Toro Model 21445 Manual

The Toro Model 21445 is a high-performance walk-behind lawn mower featuring a powerful engine, variable speed self-propel system, electric start capability, durable steel deck, mulching and bagging options, adjustable cutting heights, and ergonomic controls. Designed for residential use, it offers reliable cutting performance and ease of operation. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Safety Information 3. Assembly & Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Cutting & Performance 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton engine, electric start system, self-propel drive, rear bagger, mulching plug, height adjustment lever, and control handle.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 190cc OHV engine with electric start
Cutting Width	21-inch steel cutting deck
Drive System	Variable speed self-propel with front-wheel drive
Cutting Options	Mulch, bag, or side discharge capabilities
Height Adjustment	Single-lever adjustment for 6 cutting positions (1.5-4 inches)
Fuel Tank	1-quart capacity
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front wheels
Handle	Foldable ergonomic handle with controls
Safety Features	Blade brake clutch system, operator presence control
Warranty	Limited 3-year residential warranty

Safety Information

Read all instructions before operation. Wear appropriate safety gear.

Clear mowing area of debris, stones, and toys before starting.
Never operate without proper guards, plates, or safety devices in place.
Keep hands and feet away from rotating blades and moving parts.
Do not mow on slopes greater than 15 degrees; mow across slopes, not up and down.
Stop engine and disconnect spark plug before performing maintenance.

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

Assembly & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

Attach handle: Secure upper and lower handle sections with provided bolts.
Install control cables: Connect drive and blade control cables to handle and engine.
Attach bagger: Slide bagger frame onto rear deck hooks; attach collection bag.
Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (check dipstick); add unleaded gasoline.
Check tire pressure: Inflate to 15 PSI for optimal performance.

CAUTION! Ensure all bolts are tightened securely. Test controls before starting engine.

Specifications

Model: 21445
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 190cc, 4-cycle OHV
Starting System: Electric start with backup recoil
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Cutting Height Range: 1.5 to 4 inches (6 positions)
Drive System: Variable speed self-propel (0-3.5 mph)
Deck Material: 14-gauge steel
Bag Capacity: 2.5 bushels
Weight: 85 lbs (without bagger)
Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher)

Controls and Operation

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

Starting: Insert key, set choke, turn key to START. For recoil: Pull cord firmly.

Operation: Squeeze blade control bail to engage blade; squeeze drive lever to propel. Adjust speed with selector. Release bail to stop blade; engine continues running.

Stopping: Release blade control, move throttle to STOP, remove key.

Cutting & Performance

Select cutting mode: Mulching (install plug), bagging (attach bagger), or side discharge (remove plug and bagger).

Adjust cutting height based on grass type and season.
For best results, mow when grass is dry and no more than one-third of height.
Overlap passes by 2-3 inches for even cutting.
Empty bagger frequently to maintain airflow and cutting performance.
Sharpen blade every 25 hours of use for clean cuts.

Tip: Alternate mowing patterns to prevent grass matting and soil compaction.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures longevity and performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, tire pressure, blade condition
Every 25 hours	Change oil, clean air filter, sharpen blade
Every 50 hours	Replace spark plug, check drive belt
Every 100 hours	Replace air filter, grease wheel bearings
Season end	Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean deck

WARNING! Always disconnect spark plug before servicing blade or underside of deck.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare mower for off-season storage to prevent damage.

Clean underside of deck thoroughly to remove grass clippings.
Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes.
Change oil and replace air filter if due.
Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of oil to cylinder, pull starter cord slowly to coat cylinder.
Store in dry, covered area; cover mower to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Do not store near open flames, water heaters, or other ignition sources.

Warranty Information

Toro Limited Warranty: 3 years for residential use, 90 days for commercial use. Warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. Not covered: normal wear, improper maintenance, accident, misuse, or unauthorized repairs. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact authorized Toro dealer or call 1-888-384-9939.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Empty fuel tank, bad spark plug, clogged air filter	Add fuel; check/replace spark plug; clean/replace air filter.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, low engine speed, clogged deck	Sharpen/replace blade; check throttle setting; clean deck underside.
Self-propel not working	Drive belt worn, control cable loose	Inspect/replace drive belt; adjust control cable tension.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, unbalanced blade, damaged spindle	Tighten blade bolt; balance or replace blade; inspect spindle.
Engine runs rough or stalls	Dirty carburetor, old gasoline, fouled spark plug	Clean carburetor; drain old fuel; replace spark plug.

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