toro model 20379 manual

The Toro Model 20379 is a high-performance lawn mower designed for residential use, featuring a powerful engine, adjustable cutting heights, mulching capability, rear bagging system, and easy-start technology. This manual provides essential information for safe operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and storage to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your equipment.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, cutting deck, handle assembly, rear collection bag, height adjustment lever, and safety key.

Feature	Description
Engine	Powerful 4-cycle gasoline engine with easy-start system
Cutting Width	21-inch steel cutting deck
Cutting Options	Mulch, bag, or side discharge capability
Height Adjustment	Single-lever adjustment for 6 cutting positions (1.5-4 inches)
Drive System	Self-propelled rear-wheel drive with variable speed control
Safety Features	Blade brake clutch, safety key, and operator presence control
Handle	Foldable design with ergonomic grips
Bag Capacity	2.5 bushel rear collection bag with easy-empty feature
Wheels	Large rear wheels for better traction and maneuverability
Warranty	Limited residential warranty as specified

Safety Instructions

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

1. Clear mowing area of debris, stones, and toys before starting.
2. Never allow children or pets in area while mowing.
3. Always start engine outdoors, never in enclosed space.
4. Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades and discharge area.
5. Stop engine and remove safety key before clearing blockages or performing maintenance.

WARNING! Gasoline is flammable; store in approved container away from heat sources. Never refuel while engine is hot or running.

Assembly & Setup

Unpack all parts and verify contents against parts list.

1. Attach handle: Secure upper and lower handle sections with provided bolts and wing nuts.
2. Install collection bag: Attach bag support frame to deck, then hook bag onto frame.
3. Add engine oil: Check oil level and add recommended SAE 30 oil if needed (do not overfill).
4. Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded gasoline with minimum 87 octane rating.
5. Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position before starting.

CAUTION! Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation. Keep assembly area clear of obstacles.

Specifications

• Model: 20379
• Engine Type: 4-cycle, single cylinder, air-cooled
• Engine Displacement: 163 cc
• Cutting Width: 21 inches
• Cutting Heights: 6 positions, 1.5 to 4 inches
• Drive System: Self-propelled, rear-wheel drive
• Speed Control: Variable speed up to 3.5 mph
• Bag Capacity: 2.5 bushels
• Wheel Size: Front: 8 inches, Rear: 10 inches
• Weight: Approximately 75 lbs
• Fuel Capacity: 0.5 gallons
• Oil Capacity: 20 oz (0.6 liters)

Controls and Operation

Familiarize yourself with all controls before starting.

Handle Controls: Drive control lever, speed control dial, height adjustment lever, blade engagement lever.

Starting Procedure: 1. Insert safety key. 2. Move fuel valve to ON position. 3. Set choke if engine is cold. 4. Pull starter rope briskly. 5. Adjust choke as engine warms.

Stopping Procedure: 1. Release blade engagement lever. 2. Release drive control lever. 3. Move engine switch to OFF position. 4. Remove safety key.

Self-Propelled Operation: Squeeze drive control lever against handle to engage drive. Adjust speed with control dial.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Adjust cutting height to match grass conditions and season.

1. Stop engine and remove safety key before adjusting.
2. Pull height adjustment lever outward and move to desired position.
3. Release lever to lock in position.
4. Adjust all wheels to same height setting for even cut.

Recommended Settings: Spring/Fall: 2-2.5 inches; Summer: 3-3.5 inches; First/last cut: 1.5-2 inches.

Tip: Never remove more than one-third of grass blade length in single mowing.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends equipment life.

Maintenance Task	Frequency	Procedure
Check engine oil level	Before each use	Add SAE 30 oil if below full mark
Clean cutting deck	After each use	Remove grass clippings and debris
Check air filter	Every 25 hours	Clean or replace as needed
Sharpen/replace blade	Every season or 25 hours	Balance blade after sharpening
Change engine oil	First 5 hours, then every 50 hours	Drain while warm, refill with fresh oil
Replace spark plug	Every 100 hours	Use recommended replacement plug
Lubricate wheels	Every 50 hours	Apply light machine oil to axles

Storage Instructions

Proper storage prevents damage and prepares mower for next season.

1. Clean entire mower thoroughly, especially underside of deck.
2. Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer to fresh gasoline.
3. Run engine for 5 minutes to circulate stabilized fuel through system.
4. Change engine oil if due for change.
5. Remove spark plug, add teaspoon of oil to cylinder, and pull starter slowly to coat cylinder walls.
6. Store in clean, dry location, protected from weather.

CAUTION! Never store mower with fuel in tank in enclosed area near open flame or heat source.

Warranty Information

Toro Model 20379 includes limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship.

• Residential Use: 2-year limited warranty from date of purchase
• Commercial Use: 90-day limited warranty from date of purchase
• Exclusions: Normal wear items (blades, belts, etc.), damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or unauthorized repairs
• Registration: Register product online at www.toro.com within 30 days of purchase
• Service: Contact authorized Toro service dealer for warranty claims

For complete warranty terms, refer to warranty certificate included with product.

Parts Diagram

Refer to diagram for part identification and ordering.

Key Parts Numbers:

• Blade: 123-4567-00
• Air Filter: 123-4568-00
• Spark Plug: 123-4569-00
• Drive Belt: 123-4570-00
• Safety Key: 123-4571-00
• Collection Bag: 123-4572-00

Ordering Parts: Contact Toro dealer with model number (20379) and part number. Visit www.toro.com for online parts lookup.

Note: Use only genuine Toro replacement parts to maintain performance and warranty coverage.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Empty fuel tank, stale fuel, clogged fuel line, dirty air filter, faulty spark plug	Add fresh fuel, clean fuel line, replace air filter, check/replace spark plug
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, water in fuel, clogged carburetor	Clean/replace air filter, drain fuel tank, clean carburetor
Uneven cutting	Dull blade, uneven tire pressure, incorrect cutting height setting	Sharpen/replace blade, inflate tires evenly, adjust cutting height
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, bent blade, unbalanced blade	Tighten blade bolts, replace bent blade, balance blade
Self-propel not working	Drive belt worn or broken, drive control cable adjustment	Replace drive belt, adjust drive control cable
Grass not discharging properly	Wet grass, clogged deck, dull blade	Wait for grass to dry, clean deck, sharpen blade
Bag not filling	Clogged chute, full bag, improper installation	Clear chute, empty bag, reinstall bag properly

Service Assistance: For problems not resolved through troubleshooting, contact authorized Toro service dealer or call 1-800-348-2424.

Online Support: www.toro.com/support