Toro Flex 21 Manual

The Toro Flex 21 is a 21-inch self-propelled lawn mower featuring a powerful 190cc engine, Flex-Force cutting system, Personal Pace speed control, SmartStow vertical storage capability, 3-in-1 mulching/bagging/side discharge, adjustable cutting heights (1.5-4 inches), electric start option, and durable steel deck. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 190cc Toro engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, Personal Pace control system, rear-wheel drive, 3-in-1 discharge system, SmartStow technology.

Feature	Description
Engine	190cc Toro OHV engine with easy-start technology
Cutting Width	21-inch steel deck for efficient mowing
Drive System	Rear-wheel self-propelled with Personal Pace control
Cutting Options	3-in-1 system: mulch, bag, or side discharge
Height Adjustment	Single-lever cutting height adjustment (1.5-4 inches)
Starting System	Recoil start with optional electric start kit
Storage	SmartStow technology for vertical storage
Fuel Capacity	0.75 gallon fuel tank
Wheels	10-inch rear wheels, 7-inch front wheels
Weight	Approximately 75 pounds

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

1. Attach handle: Connect upper and lower handle sections using provided bolts.
2. Install wheels: Secure front and rear wheels with axle pins.
3. Connect control cables: Route throttle and drive cables to handle controls.
4. Install discharge chute: Attach mulch plug or bagging attachment.
5. Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (20 oz) and unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Wear protective gloves during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation.

First-Time Setup

Prepare mower for initial use with proper setup procedures.

1. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
2. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline with minimum 87 octane.
3. Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (recommend 3 inches for first mow).
4. Test controls: Verify throttle, drive, and blade controls function properly.
5. Practice operation: In safe area, test Personal Pace system without blade engaged.

CAUTION! Never add fuel while engine is hot. Allow engine to cool completely.

Specifications

• Engine Type: 190cc Toro 4-cycle OHV
• Cutting Width: 21 inches
• Cutting Height Range: 1.5 to 4 inches
• Drive System: Rear-wheel self-propelled
• Speed Control: Personal Pace variable speed
• Starting System: Recoil with electric start capability
• Fuel Capacity: 0.75 gallons
• Oil Capacity: 20 oz SAE 30
• Deck Material: Powder-coated steel
• Warranty: 3-year limited residential warranty

Controls and Operation

Main controls located on handle: Personal Pace control, throttle, blade control, drive control.

Operation Steps:

1. Start engine: Set throttle to fast, pull recoil starter or use electric start.
2. Engage blade: Pull blade control lever toward handle.
3. Begin mowing: Walk normally - Personal Pace automatically matches your speed.
4. Adjust speed: Walk faster to increase speed, slower to decrease.
5. Stop mowing: Release blade control and allow blade to stop completely.

Safety Features: Blade brake clutch stops blade within 3 seconds when control released.

Cutting System Setup

Configure 3-in-1 system for desired cutting method.

1. Mulching: Install mulch plug in discharge opening.
2. Bagging: Attach grass bag to rear deck.
3. Side Discharge: Remove mulch plug and install discharge chute.
4. Height Adjustment: Use single lever to raise/lower deck.

Tip: For best mulching results, mow when grass is dry and don't cut more than 1/3 of blade height.

Maintenance Procedures

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. After each use: Clean underside of deck, check for damage.
2. Every 25 hours: Check air filter, clean or replace if dirty.
3. Every 50 hours: Change engine oil, sharpen blade.
4. Seasonal: Replace spark plug, check drive system.
5. Storage prep: Add fuel stabilizer or drain fuel system.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

SmartStow technology allows vertical storage to save space.

1. Clean mower thoroughly, removing all grass clippings.
2. Add fuel stabilizer to tank or drain fuel completely.
3. Store vertically: Engage SmartStow lever, tilt mower back against wall.
4. Cover mower to protect from dust and moisture.

CAUTION! Ensure mower is completely cool before storing. Store in dry, well-ventilated area.

Safety Information

Critical safety precautions for operation and maintenance.

• Read manual completely before operation
• Wear eye protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes
• Clear mowing area of debris, toys, and obstacles
• Never mow wet grass or in poor visibility
• Keep children and pets away from mowing area
• Never remove safety devices or guards
• Always push mower, never pull
• Use extreme caution on slopes and uneven terrain

Warranty Details

Toro Flex 21 comes with 3-year limited residential warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Commercial use warranty is 90 days. Warranty does not cover normal wear, improper maintenance, or damage from misuse. Keep original receipt for warranty claims. For warranty service, contact authorized Toro service dealer or call 1-888-384-9939.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, bad spark plug, stale fuel	Check fuel level, replace spark plug, use fresh gasoline.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, low engine speed	Sharpen or replace blade, set throttle to fast position.
Uneven cut	Uneven tire pressure, deck not level	Inflate tires to 15 PSI, level cutting deck.
Self-propel not working	Drive cable loose, worn drive belt	Adjust drive cable tension, replace drive belt.
Excessive vibration	Damaged blade, loose components	Inspect and replace blade if damaged, tighten all bolts.
Grass not discharging	Wet grass, clogged deck	Mow when grass is dry, clean underside of deck.

Service Support: 1-888-384-9939; www.toro.com