This document is the operator's manual for the Toro Flex-Force Power System™ 60V MAX 22in Recycler® Lawn Mower, covering models 21466, 21466T, and 21468. It provides comprehensive instructions for safe operation, maintenance, and storage of the device.
Function Description
The Toro Flex-Force Power System™ 60V MAX 22in Recycler® Lawn Mower is a rotary-blade, walk-behind lawn mower designed for residential homeowners. Its primary function is to cut grass on well-maintained lawns. The mower is powered by Toro Flex-Force lithium-ion battery packs, specifically Models 88660 (provided with Model 21466) or 88675 (provided with Model 21468). It can also utilize battery packs Model 88620, 88625, 88640, or 88650. These battery packs are designed to be charged by battery charger Models 88602 (provided with Models 21466 and 21468), 88605, or 88610. The mower is capable of both recycling grass clippings back into the lawn and bagging them for collection.
Usage Features
The manual emphasizes safety as a top priority, with detailed warnings and instructions for training, preparation, and operation. Before use, operators are advised to read all instructions, ensure all guards and safety devices are in place, and remove any objects from the mowing area. Proper attire, including eye protection, long pants, and slip-resistant footwear, is recommended.
Starting the machine involves installing the battery pack, inserting the electric-start button into the electric-starter switch, squeezing the blade-control bar to the handle, and pressing the electric-start button until the motor starts. The self-propel drive feature allows the user to walk with hands on the upper handle while the machine automatically maintains pace.
The mower offers adjustable cutting heights, allowing users to select the desired grass length. It is recommended to cut only about a third of the grass blade at a time for improved runtime and to avoid cutting below 51 mm (2 inches) unless the grass is sparse or growth is slowing down. For grass over 15 cm (6 inches) tall, mowing at the highest setting first, then at a lower setting, is advised. Mowing in wet conditions should be avoided as wet grass and leaves can clump and cause the motor to stall.
The bag-on-demand feature allows for easy switching between recycling and bagging modes. To recycle clippings, the lever is moved to the recycling position. For bagging, the grass bag is installed, and the lever is moved to the bagging position. The manual provides clear instructions for installing and removing the grass bag.
For cutting leaves, it's suggested to ensure half of the lawn shows through the cut leaf cover after mowing, which may require multiple passes. For thick leaf cover (more than 13 cm or 5 inches), mowing at a higher cutting height first, then at the desired height, is recommended. Slowing down the mowing speed can help achieve finer leaf cuts.
Maintenance Features
Regular maintenance is crucial for the machine's performance and longevity. After each use, the underside of the machine should be cleaned, especially the area under the rear door where clippings go to the grass bag. The manual advises washing out the bag-on-demand area in both fully forward and fully rearward positions. After cleaning, the engine should be run for a few minutes to dry the underside and prevent rusting. The machine can also be cleaned in a vertical-stow position to facilitate access to the underside.
The blade should be inspected regularly for wear, damage, or dullness. A dull or nicked blade should be sharpened and balanced, or replaced immediately if bent, worn, or cracked. When servicing the blade, the operator must remove the electric-start button and battery pack, and use a block of wood to hold the blade steady. Gloves are recommended due to the blade's sharpness. A torque wrench is required to properly tighten the blade bolt to 68 N·m (50 ft-lb) during installation.
The self-propel drive cable may require adjustment if a new cable is installed or if the drive is out of adjustment. This involves loosening an adjustment nut, adjusting the cable tension by pulling or pushing it, and then tightening the nut firmly.
For storage, the machine, battery pack, and charger should be kept indoors in a dry, clean area within the appropriate temperature range. The battery pack should be charged to 2 or 3 LED indicators for off-season storage, not fully charged or fully depleted. Before storing, the electric-start button and battery pack should be removed, and all foreign material cleaned from the product. The machine can be stored in a vertical-stow position to minimize space, ensuring the cutting height is set to 92 mm (3-5/8 inches) or lower, and the handle is folded forward with cables routed correctly.
The manual also includes a troubleshooting section to address common issues such as the machine not starting, not running continuously, not reaching full power, battery pack losing charge quickly, and charger malfunctions. It provides possible causes and corrective actions for each problem.