Toro Lawn Mower Model 20378 Owners Manual

User Manual & Safety Guide

Model 20378

Installation Guide

Tools Needed:

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips)
  • Pliers
  • Socket set
  • Oil funnel

Step-by-Step Assembly

  1. Unpack and Inspect: Remove all packaging materials and inspect for any shipping damage or missing parts.
  2. Handle Assembly: Attach the upper and lower handle sections using provided bolts and hardware.
  3. Install Wheels: Mount all four wheels onto the axle using the provided washers and cotter pins.
  4. Attach Grass Bag: Connect the grass collection bag to the rear discharge chute.
  5. Add Engine Oil: Fill the engine with SAE 30 motor oil to the proper level on the dipstick.
  6. Add Fuel: Fill the fuel tank with fresh unleaded gasoline (minimum 87 octane).
  7. Final Check: Ensure all bolts are tightened, wheels rotate freely, and safety features are operational.
Warning: Always wear protective equipment and read the safety instructions before operating. Assembly should be performed on a flat, stable surface.

Specifications

Model Number 20378
Type Gas-Powered Push Lawn Mower
Engine Type 4-Cycle, OHV
Engine Power 160cc
Cutting Width 21 inches
Cutting Height 1.5 to 4 inches (7 positions)
Fuel Capacity 0.95 gallons
Oil Capacity 20 oz (0.6L)
Starting System Recoil Start
Weight 65 lbs
Wheel Size 8 inches (front), 10 inches (rear)
Grass Bag Capacity 2.5 bushels

Warranty Information

  • Full Warranty: 2 years residential use
  • Engine Warranty: 3 years on Toro engine
  • Commercial Warranty: 90 days commercial use

For warranty service, contact Toro Customer Service at 1-888-384-9939 or visit Toro.com

Key Features

Personal Pace® System

Toro's innovative Personal Pace system automatically adjusts the mower's speed to match your walking pace, providing effortless control and superior maneuverability.

4-Cycle OHV Engine

The powerful 160cc overhead valve engine delivers reliable performance with reduced emissions and noise compared to traditional 2-cycle engines.

Quick Stop® Blade Brake System

Safety system that stops the blade within 3 seconds when the handle is released, while allowing the engine to continue running for transport.

Folding Handle

Easy-fold handle design allows for compact storage in garages or sheds, saving valuable space when not in use.

7-Position Height Adjustment

Single-lever cutting height adjustment allows quick changes to 7 different cutting positions from 1.5 to 4 inches.

3-in-1 Discharge System

Mulch, bag, or side discharge capability allows you to choose the best method for your lawn care needs and conditions.

Cutting System Explained

Mulching

Fine cuts clippings and returns them to lawn as natural fertilizer

Bagging

Collects clippings in 2.5 bushel bag for clean, debris-free finish

Side Discharge

Discharges clippings to the side for longer grass or wet conditions

Height Adjustment

Single lever controls all four wheels for consistent cutting height

Blade Design

High-lift blade creates strong vacuum for superior grass lift

Deck Design

21-inch steel deck with optimized airflow for even cutting

Troubleshooting

Problem Possible Cause Solution
Engine won't start Empty fuel tank, stale gasoline, clogged air filter Add fresh fuel, clean/replace air filter, check spark plug
Poor cutting performance Dull blade, incorrect cutting height, engine speed too low Sharpen/replace blade, adjust cutting height, check throttle setting
Uneven cutting Uneven tire pressure, bent blade, uneven deck Check tire pressure, inspect/replace blade, level mower deck
Excessive vibration Damaged blade, loose blade bolt, debris under deck Inspect blade, tighten blade bolt, clean mower deck
Engine runs rough Dirty air filter, water in fuel, clogged fuel line Clean air filter, drain fuel tank, check fuel line
Wheels not turning Debris in wheel gears, damaged drive cable Clean wheel mechanisms, inspect drive cable

Maintenance Schedule

  • Before each use: Check oil level, tire pressure, blade condition
  • Every 25 hours: Clean air filter, check spark plug
  • Every 50 hours: Change engine oil, sharpen blade
  • Every 100 hours: Replace air filter, spark plug
  • Season end: Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean thoroughly
  • Season start: Change oil, check all components

Manual Downloads

Current Model Manuals

20378

21" Personal Pace® Mower

20379

21" Recycler® Mower

20380

22" Super Recycler®

20381

21" Electric Start

Popular Previous Models

20370

21" Standard Mower

20372

22" Recycler®

20374

21" Briggs Engine

20376

22" Commercial

Note: For models not listed here, please visit the Toro Support Website for complete documentation.