Toro Model 21442 Manual

The Toro Model 21442 is a high-performance walk-behind lawn mower featuring a powerful engine, adjustable cutting heights, mulching capability, rear bagging system, and easy-start technology. Designed for residential use, it offers durability, maneuverability, and efficient grass cutting. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Engine, cutting deck, handle with controls, rear bag, height adjustment lever, mulching plug.

Feature	Description
Engine	High-torque, 4-cycle gasoline engine with easy-start system
Cutting Width	21-inch steel cutting deck
Cutting Height	Adjustable from 1.5 to 4 inches
Drive System	Self-propelled rear-wheel drive with variable speed
Mulching Capability	Includes mulching plug for fine grass clippings
Bagging System	Rear-mounted grass bag with easy-empty feature
Handle Controls	Ergonomic handle with drive control and safety levers
Wheels	Large rear wheels for better traction and maneuverability
Fuel Tank	1-quart capacity with easy-fill spout
Starter	Recoil starter with primer bulb

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assemble on a flat, stable surface.

1. Attach handle: Secure upper and lower handle sections with provided bolts and wrench.
2. Install grass bag: Attach bag support brackets to deck; hang bag on brackets.
3. Connect control cables: Route drive and safety control cables to handle levers.
4. Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 oil to level indicated on dipstick.
5. Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded gasoline; fill tank to recommended level.

WARNING! Wear gloves during assembly. Ensure all bolts are tightened securely.

First-Time Operation

Before starting, perform pre-operation checks.

1. Check oil and fuel levels: Ensure proper levels before each use.
2. Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired height (middle setting recommended).
3. Select operation mode: Install mulching plug or attach grass bag as needed.
4. Start engine: Set throttle to FAST, press primer bulb 3 times, pull starter cord.
5. Engage drive: Squeeze drive control lever to self-propel; release to stop.

CAUTION! Clear lawn of debris before mowing. Keep hands and feet away from moving parts.

Specifications

• Model: 21442
• Engine Type: 4-cycle, single-cylinder, air-cooled
• Engine Displacement: 140 cc
• Cutting Width: 21 inches
• Cutting Heights: 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4 inches
• Drive System: Self-propelled, rear-wheel drive
• Speed Settings: Variable speed control
• Bag Capacity: 2.5 bushels
• Fuel Capacity: 1 quart
• Weight: 65 lbs (without bag)

Controls and Settings

Handle controls: Drive control lever, safety handle, throttle control, height adjustment lever.

Drive Control: Squeeze to engage self-propelled drive; release to stop drive. Safety Handle: Must be held against handle to keep engine running. Throttle Control: FAST for mowing, SLOW for idling. Height Adjustment: Single lever adjusts all four wheels simultaneously.

Operation Modes: Mulching (plug installed), Bagging (bag attached), Side Discharge (plug and bag removed).

Cutting Height Adjustment

Adjust height based on grass type and season.

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

Tip: Cut only one-third of grass height at a time. Higher settings for summer, lower for spring/fall.

Mulching and Bagging

Mulching: Install mulching plug; cuts clippings finely and returns to lawn as fertilizer.

Bagging: Attach grass bag; collects clippings for disposal. Empty when bag is full.

1. For mulching: Ensure grass is dry and not too tall.
2. For bagging: Empty bag frequently to maintain airflow and cutting performance.
3. Switching modes: Always stop engine before changing between mulching and bagging.

WARNING! Never operate without mulching plug or bag unless using side discharge.

Safety Features

Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blade within 3 seconds when safety handle is released. Safety Handle: Must be held to keep engine running. Guard: Cutting deck designed to prevent debris ejection.

Safety Tips: Wear eye protection and sturdy shoes. Mow across slopes, not up and down. Keep children and pets away.

Maintenance & Storage

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. After each use: Clean underside of deck; check for damage.
2. Monthly: Check air filter; clean or replace if dirty.
3. Seasonally: Change engine oil; sharpen or replace blade.
4. Storage: Drain fuel or add stabilizer; store in dry place.

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug before performing any maintenance.

Warranty Information

Limited warranty: 2 years residential use, 90 days commercial use. Covers defects in materials and workmanship. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact authorized Toro service dealer or call 1-888-384-9939. Visit www.toro.com for more information.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, old gasoline, clogged air filter	Check fuel level; use fresh gas; clean/replace air filter.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, low engine speed, wet grass	Sharpen/replace blade; set throttle to FAST; mow when grass is dry.
Self-propel not working	Drive cable loose, worn drive belt	Adjust drive cable tension; replace drive belt if necessary.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, bent blade, debris in deck	Tighten blade bolt; replace bent blade; clean deck.
Grass bag not filling	Clogged deck, wet grass, full bag	Clean deck underside; mow dry grass; empty bag frequently.

Service: For repairs, use authorized Toro service centers. Customer support: 1-888-384-9939.