GICOOL 138-3216 115-4695 Replacement Rear Drive Wheels for Toro Lawn Mowers - 8" Plastic Gear Assembly, Fits Toro 20332 20333 20334 Recycler Push Mower, 2 Pack Review

Overview

The GICOOL 138-3216 115-4695 Replacement Rear Drive Wheels are an aftermarket parts kit designed specifically for Toro Recycler push mowers, including models 20332, 20333, and 20334. These 8-inch plastic gear assembly wheels are built to restore drive functionality when your original Toro wheels wear out or lose traction, making them ideal for homeowners who want to extend the life of their mower without paying OEM prices.

Who Should Buy This

1. DIY repair homeowners – If you own a Toro Recycler push mower from the 203xx series and notice your self-propel isn’t gripping like it used to, these wheels are your most cost-effective fix. No need to buy a new mower.

2. Budget-conscious lawn owners – At $25.99 for a pair, these wheels cost roughly half what Toro-branded replacements do. If you’re comfortable with basic repairs, you can save serious cash.

3. Owners of 1/4 to 1/2 acre lawns – These wheels are meant for typical residential push mowing, not commercial use. If your lawn is under half an acre and you mow weekly, this replacement will get you back to reliable self-propulsion.

4. Toro Recycler owners with worn drive systems – Specifically if your mower’s rear wheels slip, don’t engage, or make grinding noises. This kit replaces the entire gear assembly, not just the tire.

Key Features Breakdown

• Compatibility with Toro 20332, 20333, 20334 – This is the most important spec. These three models share the same drive system, and the GICOOL wheels are designed to fit them perfectly. Double-check your model number before buying—these won’t work on other Toro series (like the Super Recycler or Personal Pace models with different wheel sizes).

• 8-inch plastic gear assembly – The gear assembly is the heart of the self-propel system. These wheels use a plastic gear that meshes with the mower’s drive pinion. Plastic is a smart choice here: it’s lightweight, won’t rust, and is tough enough for residential use. The 8-inch diameter matches the original wheel size for proper ground clearance.

• 2-pack design – You get both rear wheels in the kit. This is critical because if one wheel is worn, the other is likely close behind. Replacing both ensures even traction and prevents premature wear on the drive system.

• Aftermarket replacement (OEM part numbers 138-3216 and 115-4695) – These are direct substitutes for Toro’s factory parts. While they aren’t Toro-branded, they are built to the same dimensions and tolerances. The price difference is the main reason to choose these over OEM.

Pros

1. Significant cost savings – At roughly half the price of Toro-branded wheels, you’re getting the same function for less. For a part that wears out every few years, this adds up.

2. Easy installation – No special tools required. Remove the old wheel with a socket wrench, pop the new one on, and tighten the bolt. Most homeowners can do this in under 15 minutes.

3. Restores self-propel performance – If your mower was struggling to drive itself, these wheels will bring it back to like-new traction. The gear teeth are sharp and grip the drive pinion well.

4. Durable plastic construction – The gear assembly is solid, with no cracks or weak points in the molding. It’s not cheap, brittle plastic—it feels comparable to the OEM part.

5. Comes as a matched pair – You don’t have to hunt down a second wheel separately. The set is ready to install right out of the box.

6. Lighter than steel alternatives – The plastic gear keeps the mower’s overall weight down, which matters for maneuverability and lifting the mower for storage.

Cons

1. Not genuine Toro parts – Some users report the gear teeth wear slightly faster than OEM, especially on rough terrain or with heavy use. If you mow every week on bumpy ground, you might get 2-3 seasons instead of 4-5.

2. Limited compatibility – Only fits a narrow range of Toro models (20332, 20333, 20334). If you own a different Toro mower, these won’t work. Always verify your model number.

3. Plastic can strip under extreme stress – If you mow through thick, wet grass or constantly force the mower over obstacles, the gear teeth can strip. This isn’t unique to GICOOL, but it’s a risk with all plastic gear assemblies.

4. No installation instructions included – The box contains just the wheels. If you’re not mechanically inclined, you’ll need to look up a YouTube video or Toro’s manual. Not a dealbreaker, but worth noting.

Bottom Line

The GICOOL 138-3216 115-4695 Replacement Rear Drive Wheels are a solid, budget-friendly fix for Toro Recycler owners whose self-propel has given out. They install easily, restore traction effectively, and cost half what you’d pay for OEM parts. The main trade-off is that they may not last quite as long as genuine Toro wheels, especially if you mow aggressively or on rough ground. But for the average homeowner mowing a quarter-acre lawn a few times a month, these are a no-brainer. I recommend them for anyone who wants to keep their Toro running without spending new-mower money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will these fit my Toro Super Recycler or Personal Pace mower?
A: No, these wheels are specifically designed for Toro Recycler models 20332, 20333, and 20334. They will not fit Super Recycler, Personal Pace, or any other Toro series. Check your model number on the mower’s deck or frame before ordering.

Q: How do I know if my rear wheels need replacing?
A: If your mower’s self-propel system doesn’t engage, slips, or makes a clicking/grinding noise, the gear assembly inside the wheel is likely worn. Remove the wheel and inspect the plastic gear teeth—if they’re rounded, cracked, or missing, it’s time to replace them.

Q: Can I install these myself without professional help?
A: Yes, absolutely. You only need a socket wrench (usually 1/2-inch or 9/16-inch) to remove the bolt holding each wheel. Slide the old wheel off, push the new one on, and tighten the bolt. No special skills or tools required. Watch a quick YouTube video if you’re unsure.