toro lawn mowers manuals model 71228 manual

The Toro Model 71228 is a gas-powered, self-propelled lawn mower designed for residential use. It features a Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch cutting deck, single-lever height adjustment, rear-wheel drive, electric start capability, mulching/bagging/side-discharge options, and a durable steel deck. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting & Discharge Options 7. Maintenance Schedule 9. Storage Instructions 10. Safety Information 11. Warranty & Support 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Briggs & Stratton engine, 21-inch steel cutting deck, Self-Propel drive system, Single-lever height adjustment, Electric start (with battery), Rear bagger, Mulching plug, Side discharge chute.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV engine
Cutting Width	21 inches
Drive System	Self-propelled, rear-wheel drive
Start System	Recoil pull start & electric start (battery included)
Height Adjustment	Single-lever, 6 positions (1.5" to 4")
Cutting Options	Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge
Deck Material	Powder-coated steel
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Fuel Tank	0.95 gallons
Weight	Approx. 75 lbs

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a flat, clear surface.

Attach handle: Insert lower handle into deck brackets, secure with provided bolts and knobs.
Install upper handle: Connect to lower handle, tighten knobs.
Attach grass bag: Slide bag frame onto rear deck hooks; ensure it locks securely.
Install battery (electric start): Place battery in compartment, connect red (+) then black (-) terminals.
Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (check dipstick); add fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane).

WARNING! Do not add fuel indoors or near ignition sources. Keep hands clear of moving parts during assembly.

First-Time Setup

Before first use, complete pre-operation checks.

Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
Add fuel: Fill tank with fresh unleaded gasoline (max 0.95 gal).
Inspect blade: Ensure cutting blade is secure and undamaged.
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (start at 3" for first mow).
Test start: Use electric start or pull cord in a clear area.

CAUTION! Always mow in daylight with clear visibility. Wear sturdy shoes and eye protection.

Specifications

Model: 71228
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 140cc, 4-cycle OHV
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Heights: 1.5" - 4" (6 positions)
Drive: Self-propelled, rear-wheel
Start Type: Recoil & Electric (12V battery)
Fuel Capacity: 0.95 gallons
Oil Type: SAE 30 (20 oz capacity)
Bag Capacity: 2.5 bushels
Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Operation

Main controls located on handle. Drive Control: Lever to engage self-propel. Blade Control: Lever to engage cutting blade. Height Adjustment: Single lever for all wheels. Throttle Control: Engine speed control. Choke: For cold starts.

Starting Procedure: 1. Move throttle to FAST. 2. Engage choke if cold. 3. Pull recoil OR press electric start. 4. Disengage choke as engine warms.

Operating: Squeeze drive control to move forward; release to stop. Engage blade control only when ready to cut. Adjust speed with throttle.

Cutting & Discharge Options

Three cutting modes: Mulching, Bagging, Side Discharge.

Mulching: Install mulching plug; blade recuts clippings into fine mulch.
Bagging: Attach grass bag; clippings collected for disposal.
Side Discharge: Install discharge chute; clippings ejected to side.

Tip: For best results, mow when grass is dry. Overlap passes by 2-3 inches.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil, inspect blade, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hours	Change oil, check air filter, inspect spark plug
Every season	Sharpen/replace blade, clean underside, check tires
Storage	Drain fuel or add stabilizer, remove battery

Blade Sharpening: Disconnect spark plug. Remove blade; sharpen at 30° angle; balance before reinstalling.

Storage Instructions

Prepare mower for off-season storage.

Clean: Remove all grass and debris from deck and engine.
Fuel: Run engine dry OR add fuel stabilizer and run 5 minutes.
Oil: Change oil if due.
Battery: Remove and store in cool, dry place (charge monthly).
Store: Keep in dry, covered area; cover mower.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank over 30 days without stabilizer.

Safety Information

Read all safety instructions before operation.

Wear eye protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
Clear mowing area of stones, toys, and debris.
Never mow wet grass or on steep slopes.
Disconnect spark plug before servicing blade.
Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Do not allow children to operate mower.
Refuel outdoors only, with engine off and cool.

Warranty & Support

Toro Limited Warranty: 2-year residential warranty covering defects in materials/workmanship. Proof of purchase required. Does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For support, visit www.toro.com or contact 1-888-384-9939. Have model number (71228) ready.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, old gas, clogged air filter	Add fresh fuel; clean/replace air filter; check spark plug.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, low engine speed	Sharpen/replace blade; set throttle to FAST.
Self-propel not working	Drive cable loose, debris in drive	Adjust drive cable; clear debris from wheels/axle.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, bent blade	Stop engine; tighten or replace blade.
Battery not charging	Poor connection, dead battery	Check terminals; charge or replace battery.

Reset: For electric start, ensure battery is fully charged.

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