Are you tired of mulching your grass clippings into tiny bits, leaving your lawn with a dusty, almost unkempt look? Do you long for the satisfying, old-school experience of a side discharge lawn mower, where the grass clippings are neatly ejected to the side? If you own a Toro lawn mower, you’re in luck! It’s possible to upgrade your mower to a side discharge system, giving you a whole new approach to lawn care.
This guide will provide you with a detailed explanation of how to install a side discharge system on your Toro lawn mower, covering everything from the essential tools and components to the step-by-step installation process. We’ll also delve into the benefits and drawbacks of side discharge compared to mulching, helping you make an informed decision about whether this upgrade is right for your needs.
Side Discharge Explained
Side discharge lawn mowers work by collecting grass clippings in a chamber beneath the mower deck and then expelling them out of a side chute. This method is popular for its ability to give lawns a clean, freshly-mowed appearance while also creating a more aesthetically pleasing “striped” pattern. However, it’s important to note that side discharge can be less efficient at mulching, potentially leading to clumps of grass clippings on your lawn.
Identifying Your Toro Lawn Mower Model
The first step to installing a side discharge system is identifying your Toro lawn mower model. This information is vital because it determines the specific parts you’ll need and the exact installation steps. You can usually find the model number printed on a sticker attached to the mower deck or the engine housing.
Once you’ve found the model number, you can visit the Toro website or consult your owner’s manual to find out if your model is compatible with a side discharge system.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before diving into the installation, gather the following tools and materials:
- Side discharge chute: This is the key component that allows your mower to expel grass clippings to the side. You can find compatible side discharge chutes for your Toro model at Toro dealerships, online retailers, or through authorized Toro distributors.
- Screwdrivers: A set of Phillips-head and flat-head screwdrivers is essential for removing and securing screws.
- Wrench: A wrench is necessary to tighten nuts and bolts.
- Gloves: Always wear gloves to protect your hands while working on the mower.
- Safety glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Now, let’s walk through the process of installing a side discharge system on your Toro lawn mower:
Step 1: Disassemble the Mulching System
- Remove the mulching plug: Locate the mulching plug, usually a small, round piece of metal or plastic, attached to the underside of the mower deck. You’ll need to remove this plug to enable side discharge.
- Remove the mulching baffle: Some Toro models have a mulching baffle, often a piece of plastic or metal that helps to direct air flow and improve mulching. Remove this baffle as well.
- Disconnect the mulching blade (if applicable): If your Toro model has a special mulching blade that needs to be removed before installing the side discharge system, carefully remove it.
Step 2: Install the Side Discharge Chute
- Position the chute: Locate the side discharge chute that you purchased. It should have a designated opening for grass clippings to be ejected.
- Attach the chute: Align the chute with the opening on the mower deck. The chute will usually have screws or bolts that attach it securely to the deck.
- Tighten the fasteners: Use the appropriate tools to tighten all screws and bolts. Make sure the chute is firmly attached and doesn’t have any loose movement.
Step 3: Test and Adjust the Side Discharge System
- Start the mower: Start your Toro lawn mower and let it run for a few minutes.
- Check for proper discharge: Observe how the grass clippings are ejected from the side discharge chute.
- Adjust the chute angle: If the clippings are not being discharged properly, you may need to adjust the angle of the chute. You can usually find adjustment screws or tabs on the chute to fine-tune its position.
Benefits of Side Discharge
Installing a side discharge system on your Toro lawn mower offers several advantages:
- Enhanced Cutting Efficiency: Side discharge can actually improve cutting efficiency in some scenarios, especially when dealing with thick grass. This is because the side discharge system doesn’t have to process the grass as finely as a mulching system, allowing you to cover more ground.
- Striped Lawn Effect: Side discharge is known for creating a striped effect on lawns, which some homeowners find aesthetically pleasing.
- No Mulching Clippings: If you prefer not to mulch grass clippings and instead want to leave them for natural decomposition, side discharge is the solution for you.
Drawbacks of Side Discharge
While side discharge offers its benefits, it also has some drawbacks:
- Less Effective Mulching: Side discharge is generally less effective at mulching grass clippings than dedicated mulching systems. This can lead to larger grass clippings on your lawn.
- Potential Clippings Scatter: Side discharge can sometimes scatter grass clippings across the lawn, especially in windy conditions. This can be messy and require additional cleanup.
- Not Ideal for Small Lawns: Side discharge is best suited for larger lawns, as it can lead to more clippings accumulating on the lawn if used on a smaller area.
Alternatives to Side Discharge
If you’re not entirely convinced about side discharge, consider these alternatives:
- Mulching System: A mulching system is a more efficient and environmentally friendly option for breaking down grass clippings into fine particles that act as fertilizer for your lawn.
- Bagging System: A bagging system collects grass clippings in a bag, allowing you to dispose of them as you like. This can be a good option if you don’t want to deal with clippings scattered across your lawn.
Final Thoughts
Installing a side discharge system on your Toro lawn mower is a relatively simple process that can enhance your lawn care routine. Weigh the benefits and drawbacks carefully to determine if side discharge is the right choice for you. Remember, you can always revert to a mulching system if you find side discharge isn’t meeting your needs. With the proper tools and a clear understanding of the installation process, you’ll be mowing your lawn with side discharge efficiency in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is side discharge and why would I want it?
Side discharge is a feature on lawn mowers that allows you to discharge the grass clippings out the side of the mower deck instead of mulching or bagging them. This can be beneficial if you have a large lawn and don’t want to spend time emptying a bag or if you prefer the look of unmulched clippings. It can also be helpful in areas where the grass is too thick or wet for mulching.
Side discharge is often preferred for larger lawns or areas with a lot of grass because it reduces the need to empty the bag frequently. Additionally, if you don’t want to mulch your grass clippings, side discharge is a good option. However, it’s important to consider that side discharge can leave clumps of grass clippings on your lawn, which may not be aesthetically pleasing for everyone.
2. Does Toro make side discharge mowers?
Yes, Toro does make side discharge mowers. However, not all Toro mowers come with the side discharge feature. Some Toro mowers are only available with mulching or bagging options. It’s important to check the specifications of your Toro mower before purchasing to ensure it offers side discharge capabilities.
You can typically tell if your Toro mower is capable of side discharge by checking the deck and the chute. The chute is typically located on the side of the mower deck and can be adjusted to direct the grass clippings. If you have a Toro mower and it doesn’t come with the side discharge feature, you might be able to purchase an aftermarket chute that will allow you to upgrade it to side discharge.
3. Can I upgrade my existing Toro mower to side discharge?
Whether or not you can upgrade your existing Toro mower to side discharge depends on the specific model you have. Some models are designed to be adaptable, allowing you to switch between different discharge methods, including side discharge. Others might require a complete overhaul, which may not be cost-effective.
To find out if your Toro mower can be upgraded to side discharge, it’s best to consult your owner’s manual or contact Toro customer service. They can help you identify the specific components needed for the upgrade and guide you through the process. However, keep in mind that upgrading your mower to side discharge might not be as simple as installing a new chute. You might also need to purchase other parts, such as a side discharge deck, and the process might be more complex than you anticipate.
4. How do I convert my Toro mower to side discharge?
The specific process for converting your Toro mower to side discharge will vary depending on your model. However, in most cases, it involves removing the existing discharge chute and replacing it with a side discharge chute. This might also require adjustments to the mower deck.
It’s important to note that some Toro models might not be compatible with side discharge upgrades. Before attempting any modifications, carefully consult your owner’s manual or reach out to Toro customer service for instructions and guidance.
5. What are the advantages of side discharge?
Side discharge offers a number of advantages, particularly for larger lawns and those who prefer a less meticulous approach to lawn care. Here are a few notable benefits:
- Faster mowing: Side discharge mowers don’t require you to stop and empty a bag, allowing you to mow quickly and efficiently.
- More control: You can direct the grass clippings where you want them to go, making it easier to create a clean and even cut.
- Less maintenance: Side discharge mowers generally require less maintenance than mulching mowers, as they don’t have to contend with mulching blades and other components.
6. What are the disadvantages of side discharge?
While side discharge has its benefits, it also comes with some drawbacks:
- Clumpy grass clippings: Side discharge can leave clumps of grass clippings on your lawn, which can be unsightly and require raking or blowing.
- Not suitable for delicate lawns: Side discharge can be harsh on delicate lawns and can damage them if the grass is too thin or weak.
- Not ideal for fertilizing: If you use fertilizer, side discharge can spread it unevenly, making it less effective.
7. What are some alternatives to side discharge?
If you’re not sure if side discharge is right for you, there are other options available.
- Mulching: Mulching mowers chop the grass clippings into fine particles and return them to the lawn as fertilizer. This is a great option for those who want a healthy and lush lawn.
- Bagging: Bagging mowers collect the grass clippings in a bag, which you can empty when it’s full. This is a good option for those who prefer a neat and tidy lawn.
Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.