Toro Model 20377 Manual

The Toro Model 20377 is a high-performance walk-behind lawn mower featuring a powerful engine, adjustable cutting heights, mulching capability, rear bagging system, easy-start technology, ergonomic handle with controls, durable steel deck, and safety features including blade brake clutch. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and specifications.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton engine, rear collection bag, height adjustment lever, ergonomic handle with controls, mulching plug, safety key.

FeatureDescription
EngineBriggs & Stratton 190cc OHV engine with easy-start technology
Cutting Width21-inch steel cutting deck
Cutting Heights6-position adjustment (1.5 to 4 inches)
Drive SystemSelf-propelled rear-wheel drive with variable speed control
Mulching CapabilityIncludes mulching plug for nutrient recycling
Bagging System2-bushel rear bag with easy-empty feature
HandleErgonomic folding handle with padded grips
Blade Brake ClutchSafety system that stops blade while engine runs
Fuel Tank1-quart capacity
WarrantyLimited 3-year residential warranty

Assembly Instructions

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

  1. Attach handle: Align handle brackets with deck mounts, secure with provided bolts and wrench.
  2. Install bagging system: Attach bag support frame to rear deck, hook collection bag onto frame.
  3. Connect control cables: Route drive and blade control cables along handle as shown in diagram.
  4. Install mulching plug: Insert plug into rear discharge opening when mulching.
  5. Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 detergent oil (check dipstick for proper level).
  6. Add fuel: Use fresh unleaded gasoline with minimum 87 octane.

WARNING! Do not add fuel while engine is hot or running. Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation.

First-Time Setup

Complete assembly, then prepare for first use.

  1. Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
  2. Add fuel: Fill tank with fresh unleaded gasoline.
  3. Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (middle setting recommended for first mow).
  4. Inspect blade: Ensure blade is sharp and securely fastened.
  5. Test controls: Verify blade control, drive control, and safety key operation.
  6. Start engine: Insert safety key, set choke, pull starter cord.

CAUTION! Keep hands and feet away from cutting deck. Clear mowing area of debris before starting.

Specifications

Controls and Operation

Handle controls: Drive control lever, blade control lever, height adjustment lever, speed control.

Starting Procedure:

  1. Insert safety key into slot near handle.
  2. Set choke to "COLD" for cold starts.
  3. Pull starter cord firmly until engine starts.
  4. Move choke to "RUN" position after engine warms.

Operating Controls: Squeeze drive control lever to engage self-propelled drive; adjust speed with thumb lever. Squeeze blade control lever to engage cutting blade. Release both levers to stop blade and drive immediately.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Adjust all wheels simultaneously using single lever.

  1. Stop engine and wait for blade to stop completely.
  2. Pull height adjustment lever outward and move to desired position.
  3. Release lever to lock into position.
  4. Verify all wheels are at same height.

Recommended Settings: 2.5-3 inches for most grasses; higher for uneven terrain; lower for fine lawns.

Tip: Never adjust height while engine is running.

Mulching and Bagging

Mulching: Install mulching plug in rear discharge opening. Mow when grass is dry and not too tall. Mulching returns nutrients to lawn.

Bagging: Remove mulching plug, ensure bag is properly attached. Empty bag when full or when mower loses power.

Side Discharge: Remove both mulching plug and bag for side discharge operation (not recommended for regular use).

WARNING! Always stop engine before changing between mulching, bagging, or side discharge.

Maintenance Schedule

MaintenanceFrequency
Check oil levelBefore each use
Check blade sharpness/balanceEvery 25 hours
Replace air filterEvery season or 50 hours
Change oilFirst 5 hours, then every 50 hours
Replace spark plugEvery 100 hours
Clean under deckAfter each use
Lubricate wheels/axlesEvery 25 hours
Check drive beltEvery 50 hours

Storage Guidelines

End-of-season storage preparation:

  1. Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer.
  2. Run engine for 5 minutes to circulate stabilized fuel.
  3. Change oil and replace air filter.
  4. Remove spark plug, add 1 tablespoon oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly to coat cylinder walls.
  5. Clean entire mower, especially under deck.
  6. Store in dry, covered location.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank in enclosed area due to fire risk.

Safety Information

Important Safety Rules:

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startNo fuel, bad spark plug, safety key not insertedCheck fuel level; replace spark plug; ensure safety key is inserted
Engine runs poorlyDirty air filter, old fuelClean/replace air filter; drain old fuel and refill with fresh
Uneven cuttingDull blade, uneven tire pressureSharpen or replace blade; check tire pressure
Mower vibrates excessivelyUnbalanced blade, loose partsBalance or replace blade; tighten all fasteners
Self-propel not workingDrive belt worn, control cable looseReplace drive belt; adjust control cable tension
Bag not fillingWet grass, clogged deckMow when grass is dry; clean under deck

Service: For technical support, contact Toro at 1-888-384-9939 or visit www.toro.com

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