toro model 20371 manual

The Toro Model 20371 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 system, mulching capability, and a large-capacity grass bag. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Assembly Instructions 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Cutting Height Adjustment 8. Safety Features 9. Storage & Winterization 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton engine, rear bagger, height adjustment lever, recoil starter, mulching plug, and operator presence control.

Feature	Description
Cutting Deck	21-inch steel deck for durability and clean cuts
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV engine with easy-start system
Cutting Height	Adjustable from 1.5 to 4 inches in 0.5-inch increments
Drive System	Self-propelled, variable speed control
Grass Bag	2.5 bushel rear bag with easy-empty feature
Mulching Capability	Includes mulching plug for nutrient recycling
Operator Presence Control	Safety lever that stops blade when released
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front wheels for maneuverability
Handle	Folding handle with cushioned grips
Fuel Tank	0.5-gallon capacity for extended runtime

Assembly Instructions

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

Attach handle: Align handle brackets with deck mounts, secure with provided bolts and washers.
Install grass bag: Hook bag frame onto rear deck brackets, ensure secure latch.
Connect control cables: Route throttle and drive cables per diagram, adjust tension.
Install mulching plug (optional): Insert plug into discharge chute opening.
Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 detergent oil to full mark on dipstick.
Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

WARNING! Keep hands and feet clear of cutting blade during assembly. Wear gloves when handling sharp edges.

First-Time Operation

Complete assembly and pre-operation checks before starting.

Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
Check fuel: Fill tank with fresh unleaded gasoline.
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (recommend 3 inches for first mow).
Start engine: Set throttle to FAST, pull recoil starter firmly.
Engage blade: Hold operator presence control lever against handle.
Begin mowing: Walk at steady pace, overlapping passes slightly.

CAUTION! Clear mowing area of debris. Do not operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees.

Specifications

Model: 20371
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV, 4-cycle
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Heights: 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Drive: Self-propelled, variable speed (0-3 mph)
Deck Material: 14-gauge steel
Grass Bag Capacity: 2.5 bushels
Fuel Capacity: 0.5 gallons
Oil Capacity: 20 oz (SAE 30)
Weight: 65 lbs (without bag)
Warranty: 2-year limited residential

Controls and Settings

Handle Controls: Throttle lever (SLOW/FAST), Drive control lever, Operator presence control, Height adjustment lever.

Engine Controls: Recoil starter, Choke (cold starts), Fuel shut-off valve.

Operation: Set throttle to FAST for mowing. Engage drive control for self-propelled operation. Adjust speed with variable speed control. Release operator presence control to stop blade instantly. Height adjustment: Lift lever, move to desired position, release lever.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Before each use: Check oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris.
Every 25 hours: Change engine oil, clean or replace air filter, check spark plug.
Every 50 hours: Sharpen or replace blade, check drive belt tension, lubricate wheel bearings.
Season end: Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean entire unit, store properly.

Tip: Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Six positions from 1.5 to 4 inches.

Stop engine and wait for blade to stop completely.
Lift height adjustment lever on each wheel (or single lever for all wheels).
Move wheel to desired height setting (marked 1-6).
Release lever to lock in position.
Adjust all wheels to same height for even cut.

Recommendation: Cut no more than 1/3 of grass height at one time. For first spring mow, set to highest setting.

Safety Features

Operator Presence Control: Blade stops within 3 seconds when lever released. Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blade while engine runs. Discharge Chute Guard: Prevents direct contact with blade. Safety Labels: Important warnings on deck and handle.

Storage & Winterization

Prepare mower for extended storage (especially winter).

Clean thoroughly: Remove grass clippings, dirt, and debris from deck and underside.
Fuel system: Run engine until tank empty, OR add fuel stabilizer to full tank and run 5 minutes.
Oil: Change oil if due (dirty oil can corrode engine).
Spark plug: Remove, add teaspoon of oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly to distribute, reinstall plug.
Battery (if electric start): Remove and store fully charged in cool, dry place.
Store: In dry location, cover with breathable fabric (not plastic).

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank without stabilizer. Gasoline degrades and can damage carburetor.

Regulatory Information

EPA Phase 3 certified engine meets emission standards. CARB compliant for sale in California. This product contains chemicals known to cause cancer and birth defects (California Prop 65). For support, visit www.toro.com or contact 1-800-348-2424. Copyright © 2025 Toro. All rights reserved.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, stale fuel, spark plug, choke	Check fuel level; use fresh gas; check/choke position; inspect spark plug.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, old fuel, carburetor	Clean/replace air filter; drain old fuel; clean carburetor.
Uneven cut	Dull blade, uneven height, deck clog	Sharpen/replace blade; adjust height evenly; clean deck underside.
Self-propel not working	Drive belt, control cable, wheels	Check belt tension and wear; adjust cable; ensure wheels engage.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, bent blade, debris	Tighten blade bolt; replace bent blade; remove debris from blade.
Grass not bagging	Full bag, wet grass, deck clog	Empty bag; wait for dry grass; clean deck and chute.

Reset: For safety system issues, ensure operator presence control lever is fully engaged.

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