Toro Model 20353 Manual

The Toro Model 20353 is a high-performance walk-behind lawn mower designed for residential use. It features a powerful engine, adjustable cutting heights, easy-start system, mulching capability, rear bagging option, and durable steel deck construction. Below are key sections covering safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and warranty information.

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 Guidelines 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton engine, rear collection bag, mulching plug, height adjustment lever, recoil start system.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV engine with easy-start technology
Cutting Width	21-inch steel cutting deck
Cutting Height	Adjustable from 1.5 to 4 inches in 0.5-inch increments
Drive System	Self-propelled rear-wheel drive with variable speed control
Collection	Rear-mounted fabric bag with 2.5-bushel capacity
Mulching	Includes mulching plug for clippings dispersal
Handle	Foldable design with cushioned grips
Wheels	8-inch rear wheels, 7-inch front wheels
Weight	Approximately 65 lbs (without bag)
Fuel Tank	0.5-gallon capacity

Assembly Instructions

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

Attach handle: Align handle brackets with deck mounts, secure with provided bolts and wrenches.
Install rear bag: Hook bag frame onto deck brackets, secure with retaining clips.
Attach mulching plug: Insert plug into rear discharge chute when mulching is desired.
Install wheels: Slide wheels onto axles, secure with washers and retaining clips.
Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (18 oz) and unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Do not add fuel or oil indoors or near open flames. Ensure all fasteners are tightened securely.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Always wear appropriate safety gear.

Clear mowing area of debris, stones, and toys before starting.
Never operate without proper guards or safety devices in place.
Do not mow on steep slopes or wet grass to prevent slipping.
Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades and discharge chute.
Stop engine and remove spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

CAUTION! Engine and muffler become hot during use; allow to cool before storage or refueling.

Specifications

Model: 20353
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 140cc, 4-cycle, OHV
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 - 4 inches
Drive: Self-propelled, variable speed (0-3.5 mph)
Collection Bag Capacity: 2.5 bushels
Deck Material: Powder-coated steel
Wheels: 8-inch rear, 7-inch front
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum)
Oil Type: SAE 30 (above 40°F) or 10W-30 (below 40°F)
Weight: 65 lbs (without bag)

Controls and Operation

Handle Controls: Drive control lever, speed selector, height adjustment lever, recoil starter grip.

Starting: 1. Push primer bulb 3 times (cold engine). 2. Set throttle to FAST. 3. Pull recoil starter firmly. Stopping: Release drive lever, move throttle to STOP, wait for blades to stop.

Self-Propelled Operation: Squeeze drive lever to engage wheels; adjust speed with selector. Bagging/Mulching: Install bag for collection; insert mulching plug for fine clippings dispersal.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Adjust all four wheels simultaneously using the single lever.

Stop engine and ensure blades are not rotating.
Pull height adjustment lever outward and move to desired setting (1.5 to 4 inches).
Release lever to lock into position.
Verify all wheels are at same height before mowing.

Tip: For first mow of season, set to highest setting; gradually lower for subsequent mows.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect blades for damage, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, clean or replace air filter
Every season	Sharpen or replace blades, check spark plug, lubricate wheel bearings
As needed	Clean underside of deck, inspect drive belt, tighten fasteners

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before performing any maintenance involving blades or moving parts.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare mower for extended storage (e.g., winter).

Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer to prevent gum formation.
Change engine oil and run engine briefly to circulate fresh oil.
Clean entire mower, especially underside of deck.
Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon of oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat.
Store in dry, covered area away from moisture and direct sunlight.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank indoors or in enclosed spaces without proper ventilation.

Warranty Information

Toro Model 20353 includes a limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Residential use: 2 years on entire mower, 3 years on cutting deck. Commercial use: 90 days. Proof of purchase required. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. For warranty service, contact an authorized Toro service dealer or call 1-888-384-9939.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Empty fuel tank, old gasoline, clogged air filter	Add fresh fuel, clean/replace air filter, check spark plug
Poor cutting performance	Dull blades, low engine speed, wet grass	Sharpen/replace blades, set throttle to FAST, mow when dry
Self-propel not working	Drive belt loose or broken, drive lever not engaged	Inspect and adjust/replace drive belt, ensure lever is fully squeezed
Excessive vibration	Damaged blade, loose blade bolt, debris on deck	Stop engine, inspect blade and bolt, clean deck underside
Grass not discharging	Wet grass, clogged deck, improper cutting height	Mow when dry, clean deck, adjust to higher setting

Service: For technical support or dealer locations, visit www.toro.com or call 1-888-384-9939.