Abby’s Guide > Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) > Discussions > Recall: Toro 421Q & 421QE (38588/38589)
Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions |
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allenm
Joined: Dec 29, 2010
Points: 8
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Recall: Toro 421Q & 421QE (38588/38589)
Original Message Jan 19, 2011 2:07 pm |
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Toro will have a recall this summer (2011) for Toro 421Q & 421QE (38588/38589). The following problem affects models made in 2009, 2010, and 2011. Toro has learned that Ethanol (used in all gas), is deteriorating aluminum parts within the carburetor. These deteriorating parts break off inside the carburetor creating small fragments then clog areas inside the machine (ie. fuel line). Gas will leak out of the snow blower into (ie. your garage). The end result (gas leak) is similar to what happened on the Toro 180 power clear, but the problem is NOT the same. Toro is aware of the problem and said they are working on a fix to be released this summer (2011) on the Toro 421Q & 421QE (38588/38589) snow blowers. If anyone is having a gas leak now, the current fix is only temporary.
This message was modified Jan 19, 2011 by allenm
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CharlesW
Joined: Jan 9, 2011
Points: 76
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Re: Recall: Toro 421Q & 421QE (38588/38589)
Reply #36 Jan 31, 2011 4:19 pm |
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Thanks for the info. I'll definitely add a shtut off valve sometime. There's a little space at the bottom cover where the fuel tubing is visible, about 2 inches to the right of the carb and downstream of the fuel filter.
Installing a fuel shut-off in the visible tubing you are describing was a piece of cake. A few bucks, 5 minutes or less of time for peace of mind. Didn't fix anything since I don't have the problem yet. No ethanol used in any of my engines so I'm hoping I can make it to the recall without incident. If it happens, my problem should be minimized. As far as voiding any warranty, I discussed it with the mechanic at my Toro dealer before I did it. I also purchased the valve and two clamps from him.
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CharlesW
Joined: Jan 9, 2011
Points: 76
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Re: Recall: Toro 421Q & 421QE (38588/38589)
Reply #39 Jan 31, 2011 4:48 pm |
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Would you happen to have the part numbers or sizes I would need for the nipple and clamps? I might go ahead and do it. No, I don't, but I think it was a pretty common shut-off for 1/4" I.D. gas line. Just a guess, but the clamps were probably 1/2" to 5/8". Chances are 1/4" gas line is pretty much a standard O.D.size. Again, probably pretty common since he didn't need to look anything up.
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CharlesW
Joined: Jan 9, 2011
Points: 76
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Re: Recall: Toro 421Q & 421QE (38588/38589)
Reply #40 Jan 31, 2011 4:55 pm |
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Why would you go to a Toro dealership to get a valve? You'll pay a million bucks for a $5.00 piece. Go to any automotive outlet and buy a small plastic valve with 1/4" barbs and a couple tiny hose clamps. I've seen some kits sold with a short length of line (12" or so) as well. That's easy. My local Toro dealer is part of a well stocked hardware store and their prices are quite competitive with the box stores. In fact, I paid less there for my 421 than Home Depot had them priced at. The fact that I would have to drive about 7 miles round trip to possibly save a buck or two was also a factor. Add to that, he had the parts and another store might or might not have had them. aa335: No extra tubing is needed for this installation.
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CharlesW
Joined: Jan 9, 2011
Points: 76
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Re: Recall: Toro 421Q & 421QE (38588/38589)
Reply #42 Jan 31, 2011 5:16 pm |
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Another reason why I try to support him.  Wal-Mart, Menard's, Home Depot are my last resort, only if he doesn't have the item. He is an independent, but buys through the Ace Hardware Group and that seems to help him a lot in his buying power. First class operation and when he retires, it will probably be closed. 
This message was modified Jan 31, 2011 by CharlesW
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Bill_H
Location: Maine
Joined: Jan 12, 2008
Points: 354
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Re: Recall: Toro 421Q & 421QE (38588/38589)
Reply #44 Jan 31, 2011 8:50 pm |
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Thanks for the info. I got all the parts I need. They're going on the fuel line tonight. Is your tank empty? It's actually more work to drain the tank and refill it than it is to install a shutoff. If you have gas in it, it might be easier to wait till it's empty. But not in a blizzard! 
This message was modified Jan 31, 2011 by Bill_H
Who the hell let all the morning people run things?
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