toro model 21564 manual

The Toro Model 21564 is a high-performance walk-behind lawn mower featuring a 22-inch cutting deck, 6.75 Toro engine, 3-in-1 discharge system (mulch/bag/side discharge), adjustable cutting heights, easy-start technology, and durable steel construction. This manual provides essential information for safe operation, assembly, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Below are key sections covering safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and support.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 22-inch steel cutting deck, 6.75 Toro engine, 3-in-1 discharge system, adjustable cutting height lever, rear bagger, mulch plug, side discharge chute, and easy-start technology.

Feature	Description
Cutting Deck	22-inch steel deck for durable cutting performance
Engine	6.75 Toro engine with easy-start technology
Discharge System	3-in-1 (mulch, bag, side discharge) for versatile grass handling
Cutting Height	Adjustable from 1.5 to 4 inches with single lever
Drive System	Rear-wheel drive with variable speed control
Bag Capacity	2.5-bushel rear bag for efficient grass collection
Wheels	10-inch rear wheels, 8-inch front wheels for easy maneuverability
Handle	Foldable design for compact storage
Safety Features	Blade control system, operator presence control
Warranty	Limited residential warranty (see section 10)

Assembly Instructions

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

1. Attach handle: Align handle with lower brackets, secure with bolts and wing nuts.
2. Install wheels: Slide wheels onto axles, secure with washers and retaining clips.
3. Attach discharge chute: Align chute with deck opening, secure with provided hardware.
4. Install mulch plug: For mulching, insert plug into rear discharge opening.
5. Attach bagger: For bagging, hook bagger onto rear deck brackets.
6. Add oil and fuel: Fill engine with SAE 30 oil (check dipstick); add unleaded gasoline.

WARNING! Do not attempt to start engine before completing assembly and adding oil/fuel. Keep hands clear of cutting blade during assembly.

Safety Guidelines

Always follow safety rules to prevent injury or damage.

1. Read manual thoroughly before operation.
2. Clear mowing area of debris, rocks, and toys.
3. Wear sturdy shoes, eye protection, and long pants.
4. Do not mow wet grass or in rainy conditions.
5. Never allow children or pets near mower during operation.
6. Always engage blade control before starting engine.
7. Stop engine and wait for blade to stop before crossing driveways or adjusting mower.
8. Use extreme caution when mowing on slopes; mow across slopes, not up and down.

CAUTION! Gasoline is flammable; refuel outdoors with engine off and cool. Do not smoke near fuel.

Specifications

• Model: 21564
• Engine: 6.75 Toro, 4-cycle, OHV
• Cutting Width: 22 inches
• Cutting Heights: 1.5 to 4 inches (7 positions)
• Deck Material: Steel
• Discharge Options: Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge
• Bag Capacity: 2.5 bushels
• Wheel Size: 10-inch rear, 8-inch front
• Weight: 65 lbs (approx.)
• Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher)
• Oil Type: SAE 30 (summer), 5W-30 (winter)

Controls and Operation

Key controls: Blade control lever, drive control lever, throttle control, primer bulb, recoil starter.

Starting Procedure:

1. Check oil and fuel levels.
2. Move throttle to FAST position.
3. Press primer bulb 3 times (cold engine).
4. Engage blade control lever.
5. Pull recoil starter firmly.

Stopping Procedure:

1. Release blade control lever.
2. Move throttle to STOP position.
3. Wait for blade to completely stop.

Driving: Squeeze drive control lever to engage drive; release to stop. Adjust speed with throttle.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Adjust cutting height with single lever located near each wheel.

1. Stop engine and wait for blade to stop.
2. Move lever to desired height setting (1-7).
3. Ensure all levers are set to same height for even cut.

Recommended Heights: 2.5-3 inches for most grasses; higher for uneven terrain.

3-in-1 Discharge System

Configure mower for mulching, bagging, or side discharge.

1. Mulching: Install mulch plug in rear discharge opening. Grass clippings are cut finely and returned to lawn.
2. Bagging: Attach rear bagger. Clippings are collected for disposal.
3. Side Discharge: Remove mulch plug and bagger; attach side discharge chute. Clippings are discharged to side.

Tip: For best mulching results, mow when grass is dry and not too tall.

Maintenance Schedule

Maintenance Task	Frequency
Check engine oil level	Before each use
Clean under deck	After each use
Check air filter	Every 25 hours
Change engine oil	Every 50 hours or season
Replace spark plug	Every 100 hours or season
Sharpen/replace blade	Every 25 hours or as needed
Check tire pressure	Monthly
Lubricate moving parts	Every 25 hours

Blade Sharpening: Disconnect spark plug wire. Remove blade; sharpen at 30-degree angle; balance before reinstalling.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage extends mower life.

1. Drain fuel or add fuel stabilizer for long-term storage.
2. Change oil if storing over 30 days.
3. Clean mower thoroughly, especially under deck.
4. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon oil, pull starter slowly to coat cylinder.
5. Store in dry, covered area away from moisture.
6. Fold handle for compact storage.

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

Warranty Information

Toro Model 21564 includes limited residential warranty. Engine covered by separate manufacturer warranty.

• Deck and Frame: Lifetime limited warranty for original owner.
• Components: 2-year limited warranty.
• Engine: 3-year limited warranty (refer to engine manual).

Warranty does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, or improper maintenance. For warranty claims, contact Toro customer service with proof of purchase.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, old fuel, clogged air filter, spark plug issue	Check fuel level; replace with fresh fuel; clean/replace air filter; check spark plug.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, old fuel, clogged carburetor	Clean/replace air filter; drain fuel; clean carburetor.
Uneven cutting	Dull blade, uneven tire pressure, deck clogged	Sharpen/replace blade; check tire pressure; clean under deck.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, damaged blade, unbalanced blade	Tighten blade bolt; replace damaged blade; balance blade.
Mower won't drive	Drive belt loose or broken, drive control cable issue	Check drive belt; adjust/replace belt; check drive control cable.
Grass not discharging	Wet grass, deck clogged, incorrect discharge setting	Mow when dry; clean deck; check discharge configuration.

Service: For technical support, contact Toro Customer Service at 1-888-384-9939 or visit www.toro.com.