empty the grass-clipping collection bag or to move an object in the path of the mower. It saves wear on the engine by reducing stopping/ restarting cycles.
Blade brake clutch
Yes
Engine size For gas-powered mowers, engine size in cubic centimeters (cc) provides a rough indication of the engine's power; electric models are rated in volts (for cordless) or amperes (corded). A larger number for either a gas or electric model, however, does not necessarily result in better cutting performance.
Engine size
190
Engine manufacturer Stated manufacturer of a gasoline engine. For some mowers the engine manufacturer is not documented and is listed as "unknown.".
The first time I used this mower was the day I bought it, so it had been started and running at the dealer location, and thus started promptly with the electric start. From that point on the unit will not start with the electric starter unless it has already been started manually and warmed up. It takes approximately 13 pulls to start the mower. Drive belt came off the third time I used the mower, and about twice each mowing season. It is not easy to put back on. Lots of parts to remove and put back. My dealer carries replacement air filters and spark plugs, but not the belt. They gave me an 800 number for Toro that nobody answers or responds to. I am unable to get any support at all for this piece of junk but can't afford another new mower right now. Not only would I not recommend this mower (or Toro) to anybody, but would tell them matter of factly to bypass it altogether.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
By from
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comment:
How long have you owned it:
Bottom Line
By
Spike
from
Atlanta, GA
(2 of 2 customers found this review helpful)
1.0
Not a good mower for some types of yards
3/17/2012
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comment:
The mower starts easily. This is the best thing I can say about this mower. Stock up on drive belts because you will be changing them often. This is NOT a good 'recycling' mower. It takes only a small amount of debris (leaves and a small sweet gum ball) to cause the belt to jump off the pulley. Toro considers the replacement of the belt as general maintenance. I would generally agree, except the design says otherwise, and drive belt replacement is not covered in the manual. It would be great if Toro could enclose the gears in a sealed box similar to Honda. I have built missiles that are not as difficult to repair as this mower. The drive train design is flawed and does not stand up to what a consumer would consider general use when using this recycling mower. If replacing this belt is considered general maintenance, then common screws should be used and not the four different uncommon types that are found on this model. I bought this mower because Toro in years past was a good, reliable brand. I needed a mower that was reliable and easy to maintain. If you have a flat yard with no landscaping, then this is the mower for you. All others should consider a different brand.