Toro Model 75742 Manual

The Toro Model 75742 is a high-performance walk-behind lawn mower featuring a 22-inch cutting deck, a powerful 159cc Briggs & Stratton engine, 3-in-1 discharge system (mulch, bag, side discharge), single-lever height adjustment (6 positions from 1.5" to 4"), easy-start system, durable steel deck construction, and a 2.5-bushel grass bag. Below are key sections for safety, features, assembly, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 22-inch steel cutting deck, Briggs & Stratton 159cc engine, single-lever height adjuster, 3-in-1 discharge system, rear grass bag, and easy-start system.

Feature	Description
Cutting Deck	22-inch steel construction for durability
Engine	Briggs & Stratton 159cc, 4-cycle engine
Starting System	Easy-start recoil system
Height Adjustment	Single-lever, 6 positions (1.5" to 4")
Discharge System	3-in-1 (mulch, bag, side discharge)
Grass Bag	2.5-bushel rear bag with easy-empty feature
Drive System	Self-propelled (if applicable to model variant)
Wheels	8-inch rear, 7-inch front wheels
Handle	Folding handle for compact storage
Warranty	Limited 2-year residential warranty

Assembly Instructions

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

1. Attach the handle: Align handle brackets with deck mounts, insert bolts, and tighten securely.
2. Install the grass bag: Attach bag support frame to rear deck hooks, then clip bag onto frame.
3. Attach discharge chute: For side discharge, snap chute into side port; secure with wing nut.
4. Install mulching plug: For mulching, insert plug into discharge opening.
5. Add engine oil: Fill with SAE 30 detergent oil (check dipstick for level).
6. Add gasoline: Use fresh unleaded gasoline (87 octane or higher).

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

First-Time Setup

Before first use, complete final checks and adjustments.

1. Check tire pressure: Inflate to 15 PSI (front) and 20 PSI (rear).
2. Adjust handle height: Loosen knobs, set to comfortable position, retighten.
3. Set cutting height: Move single lever to desired position (start at 3" for first mow).
4. Test engine: In a well-ventilated area, pull starter cord to start engine; let run for 5 minutes.
5. Engage blade control: With engine running, squeeze blade control lever to engage blade.

CAUTION! Always mow in daylight with clear visibility. Clear lawn of debris before mowing.

Specifications

• Model: Toro 75742
• Cutting Width: 22 inches
• Engine: Briggs & Stratton 159cc, 4-cycle
• Oil Capacity: 20 oz (SAE 30)
• Fuel Capacity: 0.5 gallons
• Cutting Heights: 1.5", 2", 2.5", 3", 3.5", 4"
• Discharge Options: Mulch, Bag, Side Discharge
• Bag Capacity: 2.5 bushels
• Wheel Size: 7" front, 8" rear
• Weight: 65 lbs (approx.)
• Warranty: 2-year limited (residential use)

Controls and Operation

Main controls: Engine throttle, blade control lever, drive control (if self-propelled), height adjustment lever.

Starting: Set throttle to FAST, pull starter cord firmly. Stopping: Release blade control, set throttle to STOP. Blade Engagement: Squeeze blade control lever against handle. Drive Control: Squeeze drive lever to engage self-propelled wheels (if equipped).

Operation Tips: Mow when grass is dry. Overlap passes by 2 inches. Change mowing pattern weekly. Never remove grass bag or discharge chute while engine is running.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Use single lever to adjust all four wheels simultaneously.

1. Stop engine and wait for blade to stop completely.
2. Pull height adjustment lever outward and move to desired position.
3. Release lever; ensure it locks into position.
4. Recommended heights: 2.5"-3.5" for most grasses; higher in summer heat.

Tip: Never adjust height while engine is running. Always mow at highest setting for first spring cut.

Discharge System Setup

Configure for mulching, bagging, or side discharge.

1. Mulching: Install mulching plug in discharge opening. Grass is cut finely and returned to lawn.
2. Bagging: Attach grass bag to rear frame. Empty when bag is 2/3 full for best performance.
3. Side Discharge: Install discharge chute on right side. Use for tall or wet grass.

WARNING! Always stop engine before changing discharge configuration. Ensure attachments are securely installed.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Interval	Task
Before each use	Check oil level, inspect blade for damage, clear deck of debris
Every 25 hours	Change engine oil, check air filter, inspect spark plug
Every 50 hours	Replace air filter, sharpen or replace blade
Season end	Drain fuel or add stabilizer, clean entire mower, store properly

Blade Sharpening: Remove blade, sharpen at 30-degree angle, balance before reinstalling.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage prevents damage and starting issues next season.

1. Clean mower thoroughly, removing all grass and debris.
2. Drain fuel tank or add fuel stabilizer and run engine for 5 minutes.
3. Change engine oil if due.
4. Remove spark plug, add 1 teaspoon of oil to cylinder, pull starter cord slowly twice, reinstall plug.
5. Store in dry, covered location, with blade control released.

CAUTION! Never store with fuel in tank indoors. Keep away from open flames or heat sources.

Safety Information

Read and follow all safety instructions to prevent injury.

• Always wear eye protection, long pants, and sturdy shoes.
• Clear mowing area of stones, toys, and other objects.
• Never mow wet grass or in poor light conditions.
• Keep children and pets away from mowing area.
• Never reach under deck while engine is running.
• Use extreme caution when mowing on slopes.
• Disconnect spark plug wire before performing maintenance.

DANGER! Rotating blade can cause severe injury. Always ensure blade has stopped before crossing gravel drives or roads.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	No fuel, old gas, clogged air filter	Add fresh fuel, clean/replace air filter, check spark plug.
Engine runs poorly	Dirty air filter, old gasoline	Clean air filter, drain and replace fuel.
Uneven cutting	Dull blade, uneven tire pressure	Sharpen or replace blade, inflate tires evenly.
Vibration	Loose blade, bent blade, debris	Tighten blade bolt, replace bent blade, clean deck.
Bag not filling	Wet grass, clogged deck	Mow when grass is dry, clean underside of deck.
Self-propelled not working	Drive belt loose or broken	Adjust or replace drive belt (see service manual).

Service: For repairs not covered in manual, contact authorized Toro service dealer or call 1-888-384-9939.