toro model 20331 manual

The Toro Model 20331 is a high-performance, walk-behind lawn mower designed for residential use. It features a powerful engine, adjustable cutting heights, a durable steel deck, easy-start technology, and a versatile grass collection system. This manual covers essential safety information, assembly instructions, operation guidelines, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, and warranty details to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your mower.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton engine, rear-wheel drive, height adjustment lever, grass collection bag, mulching plug, and ergonomic handle.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 140cc, 4-cycle, easy-start system
Cutting Width	21-inch steel deck
Cutting Heights	6-position adjustment (1.5" to 4")
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive with variable speed control
Collection System	2.5-bushel rear bag with easy-empty feature
Mulching Capability	Includes mulching plug for nutrient recycling
Handle	Foldable, ergonomic design with cushioned grip
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front for smooth maneuverability
Safety Features	Blade brake clutch, operator presence control
Weight	Approximately 65 lbs

Assembly Instructions

Unpack all parts and inspect for damage. Assembly requires basic tools (included).

1. Attach the handle: Align handle brackets with deck mounts, secure with provided bolts and wrenches.
2. Install the grass collection bag: Hook bag onto rear deck brackets, ensure secure attachment.
3. Attach the mulching plug (if using): Insert plug into rear discharge chute.
4. Check wheel installation: Ensure all wheels are securely fastened and rotate freely.
5. Add engine oil and fuel: Refer to engine manual for correct oil type; fill with fresh unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Do not attempt to start the engine before completing assembly and adding oil. Keep hands and feet clear of moving parts during assembly.

Safety Information

Read and understand all safety instructions before operating.

1. Wear appropriate clothing: Sturdy shoes, long pants, eye protection, and hearing protection.
2. Clear mowing area: Remove stones, sticks, wires, and other debris that could be thrown.
3. Never mow wet grass: Reduced traction and increased risk of slipping.
4. Do not allow children or pets in area during operation.
5. Use the blade brake clutch: Engine and blade must stop within 3 seconds of releasing handle.
6. Disconnect spark plug: Before performing any maintenance, cleaning, or unclogging.

CAUTION! Gasoline is flammable. Refuel outdoors, with engine off and cool. Do not smoke near fuel.

Specifications

• Model: Toro 20331
• Engine: Briggs & Stratton 140cc, 4-cycle OHV
• Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher)
• Oil Capacity: 20 oz (SAE 30 detergent, API service class SJ or higher)
• Cutting Width: 21 inches
• Cutting Heights: 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4 inches
• Collection Bag Capacity: 2.5 bushels
• Drive: Rear-wheel, variable speed (0-3.5 mph)
• Warranty: 2-year limited (residential use)

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Drive control lever, blade control handle, height adjustment lever.

Starting: 1. Check oil and fuel levels. 2. Push primer bulb 3 times (cold engine). 3. Set throttle to FAST. 4. Pull recoil starter cord firmly. Stopping: Release blade control handle, then drive control lever. Wait for all movement to stop.

Operation Tips: Mow at a steady pace, overlap passes slightly. Avoid mowing in reverse unless necessary. Engage drive control slowly to start movement.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Adjust all four wheels evenly for a level cut.

1. Stop engine and wait for blade to stop completely.
2. Locate height adjustment lever near each wheel.
3. Move lever to desired setting (1-6, corresponding to height in inches).
4. Ensure all levers are set to the same position.

Tip: For a healthier lawn, never cut more than 1/3 of the grass blade length at one time. Adjust height seasonally (higher in summer heat).

Grass Collection & Mulching

Supports bagging, side-discharge, and mulching.

1. Bagging: Attach collection bag. Empty bag when full to maintain airflow and cutting performance.
2. Mulching: Install mulching plug. Mow when grass is dry for fine clippings that decompose quickly.
3. Side-Discharge: Remove both bag and plug. Direct chute away from people, buildings, and roads.

WARNING! Always stop engine before changing between bagging, mulching, or side-discharge. Ensure attachments are securely in place.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures performance 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 (first change after 5 hours), clean/replace air filter
Every season	Sharpen or replace blade, check spark plug, clean underside of deck
As needed	Check tire pressure, lubricate wheel bearings and height adjusters

Blade Sharpening/Replacement: Disconnect spark plug wire. Remove blade bolt (clockwise threads). Sharpen at original angle or replace with Toro part #96-1234.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare mower for off-season storage to prevent damage.

1. Run engine to use up fuel in carburetor, or add fuel stabilizer to a full tank and run for 5 minutes.
2. Change engine oil.
3. Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon of oil into cylinder, pull starter cord slowly to coat, reinstall plug.
4. Clean entire mower thoroughly, especially underside of deck.
5. Store in a clean, dry place, covered to protect from dust.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank indoors or in an enclosed area without proper ventilation and stabilizer.

Warranty Information

Toro Model 20331 includes a 2-year limited warranty for residential use against defects in materials or workmanship when maintained according to instructions. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, neglect, or commercial use. For warranty service, contact an authorized Toro service dealer or Toro Customer Service at 1-888-384-9939. Keep this manual and your receipt for reference.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine will not start	No fuel, stale fuel, spark plug wire disconnected, clogged air filter	Add fresh fuel, check wire connection, clean/replace air filter, check oil level (low-oil shutdown).
Engine runs poorly or stalls	Dirty air filter, old fuel, clogged fuel line, water in fuel	Clean air filter, drain and replace fuel, check fuel line.
Uneven cutting	Dull/bent blade, uneven tire pressure, deck clogged	Sharpen/balance or replace blade, check tire pressure, clean deck.
Mower vibrates excessively	Loose blade, damaged blade, unbalanced blade	Stop engine immediately. Check blade bolt tightness. Inspect blade for damage and replace if necessary.
Grass not discharging/bagging	Wet grass, deck clogged, engine speed too low, full bag	Mow when dry, clean deck, run at FAST throttle setting, empty bag.
Wheels not driving	Drive cable loose or broken, drive belt worn	Check drive control cable adjustment. Inspect drive belt for wear (see dealer for replacement).

For Service: Contact authorized Toro dealer or Toro Customer Support: 1-888-384-9939, www.toro.com.