toro model 51591 manual

The Toro Model 51591 is a high-performance walk-behind lawn mower featuring a powerful engine, durable steel deck, adjustable cutting heights, easy-start system, mulching/bagging/side-discharge capabilities, ergonomic handle with controls, and large rear wheels for maneuverability. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton engine, height adjustment lever, rear bagger attachment, mulching plug, recoil starter, safety key.

Feature	Description
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV engine with easy-start system
Cutting Width	21-inch steel deck
Height Adjustment	Single-lever adjustment for 6 cutting positions (1.5-4 inches)
Drive System	Self-propelled rear-wheel drive with variable speed control
Cutting Options	Mulch, bag, or side-discharge capability
Handle	Foldable ergonomic handle with control cables
Wheels	Large 10-inch rear wheels for traction
Starter	Recoil pull-start mechanism
Safety Features	Blade brake clutch, safety key, operator presence control
Fuel Tank	1-quart capacity

Assembly Instructions

Unpack and inspect all parts. Assembly requires basic tools.

1. Attach handle: Align handle brackets with deck mounts, secure with provided bolts.
2. Install height adjustment lever: Connect to deck linkage as shown in diagram.
3. Attach rear bagger: Slide bagger frame onto deck hooks, secure with retaining clip.
4. Install mulching plug (if used): Insert into rear discharge chute.
5. Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 detergent oil (check dipstick).
6. 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, perform pre-operation checks.

1. Check oil and fuel levels: Top up if necessary.
2. Inspect blade: Ensure it is sharp and securely fastened.
3. Adjust cutting height: Set lever to desired position.
4. Start engine: Insert safety key, set choke, pull recoil starter.
5. Engage drive: Squeeze drive control lever to self-propel.
6. Begin mowing: Overlap passes for even cut.

CAUTION! Clear mowing area of debris. Wear safety glasses and sturdy footwear.

Specifications

• Model: 51591
• Engine: Briggs & Stratton 140cc OHV
• Cutting Width: 21 inches
• Cutting Heights: 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4 inches
• Drive: Self-propelled rear-wheel drive
• Speed Settings: Variable (0-3 mph)
• Deck Material: Powder-coated steel
• Wheel Size: Front 7-inch, Rear 10-inch
• Fuel Capacity: 1 quart
• Oil Capacity: 20 oz
• Weight: 75 lbs

Controls and Settings

Handle controls: Drive control lever, blade engagement lever, height adjustment lever.

Operation: Squeeze drive lever to move; release to stop. Pull blade engagement lever to start blade rotation. Adjust height with single lever.

Engine controls: Choke lever, throttle control, recoil starter, safety key. Settings: Cutting height (6 positions), drive speed (variable), bag/mulch/side-discharge selection.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Single-lever system adjusts all four wheels simultaneously.

1. Stop mower and engine.
2. Pull height adjustment lever outward.
3. Move lever to desired number setting (1=lowest, 6=highest).
4. Release lever to lock position.
5. Check all wheels are at same height.

Tip: For first mow of season, set to highest setting to avoid scalping.

Mulching and Bagging

Three cutting modes available.

1. Mulching: Install mulching plug in discharge chute. Grass clippings are cut finely and returned to lawn.
2. Bagging: Attach grass bag to rear frame. Empty bag when full indicator shows.
3. Side Discharge: Remove mulching plug and bag. Install side discharge chute (optional accessory).

WARNING! Always stop engine before changing cutting mode. Keep hands away from discharge area.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect blade, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, clean air filter, check spark plug
Every season	Sharpen or replace blade, lubricate wheel bearings
As needed	Clean underside of deck, check drive belt tension

CAUTION! Disconnect spark plug wire before performing any maintenance.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage extends mower life.

1. Drain fuel or add fuel stabilizer for off-season storage.
2. Change engine oil at end of season.
3. Clean entire mower, especially underside of deck.
4. Remove spark plug, add teaspoon of oil to cylinder, pull starter slowly.
5. Store in dry, covered area.

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

Safety Information

Read and follow all safety instructions.

• Always wear eye protection and sturdy shoes.
• Clear mowing area of stones, sticks, and debris.
• Never mow wet grass.
• Keep children and pets away from mowing area.
• Use blade brake clutch to stop blade quickly.
• Disconnect spark plug before maintenance.
• Do not operate on slopes greater than 15 degrees.

DANGER! Rotating blade can cause serious injury. Never place hands or feet under deck while engine is running.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, bad spark plug, safety key not inserted	Check fuel level; inspect spark plug; ensure safety key is inserted.
Poor cutting performance	Dull blade, low engine speed, clogged deck	Sharpen or replace blade; set throttle to FAST; clean underside of deck.
Uneven cut	Uneven tire pressure, worn blade	Inflate tires to 15 PSI; balance or replace blade.
Self-propel not working	Drive belt loose or broken, control cable adjustment	Check drive belt tension; adjust control cable.
Excessive vibration	Loose blade, bent blade, unbalanced blade	Tighten blade bolt; replace bent blade; balance blade.

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