Toro Model 20074 Manual

The Toro Model 20074 is a high-performance walk-behind lawn mower featuring a powerful engine, adjustable cutting heights, rear-wheel drive, and a durable steel deck. Designed for residential use, it offers reliable performance for maintaining medium to large lawns. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton engine, Rear-wheel drive system, Height adjustment lever, Grass bag attachment, and Safety key system.

Feature	Description
Cutting Width	21-inch steel deck for efficient mowing
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV engine
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive with variable speed control
Cutting Height	Adjustable from 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Grass Bag	2.5 bushel capacity with easy-empty feature
Mulching Capability	Optional mulching kit available
Safety Features	Blade brake clutch, Safety key, Handlebar kill switch
Wheels	10-inch rear wheels, 8-inch front wheels
Weight	Approximately 75 lbs
Fuel Tank	1-quart capacity

Assembly Instructions

Unpack all parts and inspect for damage before assembly.

1. Attach handlebar: Align with mounting brackets and secure with provided bolts.
2. Install grass bag: Attach bag support frame to rear deck and secure bag.
3. Connect control cables: Route throttle and drive cables according to diagram.
4. Install wheels: Secure all four wheels with washers and cotter pins.
5. Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 oil to proper level (check dipstick).

WARNING! Wear protective gloves during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tightened securely.

First-Time Setup

Complete assembly before first use.

1. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline with minimum 87 octane.
2. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at FULL mark on dipstick.
3. Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (recommend 3 inches for first mow).
4. Test controls: Verify throttle, drive, and blade engagement work smoothly.
5. Test safety features: Confirm engine stops when safety key is removed.

CAUTION! Never add fuel while engine is hot. Allow to cool for 30 minutes.

Specifications

• Model: 20074
• Engine: Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV, 4-cycle
• Cutting Width: 21 inches
• Cutting Heights: 1.5" to 4" (6 positions)
• Drive System: Rear-wheel, variable speed
• Wheels: 10" rear, 8" front
• Bag Capacity: 2.5 bushels
• Weight: 75 lbs
• Fuel Capacity: 1 quart
• Oil Capacity: 20 oz
• Warranty: 2-year limited

Controls and Settings

Handlebar controls: Throttle lever, Drive control bar, Blade engagement lever, Height adjustment lever.

Operation Controls: Throttle (controls engine speed), Drive control (variable speed 0-3.5 mph), Blade engagement (pull to start blade), Height adjustment (lever with 6 positions).

Safety Features: Blade brake clutch (stops blade within 3 seconds), Safety key (must be inserted to start), Handlebar kill switch (stops engine when released). Maintenance: Air filter (clean every 25 hours), Spark plug (replace annually), Blade sharpening (every season or as needed).

Operation Guidelines

Starting procedure: Insert safety key, Set throttle to FAST, Pull blade engagement lever, Pull starter cord.

1. Clear mowing area of debris before starting.
2. Adjust cutting height based on grass condition.
3. Engage drive control gradually to begin movement.
4. Overlap passes by 2-3 inches for even cutting.
5. Empty grass bag when indicator shows full.

Tip: Mow when grass is dry for best results. Avoid mowing in extreme heat.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Before each use: Check oil level, Inspect blade for damage, Clear deck of debris.
2. Every 25 hours: Clean/replace air filter, Check spark plug, Lubricate moving parts.
3. Every season: Sharpen/replace blade, Change oil, Clean fuel system, Check tire pressure.
4. Storage preparation: Drain fuel or add stabilizer, Clean entire mower, Store in dry location.

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance. Wear protective gloves when handling blade.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage prevents damage during off-season.

1. Clean mower thoroughly, removing all grass and debris.
2. Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer.
3. Change engine oil.
4. Remove spark plug and add teaspoon of oil to cylinder.
5. Store in cool, dry place away from moisture.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank for more than 30 days without stabilizer.

Safety Information

Read all safety instructions before operation.

• Wear protective equipment: Safety glasses, hearing protection, sturdy shoes.
• Clear mowing area of stones, sticks, and debris.
• Never operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees.
• Keep children and pets away during operation.
• Never remove safety devices or guards.
• Stop engine before crossing gravel drives or roads.

DANGER! Rotating blade can cause serious injury. Always ensure blade has stopped before crossing or servicing.

Warranty Information

Toro Model 20074 comes with 2-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or improper maintenance. For warranty service, contact authorized Toro dealer with proof of purchase. Keep this manual and receipt for warranty claims. For support, visit www.toro.com or contact 1-800-348-2424.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, Bad spark plug, Safety key missing	Check fuel level, Replace spark plug, Insert safety key.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, Low engine speed, Wet grass	Sharpen blade, Adjust throttle to FAST, Wait for grass to dry.
Uneven cutting	Uneven tire pressure, Bent blade deck	Inflate tires to 15 PSI, Inspect deck for damage.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, Damaged blade, Debris in deck	Tighten blade bolt, Replace blade, Clean deck interior.
Loss of power	Clogged air filter, Old fuel, Dirty spark plug	Clean/replace air filter, Drain old fuel, Clean spark plug.

Service: For repairs beyond basic maintenance, contact authorized Toro service center.

Support: 1-800-348-2424; www.toro.com