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

The recall letter for my Toro 421 QE came Saturday.

Seems to verify what has been posted previously.

Parts available at authorized dealers in late June.

They ask you to contact your servicing dealer after July 1 to have the repair done.

Fortunately, it seems to be the same basic problem as the Powerclear 180, although doesn't seem to be as widespread.

Unfortunately, these problematic components should have never made it past final assembly on the 421Q.  I guess Toro decided to make sales numbers and then deal with the problems afterwards.

I've registered the my 421Q online.  So far, I haven't received my recall letter yet.   Frequently, I check this website to see if new recall announcements are posted.

http://www.toro.com/safety/product_recalls.html

I own a Toro 2450GTS which is a fine machine but there was a recall on those for gas tank leaks as well.  Having had that problem one would think Toro would "get it right" going into the next generation. 

Marc

The recall is now officially on Toro's website.


USA Customers
http://www.toro.com/en-us/safety/Documents/power_clear_recycler_mower_recall_04262011.pdf



Canadian Customers
http://cpsr-rspc.hc-sc.gc.ca/PR-RP/recall-retrait-eng.jsp?re_id=1315

mml4 wrote:
Considering that Toro has "gotten it right" on everything else on the 421Q, I can tolerate the gas leak.  I've since installed a gas shut off valve which takes less than 5 minutes to do without pulling out any covers.  This problem is more of a supplier issue than a design flaw on Toro's part.

First off, I am very happy with my 421QE, but........

While it is a supplier issue with the carburetor leak and very likely was a supplier issue withthe gas tank leak on other models, it does seem that the Toro quality control was not very good.

The carburetor problem with the Loncin engines was a known issue long before it was acknowledged.

I also added the gas shutoff valve and have had no problems whatsoever.

What makes it a sore point with me, what about those people that buy a piece of equipment from what they think is a reliable supplier and plan on using it, not modifying or rebuilding it?

Had I not read about the problem on some internet sites, I sure wasn't planning on adding a gas valve to what was supposed to be a top of the line SS machine.

I also think Toro was quite lax in releasing information about the problem. Like someone posted earlier, I think they were more concerned with sales than with safety.

Toro's reputation has taken a hit and in my opinion, they deserve it.

I'm thinking of also installing a shut-off valve on my Toro 421QE snowblower.  Where's the best place to pick up a

1/4" shut-off? -   Hardware store / OPE Dealer / or Auto Parts store?

It looks like I have room to install it without removing any baffles or housing.

Thanks - John

All of the one's you mentioned plus Sears, HD and Lowes. The local BB stores near me usually have a good OPE parts section.

aa335 wrote:

Sorry AA but I couldn't disagree more!-Toro single stage machines have a reputation of being excellent at moving snow accompanied by gas leak problems due to carburetor and tank issues going back 20 years. The machines are manufactured under their name and I don't think it an unfair criticism or expectation that they "get it right" given their history. After all they pick the suppliers.

With regard to the installation of the gas valve-If you check the archives here you will find I posted photos of a gas valve installation on my 2450 some time ago. This is another gripe I have against Toro. Why isn't  a fuel shut off standard equiptment on a machine that costs as much as their single stage units?

I own 3 Toro machines of varying types.They are all of excellent design and not one of them hasn't been the subject of a recall. Love the machines-HATE THE COMPANY!!!

Sorry for the rant,

Marc

Have to agree with Marc concerning Toro company arrogance.   That same arrogance seems to infect their dealerships as well.   I've only bought one Toro product new and that was from Home Depot because I refuse to drop a dime at the Toro dealership. 

Great machines made and sold by less than great people.   I also agree that for the price of the machine, an inline fuel filter and a fuel shut off valve should be standard equipment. 

borat wrote:

My 2011 421 QE did come with an in-line fuel filter, but no fuel shut-off valve.

Also, my Toro dealer has been great to work with.