Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

I'm going to make a purchase of a Toro lawn mower ( I have a preference for that brand).  Either the Recycler 20008, 6.5 HP, 4 cycle, Tecumseh GTS engine or the 20053 SR4 Super Recycler with 6.5 HP, B & S side valve engine.  I'm still a "push mower" guy and these are my two options.  The price difference about $50.00.  Termy posted a good review of the 20055, so I'm kind of leaning towards the 20053.  I would appreciate any insight you intelligent people have concerning the difference in the engine.  Thanks a ton for your help.

Torch 

I am sorry Torch for the late reply but Marshall pretty much said it for me. If you read my review about my Toro 20055 SR4 Super Recycler, then you know the quality of these units. The recycler's have Tecumseh engines and the mowers are not built as well as the SR4 series. For example, emagine yourself cutting tall grass one of these days putting a heavy load on that Tecumseh engine when one day it failes! VS a SR4 with a B&S engine that will last a long time with normal TLC. There is not a whole lot of maintanance that is needed on a SR4. Basically, change the oil after the first 5 hours of use then yearly there after. Keep the air filter clean, and replace the sparkplug once a year or two. Grease the Zerks and keep the mower clean, thats all there is to it! I also agree with Marshall about the price difference.

Taking care of a Toro push is better than taking care of a Toro rider.   

Termy you response came in fine time.  I did read your review and liked what you had to say.  That got me leaning towards the 53.  Maintaining it sounds routine, so no problem there.  I'll probably pull the trigger on the purchase friday or saturday.  AJace, that's good to know.  I have seen people in this neighborhood with riding mowers, but I don't think it's necessary for my lot size.  Plus, I do like the exercise.  If I recall, some of you posted pictures of your homes before, and you have need of a riding mower.  I don't mind keeping the place looking real nice, but I've got other things I'd like to do, so I wouldn't want it to be a 12 hour project mowing my lawn.  Although I wouldn't mind having a riding mower/tractor to till and grade the yard.  They didn't do such a good job when they did the grade, even if it was only a subgrade. 

I find that I like to mow to also perfection, and have to back up quite a bit with my tractor.  I am starting to think of Zero Turn or one like Brian has.