Toro Model 21445 Owners Manual

The Toro Model 21445 is a high-performance walk-behind lawn mower featuring a powerful engine, durable steel deck, adjustable cutting heights, mulching capability, rear bagging system, and ergonomic controls. Designed for residential use, it offers reliable performance for maintaining medium to large lawns. 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. Operating the Mower 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Storage Guidelines 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

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

Feature	Description
Cutting Width	21-inch steel deck for efficient mowing
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV engine
Cutting Heights	6-position adjustment (1.5" to 4")
Drive System	Self-propelled rear-wheel drive
Mulching Capability	Includes mulching plug for nutrient recycling
Bagging System	2.5 bushel rear bag with easy-empty feature
Handle	Adjustable, foldable with padded grips
Safety Features	Blade brake clutch, operator presence control
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front wheels
Weight	Approximately 65 lbs

Assembly Instructions

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

Attach handle: Align lower handle sections with deck brackets, secure with provided bolts.
Install upper handle: Connect to lower handle, secure knobs, adjust to desired height.
Attach grass bag: Hook bag frame onto rear deck mounts, ensure secure latch.
Install mulching plug: Insert into rear discharge opening when mulching.
Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 detergent oil (check dipstick).
Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane minimum).

WARNING! Keep hands and feet clear of cutting blade during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tight.

First-Time Operation

Before starting, read all safety instructions. Perform pre-operation checks.

Check oil level: Ensure oil is at full mark on dipstick.
Check fuel level: Fill tank with fresh gasoline.
Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position (start at 3").
Start engine: Set throttle to FAST, pull choke (if cold), pull starter cord.
Engage drive: Squeeze drive control lever to self-propel.
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: 21445
Cutting Width: 21 inches
Engine: Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV
Fuel Capacity: 0.5 gallons
Oil Capacity: 20 oz (SAE 30)
Cutting Heights: 1.5", 2", 2.5", 3", 3.5", 4"
Bag Capacity: 2.5 bushels
Drive: Self-propelled rear-wheel
Warranty: 2-year limited residential
Weight: 65 lbs

Controls and Settings

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

Drive Control: Squeeze to engage self-propel; release to stop. Throttle Control: FAST for mowing, SLOW for idling. Blade Engagement: Lever to engage/disengage cutting blade. Height Adjustment: Lever selects 6 cutting positions. Fuel Shut-off Valve: Located near fuel tank.

Settings: Cutting height (adjust before mowing), bagging/mulching (install appropriate plug), drive speed (controlled by lever pressure).

Operating the Mower

For best results, mow when grass is dry. Overlap passes by 2 inches.

Starting: Set throttle to FAST, engage blade, pull starter cord firmly.
Self-propelling: Squeeze drive control; adjust walking speed as needed.
Cutting height: Adjust based on grass type and season.
Bagging: Ensure bag is properly attached; empty when full.
Mulching: Install mulching plug; mow at slower speed.
Stopping: Release drive control, disengage blade, set throttle to STOP.

Tip: Sharpen blade every 25 hours of use for cleanest cut.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect blade, clear deck
Every 25 hours	Sharpen blade, check air filter
Every 50 hours	Change oil, check spark plug
Every 100 hours	Replace air filter, check drive belt
Season end	Drain fuel, clean thoroughly, lubricate

WARNING! Disconnect spark plug before performing any maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Prepare mower for off-season storage to prevent damage.

Drain fuel: Run engine until tank is empty, or add fuel stabilizer.
Change oil: Replace with fresh oil to prevent corrosion.
Clean thoroughly: Remove grass clippings from deck and underside.
Lubricate: Apply light oil to moving parts and cables.
Store: Keep in dry, covered area, off concrete floor.

CAUTION! Store with fuel tank empty to prevent gum formation.

Regulatory Information

EPA Certified: Meets emission standards for small engines. CARB Compliant: Approved for sale in California. Safety Standards: Conforms to ANSI B71.1. Copyright © 2025 Toro Company. For support, visit www.toro.com or contact 1-888-384-9939.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, bad spark plug, stale gas	Check fuel level; replace spark plug; drain old gas.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, clogged deck	Sharpen blade; clean underside of deck.
Self-propel not working	Drive belt loose, control cable	Adjust drive belt tension; check cable connection.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, unbalanced blade	Tighten blade bolt; replace damaged blade.
Engine runs rough	Dirty air filter, old fuel	Clean/replace air filter; use fresh gasoline.

Reset: For safety switches, ensure all controls are in proper position.

Service: 1-888-384-9939; www.toro.com