QuestionQUESTION: Apparently Fish is out today so it asked I refer to another expert. The Toro Model # is 20017 and it is a Personal Pace mower. Thanks, Hayden
Subject 22" Toro lawn mower
Question I have basically the same problem as this guy but couldn't find your answer on it. Could you send me your recommendations as to repairing myself. Thanks
Question
Hi John, I have a 4 yr old Toro 22" Recycler mower with an oil leak. It runs but I need to add oil each time I use it. I believe it started after I washed the deck when the motor was hot. The guy at the local shop says it is a bottom gasket and will cost 275.00 to repair. I can get a new mower for same price. Should I (1)attempt a homeowner repair and possibly get in over my head or (2)buy a new mower. The part costs $18.00 at this shop. (3) I can look around for a shop that can fix it at lower cost.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Answer Yes, that estimate is pretty high, ok, real high.
So it is visibly leaking oil. Can you give me the model numbers off
of the deck? so I know what engine you have. If you have even a fair
amount of tools, the repair could be easily done by yourself.
A base gasket should be $5 or so, maybe you should check another shop.
Let me know.
Fish
ANSWER: It is very easy to change this gasket yourself. I would also replace the oil seal while you are at it.
To replace, simply un hook the spark plug wire (to prevent accidental starting)
Drain Fuel and Oil
tip the mower on its side to remove the blade
Remove the blade adapter
Clean the shaft with sandpaper, steel wool ,etc. Failure to do this will make removal of the sump cover next to impossible!
Remove the three bolts that hold engine to mower deck.
Remove the 7 or 8 bolts that hold the sump cover on and replace gasket. You will need to gently tap on the sump cover as it will be sort of stuck on the dowel pins that are used for gasket and re installation alignment
Replace the Oil seal at this time to! Total cost for parts less then 5 bucks!
Fill to proper level with oil, start, mow grass and enjoy a cold beer when your done!
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Now I have another question on my Toro personal pace mower. I just noticed today when I lift the back wheels off the ground only the right wheel is spinning, the left one doesn't do anything, isn't it also a pull wheel? If so what do I need to do to get it going too. Thanks
ANSWER: Hayden,
I have one of these mowers personally, but i am traveling right now, when i get back in 4 days ill take a look at it and advise...
DAvid R
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Had a chance to check on the wheel thing yet?? No big rush as all I could mow is pollen now anyway. Thanks, Hayden
AnswerI got a chance to look at my personal pace today, If you remove your rear wheels you will find a pin that drives the gear, make sure it has not fallen out of your shaft.
As long as I had mine apart i cleaned all the dirt off the mower, changed oil and sharpened the blade to get it ready for the mowing season. My wife thanks you!
