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Lawn mowers & tractors

Toro Recycler 20334
Toro-Recycler 20334-Lawn mower & tractor-image
Approximate retail price:
$420
We expect this model to perform similarly to the tested Toro Recycler 20333 although it may differ in price and features.
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Community icon12 people have reviewed this model.
Type: Gas multiple speeds
About - Toro Recycler 20334

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 Recycler 20333
Approximate retail price:
$399.99
Price & shop
About This Brand

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.

Read our Brand Reliability
Features & Specs - Toro Recycler 20334
info Forward speeds Variable
info Drive wheels Rear
info Deck size (in.) 22
info Electric start No
info Blade brake clutch Yes
info Engine size 190
info Engine manufacturer Briggs & Stratton
More features and specs
User Reviews - Toro Recycler 20334
Consumer Reports User Reviews
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By from
 
1.0
Gave it 1 star just because I had to...
5/21/2012
Pros
Self -propelled
Cons
Min 13 pulls to start
No dealer support
No local parts
Won't start with key
Best Uses
Boat Anchor
Comment:
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 from
(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.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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