60V 21in Super Recycler® Lawn Mower

This rotary-blade, walk-behind lawn mower is intended to be used by residential homeowners. It is designed primarily for cutting grass on well-maintained lawns on residential properties. It is not designed for cutting brush or for agricultural uses. It is designed to use Toro Flex-Force lithium-ion battery pack Model 88675 (provided with Models 21566 and 21568); it can also use battery pack Models 88620, 88625, 88640, 88650, or 88660. These battery packs are designed to be charged only by battery charger Models 88602 (provided with Models 21566 and 21568), 88605, or 88610. Using this product for purposes other than its intended use could prove dangerous to you and bystanders.

Models 21566T and 21568T do not include a battery or a charger.

Read this information carefully to learn how to operate and maintain your product properly and to avoid injury and product damage. You are responsible for operating the product properly and safely.

Visit www.Toro.com for more information, including safety tips, training materials, accessory information, help finding a dealer, or to register your product.

Whenever you need service, genuine Toro parts, or additional information, contact an Authorized Service Dealer or Toro Customer Service and have the model and serial numbers of your product ready. Figure 1 identifies the location of the model and serial numbers on the product. Write the numbers in the space provided.

Important: With your mobile device, you can scan the QR code on the serial number decal (if equipped) to access warranty, parts, and other product information.

Figure 1

1. Model and serial number location

This manual identifies potential hazards and has safety messages identified by the safety-alert symbol (Figure 2), which signals a hazard that may cause serious injury or death if you do not follow the recommended precautions.

Figure 2

Safety-alert symbol

This manual uses 2 words to highlight information. Important calls attention to special mechanical information and Note emphasizes general information worthy of special attention.

IMPORTANT SAFETY

INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING—When using an electric machine, always read and follow basic safety warnings and instructions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury, including the following:

I. Training

1. The operator of the machine is responsible for any accidents or hazards occurring to others or their property.

2. Do not allow children to use or play with the machine, battery pack, or the battery charger; local regulations may restrict the age of the operator.

3. Do not allow children or untrained people to operate or service this device. Allow only people who are responsible, trained, familiar with the instructions, and physically capable to operate or service the device.

4. Before using the machine, battery pack, and battery charger, read all the instructions and cautionary markings on these products.

5. Become familiar with the controls and proper use of the machine, battery pack, and battery charger.

II. Preparation

1. Keep bystanders, especially children and pets, out of the operating area.

2. Do not operate the machine without all guards and safety devices, such as deflectors and grass catchers, in place and functioning properly on the machine.

3. Inspect the area where you will use the machine and remove all objects that could interfere with the operation of the machine or that the machine could throw.

4. Before using the machine, ensure that the blade, blade bolt, and blade assembly are not worn or damaged. Replace any damaged or unreadable labels.

5. Use only the battery pack specified by Toro. Using other accessories and attachments may increase the risk of injury and fire.

6. Plugging the battery charger into an outlet that is not 120 V can cause a fire or electric shock. Do not plug the battery charger into an outlet other than 120 V. For a different style of connection, use an attachment plug adapter of the proper configuration for the power outlet if needed.

7. Do not use a damaged or modified battery pack or battery charger, which may exhibit unpredictable behavior that results in fire, explosion, or risk of injury.

8. If the supply cord to the battery charger is damaged, contact an Authorized Service Dealer to replace it.

9. Charge the battery pack with only the battery charger specified by Toro. A charger suitable for 1 type of battery pack may create a risk of fire when used with another battery pack.

10. Charge the battery pack in a well-ventilated area only.

11. Follow all charging instructions and do not charge the battery pack outside of the temperature range specified in the instructions. Otherwise, you may damage the battery pack and increase the risk of fire.

12. Dress properly—Wear appropriate clothing, including eye protection; long pants; substantial, slip-resistant footwear (not barefoot or wearing sandals); and hearing protection. Tie back long hair and do not wear loose clothing or loose jewelry that can get caught in moving parts. Wear a dust mask in dusty operating conditions. Use of rubber gloves is recommended.

III. Operation

1. Contact with the moving blade will cause serious injury. Keep your hands and feet away from the cutting area and all moving parts of the machine. Keep clear of any discharge opening.

2. Using this machine for purposes other than its intended use could prove dangerous to you and bystanders.

3. Disengage the self-propel drive (if equipped) before starting the machine.

4. Do not tilt the machine when starting the motor.

5. Prevent unintentional starting—Ensure that the electric-start button is removed from the electric-start switch before connecting the battery pack and handling the machine.

6. Use your full attention while operating the machine. Do not engage in any activity that causes distractions; otherwise, injury or property damage may occur.

7. When you release the blade-control bar, the motor should shut off and the blade should stop within 3 seconds. If not, stop using your machine immediately and contact an Authorized Service Dealer.

8. Stop the machine, remove the electric-start button, remove the battery pack from the machine, and wait for all movement to stop before adjusting, servicing, cleaning, or storing the machine.

9. Remove the battery pack and electric-start button from the machine whenever you leave it unattended or before changing accessories.

10. Do not force the machine—Allow the machine to do the job better and safer at the rate for which it was designed.

11. Stay alert—Watch what you are doing and use common sense when operating the machine. Do not use the machine while ill, tired, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

12. Do not use a battery-operated lawn mower in rain.

13. Operate the machine only in good visibility and appropriate weather conditions. Do not operate the machine when there is the risk of lightning.

14. Use extreme caution when reversing or pulling the machine toward you.

15. Keep proper footing and balance at all times, especially on slopes. Mow across the face of slopes, never up and down. Use extreme caution when changing directions on slopes. Do not mow exceedingly steep slopes. Walk, never run with the machine.

16. Do not direct the discharge material toward anyone. Avoid discharging material against a wall or obstruction; material may ricochet toward you. Stop the blade(s) when crossing surfaces other than grass.

17. Watch for holes, ruts, bumps, rocks, or other hidden objects. Uneven terrain could cause you to lose your balance or footing.

18. Wet grass or leaves can cause serious injury if you slip and contact the blade. Do not mow in wet conditions.

19. If the machine strikes an object or starts to vibrate, immediately shut off the machine, remove the electric-start button, remove the battery pack, and wait for all movement to stop before examining the machine for damage. Make all necessary repairs before resuming operation.

20. Stop the machine and remove the electric-start button before loading the machine for hauling.

21. Under abusive conditions, the battery pack may eject liquid; avoid contact. If you accidently come into contact with the liquid, flush with water. If the liquid contacts your eyes, seek medical help. Liquid ejected from the battery pack may cause irritation or burns.

IV. Maintenance and Storage

1. Stop the machine, remove the electric-start button, remove the battery pack from the machine, and wait for all movement to stop before adjusting, servicing, cleaning, or storing the machine.

2. Do not attempt to repair the machine except as indicated in the instructions. Have an Authorized Service Dealer perform service on the machine using identical replacement parts.

3. Wear gloves and eye protection when servicing the machine.

4. Sharpen a dull blade on both edges to maintain balance. Clean the blade and ensure that it is balanced.

5. Replace the blade if it is bent, worn, or cracked. An unbalanced blade causes vibration, which could damage the motor or cause personal injury.

6. When servicing the blade, be aware that the blade can still move even though the power source is off.

7. Check the grass collection bag frequently for deterioration or wear, and replace a worn bag with a Toro [replacement] bag.

8. For best performance, use only genuine Toro replacement parts and accessories. Other replacement parts and accessories could be dangerous, and such use could void the product warranty.

9. Maintain the machine—Keep cutting edges sharp and clean for the best and safest performance. Keep handles dry, clean, and free from oil and grease. Keep guards in place and in working order. Keep blades sharp. Use identical replacement blades only.

10. Check the machine for damaged parts—If there are damaged guards or other parts, determine whether the machine will operate properly. Check for misaligned and binding moving parts, broken parts, mounting, and any other condition that may affect its operation. Unless indicated in the instructions, have an Authorized Service Dealer repair or replace a damaged guard or part.

11. When the battery pack is not in use, keep it away from metal objects such as paper clips, coins, keys, nails, and screws that can make a connection from 1 terminal to another. Shorting the battery terminals may cause burns or a fire.

12. Check the blade and motor mounting bolts frequently for tightness.

13. When you are not using the machine, store it indoors in a dry, secure place out of the reach of children.

14. Do not expose a battery pack or machine to fire or excessive temperature. Exposure to fire or temperature above 130°C (265°F) may cause explosion.

15. CAUTION—A mistreated battery pack may present a risk of fire, explosion, or chemical burn.

    • Do not disassemble the battery pack.

    • Replace the battery pack with a genuine Toro battery pack only; using another type of battery pack may cause a fire or risk of injury.

    • Keep battery packs out of the reach of children and in the original packaging until you are ready to use them.

SAVE THESE

INSTRUCTIONS

Safety and Instructional Decals

Safety decals and instructions are easily visible to the operator and are located near any area of potential danger. Replace any decal that is damaged or missing.

Manufacturer's Mark

1. This mark indicates that the blade is identified as a part from the original machine manufacturer.

94-8072

133-8061

134-4691

1. Auto speed
2. Max speed

145-1454

1. Warning—read the Operator’s Manual.
2. Cutting/dismemberment hazard of the hand, mower blade—stay away from moving parts; keep all guards and shields in place.
3. Cutting/dismemberment hazard of the hand, mower blade—remove the key and read the Operator’s Manual before performing maintenance.
4. Thrown object hazard—keep bystanders away; shut off the machine and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the machine; pick up debris before mowing.
5. Cutting/dismemberment hazard of the foot, mower blade—do not mow up or down slopes; only mow across slopes; look behind you when mowing in reverse.

137-9456

1. Read the Operator’s Manual.
2. Keep away from open fire or flames.
3. Do not expose to rain.

137-9461

1. Battery charge status

137-9462

137-9463

1. The battery pack is charging.
2. The battery pack is fully charged.
3. The battery pack is over or under the appropriate temperature range.
4. Battery pack charging fault

139-8986

140-1324

1. Read the Operator’s Manual.
2. To start the machine, squeeze the bar to the handle and press the button.
3. To shut off the machine, release the bar.

Important: The battery pack is not fully charged when it is purchased. Before using the machine for the first time, refer to Charging the Battery Pack.

Mounting the Battery Charger (Optional)

Parts needed for this procedure:

Mounting hardware (not included)

2

If desired, mount the battery charger securely on a wall using the wall-mount key holes on the back of the charger.

Mount it indoors (such as a garage or other dry place), near a power outlet, and out of the reach of children.

Refer to Figure 3 for assistance in mounting the charger.

Slide the charger over the appropriately positioned hardware to secure the charger in place (hardware not included).

Figure 3

Unfolding the Handle

Warning

Unfolding the handle improperly can damage the cables, causing an unsafe operating condition.

• Do not damage the cable(s) when folding or unfolding the handle.

• Ensure that the cable(s) are routed to the outside of the handle.

• If a cable is damaged, contact an Authorized Service Dealer.

Important: Hold the handle while engaging the handle locks to avoid pinching your hands.

Figure 4

Figure 5

Installing the Blade-Control Bar

Figure 6

Assembling the Grass Bag

Figure 7

Figure 8

1. Self-propel handle
2. Blade-control bar
3. Electric-start button
4. Electric-start switch
5. Rear deflector
6. Battery compartment
7. Cutting-height lever (4)
8. Handle-height adjustment knob
9. Handle lever (2)
10. Grass bag

Figure 9

1. Grass bag
2. Efficiency blade (increased run time; installed by default)
3. Rear plug (installed by default)
4. Curved performance blade (improved cutting and bagging performance; included)

Figure 10

1. Battery charger Model 88602 (included with Models 21566 and 21568)
2. Battery pack Model 88675 (included with Models 21566 and 21568)

Battery Pack

Battery Charger

Appropriate Temperature Ranges

*Charging time will increase if you do not charge the battery pack within this range.

Store the machine, battery pack, and battery charger in an enclosed clean, dry area.

Note: Determine the left and right sides of the machine from the normal operating position.

Before Operation

Installing the Battery Pack

Important: Use the battery pack only in temperatures that are within the appropriate range; refer to Specifications.

Model 21566 and 21566T

1. Ensure that the vents on the battery are clear of any dust and debris.

2. Press down on the battery-compartment lid to open it (A of Figure 11).

3. Line up the cavity in the battery pack with the tongue on the machine and slide the battery pack into the compartment until it locks into place (B of Figure 11).

4. Press down on the battery-compartment lid until it clicks into place (C of Figure 11).

   Note: If the battery-compartment lid does not close completely, the battery is not fully installed.

Figure 11

Model 21568 and 21568T

1. Ensure that the vents on the battery are clear of any dust and debris.

2. Lift up the battery-compartment lid (A of Figure 12).

3. Line up the cavity in the battery pack with the tongue on the machine and slide the battery pack into the compartment until it locks into place (B of Figure 12).

4. Close the battery-compartment lid (C of Figure 12).

   Note: If the battery-compartment lid does not close completely, the battery is not fully installed.

   

   Figure 12

Adjusting the Handle Height

You may raise or lower the handle to a position comfortable for you.

To adjust the handle height, do the following:

1. Lower the handle; refer to Folding the Handle.

2. On both sides of the machine, remove the handle bumper and adjust the position of the carriage bolt to the upper (high handle height) or lower (lower handle height) position (Figure 13).

3. Secure the handle bumpers and raise the handle.

Figure 13

1. Upper handle height position
2. Lower handle height position

Adjusting the Cutting Height

Warning

Adjusting the height-of-cut could bring your hands into contact with a moving blade and result in serious injury.

• Shut off the motor, remove the battery, and wait for all moving parts to stop before adjusting the cutting height.

• Do not put your fingers under the housing when adjusting the cutting height.

Adjust the cutting height as desired. Set all wheels to the same cutting height (Figure 14).

Figure 14

During Operation

Starting the Machine

1. Ensure that the battery pack is installed in the machine; refer to Installing the Battery Pack.

   Note: If the battery-compartment lid does not close completely, the battery is not fully installed.

2. Insert the electric-start button into the electric-start switch (A of Figure 15).

3. Squeeze the blade-control bar and hold it to the handle (B of Figure 15).

4. Press the electric-start button and keep it pressed until the motor starts (C of Figure 15).

Figure 15

Using the Self-Propel Drive

To operate the self-propel drive, simply walk with your hands on the upper handle and your elbows at your sides, and the machine will automatically keep pace with you (Figure 16).

Figure 16

Note: If the machine does not freely roll backward after self-propelling, stop walking, hold your hands in place, and allow the machine to roll a couple of centimeters (inches) forward to disengage the wheel drive. You can also try reaching just under the upper handle to the metal handle and pushing the machine forward a couple of centimeters (inches). If the machine still does not roll backward easily, contact an Authorized Service Dealer.

Adjusting the Blade Speed

This machine has 2 blade-speed settings: AUTO and MAX.

• When set to the AUTO position, the blade speed is adjusted automatically for greater efficiency; changes in cutting conditions are detected and the blade speed increases when necessary to maintain quality of cut.

• When set to the MAX position, the blade speed remains at the highest speed at all times.

Turn the electric-start button in the electric-start switch to either position to adjust the blade speed setting (Figure 17).

Figure 17

1. AUTO position
2. MAX position

Shutting Off the Machine

1. Release the blade-control bar (A of Figure 18).

2. Remove the electric-start button from the electric-start switch (B of Figure 18).

3. Remove the battery pack; refer to Removing the Battery Pack from the Machine.

   Note: Whenever you are not using the machine, remove the battery pack.

Figure 18

Recycling the Clippings

Your machine comes from the factory ready to recycle the grass and leaf clippings back into the lawn.

Important: Ensure that the rear plug is locked in place. To lock the plug, raise the rear deflector (A of Figure 19), and firmly push the plug down until it snaps into place (B of Figure 19).

Figure 19

Note: To unlock the rear plug, rotate the lever on the plug to the right (Figure 20).

Bagging the Clippings

Use the grass bag when you want to collect grass and leaf clippings from the lawn.

Note: By default this machine is equipped with an economy blade for improved runtime; it also includes an optional performance blade for improved bagging and performance. Before bagging, install the performance blade; refer to Replacing the Blade.

Installing the Grass Bag

1. Shut off the machine and wait for all moving parts to stop; refer to Shutting Off the Machine.

2. Remove the battery pack from the machine; refer to Removing the Battery Pack from the Machine.

3. Raise and hold up the rear deflector (A of Figure 20).

4. Remove the rear-discharge plug by pushing in the latch with your thumb and pulling the plug out from the machine (B and C of Figure 20).

5. Install the bag-rod ends into the notches at the base of the handle, and rock the bag back and forth to ensure that the bag-rod ends are seated at the bottom of both notches (D of Figure 20).

6. Lower the rear deflector until it rests on the grass bag.

Figure 20

Removing the Grass Bag

Danger

The machine can throw grass clippings and other objects through an opening in the machine housing. Objects thrown with enough force could cause serious personal injury or death to you or to bystanders.

• Never remove the grass bag and then start the machine without the discharge plug installed on the machine.

• Never open the rear deflector on the machine when the machine is running.

1. Shut off the machine and wait for all moving parts to stop.

2. Raise the rear deflector.

3. Remove the bag rod on the grass bag from the notches at the base of the handle (A of Figure 20).

4. Install the discharge plug (B of Figure 20).

5. Lower the rear deflector (C of Figure 20).

Removing the Battery Pack from the Machine

1. Lift up the battery-compartment lid.

2. Press the battery-pack latch to release the battery pack and remove the battery pack.

3. Close the battery-compartment lid.

Operating Tips

General Mowing Tips

• Avoid striking solid objects with the blade. Never deliberately mow over any object.

• For best performance, install a new blade before the cutting season begins.

• Replace the blade when necessary with a Toro replacement blade.

Cutting Grass

• Cut only about a third of the grass blade at a time. For improved runtime, cut grass at a higher height of cut.

• Do not cut below 51 mm (2 inches) unless the grass is sparse or it is late fall when grass growth begins to slow down.

• When cutting grass over 15 cm (6 inches) tall, mow at the highest cutting height setting and walk slower; then mow again at a lower setting for the best lawn appearance. If the grass is too long, the machine may plug and cause the motor to stall.

• Wet grass and leaves tend to clump on the yard and can cause the machine to plug or the motor to stall. Avoid mowing in wet conditions.

• Be aware of a potential fire hazard in very dry conditions, follow all local fire warnings, and keep the machine free of dry grass and leaf debris.

• Alternate the mowing direction. This helps disperse the clippings over the lawn for even fertilization.

• If the finished lawn appearance is unsatisfactory, try 1 or more of the following:

  • Replace the blade or have it sharpened.

  • Walk at a slower pace while mowing.

  • Raise the cutting height on your machine.

  • Cut the grass more frequently.

  • Overlap cutting swaths instead of cutting a full swath with each pass.

Cutting Leaves

• After cutting the lawn, ensure that half of the lawn shows through the cut leaf cover. You may need to make more than a single pass over the leaves.

• If there are more than 13 cm (5 inches) of leaves on the lawn, mow at a higher cutting height and then again at the desired cutting height.

• Slow down your mowing speed if the machine does not cut the leaves finely enough.

Remove the electric-start button and battery pack from the machine before maintaining or cleaning the machine.

Use only the manufacturer’s recommended replacement parts and accessories.

Inspect and maintain the machine regularly. Have the machine repaired only by an Authorized Service Dealer.

Preparing the Battery Pack for Recycling

Important: Upon removal, cover the terminals of the battery pack with heavy-duty adhesive tape. Do not attempt to destroy or disassemble the battery pack or remove any of its components.

Lithium-ion battery packs labeled with the Call2Recycle seal can be recycled at any participating retailer or battery recycling facility in the Call2Recycle program (US and Canada only). To locate a participating retailer or facility closest to you, please call 1-800-822-8837 or visit www.call2recycle.org. If you cannot locate a participating retailer or facility nearby, or if your rechargeable battery is not labeled with the Call2Recycle seal, please contact your local municipality for more information on how to responsibly recycle the battery. If you are located outside of the US and Canada, please contact your authorized Toro distributor.