The Toro Model 21485 is a high-performance walk-behind lawn mower featuring a powerful engine, durable steel deck, adjustable cutting heights, easy-start system, mulching capability, rear bagging system, ergonomic handle with controls, and safety features including blade brake clutch. Designed for residential use with typical lawn sizes. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Key components: Steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton engine, height adjustment lever, rear grass bag, mulching plug, ergonomic handle with control bar.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine | Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV engine with easy-start system |
| Cutting Width | 21-inch steel cutting deck |
| Cutting Height | Adjustable 1.5 to 4 inches in 0.5-inch increments |
| Drive System | Self-propelled rear-wheel drive with variable speed control |
| Mulching Capability | Includes mulching plug for nutrient recycling |
| Bagging System | Rear-mounted fabric bag with easy-empty feature |
| Handle | Ergonomic folding handle with adjustable height |
| Safety Features | Blade brake clutch (stop blade without stopping engine) |
| Wheels | 8-inch rear wheels, 7-inch front wheels |
| Weight | Approximately 65 lbs |
Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools (included).
WARNING! Always wear gloves during assembly. Ensure all fasteners are tight before operation.
Prepare mower for initial use.
CAUTION! Never add gasoline while engine is hot or running. Operate outdoors only.
Handle controls: Drive control bar, height adjustment lever, bag handle.
Starting: 1. Push primer bulb 3 times. 2. Set throttle to FAST. 3. Pull recoil starter. Stopping: Release drive control bar, move throttle to STOP.
Self-Propelled Operation: Squeeze drive control bar against handle to engage drive. Adjust speed with throttle. Blade Engagement: Blade engages automatically when drive control bar is squeezed. Safety: Blade stops within 3 seconds when control bar is released.
Adjust all four wheels simultaneously with single lever.
Tip: For first cut of season, set to highest setting, then gradually lower.
Mulching: Install mulching plug in rear discharge opening. Mower cuts clippings finely and returns them to lawn as fertilizer. Best for dry grass under 3 inches.
Bagging: Remove mulching plug. Attach grass bag. Empty when bag is ¾ full for optimal performance. Tap bag to settle clippings if needed.
Side Discharge: Remove both bag and mulching plug for side discharge operation (temporary use only).
WARNING! Always stop engine before changing cutting mode. Keep hands and feet away from discharge area.
Blade Brake Clutch: Stops blade within 3 seconds when control bar is released while engine continues running. Safety Labeling: Read and understand all warning labels. Personal Protective Equipment: Wear safety glasses, long pants, and sturdy shoes. Operation: Clear area of debris before mowing. Never mow wet grass. Always mow across slopes, not up and down.
Before Each Use: Check oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris.
Every 25 Hours: Change engine oil (first change after 5 hours), clean air filter, check spark plug.
Every Season: Sharpen or replace blade, clean underside of deck, lubricate wheel axles and height adjustment mechanism.
Storage: Drain fuel or add stabilizer, run engine dry, clean thoroughly, store in dry place.
CAUTION! Always disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.
Toro Limited Warranty: 2-year residential use warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or lack of maintenance. Proof of purchase required. For warranty service, contact authorized Toro service dealer or call 1-888-384-9939. Register product online at www.toro.com for faster service.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won't start | No fuel, stale gas, clogged air filter | Add fresh fuel, clean/replace air filter, check spark plug. |
| Poor cutting performance | Dull blade, wet grass, low engine speed | Sharpen/replace blade, mow when dry, set throttle to FAST. |
| Uneven cut | Uneven tire pressure, worn blade | Check tire pressure, balance or replace blade. |
| Excessive vibration | Damaged blade, loose components | Stop engine immediately, inspect blade and tighten all fasteners. |
| Self-propelled not working | Drive cable loose, worn drive belt | Adjust drive cable tension, replace drive belt if worn. |
| Grass bag not filling | Clogged deck, wet grass | Clean underside of deck, mow when grass is dry. |
Service: For repairs not covered in manual, contact authorized Toro dealer or 1-888-384-9939.
Parts: Use only genuine Toro replacement parts for safety and performance.