Toro Lawn Mower 20199 User Guide

Form No. 3369-191 Rev A

TimeMaster™ 30in Lawn Mower

Model No. 20199—Serial No. 31200001 and Up

Model No. 20200—Serial No. 31200001 and Up

Operator's Manual

Introduction

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.

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.

Figure 2

Read this information carefully to learn how to operate

and maintain your machine properly and to avoid

injury and equipment damage. You are responsible for

operating the machine properly and safely.

1. 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.

You may contact Toro directly at www.Toro.com for

product and 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 machine ready.

Figure 1 identiﬁes the location of the model and serial

numbers on the product. Write the numbers in the

space provided.

WARNING

CALIFORNIA

Proposition 65 Warning

The engine exhaust from this product

contains chemicals known to the State of

California to cause cancer, birth defects,

or other reproductive harm.

Important: This engine is not equipped with a

spark arrester mufﬂer. It is a violation of California

Public Resource Code Section 4442 to use or operate

the engine on any forest-covered, brush-covered, or

grass-covered land. Other states or federal areas

may have similar laws.

This spark ignition system complies with Canadian

ICES-002.

Figure 1

1. Model and serial number plate

The enclosed Engine Owner's Manual is supplied

for information regarding the US Environmental

Protection Agency (EPA) and the California

Emission Control Regulation of emission systems,

maintenance, and warranty. Replacements may be

ordered through the engine manufacturer.

Model No.

Serial No.

For models with stated engine horsepower, the gross

horsepower of the engine was laboratory rated by the

8111 Lyndale Avenue South

Bloomington, MN 55420

Original Instructions (EN)

Printed in the USA

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• Do not mow on wet grass or excessively steep slopes.

Poor footing could cause a slip-and-fall accident.

• Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel

tank or container opening at all times until fueling is

complete. Do not use a nozzle lock-open device.

• Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches, or

embankments. You could lose your footing or

balance.

• If fuel is spilled on clothing, change clothing

immediately.

• Never overﬁll the fuel tank. Replace the fuel tank

cap and tighten it securely.

Children

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to

the presence of children. Children are often attracted to

the machine and the mowing activity. Never assume

that children will remain where you last saw them.

WARNING

Exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless,

deadly poison that can kill you.

Do not run the engine indoors or in an enclosed

area.

• Keep children out of the mowing area and under the

watchful care of a responsible adult other than the

operator.

General Service

• Be alert and turn machine off if a child enters the

area.

• Never operate the machine in an enclosed area.

• Never allow children to operate the machine.

• Keep all nuts and bolts tight to ensure that the

equipment is in safe working condition.

• Use extra care when approaching blind corners,

shrubs, trees, or other objects that may block your

view of a child.

• Never tamper with safety devices. Check their

proper operation regularly.

• Keep the machine free of grass, leaves, or other

debris. Clean up oil or fuel spills and remove any

fuel-soaked debris. Allow the machine to cool before

storing.

Service

Safe Handling of Gasoline

• If you strike a foreign object, stop and inspect the

machine. Repair the machine, if necessary, before

starting.

To avoid personal injury or property damage, use

extreme care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is

extremely ﬂammable and the vapors are explosive.

• Never make any adjustments or repairs with the

engine running. Disconnect the spark-plug wire and

ground against the engine to prevent unintended

starting.

• Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other

sources of ignition.

• Use only an approved gasoline container.

• Never remove the fuel tank cap or add fuel with the

engine running. Allow the engine to cool before

refueling.

• Check the grass catcher components and the

discharge guard frequently and replace them with

manufacturer's recommended parts when necessary.

• Never refuel the machine indoors.

• Mower blades are sharp. Wrap the blades or wear

gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.

• Never store the machine or fuel container where

there is an open ﬂame, spark, or pilot light, such as

on a water heater or on other appliances.

• Do not change the engine governor setting or

overspeed the engine.

• Never ﬁll containers inside a vehicle or on a truck

or trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place

containers on the ground away from your vehicle

before ﬁlling.

• Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels as

necessary.

• Remove gas-powered equipment from the truck

or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not

possible, then refuel such equipment with a portable

container rather than from a gasoline dispenser

nozzle.

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Safety and Instructional Decals

Important: Safety and instruction decals are located near areas of potential danger. Replace damaged

decals.

Manufacturer's Mark

1. Indicates that the blade is identiﬁed as a part from the

original machine manufacturer.

114-7982

1. Warning—read the Operator's Manual.

2. Thrown object hazard—keep bystanders a safe distance

from the machine.

3. Cutting/dismemberment hazard of hand or foot, mower

blade—disconnect the spark-plug wire and read the

instructions before servicing or performing maintenance.

4. Cutting/dismemberment hazard of hand or foot, mower

blade—stay away from moving parts.

5. Cutting/dismemberment hazard of hand or foot, mower

blade—do not operate up and down slopes; operate side to

side on slopes; stop the engine before leaving the operating

position; and look behind you when backing up.

94-8072

117–2718

108-8117

120-9570

1. Warning—stay away from moving parts, keep all guards

and shields in place.

108-9751

Electric-start model only

1. Engine—stop

2. Engine—run

3. Engine—start

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104-7953

Electric-start model only

1. Warning—read the Operator's Manual for information on charging the battery; contains lead; do not discard.

2. Read the Operator's Manual.

Setup

Important: Remove and discard the protective

plastic sheet that covers the engine.

Figure 3

Assembling the Handle

1. Upper handle

2. Knob (2)

No Parts Required

Procedure

WARNING

Assembling and unfolding the handle improperly

can damage the cables, causing an unsafe operating

condition.

• Do not damage the cables when unfolding the

handle.

• If a cable is damaged, contact an Authorized

Service Dealer.

1. Rotate the upper handle so that it nests together

with the lower handle (Figure 3), and tighten both

knobs on the handle to lock the upper handle in

place (Figure 4).

Figure 4

1. Handle-lock lever

2. Release the handle-lock lever (Figure 4).

3. Pull the handle rearward and lock it into position

(Figure 4).

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Note: Max. ﬁll: 20 oz. (0.59 l), type: SAE 30

detergent oil with an API service classiﬁcation of SF,

SG, SH, SJ, SL, or higher.

Installing the Blade-control

Bar

No Parts Required

Procedure

Install the blade-control bar into the upper handle

(Figure 5).

Figure 6

3. Wipe off the dipstick end with a clean cloth.

4. Insert the dipstick into the oil-ﬁll tube, and screw it

in until it stops.

5. Remove the dipstick and read the oil level on the

dipstick; refer to Figure 7.

Figure 5

Figure 7

1. The oil level is too low;

add oil to the crankcase.

3. The oil level is correct.

2. The oil level is too high;

remove oil from the

crankcase.

Filling the Engine with Oil

• If the oil level is too low, add a small amount of

oil slowly to the oil-ﬁll tube, and then repeat

steps 3 through 5 until the oil level is correct as

shown in Figure 7.

Parts needed for this procedure:

20 ﬂ.

Engine oil

oz.

• If the oil level is too high, drain the excess

oil until you obtain the correct oil level on

the dipstick. To drain the excess oil, refer to

Changing the Engine Oil (page 17).

Procedure

Important: This machine does not come with oil

in the engine. Before starting the engine, ﬁll the

engine with oil.

Important: If the oil level in the crankcase is

too low or too high and you run the engine,

you may damage the engine.

1. Move the machine to a level surface.

6. Install the dipstick securely by hand.

2. Remove the dipstick (Figure 6) and pour about 3/4

of the crankcase capacity of oil into the oil-ﬁll tube.

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Charging the Battery

No Parts Required

Procedure

Electric-start model only

Refer to Charging the Battery (page 18).

Figure 9

Product Overview

Upper handle

1. Traction-assist handle

2. Blade-control bar lock

3. Blade-control bar

4. Ignition switch

Figure 8

Figure 10

1. Side-discharge deﬂector

2. Spark plug

9. Ignition switch

1. Grass bag

3. Side-discharge chute

10. Battery (not shown;

electric-start model only)

2. Rear-discharge plug

(installed)

4. Battery charger

(electric-start model only)

3. Dipstick/oil-ﬁll tube (not

shown)

11. Rear cutting-height lever

4. Recoil-start handle

5. Fuel-tank cap

12. Rear-discharge deﬂector

13. Fuse

6. Handle-lock lever

7. Handle knob (2)

14. Air ﬁlter

15. Washout port

8. Upper handle

16. Front cutting-height lever

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Using Fuel

Stabilizer/Conditioner

Use a fuel stabilizer/conditioner in the machine to

provide the following beneﬁts:

Operation

Before Starting

Recommended Fuel

• It keeps gasoline fresh during storage up to 90 days.

When storing the machine for more than 90 days,

drain the fuel tank.

DANGER

Gasoline is extremely ﬂammable and explosive. A

ﬁre or explosion from gasoline can burn you and

others.

• It cleans the engine while it is running.

• It eliminates gum-like varnish buildup in the fuel

systems, which causes hard starting.

• To prevent a static charge from igniting the

gasoline, place the container and/or mower

directly on the ground before ﬁlling, not in a

vehicle or on an object.

Add the correct amount of fuel stabilizer/conditioner to

the gasoline as recommended on the product label.

Note: A fuel stabilizer/conditioner is most effective

when it is mixed with fresh gasoline. To prevent

varnish deposits in the fuel system, use a fuel

stabilizer/conditioner at all times.

• Fill the tank outdoors when the engine is cold.

Wipe up spills.

• Do not handle gasoline when smoking or around

an open ﬂame or sparks.

Filling the Fuel Tank

1. Clean around the fuel tank cap, and remove the cap

from the tank (Figure 11).

• Store gasoline in an approved fuel container, out

of the reach of children.

• For best results, use only clean, fresh, unleaded

gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher

((R+M)/2 rating method).

• Oxygenated fuel with up to 10% ethanol or 15%

MTBE by volume is acceptable.

• Do not use ethanol blends of gasoline, such as E15

or E85, with more than 10% ethanol by volume.

Performance problems and/or engine damage may

result, which may not be covered under warranty.

• Do not use gasoline containing methanol.

• Do not store fuel either in the fuel tank or in fuel

containers over the winter unless fuel stabilizer has

been added to the fuel.

• Do not add oil to gasoline.

Figure 11

2. Fill the fuel tank, leaving at least 1/4 inch (6 mm)

from the bottom of the neck empty to allow the

gasoline room to expand (Figure 11).

3. Install the fuel tank cap and tighten it securely by

hand.

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Important: If the oil level in the crankcase is

too low or too high and you run the engine,

you may damage the engine.

Checking the Engine Oil Level

Service Interval: Before each use or daily

Max. ﬁll: 20 oz. (0.59 l), type: SAE 30 detergent oil

with an API service classiﬁcation of SF, SG, SH, SJ, SL,

or higher.

6. Install the dipstick securely by hand.

Adjusting the Cutting Height

1. Move the machine to a level surface.

2. Remove the dipstick (Figure 12).

WARNING

Adjusting the cutting height may bring you into

contact with the moving blades, causing serious

injury.

• Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts

to stop.

• Do not put your ﬁngers under the housing when

adjusting the cutting height.

Adjust the cutting height as desired; refer to

Figure 14 and Figure 15.

Note: To raise the machine, move the front and rear

cutting height levers forward; to lower the machine,

move the cutting height levers rearward. Set the front

and rear wheels to the same height unless special

circumstances require otherwise; refer to Cutting Grass

and Cutting Leaves in Operating Tips (page 15).

Figure 12

3. Wipe off the dipstick end with a clean cloth.

4. Insert the dipstick into the oil-ﬁll tube and screw it

in until it stops. (Figure 12).

5. Remove the dipstick and read the oil level; refer to

Figure 13.

Figure 13

1. The oil level is too low;

add oil to the crankcase.

3. The oil level is correct.

2. The oil level is too high;

remove oil from the

crankcase.

Figure 14

Front cutting-height lever

• If the oil level is too low, add a small amount of

oil slowly to the oil-ﬁll tube, and then repeat

steps 3 through 5 until the oil level is correct as

shown in Figure 7.

1. 1 inch (2.5 cm)

5. 3 inches (7.6 cm))

6. 3-1/2 inches (8.9 cm))

7. 4 inches (10.2 cm)

2. 1-1/2 inches (3.8 cm)

3. 2 inches (5.1 cm)

4. 2-1/2 inches (6.4 cm)

• If the oil level is too high, drain the excess

oil until you obtain the correct oil level on

the dipstick; to drain the excess oil, refer to

Changing the Engine Oil (page 17).

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Adjusting the Handle Height

You can raise or lower the handle to a position more

comfortable for you.

1. Pull the handle-lock lever rearward to disengage the

handle-lock pins (Figure 16).

Figure 15

Rear cutting-height lever

Figure 16

1. Handle-lock lever

2. Handle-lock pin (2)

3. Notches

1. 1 inch (2.5 cm)

5. 3 inches (7.6 cm))

6. 3-1/2 inches (8.9 cm))

7. 4 inches (10.2 cm)

2. 1-1/2 inches (3.8 cm)

3. 2 inches (5.1 cm)

4. 2-1/2 inches (6.4 cm)

2. Rotate the handle and align the desired notch in

the handle bracket to the handle-lock pins; refer to

Figure 16.

3. Release the handle-lock lever to secure the handle

in place.

Starting the Engine

Standard Model

Pull the recoil handle slowly until you feel resistance,

then pull it sharply. Allow the rope to return to the

engine slowly.

Note: If the machine does not start after several

attempts, contact an Authorized Service Dealer.

Electric-start Model

You can start the engine on an electric-start model by

using either the ignition key or the recoil-start handle.

• Ignition Key: Turn and hold the ignition key to the

Start position (Figure 17); when the engine starts,

release the key.

Important: Do not attempt to start the engine

with the blade-control bar engaged; otherwise,

you may blow the fuse.

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Note: Do not hold the ignition key in the Start

position for longer than 5 seconds to prevent

burning out the starter motor.

Stopping the Engine

Standard Model

Press the toggle switch (Figure 19) to the Stop position,

and wait for the engine to stop.

Figure 19

Figure 17

• Recoil-start Handle:

Electric-start Model

1. Turn the ignition key to the Run position

(Figure 17).

1. Turn the key to the Off position (Figure 20).

2. Pull the recoil handle slowly to the rear until you

feel resistance, then pull sharply. Allow the rope

to return to the engine slowly.

Using the Self-propel Drive

To operate the self-propel drive, simply walk with your

hands gripping the upper handle and your elbows at

your sides, and the machine will automatically keep pace

with you (Figure 18).

Note: You can self-propel the machine with the blades

engaged or disengaged.

Figure 20

2. When the engine stops, remove the ignition key and

take it with you when you leave the machine.

Engaging the Blade

When you start your engine, the blades do not turn. You

must engage the blades to mow.

Figure 18

1. Pull the blade-control-bar lock back to the

blade-control bar, and the blade-control bar back to

the handle (Figure 21).

Note: Use the traction-assist handle in situations

when you need more control than you have with the

self-propel drive alone.

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Using the Grass Bag

Service Interval: Before each use or daily

You can use the grass bag to check the blade-stop

system.

1. Remove the rear-discharge plug.

2. Install the empty grass bag on the machine.

3. Start the engine.

Figure 21

1. Blade-control bar lock 2. Blade-control bar

4. Engage the blades.

Note: The bag should begin to inﬂate, indicating

that the blades are rotating.

2. Hold the blade-control bar against the handle

(Figure 22).

5. While watching the bag, release the blade-control bar.

Note: If the bag does not deﬂate within 3 seconds

of releasing the blade-control bar, the blade-stop

system may be deteriorating and, if ignored, could

result in an unsafe operating condition. Have the

machine inspected and serviced by an Authorized

Service Dealer.

6. Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.

Figure 22

Not Using the Grass Bag

1. Move the machine onto a paved surface in a

non-windy area.

Disengaging the Blade

Release the blade-control bar (Figure 23).

2. Set all 4 wheels to the 3-1/2 inch (89 mm) cutting

height setting.

3. Take a half sheet of newspaper and crumple it into a

ball small enough to go under the machine (about 3

inches or 75 mm in diameter).

4. Place the newspaper ball about 5 inches (13 cm) in

front of the machine.

5. Start the engine.

6. Engage the blades.

Figure 23

7. Release the blade-control bar and begin counting out

3 seconds.

8. On the count of 3, push the machine quickly forward

over the newspaper.

Important: When you release the blade-control

bar, the blades should stop within 3 seconds. If

they do not stop properly, stop using your machine

immediately and contact an Authorized Service

Dealer.

9. Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.

10. Go to the front of the machine and check the

newspaper ball.

Note: If the newspaper ball did not go under the

machine, repeat steps 4 through 10.

Checking the Blade-stop

System Operation

Before each use, check that the blades stop within 3

seconds of releasing the blade-control bar.

11. If the newspaper is unravelled or shredded, the

blades did not stop properly, which could result in an

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unsafe operating condition. Contact an Authorized

Service Dealer.

WARNING

A worn grass bag could allow small stones and other

similar debris to be thrown toward the operator or

bystanders and result in serious personal injury or

death.

Recycling the Clippings

This machine comes from the factory ready to recycle

grass and leaf clippings back into the lawn. To prepare

the machine to recycle:

Check the grass bag frequently. If it is damaged,

install a new Toro replacement bag.

• If the side-discharge chute is on the mower, remove

it and lower the side-discharge deﬂector ; refer

to Removing the Side-discharge Chute (page 14).

If the side-discharge chute is on the mower,

remove it before bagging the clippings; refer to

Removing the Side-discharge Chute (page 14).

• If the grass bag is on the machine, remove it; refer

to (page 9).

WARNING

• If the rear-discharge plug is not installed, grip it by

the handle, raise the rear deﬂector, and insert it into

the rear-discharge chute until the latch locks into

place; refer to Figure 24.

The blades are sharp; contacting the blades can

result in serious personal injury.

Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop

before leaving the operating position.

Installing the Grass Bag

1. Raise and hold up the rear deﬂector (Figure 25).

Figure 24

1. Rear deﬂector

3. The rear-discharge plug

installed

2. Insert the rear-discharge

plug

Figure 25

1. Rear deﬂector

3. Latch

2. Rear-discharge plug

WARNING

Ensure that the rear-discharge plug is in place

before you recycle the clippings. Never engage the

blades without either the rear-discharge plug or the

grass bag installed.

2. Remove the rear-discharge plug by pulling down on

the latch with your thumb and pulling the plug out

from the machine (Figure 25).

3. Install the bag rod into the notches at the base of the

handle and rock the bag back and forth to ensure

that the rod is seated at the bottom of both notches;

refer to Figure 26.

Bagging the Clippings

Use the grass bag when you want to collect grass and

leaf clippings from the lawn.

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Figure 26

2. Notch (2)

1. Bag rod

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

Figure 27

1. Side-discharge deﬂector 2. Side-discharge chute

Removing the Grass Bag

To remove the bag, reverse the steps in Installing the

Grass Bag above.

2. Install the side-discharge chute as shown in

Figure 27 and Figure 28, and close the deﬂector onto

the chute.

Side-discharging the Clippings

Use the side discharge for cutting very tall grass.

If the bag is on the machine, remove it and insert

the rear-discharge plug; refer to (page 9) before

side-discharging the clippings.

Important: Ensure that the rear-discharge plug is

in place before you recycle the clippings (Figure 24).

WARNING

The blade is sharp; contacting the blade can result

in serious personal injury.

Figure 28

Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop

before leaving the operating position.

Removing the Side-discharge Chute

Installing the Side-discharge Chute

To remove the side-discharge chute, reverse the steps in

Installing the Side-discharge Chute above.

With the chute in your right hand:

1. Lift open the side-discharge deﬂector (Figure 27).

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Cutting Leaves

Operating Tips

• After cutting a leaf-covered lawn, ensure that at least

half of the lawn shows through the cut leaves. You

may need to mow the leaves again.

General Mowing Tips

• Clear the area of loose sticks, branches, stones, wire,

twine, and other debris that the blades could hit.

• If there are more than 5 inches (13 cm) of leaves on

the lawn, set the front cutting height 1 or 2 notches

higher than the rear cutting height.

• Avoid striking solid objects with the blades. Never

deliberately mow over any object.

• If the machine strikes an object or starts to vibrate,

immediately stop the engine, disconnect the wire

from the spark plug, and examine the machine for

damage.

• Slow down your mowing speed if the mower does

not cut the leaves ﬁnely enough.

• For best performance, install new Toro replacement

blades for your model before the cutting season

begins.

• Replace the blades when necessary with Toro

replacement blades.

Cutting Grass

• Cut only about a third of the grass blade at a

time. Do not cut below the 2 inch (51 mm)

setting unless the grass is sparse or it is late fall

when grass growth begins to slow down; refer to

Adjusting the Cutting Height (page 9).

• When cutting grass over 6 inches (15 cm) 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 engine to stall.

• Alternate the mowing direction. This helps disperse

the clippings over the lawn for even fertilization.

• If the ﬁnished lawn appearance is unsatisfactory, try

one or more of the following:

– Replace the blades or have them sharpened.

– Walk at a slower pace while mowing.

– Raise the cutting height on your machine.

– Overlap cutting swaths instead of cutting a full

swath with each pass.

– Set the cutting height on the front wheels a notch

lower than the rear wheels.

– Cut the grass more frequently.

• Cut only dry grass or leaves. Wet grass and leaves

tend to clump on the yard and can cause the machine

to plug or the engine to stall.

WARNING

Mowing wet grass or leaves can lead to serious

injury if you slip and contact the blade. Mow

only in dry conditions.

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Maintenance

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

Recommended Maintenance Schedule(s)

Maintenance Service

Maintenance Procedure

Interval

• Change the engine oil.

After the ﬁrst 5 hours

• Check the engine oil level.

• Check the blade-stop system operation.

• Check the air cleaner and clean or replace it, if necessary.

• Check the cutting blades.

Before each use or daily

• Wash underneath the machine.

• Charge the battery (electric-start model only).

Every 25 hours

Every 50 hours

• Change the engine oil.

• Service the blade-drive system.

• Charge the battery (electric-start model only).

• Empty the fuel tank before repairs as directed and before annual storage.

Before storage

• Service the air ﬁlter; replace it more frequently in dusty operating conditions.

• Change the engine oil.

• Replace the blades or have them sharpened (more frequently if the blade edges

dull quickly).

Yearly

• Check the spark plug; refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual.

• Refer to your Engine Operator’s Manual for additional maintenance procedures.

Important: Refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual for additional maintenance procedures.

Preparing for Maintenance

1. Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop.

the mower onto its side so that the air ﬁlter is

up in the air.

2. Disconnect the spark-plug wire from the spark plug

(Figure 29).

WARNING

Tipping the machine may cause the fuel to leak.

Gasoline is ﬂammable, explosive, and can cause

personal injury.

Figure 29

1. Spark-plug wire

Important: Before tipping the mower to change

the oil or replace the blades, allow the fuel tank

to run dry through normal usage. If you must

tip the mower prior to running out of fuel, use a

hand fuel pump to remove the fuel. Always tip

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Servicing the Air Filter

Changing the Engine Oil

Service Interval: Yearly

Service Interval: After the ﬁrst 5 hours

Before each use or daily

Every 50 hours

Yearly

1. Loosen the fastener and remove the air ﬁlter cover

(Figure 30).

Max. ﬁll: 20 oz. (0.59 l), type: SAE 30 detergent oil

with an API service classiﬁcation of SF, SG, SH, SJ, SL,

or higher.

1. Ensure that the fuel tank contains little or no fuel so

that fuel does not leak out when you tip the mower

onto its side.

2. Run the engine a few minutes before changing the

oil to warm it.

Note: Warm oil ﬂows better and carries more

contaminants.

3. Disconnect the wire from the spark plug. Refer to

Preparing for Maintenance (page 16).

4. Tip the mower onto its side, with the dipstick down,

until the upper handle rests on the ground.

Figure 30

5. Set an oil-drain pan under the dipstick.

1. Cover

2. Fastener

3. Filter

4. Base

6. Remove the dipstick and drain the used oil into an

oil-drain pan (Figure 31).

2. Remove and inspect the ﬁlter.

• If the ﬁlter is damaged or is wet with oil or fuel,

replace it.

• If the ﬁlter is dirty, tap it on a hard surface

several times or blow the debris outward from

the interior of the ﬁlter using compressed air at

less than 30 psi (207 kPa).

Note: Do not brush or blow dirt from the

outside of the ﬁlter; either forces dirt into the

ﬁbers.

Figure 31

7. After draining the used oil, return the mower to the

operating position.

3. Clean the air ﬁlter body and cover using a damp rag.

Keep dirt away from the air opening.

8. Remove the dipstick (Figure 32) and pour about 3/4

of the crankcase capacity of oil into the oil-ﬁll tube.

4. Install the ﬁlter onto the base.

5. Install the cover and screw the fastener down

securely.

Note: Max. ﬁll: 20 oz. (0.59 l), type: SAE 30

detergent oil with an API service classiﬁcation of SF,

SG, SH, SJ, SL, or higher.

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Charging the Battery

Service Interval: Every 25 hours

Before storage

Electric-start model only

WARNING

Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories

contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals

known to the State of California to cause cancer

and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling

battery.

Figure 32

Charge the battery for 24 hours initially, then monthly

(every 25 starts) or as needed. Always use the charger

in a sheltered area, and charge the battery at room

temperature (about 70° F, or 22° C) whenever possible.

9. Wipe off the dipstick end with a clean cloth.

10. Insert the dipstick into the oil-ﬁll tube, and screw it

in until it stops.

Note: The machine is equipped with an alternator

charging system.

11. Remove the dipstick and read the oil level on the

dipstick; refer to Figure 33.

1. Connect the charger to the wire harness, which is

located below the ignition key (Figure 34).

Figure 33

1. The oil level is too low;

add oil to the crankcase.

3. The oil level is correct.

2. The oil level is too high;

remove oil from the

crankcase.

Figure 34

• If the oil level is too low, add a small amount of

oil slowly to the oil-ﬁll tube, and then repeat

steps 9 through 11 until the oil level is correct

as shown in Figure 33.

2. Plug the charger into a wall outlet.

Note: When the battery no longer holds a charge,

recycle the lead-acid battery according to local codes.

• If the oil level is too high, drain the excess

oil until you obtain the correct oil level on

the dipstick. To drain the excess oil, refer to

Changing the Engine Oil (page 17).

Important: If the oil level in the crankcase is

too low or too high and you run the engine,

you may damage the engine.

12. Install the dipstick securely by hand.

13. Recycle the used oil.

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Replacing the Fuse

Electric-start model only

If the battery does not charge or the engine does not

turn with the electric starter, the fuse may be blown;

replace it with a 40-amp plug-in type fuse.

Important: You cannot start the machine with

the electric starter or charge the battery unless a

working fuse is installed.

1. Open the sealed fuse holder and replace the fuse

(Figure 35).

Figure 36

1. Rear-deﬂector and handle-lock lever assembly

8. Remove the cover from the battery.

9. Disconnect the leads from the battery.

10. Remove and battery and recycle it.

Note: Recycle the battery according to your state

and local regulations.

Figure 35

1. Fuse holder

Installing the New Battery

1. Clean the battery-holding area on the mower

housing.

2. Close the cover to the fuse holder, and ensure that it

is sealed tightly.

2. Set the new battery in place on the mower housing.

3. Connect the leads to the new battery.

Replacing the Battery

Electric-start model only

Note: Ensure that you connect the black (negative)

wire to the negative (-) terminal and the red (positive)

wire to the positive (+) terminal.

Removing the Old Battery

4. Install the cover onto the battery.

1. Contact an Authorized Parts Dealer to obtain a

replacement battery.

Note: Ensure that the cover ﬁts properly over the

wiring harness.

2. Remove the belt cover; refer to step 1 of

Servicing the Blade-drive System (page 20).

5. Install the rear-deﬂector and handle-lock lever

assembly onto the machine.

3. Remove the rear-discharge plug.

6. Raise the handle to the vertical position.

4. Move the handle to the vertical position.

7. Secure the shroud with the 4 small bolts that you

removed in step 5 of Removing the Old Battery.

5. Remove the 4 small bolts that hold the rear-deﬂector

and handle-lock lever assembly in place.

8. Install the rear-discharge plug.

6. Fold the handle all the way forward.

9. Return the handle to the operating position.

7. Remove the rear-deﬂector and handle-lock lever

assembly (Figure 36).

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Adjusting the Self-propel Drive Servicing the Blade-drive

Cable

System

Whenever you install a new self-propel cable, or if

the self-propel drive is out of adjustment, adjust the

self-propel-drive cable.

Service Interval: Every 50 hours

1. Remove the blade-drive system cover (Figure 39).

1. Loosen the cable support nut (Figure 37).

Figure 37

Figure 39

1. Bolts

2. Cover

2. Pull down the cable jacket (toward the mower) until

there is no slack in the cable (Figure 38).

2. Brush or blow out debris from the inside of the

shield and around all the parts.

3. Hold a 0.010-inch feeler gauge, a piece of paper, or a

note card against the wall and slide it down behind

the belt tension spring.

Note: If there is a visible gap between the gauge

and the spring, tighten the adjusting bolt and the nut

until the paper barely slides freely in and out of the

gap (Figure 40).

Figure 38

3. Tighten the nut on the cable support.

Figure 40

1. Belt-tension spring

2. Adjusting bolt

3. Gap

4. Adjusting nut

5. Blade-drive belt

6. Wall

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Important: Do not overtighten the adjusting

bolt. This could damage the blade-drive belt.

4. Install the blade-drive system cover that you

previously removed.

Servicing the Cutting Blades

Service Interval: Yearly

Important: You will need a torque wrench to install

the blades properly. If you do not have a torque

wrench or are uncomfortable performing this

procedure, contact an Authorized Service Dealer.

Examine the blades for sharpness and any wear or

damage whenever you run out of gasoline; refer

to Inspecting the Blades (page 21). If the blade edge

is dull or nicked, have it sharpened or replace it. If the

blade is worn, bent, damaged or cracked, replace it

immediately with a genuine Toro replacement blade.

Figure 41

1. Handle locked in the vertical position

2. Tip the machine onto its side, with the air ﬁlter up in

the air, until the upper handle rests on the ground.

DANGER

A worn or damaged blade can break, and a piece

of the blade could be thrown toward the operator

or a bystander, resulting in serious personal injury

or death.

WARNING

The blades are sharp; contacting a blade could

result in serious personal injury.

• Inspect the blades periodically for wear or

damage.

• Disconnect the wire from the spark plug.

• Wear gloves when servicing the blade.

• Replace a worn or damaged blade.

Note: Maintain sharp blades throughout the cutting

season, because sharp blades cut cleanly without tearing

or shredding the grass blades. Tearing and shredding

turns grass brown at the edges, which slows growth and

increases the chance of disease.

Inspecting the Blades

Service Interval: Before each use or daily

1. Inspect the cutting edges (Figure 42). If the edges

are not sharp or have nicks, remove the blades and

have them sharpened or replace them.

Preparing to Service the Cutting Blades

2. Inspect the blades themselves, especially the curved

area (Figure 42). If you notice any damage, wear, or

a slot forming in this area (Figure 42), immediately

replace it with a new blade.

1. Lock the handle in the vertical position (Figure 41);

refer to Adjusting the Handle Height (page 10).

Figure 42

1. Cutting edge

2. Curved area

3. Wear/slot forming

4. Crack

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refer to Removing the Blades (page 22) and

Installing the Blades (page 23).

DANGER

If you allow a blade to wear, a slot will form

between the sail and ﬂat part of the blade.

Eventually a piece of the blade may break off

and be thrown from under the housing, possibly

resulting in serious injury to you or bystanders.

WARNING

A blade that is bent or damaged could break

apart and could seriously injure or kill you or

bystanders.

• Inspect the blade periodically for wear or

damage.

• Always replace a bent or damaged blade with

a new blade.

• Never try to straighten a blade that is bent or

weld a broken or cracked blade.

• Never ﬁle or create sharp notches in the

edges or surfaces of a blade.

• Replace a worn or damaged blade.

Removing the Blades

3. Check for bent blades; refer to

Checking for Bent Blades (page 22).

Replace the blades when the machine hits a solid object

or when a blade is out of balance or bent. Use only

genuine Toro replacement blades.

Checking for Bent Blades

1. Use a block of wood to hold each blade steady and

turn the blade bolt counterclockwise as shown in

Figure 44.

1. Rotate the blades until they are positioned as shown

in Figure 43.

Figure 44

Figure 43

1. Front of cutting deck

3. Measure from the cutting

edge to a smooth, level

surface

2. Remove each blade as shown in Figure 45.

2. Measure at locations A

and B

2. Measure from a level surface to the cutting edges

at locations A and B, (Figure 43), and record both

dimensions.

3. Rotate the blades so that their opposite ends are at

locations A and B.

4. Repeat the measurements in step 2 and record them.

Note: If the difference between the dimensions A

and B obtained in steps 2 and 4 exceeds 1/8 inch

(3 mm), the blade is bent and must be replaced;

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Figure 45

3. Blade (2)

4. Blade bolt (2)

1. Spindle (2)

2. Blade driver (2)

Figure 46

3. Inspect the pins on the blade drivers for wear and

damage.

3. Rotate the installed blade 1/4 turn until it is vertical,

and install the other blade in the same manner as

the ﬁrst (refer to step 1).

Installing the Blades

Note: The blades should be perpendicular, forming

an inverted “T” as shown in Figure 47.

1. Install the ﬁrst blade so that it is horizontal, along

with all mounting hardware as shown in Figure 45.

Note: Tighten the bolt with your ﬁngers.

Important: Position the curved ends of the

blades to point toward the machine housing.

Be sure to nest the raised areas on each blade

driver with the recesses in the head of its

corresponding spindle, and the pins on the other

side of each blade driver with the holes in its

corresponding blade.

2. Steady each blade with a board and turn the blade

bolt clockwise with a torque wrench as shown in

Figure 46; torque the blade bolt to 60 ft-lb (82 N-m).

Figure 47

Important: A bolt torqued to 60 ft-lb (82 N-m)

is very tight. Put your weight behind the wrench

and tighten the bolt securely. This bolt is very

difﬁcult to overtighten.

1. Blade (2)

4. Tighten the second blade; refer to step 2.

5. Rotate the blades by hand a full 360° turn to ensure

that they do not touch.

Note: If the blades touch each other, they are not

mounted correctly. Repeat steps 1 through 3, until

the blades no longer touch each other.

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WARNING

Incorrectly installing the blades could damage

the machine or cause an injury to the operator

or to bystanders.

A broken or missing washout ﬁtting could

expose you and others to thrown objects or blade

contact. Contact with a blade or thrown debris

can cause injury or death.

Washing Underneath the

Machine

• Replace a broken or missing washout ﬁtting

immediately, before using the machine

again.

Service Interval: Before each use or daily—Wash

• Never put your hands or feet under the

machine or through openings in the mower.

underneath the machine.

1. Move the machine to a level surface.

2. Stop the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop

before leaving the operating position.

3. Lower the machine to the lowest height-of-cut.

4. Attach a hose to the washout ﬁtting, and turn the

water on high (Figure 48).

Note: Spread petroleum jelly on the washout ﬁtting

O-ring to make the coupling slide on easier and

protect the O-ring.

Figure 48

1. Washout ﬁtting

2. Hose

3. O-ring

4. Coupling

5. Start the engine, engage the blade-control lever, and

let the machine run for 1 to 3 minutes.

6. Disengage the blade-control lever, stop the engine,

and wait for all moving parts to stop.

7. Shut off the water and remove the coupling from

the washout ﬁtting.

Note: If the machine is not clean after a single

washing, soak it and let it stand for 30 minutes. Then

repeat the process.

8. Run the machine again and engage the blades for 1

to 3 minutes to remove the excess water.

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1. Run the machine until the engine stops from running

out of fuel.

Storage

Store the machine in a cool, clean, dry place.

2. Start the engine again.

3. Allow the engine to run until it stops. When you can

no longer start the engine, it is sufﬁciently dry.

General Information

1. Perform the recommended annual maintenance

procedures; refer to the Recommended Maintenance

Schedule under Maintenance (page 16).

Preparing the Engine

1. While the engine is still warm, change the engine oil;

refer to Changing the Engine Oil (page 17).

2. Clean under the machine; refer to

Washing Underneath the Machine (page 24).

2. Remove the spark plug.

3. Remove chaff, dirt, and grime from the external

parts of the engine, the shrouding, and the top of

the machine.

3. Using an oil can, add about 1 oz. (30 ml), of motor

oil to the engine through the spark-plug hole.

4. Slowly pull the starter rope several times to distribute

oil throughout the cylinder.

4. Check the condition of the blades; refer to

Inspecting the Blades (page 21).

5. Install the spark plug but do not connect the wire to

the spark plug. Secure the wire so that it does not

come into contact with the spark plug.

5. Service the air ﬁlter; refer to

Servicing the Air Filter (page 17).

6. Tighten all nuts, bolts, and screws.

7. Touch up all rusted or chipped paint surfaces with

paint available from an Authorized Service Dealer.

Removing the Machine from

Storage

8. Charge the battery for 24 hours, then unplug the

battery charger and store the machine in an unheated

area. If you must store the machine in a heated

area, you must charge the battery every 90 days

(electric-start model only).

1. Unfold the handle; refer to

Adjusting the Handle Height (page 10).

2. Check and tighten all fasteners.

3. Remove the spark plug and spin the engine rapidly

using the starter to blow excess oil from the cylinder.

9. Fold the handle for storage; refer to

Adjusting the Handle Height (page 10).

4. Inspect the spark plug and replace it if it is dirty,

worn, or cracked; refer to the Engine Operator’s Manual.

Preparing the Fuel System

5. Install the spark plug and tighten it to the

recommended torque of 180 in-lb (20 N-m).

WARNING

6. Perform any needed maintenance procedures; refer

to Maintenance (page 16).

Gasoline can vaporize if you store it over long

periods of time and explode if it comes into contact

with an open ﬂame.

7. Check the engine oil level; refer to

Checking the Engine Oil Level (page 9).

• Do not store gasoline over long periods of time.

8. Fill the fuel in the fuel tank with fresh gasoline; refer

to Recommended Fuel (page 8).

• Do not store the machine with gasoline in the

fuel tank or the carburetor in an enclosure with

an open ﬂame. (For example, a furnace or a

water heater pilot light.)

9. Charge the battery; refer to

Charging the Battery (page 18) (electric-start

model only).

• Allow the engine to cool before storing it in any

enclosure.

10. Connect the wire to the spark plug.

On the last refueling of the year, add fuel stabilizer to

the fuel as directed by the engine manufacturer. Empty

the fuel tank when mowing the last time before storing

the machine.

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Notes:

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Notes:

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TimeMaster

The Toro Total Coverage Guarantee

A 3-Year Full Warranty (45 Day Limited Warranty for Commercial Use)

Walk Power Mowers

The Toro GTS Starting Guarantee

A 3-Year Full Warranty (Not Applicable for Commercial Use)

Conditions and Products Covered

•

Cost of regular maintenance service or parts, such as ﬁlters, fuel,

lubricants, oil changes, spark plugs, air ﬁlters blade sharpening

The Toro Company and its afﬁliate, Toro Warranty Company, pursuant to

an agreement between them, jointly promise to repair the Toro Product

listed below if used for residential purposes*; if it is defective in materials

or workmanship or if it stops functioning due to the failure of a component;

or if the Toro GTS (Guaranteed to Start) engine will not start on the ﬁrst or

second pull, provided the routine maintenance required in the Operator's

Manual have been performed.

or worn blades, cable/linkage adjustments, or brake and clutch

adjustments

•

Any product or part which has been altered or misused and requires

replacement or repair due to accidents or lack of proper maintenance

Repairs necessary due to failure to use fresh fuel (less than one

month old), or failure to properly prepare the unit prior to any period

of non-use over one month

This warranty covers the cost of parts and labor, but you must pay

transportation costs.

•

Pickup and delivery charges

The following time periods apply from the date of purchase:

Operational misuse, neglect, or accidents

Products

Warranty Period

Repairs or attempted repairs by anyone other than an Authorized

Toro Service Dealer

TimeMaster Mower and Attachments 3 - year full warranty

GTS (Guaranteed to Start)

Battery

3 - year full warranty

1 - year

•

Repairs or adjustments to correct starting difﬁculties due to the

following:

–

failure to follow proper maintenance procedures

rotary mower blade striking an object

Limited Warranty for Commercial Use*

These Toro Products used for commercial, institutional, or rental use,

are warranted for 45 days against defects in materials or workmanship.

Components failing due to normal wear are not covered by this warranty.

contaminants in the fuel system

improper fuel (consult your Operator's Manual if in doubt)

The Toro GTS (Guaranteed to Start) Starting Guarantee does not apply

when the product is used commercially*.

failure to drain the fuel system prior to any period of non-use

over one month

•

Special operational conditions where starting may require more than

two pulls:

Instructions for Obtaining Warranty Service

If you think that your Toro Product contains a defect in materials or

workmanship, or if a normal, able-bodied adult can no longer start your

product's engine in one or two pulls, follow this procedure:

–

ﬁrst time starts after extended period of non-use over three

months or seasonal storage

cool temperature starts such as those found in early spring and

late autumn

1. Contact any Authorized Toro Service Dealer to arrange service at their

dealership. To locate a dealer convenient to you, refer to the Yellow

Pages of your telephone directory (look under “Lawn Mowers”) or

access our web site at www.Toro.com. You may also call the numbers

listed in item #3 to use the 24-hour Toro Dealer locator system.

improper starting procedures - if you are having difﬁculty starting

your unit, please check the Operator's Manual to ensure that

you are using the correct starting procedures. This can save an

unnecessary visit to an Authorized Toro Service Dealer.

2. Bring the product and your proof of purchase (sales receipt) to the

Service Dealer. The dealer will diagnose the problem and determine

if it is covered under warranty.

General Conditions

3. If for any reason you are dissatisﬁed with the Service Dealer’s

analysis or with the assistance provided, contact us at:

All repairs covered by these warranties must be performed by an

Authorized Toro Service Dealer using Toro-approved replacement parts.

Repair by an Authorized Toro Service Dealer is your sole remedy under

this warranty.

Customer Care Department, RLC Division

The Toro Company

8111 Lyndale Avenue South

Bloomington, MN 55420-1196

Toll free at 866-214-9807 (U.S. customers)

Toll free at 866-214-9808 (Canadian customers)

Neither The Toro Company nor Toro Warranty Company is liable for

indirect, incidental, or consequential damages in connection with the

use of the Toro Products covered by these warranties, including any

cost or expense of providing substitute equipment or service during

reasonable periods of malfunction or non-use pending completion of

repairs under these warranties.

Owner Responsibilities

Some states do not allow exclusions of incidental or consequential

damages, so the above exclusions may not apply to you.

You must maintain your Toro Product by following the maintenance

procedures described in the Operator's Manual. Such routine

maintenance, whether performed by a dealer or by you, is at your expense.

This warranty gives you speciﬁc legal rights, and you may also have other

rights which vary from state to state.

Items and Conditions Not Covered

There is no other express warranty except for special emission system

coverage and engine warranty coverage on some products. This express

warranty does not cover the following:

Countries Other than the United States or Canada

Customers who have purchased Toro products exported from the United States or Canada should contact their Toro Distributor (Dealer) to obtain

guarantee policies for your country, province, or state. If for any reason you are dissatisﬁed with your Distributor's service or have difﬁculty obtaining

guarantee information, contact the Toro importer. If all other remedies fail, you may contact us at Toro Warranty Company.

*Residential purposes means use of the product on the same lot as your home. Use at more than one location, or institutional or rental use, is considered

commercial use, and the commercial use warranty applies.

374-0283 Rev A

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