The Toro Wheel Horse Model 71225 is a riding lawn tractor featuring a 12.5 HP Kohler engine, 38-inch mower deck, hydrostatic transmission, electric PTO clutch, and rear-wheel drive. This service manual provides comprehensive instructions for maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and safety procedures to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your equipment. Below are key sections covering safety, specifications, operation, maintenance, and repair.
Always follow these safety guidelines to prevent injury or damage.
| Hazard | Precaution |
|---|---|
| Rotating Blades | Disengage PTO, turn off engine, remove key before servicing deck. |
| Fuel & Fire | Refuel outdoors, engine off and cool. No smoking. |
| Electrical | Disconnect battery before electrical work. Avoid sparks. |
| Rollover | Operate on slopes ≤15°. Avoid sudden turns. |
| Children & Pets | Keep clear during operation. Do not carry riders. |
WARNING! Read entire manual before operation. Use protective equipment.
Key controls: Ignition switch, throttle/choke, hydrostatic drive pedal, brake pedal, PTO engagement lever, deck height adjustment.
Starting Procedure:
Mowing: Engage PTO lever slowly. Adjust cutting height (1-4 inches).
Stopping: Disengage PTO, move drive pedal to neutral, engage brake, turn key OFF.
| Interval | Service Task |
|---|---|
| Before each use | Check tire pressure, fuel/oil levels, blade condition. |
| Every 8 hours | Clean deck, check for loose hardware. |
| Every 50 hours | Change engine oil, check air filter, grease fittings. |
| Every 100 hours | Replace spark plug, check drive belt tension. |
| Every season | Sharpen/replace blades, check battery, change oil filter. |
Note: Service more frequently under heavy use or dusty conditions.
Kohler 12.5 HP engine maintenance procedures.
CAUTION! Avoid skin contact with used oil. Dispose properly.
Hydrostatic transmission maintenance.
Tip: Park on level surface when checking fluid.
12V system with key start, alternator, safety interlock.
| Component | Test/Service |
|---|---|
| Battery | Clean terminals, check voltage (12.6V fully charged). |
| Starter | Listen for click; test solenoid if no crank. |
| Alternator | Output ~14V at 2000 RPM. |
| Fuses | Check 20A fuse near battery. |
| Safety Switches | Test seat, brake, PTO interlock switches for continuity. |
WARNING! Disconnect negative battery cable first.
38-inch stamped steel deck with three blades.
CAUTION! Wear gloves when handling blades.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won't start | Dead battery, bad spark plug, clogged fuel filter | Charge battery, replace plug/filter, check fuel flow. |
| Poor cutting | Dull blades, deck clogged, incorrect height | Sharpen blades, clean deck, level properly. |
| Loss of power | Dirty air filter, old gas, slipping belt | Replace filter, use fresh fuel, adjust/replace belt. |
| Hydrostatic issues | Low fluid, loose linkage, worn belt | Check fluid level, adjust linkage, inspect belt. |
| Electrical failure | Blown fuse, corroded terminals, bad switch | Replace fuse, clean connections, test switches. |
Refer to official Toro parts catalog for Model 71225. Common part numbers:
Note: Always use genuine Toro parts for warranty compliance.
Toro Limited Warranty: 2 years residential, 1 year commercial from date of purchase. Keep receipt.
Customer Support: Contact Toro at 1-888-384-9939 or visit www.toro.com. Provide model and serial number (located on frame near rear axle).
Service Centers: Authorized dealers listed on Toro website.