Toro Lawn Mower Model 21465 Manual

The Toro Model 21465 is a self-propelled, rear-bagging lawn mower featuring a 22-inch cutting deck, a 190cc Briggs & Stratton engine, a 3-in-1 discharge system (mulch/bag/side-discharge), a single-lever height adjustment (1.5-4 inches), electric start capability, and a 2.5-bushel grass bag. This manual covers essential safety information, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and storage procedures to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. Safety Information 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting Height Adjustment 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage & Winterization 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 22-inch steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton 190cc engine, rear grass catcher, self-propelled drive system, electric start with backup recoil, single-lever height adjustment, and 3-in-1 discharge capability.

Feature	Description
Cutting Width	22 inches
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 190cc, 4-cycle
Start System	Electric start (battery included) with recoil backup
Drive System	Self-propelled, rear-wheel drive
Cutting Height	Single-lever adjustment, 1.5 to 4 inches
Discharge Options	Mulch, Bag, Side-Discharge (3-in-1)
Grass Bag Capacity	2.5 bushels
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Fuel Tank Capacity	0.95 quarts
Oil Capacity	20 oz (SAE 30 recommended)

Assembly Instructions

Unpack all parts from the box. Assembly requires basic tools (included: wrench, screwdriver).

Attach the handle: Align lower handle with deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and knobs.
Install the grass bag: Attach bag support frame to the rear deck, hang the fabric bag onto the frame.
Connect the battery: For electric start models, connect the red wire to positive (+) terminal, black to negative (-).
Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil to indicated level. Add fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).
Install the discharge chute: For side-discharge, attach the chute to the deck opening.

WARNING! Always wear gloves during assembly to avoid cuts from sharp edges. Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before operating the mower.

Clear mowing area of stones, toys, and other objects that could be thrown by the blade.
Always wear sturdy footwear, long pants, and eye protection.
Do not operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees. Mow across slopes, not up and down.
Never allow children or pets in the area while mowing.
Stop the engine and disconnect the spark plug wire before performing any maintenance or clearing a clog.
Do not operate the mower if the grass bag is missing or damaged.

DANGER! The rotating blade can cause severe injury. Keep hands and feet away from the deck at all times.

Specifications

Model: 21465
Type: Self-Propelled, Rear-Bagging Lawn Mower
Cutting Deck: 22-inch, stamped steel
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 190cc, 4-cycle, OHV
Starting: Electric (12V battery) with Recoil Backup
Drive: Self-Propelled, Single-Speed
Cutting Height Adjustment: Single Lever, 6 positions (1.5" - 4")
Discharge: 3-in-1 (Mulch, Bag, Side-Discharge)
Bag Capacity: 2.5 bushels
Warranty: 3-Year Limited

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Drive Control Lever (engages self-propelled wheels), Height Adjustment Lever, Electric Start Button, Recoil Starter Handle.

Starting Procedure: 1. Electric Start: Insert key, set throttle to FAST, push the electric start button. 2. Recoil Start: Set throttle to FAST, pull the recoil starter handle firmly.

Operation: Squeeze the drive control lever against the handle to engage self-propelled drive. Release to stop drive. To stop the engine, move the throttle control to STOP.

Discharge Selection: Install mulch plug for mulching, attach bag for catching, or install side-discharge chute. Ensure the appropriate attachment is securely in place before starting.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Use the single lever located near each wheel to adjust cutting height uniformly.

Stop the engine and wait for the blade to stop completely.
Move the lever to the desired height setting (1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, or 4 inches).
Ensure the lever is fully engaged in the notch on all four wheels.

Tip: For the first mow of the season or very tall grass, set the cutting height to the highest setting, then lower for subsequent mows.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures safe operation and extends mower life.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris.
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil (or annually).
Every season	Replace air filter, spark plug. Sharpen or replace blade.
As needed	Clean underside of deck. Check tire pressure (14-15 PSI).
Every 2 years	Replace the fuel filter (if equipped).

Blade Sharpening: Disconnect spark plug. Remove blade bolt, sharpen blade at a 30-degree angle, balance before reinstalling. Torque blade bolt to 45-55 ft-lbs.

Storage & Winterization

Proper storage prevents fuel system damage and corrosion.

Run the engine to burn fuel out of the carburetor OR add fuel stabilizer to a full tank and run for 5 minutes.
Change the engine oil while it is warm.
Clean the mower thoroughly, especially the underside of the deck.
Remove the battery (for electric start) and store in a cool, dry place. Charge periodically.
Store in a clean, dry place, covered.

CAUTION! Never store the mower with gasoline in the tank indoors or in an enclosed space due to fire and fume hazards.

Warranty Information

Toro Model 21465 is covered by a 3-Year Limited Warranty for residential use. The warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship. It does not cover damage from neglect, misuse, commercial use, or normal wear items like blades, belts, or batteries. Proof of purchase is required. For warranty service, contact an authorized Toro service dealer or call Toro Customer Support at 1-888-384-9939. Register your product online at www.toro.com.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	Empty fuel tank, old gasoline, disconnected spark plug wire, dead battery (electric start).	Add fresh fuel, check spark plug connection, charge or replace battery.
Engine runs poorly or stalls	Dirty air filter, clogged fuel filter, old gasoline.	Replace air filter and fuel filter. Drain and refill with fresh gas.
Mower does not self-propel	Drive cable not adjusted, drive belt worn or broken.	Adjust drive cable tension per manual. Inspect and replace drive belt if necessary.
Uneven cutting	Dull or bent blade, uneven tire pressure, deck not level.	Sharpen or replace blade. Inflate all tires to 14-15 PSI. Level the deck.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, damaged blade, debris stuck in blade.	Stop engine immediately. Tighten blade bolt or replace damaged blade. Clean deck.
Grass not discharging properly	Wet grass, deck clogged, dull blade, improper cutting height.	Mow when grass is dry. Clean deck. Sharpen blade. Raise cutting height.

Service: For repairs not covered in this manual, contact an authorized Toro service dealer or call 1-888-384-9939.