Performing maintenance on your Toro Recycler 22 lawn mower is essential to ensure optimal performance and extend its lifespan. One crucial task is removing the rear drive axle, which may be necessary for repairs or replacement. This comprehensive guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to safely and effectively remove the rear drive axle from your Toro Recycler 22 lawn mower.
Before embarking on this procedure, gather the necessary tools. You will need a socket wrench with an appropriate socket size for the axle nuts, a set of wrenches, and a torque wrench. Additionally, safety gloves and eye protection are highly recommended to prevent injury. Locate a well-lit and spacious workspace where you can work comfortably without obstacles.
Begin the removal process by placing the lawn mower on a flat, stable surface. Engage the parking brake to prevent accidental movement. Disconnect the spark plug wire as a safety precaution. Locate the rear axle nuts on both sides of the mower deck and use the socket wrench to loosen them. Once the nuts are loose, carefully lift the mower deck and support it using a jack or blocks. This will provide you with ample space to work on the rear drive axle.
Safety Precautions
Before attempting any maintenance or repair work on your Toro Recycler 22 lawn mower, it’s crucial to prioritize safety to minimize the risk of injuries or damage to the equipment or yourself. Here are some essential safety precautions to adhere to:
- Disconnect the Spark Plug: Shut off the engine and allow it to cool completely. Disconnect the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting during maintenance.
- Wear Protective Gear: Always wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and closed-toe shoes, to protect yourself from potential hazards such as sharp edges or flying debris.
- Work in a Clean and Well-Lit Area: Choose a work area that is well-lit and free of clutter to ensure a safe and efficient maintenance environment.
- Read the Operator’s Manual: Before beginning any repair or maintenance, thoroughly read and understand the operator’s manual provided with your Toro Recycler 22. This manual contains specific instructions and safety guidelines for your particular model.
- Ensure Stability: Ensure that the lawn mower is stable and secure on a level surface before working on it. Use blocks or chocks to prevent movement while you are performing maintenance.
- Avoid Hot Surfaces: Allow the engine and all components to cool down completely before touching them. Hot surfaces can cause burns, so exercise caution and wear protective gloves when necessary.
- Dispose of Fluids Properly: If you need to drain any fluids, such as oil or gasoline, do so in accordance with local regulations. Dispose of fluids responsibly to avoid environmental contamination.
- Keep Children and Pets Away: Keep children and pets away from the work area while you are servicing the lawn mower. Moving parts and potential hazards can pose a risk to untrained individuals.
- Avoid Overexertion: If you encounter any heavy lifting or strenuous tasks, seek assistance to prevent straining or injury.
- Know Your Limitations: If you are not comfortable performing a specific repair or maintenance task, do not hesitate to seek professional assistance from a qualified mechanic.
Gathering Tools and Materials
Tools:
To ensure a smooth and efficient rear drive axle removal process on your Toro Recycler 22 mower, you’ll require the following tools:
- Socket wrench with appropriate sockets
- Combination wrench set
- Allen wrench set
- Hammer (preferably a rubber mallet)
- Pliers
- Screwdriver set
Materials:
In addition to the necessary tools, you’ll also need the following materials:
- New rear drive axle (if replacing an old one)
- Lubricating spray or grease
- Replacement bolts and nuts (optional)
- Safety glasses
- Work gloves
Safety Gear:
For your safety, it’s crucial to wear proper safety gear while performing any maintenance or repair work on your mower. Ensure you have the following personal protective equipment (PPE):
- Safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris or chemicals
- Work gloves to provide hand protection from sharp edges or blisters
| Tool | Usage |
|---|---|
| Socket wrench with sockets | Removing bolts and nuts |
| Combination wrench set | Holding nuts or bolts while loosening or tightening |
| Allen wrench set | Removing bolts or screws with hexagonal heads |
| Hammer | Tapping or knocking out components, using a rubber mallet for sensitive areas |
| Pliers | Gripping and adjusting wires, clips, or small parts |
| Screwdriver set | Removing or tightening screws with different head types |
Disconnecting the Rear Drive Assembly
Disconnect the rear drive assembly to remove the rear drive axle. Follow these steps carefully to ensure proper disconnection and prevent damage to the components.
Draining the Oil
1. Place a suitable container beneath the rear drive assembly to catch any draining oil.
2. Remove the oil fill plug to allow the oil to drain.
3. Once the oil has drained, replace the fill plug securely.
Removing the Rear Drive
1. Support the rear drive assembly.
2. Disconnect the nuts and bolts securing the rear drive assembly to the tractor’s frame.
3. Carefully pull the drive assembly straight back to disengage it from the transmission. If the drive assembly does not disconnect easily, gently pry it loose using a pry bar or similar tool. Ensure you apply pressure evenly to prevent damage to the components.
4. Lower the drive assembly and place it in a safe location.
| Bolt Size | Quantity |
|---|---|
| 1/2 inch | 2 |
Removing the Pivot Pin
1. Position a 3/8-inch socket wrench with extension over the bolt head on the top side of the frame, and remove the bolt.
2. Pull the pivot pin out from the bottom of the mower frame.
Separating the Axle from the Transmission
1. Lift the left side of the rear axle and place a 2×4 block under the drive wheel to support the axle.
2. Slide the axle out of the transmission case.
3. Remove the cotter pin from the left spindle shaft and pull the wheel off the shaft.
Removing the Pivot Pin
1. Position a 3/8-inch socket wrench with extension over the bolt head on the top side of the frame, and remove the bolt.
2. Pull the pivot pin out from the bottom of the mower frame.
Sliding the Axle Assembly Out
5. Disconnect the Axle from the Transaxle
Using a 3/4-inch wrench, loosen the nut connecting the axle to the transaxle. Be cautious not to detach the nut completely. Grip the axle shaft near the wheel and pull it towards you while holding the nut with your other hand. The axle will slide out of the transaxle, revealing the inner components.
a. Removing the Wheel
Before extracting the axle assembly, remove the wheel attached to it. Locate the wheel nut or lug nuts securing the wheel to the hub. Employ a socket wrench or impact wrench to detach the wheel nuts. Carefully lift the wheel off the axle assembly and set it aside.
b. Extracting the Cotter Pin
Next, remove the cotter pin holding the axle shaft in place. Utilize a pair of needle-nose pliers or a small screwdriver to grasp the cotter pin and pull it out. Ensure you secure the pin for later use during reassembly.
c. Detaching the Washer and Nut
After extracting the cotter pin, remove the flat washer and the nut securing the axle shaft. Use an appropriate wrench to loosen and detach the nut. Be careful not to lose the washer.
d. Sliding the Axle Assembly Out
With the washer and nut removed, gently slide the axle assembly out of the mower. Pull it towards you while supporting the inner components. Exercise caution not to damage the axle or surrounding components during this process.
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cotter Pin | 1 |
| Flat Washer | 1 |
| Nut | 1 |
Separating the Axle Shafts
6.1. **Remove Axle Nut:** Locate the axle nut on the end of the axle shaft, where it connects to the wheel. Using a socket wrench, carefully loosen and remove the nut by turning it counterclockwise.
6.2. **Pull Axle Shaft:** Once the nut is removed, firmly grasp the axle shaft near the wheel. Use a rocking motion to gently pull the axle shaft outward, away from the differential. It may take some effort to dislodge the shaft, so apply steady pressure.
6.3. **Disengage Axle Shaft:** As you pull the axle shaft, keep it parallel to the ground. Once the splines of the shaft are clear of the differential, carefully lower the shaft to the ground. You should hear a slight “clunk” as the splines disengage.
6.4. **Secure Axle Shaft:** Place the removed axle shaft in a secure location to prevent damage or loss of its components. Repeat steps 6.1 – 6.3 for the remaining axle shaft on the opposite side of the mower.
Removing the Rear Wheels
1. Engage the parking brake lever.
2. Chock the front wheels to prevent the mower from moving.
3. Remove the key from the ignition.
4. Locate the rear wheel hubs.
5. Remove the hubcaps by pulling them straight out.
6. Use a socket wrench to loosen the lug nuts on each rear wheel. Do not remove them completely.
7. Lift the rear of the mower using a jack. Place the jack under the frame, not under the differential. Raise the mower until the rear wheels are off the ground.
| Wheel | Bolt Size | Torque (ft-lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Left | M10 x 1.25 | 76-96 |
| Rear Right | M10 x 1.25 | 76-96 |
8. Remove the lug nuts and pull the rear wheels off the axles.
Inspecting and Cleaning the Components
Once you have disassembled the rear drive axle, it’s essential to inspect and clean each component thoroughly. Look for any signs of wear, damage, or rust. Clean all components with a solvent or degreaser, paying special attention to the gears, bearings, and seals.
Gears
Gears with damaged teeth must be replaced. Check the gear teeth for wear or missing teeth. If you find any damage, it’s best to replace the entire gear. Also, look for any signs of rust or corrosion on the gears. Clean the gears thoroughly with a solvent or degreaser and then apply a light coat of lubricant to help prevent future rust and wear.
Bearings
Check the bearings for any signs of wear, damage, or contamination. If you find any damage, it’s best to replace the bearing. Clean the bearings thoroughly with a solvent or degreaser and then apply a light coat of lubricant to help prevent future wear.
Seals
Inspect the seals for any signs of damage or wear. If you find any damage, it’s best to replace the seal. Clean the seals thoroughly with a solvent or degreaser and then apply a light coat of lubricant to help prevent future leaks.
Axle Housing
Inspect the axle housing for any cracks or damage. If you find any damage, it’s best to replace the axle housing. Clean the axle housing thoroughly with a solvent or degreaser and then apply a light coat of paint to help prevent future rust and corrosion.
Hardware
Inspect all hardware for any signs of wear or damage. If you find any damage, it’s best to replace the hardware. Clean all hardware thoroughly with a solvent or degreaser and then apply a light coat of lubricant to help prevent future rust and corrosion.
Table of Inspection and Cleaning
| Component | Inspection | Cleaning |
|---|---|---|
| Gears | Check for wear or missing teeth, rust or corrosion | Clean with solvent or degreaser, apply lubricant |
| Bearings | Check for wear, damage, contamination | Clean with solvent or degreaser, apply lubricant |
| Seals | Check for damage or wear | Clean with solvent or degreaser, apply lubricant |
| Axle Housing | Check for cracks or damage | Clean with solvent or degreaser, apply paint |
| Hardware | Check for wear or damage | Clean with solvent or degreaser, apply lubricant |
Removing the Rear Drive Axle
Locate the two bolts that secure the drive axle to the mower deck and remove them.
Slide the drive axle out of the mower deck.
Remove the two wheels from the drive axle.
Reattaching the Rear Wheels and Drive Assembly
Slide the drive axle into the mower deck.
Secure the drive axle to the mower deck with the two bolts.
Attach the two wheels to the drive axle.
Installing the Drive Belt
Place the drive belt around the engine pulley and the drive axle pulley.
Adjust the tension on the drive belt by moving the idler pulley.
Secure the idler pulley in place.
Connecting the Control Cable
Connect the control cable to the drive axle.
Adjust the length of the control cable so that the drive axle engages when the lever is moved.
Secure the control cable in place.
Lubricating the Parts
Apply a few drops of oil to the drive axle and the control cable.
This will help to keep the parts moving smoothly and prevent them from rusting.
Testing the Drive System
Start the mower and engage the drive lever.
The mower should move forward and backward smoothly.
If the mower does not move, check the drive belt, the control cable, and the drive axle for any problems.
Installing the Rear Shield
Place the rear shield over the drive axle and secure it with the two bolts.
This will help to protect the drive axle from damage.
Installing the Belt Cover
Place the belt cover over the drive belt and secure it with the two bolts.
This will help to protect the drive belt from damage.
Installing the Side Shields
Place the side shields on the mower deck and secure them with the four bolts.
This will help to protect the operator from debris thrown by the mower.
| Part Name | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Bolt | 6 |
| Nut | 6 |
| Washer | 6 |
Safety Considerations
1. Before removing the rear drive axle, ensure the Toro Recycler 22 is secured and won’t move.
2. Wear appropriate safety gear such as gloves and eye protection.
3. Allow the engine to cool sufficiently before touching any components.
4. Remove the spark plug wire to prevent accidental starting of the engine.
5. Place the lawnmower on a level and stable surface.
6. Engage the parking brake to prevent the lawnmower from rolling.
7. Clean the area around the drive axle to prevent dirt from entering during disassembly.
8. Have all necessary tools and replacement parts ready before starting the removal process.
9. If you encounter any obstacles or difficulties, consult a Toro-authorized service center.
10. Additional Safety Considerations
How To Remove Rear Drive Axle Toro Recycler 22
1. Park the Toro Recycler 22 on a level surface. Engage the parking brake.
2. Disconnect the spark plug wire.
3. Remove the four bolts that secure the rear drive axle to the transmission.
4. Slide the rear drive axle out of the transmission.
People Also Ask about How To Remove Rear Drive Axle Toro Recycler 22
How do I troubleshoot a Toro Recycler 22 that is not driving?
Possible causes:
– The rear drive axle is not engaged.
– The rear drive axle is damaged.
– The transmission is damaged.
How do I replace the rear drive axle on a Toro Recycler 22?
To replace the rear drive axle, follow these steps:
1. Remove the rear drive axle (see above).
2. Install the new rear drive axle by sliding it into the transmission.
3. Secure the rear drive axle with the four bolts.
4. Connect the spark plug wire.
