TRX-16, TRX-20, and TRX-26 Trencher

• Use your full attention while operating the machine. Do not engage in any activity that causes distractions; otherwise, injury or property damage may occur.

• Never run an engine in an enclosed area.

• Operate the machine only in good light, keeping away from holes and hidden hazards.

• Ensure that all the drives are in neutral and the parking brake is engaged (if applicable) before starting the engine. Start the engine only from the operator's position.

• Slow down and use extra care on hillsides. Ensure to travel in the recommended direction on hillsides. Turf conditions can affect the stability of the machine.

• Slow down and use caution when making turns, crossing roads and sidewalks, and when changing directions on slopes.

• Never operate the machine without the guards securely in place. Ensure that all the interlocks are attached, adjusted, and functioning properly.

• Do not change the engine-governor setting or overspeed the engine.

• Park the machine on a level surface, lower the hydraulic lift, disengage the hydraulics, engage the parking brake (if applicable), shut off the engine, and remove the key before leaving the operator's position for any reason.

• Keep your hands and feet away from moving parts.

• Look behind and down before backing up to ensure that the path is clear.

• Never carry passengers and keep pets and bystanders away.

• Do not operate the machine when you are tired, ill, or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Use care when loading or unloading the machine into a trailer or truck.

• Use care when approaching blind corners.

• Ensure that the area is clear of people before operating the machine. Stop the machine if anyone enters the area.

• Never jerk the controls; use a steady motion.

• Do not touch parts that may be hot from operation. Allow them to cool before attempting to maintain, adjust, or service the machine.

• Operate the machine in areas where there are no obstacles in close proximity to you. Failure to maintain adequate distance from trees, walls, and other barriers may result in injury as the machine backs up during operation if you are not attentive to the surroundings. Operate the machine only in areas where there is sufficient clearance for you to safely maneuver.

• Locate the pinch point areas marked on the machine and keep your hands and feet away from these areas.

• Lightning can cause severe injury or death. If lightning is seen or thunder is heard in the area, do not operate the machine; seek shelter.

• Park the machine on a level surface, lower the hydraulic lift, disengage the hydraulics, engage the parking brake (if applicable), shut off the engine, and remove the key. Wait for all moving parts to stop before adjusting, cleaning, or repairing the machine.

• Clean debris from the hydraulic lift, drives, mufflers, and engine to help prevent fires. Wipe up any spilled oil or fuel.

• Allow the engine to cool before storing and do not store the machine near flames.

• Never allow untrained personnel to service the machine.

• Use jack stands to support the components when required.

• Carefully release pressure from components with stored energy.

• Keep your hands and feet away from the moving parts. If possible, do not make adjustments with the engine running.

• Disconnect the battery or remove the spark-plug wires before making any repairs. Disconnect the negative terminal first and the positive last; connect the positive first and the negative last.

• Charge the battery in an open, well-ventilated area, away from spark and flames. Unplug the charger before connecting or disconnecting it from the battery. Wear protective clothing and use insulated tools.

• Battery acid is poisonous and can cause burns. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing. Protect your face, eyes, and clothing when working with a battery.

• Battery gasses can explode. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from the battery.

• Keep all parts in good working condition and all hardware tightened. Replace all worn or damaged decals.

• Keep all nuts and bolts tight. Keep the equipment in good condition.

• Never tamper with the safety devices.

• Keep the machine free of debris buildup. Wipe up any spilled oil or fuel. Allow the machine to cool before storing.

• Shut off the engine, remove the key, and inspect the machine if you strike an object. Make any necessary repairs before starting.

• Use only genuine Toro replacement parts.

• Keep your body and hands away from pinhole leaks or nozzles that eject high-pressure hydraulic fluid. Use cardboard or paper to find hydraulic leaks; never use your hands. Hydraulic fluid escaping under pressure can penetrate skin and cause injury requiring surgery within a few hours by a qualified surgeon; otherwise, gangrene may result.

The key switch has 2 positions: OFF and RUN. Refer to Starting the Engine.

The key switch has 3 positions: OFF, RUN, and START. Refer to Starting the Engine.

• For best results, use only clean, fresh (less than 30 days old), unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 or higher ((R+M)/2 rating method).

• Ethanol: Gasoline with up to 10% ethanol (gasohol) or 15% MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) by volume is acceptable. Ethanol and MTBE are not the same. Gasoline with 15% ethanol (E15) by volume is not approved for use. Never use gasoline that contains more than 10% ethanol by volume, such as E15 (contains 15% ethanol), E20 (contains 20% ethanol), or E85 (contains up to 85% ethanol). Using unapproved gasoline may cause performance problems and/or engine damage which may not be covered under warranty.

• Do not use gasoline containing methanol.

• Do not store fuel either in the fuel tank or fuel containers over the winter unless you use a fuel stabilizer.

• Do not add oil to gasoline.

Use a fuel stabilizer/conditioner in the machine to provide the following benefits:

• Keeps fuel fresh longer when used as directed by the fuel-stabilizer manufacturer

• Cleans the engine while it runs

• Eliminates gum-like varnish buildup in the fuel system, which causes hard starting

  Important: Do not use fuel additives containing methanol or ethanol.

  Add the correct amount of fuel stabilizer/conditioner to the fuel.

  Note: A fuel stabilizer/conditioner is most effective when mixed with fresh fuel. To minimize the chance of varnish deposits in the fuel system, use fuel stabilizer at all times.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the hydraulic lift.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and allow the engine to cool.

3. Clean around the fuel-tank cap and remove it (Figure 15).

   

   Figure 15

   1. Fuel-tank cap

4. Fill the tank with fuel to about 6 to 13 mm (1/4 to 1/2 inch) below the bottom of the filler neck.

   Important: This space in the tank allows fuel to expand. Do not fill the fuel tank completely full.

5. Install the fuel-tank cap securely.

6. Wipe up any spilled fuel.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the hydraulic lift.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

   Warning

   There is a belt under the cover that is moving when the machine is running and can catch fingers, hands, loose hair, and clothing, causing serious injury, amputation, or death.

   Always shut off the engine and wait for all moving parts to stop before removing the cover.

3. Loosen the bolt at the rear of the cover plate.

4. Loosen the 3 bolts securing the cover plate to the frame sequentially until the cover is loose (Figure 21).

   

   Figure 21

   1. Cover plate
   2. Bolts

5. Pull up the rear of the cover plate until it clears the engine and then pull it off over the bolt heads and off the machine.

6. To install the cover plate before operating the machine, slide the plate into place and secure it with the 3 bolts you loosened previously (Figure 21).

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the hydraulic lift.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Loosen the 2 bolts securing the bottom shield sequentially until the shield is free (Figure 22).

   

   Figure 22

   1. Bottom shield
   2. Bolts

4. Pull the shield back and out of the machine.

5. To install the shield before operating the machine, slide the bottom shield into the machine so that it rests on all 4 tabs and secure it with the 2 bolts you loosened previously (Figure 22).

   Note: You may need to lift up on the bottom shield to ensure that it rests on the front tabs.

Grease Type: General-purpose grease.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and lower the hydraulic lift.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Clean the grease fittings with a rag.

4. Connect a grease gun to each fitting (Figure 23 through Figure 26).

5. Pump grease into the fittings until grease begins to ooze out of the bearings (approximately 3 pumps).

6. Wipe up any excess grease.

Figure 23

Figure 24

Figure 25

Figure 26

Grease Type: General-purpose grease.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and lower the hydraulic lift.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Clean the trencher housing grease fitting with a rag and connect a grease gun to it (Figure 27).

   

   Figure 27

4. Pump grease into the fitting until grease comes out of the grease valve located next to the fitting.

5. Wipe up any excess grease.

Note: Change the oil more frequently when the operating conditions are extremely dusty or sandy.

Note: Your engine may look different than the one shown in the graphics.

Engine-Oil Specifications

Oil Type: Detergent oil (API service SF, SG, SH, or SJ)

Crankcase Capacity:

• Models 22972 and 22973: 1.7 L (57 fl oz) with the filter removed; 1.5 L (51 fl oz) without the filter removed

• Models 22974: 2.1 L (71 fl oz) with the filter removed; 1.8 L (61 fl oz) without the filter removed

Viscosity: Refer to the table below.

Figure 30

Checking the Engine-Oil Level

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the hydraulic lift.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

Figure 31

Make sure that the air gap between the center and side electrodes is correct before installing the spark plug. Use a spark plug wrench for removing and installing the spark plug(s) and a gapping tool/feeler gauge to check and adjust the air gap. Install a new spark plug(s) if necessary.

Type of Spark Plug: NGK^® BPR4ES or equivalent

Air Gap: 0.75 mm (0.03 inch)

Checking the Spark Plug

Important: Do not clean the spark plug(s). Always replace the spark plug(s) when it has: a black coating, worn electrodes, an oily film, or cracks.

If you see light brown or gray on the insulator, the engine is operating properly. A black coating on the insulator usually means the air cleaner is dirty.

Set the gap to 0.75 mm (0.03 inch).

Figure 36

Installing the Spark Plug

Figure 37

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and lower the hydraulic lift.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Turn the fuel-shutoff valve to the closed position (Figure 38).

   

   Figure 38

   1. Fuel-shutoff valve

4. Squeeze the ends of the hose clamp on the engine side of the valve together and slide it up the fuel line away from the valve (Figure 38).

5. Pull the fuel line off the valve (Figure 38).

6. Open the fuel-shutoff valve and allow the fuel to drain into a fuel can or drain pan.

   Note: If desired, you can replace the fuel filter at this time; refer to Replacing the Fuel Filter.

7. Install the fuel line onto the fuel-shutoff valve. Slide the hose clamp close to the valve to secure the fuel line.

8. Wipe up any spilled fuel.

Never install a dirty filter if it is removed from the fuel line.

Note: Note how the fuel filter is installed in order to install the new filter correctly.

Note: Wipe up any spilled fuel.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and lower the hydraulic lift.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Turn the fuel shutoff valve to the closed position (Figure 38).

4. Squeeze the ends of the hose clamps together and slide them away from the filter (Figure 39).

   

   Figure 39

   1. Hose clamp
   2. Fuel line
   3. Filter

5. Remove the filter from the fuel lines.

6. Install a new filter and move the hose clamps close to the filter.

7. Turn the fuel shutoff valve to the open position (Figure 38).

8. Check for fuel leaks and repair if needed.

9. Wipe up any spilled fuel.

Always keep the battery clean and fully charged. Use a paper towel to clean the battery case. If the battery terminals are corroded, clean them with a solution of 4 parts water and 1 part baking soda. Apply a light coating of grease to the battery terminals to reduce corrosion.

Voltage: 12 V with 300 A (cold cranking) at -18°C (0°F).

There are 4 fuses in the electrical system. They are under the control panel on the left side (Figure 43).

Figure 43

1. Fuse block

If the pump drive belt begins to squeal or is cracked, worn, or frayed, replace it. Contact your Authorized Service Dealer for a replacement belt.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and lower the hydraulic lift.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Raise the back of the machine and support it on jack stands.

4. Remove the bottom shield; refer to Removing the Bottom Shield.

5. Loosen the 2 pump bolts (Figure 50).

   

   Figure 50

   1. Pump
   2. Pump bolts
   3. Belt
   4. Idler-pulley spring

6. Twist the pump counterclockwise and allow it to drop down away from the pulley (Figure 50).

   Note: Ensure that the spider coupler drops down with the pump.

7. Using a spring puller (contact your Authorized Service Dealer) or stiff metal hook, pull the end of the idler pulley spring off the spring bolt to release tension on the belt (Figure 50).

8. Remove the belt.

9. Route a new belt around the pulleys.

10. Install the idler-pulley spring on the bolt.

11. Ensure that the spider coupler is in place on the pump and then insert it into the pulley, twisting it clockwise to seat it on the pump bolts.

12. Torque the pump bolts to 68 N∙m (50 ft-lb).

13. Install the bottom shield.

The factory adjusts the traction controls before shipping the machine. However, after many hours of use, you may need to adjust the traction-control alignment, the neutral position of the traction control, and the tracking of the traction control in the full forward position.

Important: To adjust the controls properly, complete each procedure in the order listed.

Hydraulic Tank Capacity: 23 L (6 US gallons)

Use only 1 of the following fluids in the hydraulic system:

• Toro Premium Transmission/Hydraulic Tractor Fluid (refer to your Authorized Toro Dealer for more information)

• Toro Premium All Season Hydraulic Fluid (refer to your Authorized Toro Dealer for more information)

• If either of the above Toro fluids are not available, you may use another Universal Tractor Hydraulic Fluid (UTHF), but they must be only conventional, petroleum-based products. The specifications must fall within the listed range for all the following material properties and the fluid should meet the listed industry standards. Check with your hydraulic fluid supplier to determine if the fluid meets these specifications.

  Note: Toro will not assume responsibility for damage caused by improper substitutions, so use only products from reputable manufacturers who will stand behind their recommendations.

  Material Properties
  Viscosity, ASTM D445	cSt at 40°C: 55 to 62
  	cSt at 100°C: 9.1 to 9.8
  Viscosity index, ASTM D2270	140 to 152
  Pour Point, ASTM D97	-37 to -43°C (-35 to -46°F)
  Industry Standards
  API GL-4, AGCO Powerfluid 821 XL, Ford New Holland FNHA-2-C-201.00, Kubota UDT, John Deere J20C, Vickers 35VQ25 and Volvo WB-101/BM

  Note: Many hydraulic fluids are almost colorless, making it difficult to spot leaks. A red dye additive for the hydraulic system fluid is available in 20 ml (0.67 fl oz) bottles. One bottle is sufficient for 15 to 22 L (4 to 6 US gallons) of hydraulic fluid. Order Part No. 44-2500 from your Authorized Toro Dealer.

Refer to Hydraulic Fluid Specifications.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the hydraulic lift.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Look into the glass bubble on the right side of the machine. If you cannot see hydraulic fluid in the bubble, continue this procedure to add fluid.

   

   Figure 56

   1. Hydraulic-fluid check bubble

4. Remove the cover plate; refer to Removing the Cover Plate.

5. Clean the area around the filler neck of the hydraulic tank and remove the cap and filter from the filler neck using a socket (Figure 57).

   

   Figure 57

   1. Filler-neck cap
   2. Hydraulic-fluid filter

6. If the level is low, add fluid until it is visible in the glass bubble.

7. Install the cap and filter on the filler neck and torque bolt on top to 13 to 15.5 N∙m (110 to 140 in-lb).

8. Install the cover plate; refer to Removing the Cover Plate.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the hydraulic lift.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Remove the top cover.

4. Remove and discard the old filter (Figure 58).

   

   Figure 58

   1. Filler cap
   2. Hydraulic filter

5. Install the replacement hydraulic filter and filler cap (Figure 58) and torque the bolt on top to 13 to 15.5 N∙m (110 to 140 in-lb).

6. Clean up any spilled fluid.

7. Install the top cover.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the hydraulic lift.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. Allow the machine to cool completely.

4. Remove the top cover.

5. Remove the hydraulic-tank filler cap and filter (Figure 58).

6. Place a drain pan capable of holding 37.8 L (10 US Gallons) under the hydraulic tank.

7. Pinch the hose clamp and slide the clamp and hose off the fitting on the hydraulic tank, allowing the hydraulic fluid to drain from the hose and tank into the pan.

   

   Figure 59

   1. Hose
   2. Hydraulic-tank fitting
   3. Hose clamp

8. When finished, install the hose onto the fitting and secure it with the hose clamp.

   Note: Dispose of the used oil at a certified recycling center.

9. Fill the hydraulic tank with hydraulic fluid; refer to Hydraulic Fluid Specifications.

10. Install the hydraulic filter and filler cap (Figure 58) and torque the bolt on top to 13 to 15.5 N∙m (110 to 140 in-lb).

11. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes.

12. Shut off the engine.

13. Check the hydraulic-fluid level and top it off if necessary; refer to Checking the Hydraulic-Fluid Level.

14. Clean up any spilled fluid.

15. Install the top cover.

Due to the high amount of wear placed on the digging teeth, you will need to replace them periodically.

To replace a single tooth, remove the bolts securing the tooth to remove it, then install a new tooth in the same position. Torque the bolts securing the teeth to 37 to 45 N∙m (27 to 33 ft-lb).

• Check each link in the chain for excessive wear, such as links that can no longer hold teeth.

• Inspect the bottom of the boom for wear.

• With the trencher parallel to the ground, ensure that there are 3.8 to 6.3 cm (1-1/2 to 2-1/2 inches) between the bottom of the boom and the top of the bottom chain span. If not, adjust the chain tension.

  Important: Do not overtighten the chain. Excessive chain tension may damage drive components.

To replace a worn chain, flip or replace a worn boom, or adjust the chain tension, use the following procedure:

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and lower the hydraulic lift.

2. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

3. If you are replacing the chain or flipping or replacing the boom, complete the following:

   1. Remove the 2 bolts and nuts securing the boom to the trencher arm.

      

      Figure 60

      1. Bolts
      2. Jam nut
      3. Adjusting bolt

   2. Loosen the jam nut on the adjusting bolt in the boom.

   3. Loosen the adjusting bolt until you can remove the chain from the boom.

   4. Remove the chain from the drive sprocket.

   5. If the chain needs replacing, remove the bolt and nut securing the spoils auger and remove the auger and chain.

   6. Remove the boom, flip it over so the bottom becomes the top (or if you have already flipped it once, replace it), and install the boom again.

   7. Replace the nuts, bolts, and washers to secure the boom.

   8. If you are installing a new chain, connect the links by pressing or hammering the clevis pin supplied with the chain through the links, then secure the clevis pin with the cotter pin supplied with the chain.

      Important: To avoid bending the chain links, place blocks under and between the links when hammering the clevis pin through.

   9. Install the chain over the drive sprocket and front roller.

   10. If you removed the spoils auger, install it using the bolt and nut you removed previously. Torque the bolt and nut to 102 N∙m (75 ft-lb).

   11. Skip to step 6 to complete the adjustment.

4. Loosen the 2 bolts and nuts securing the boom to the trencher arm

5. Loosen the jam nut securing the adjustment bolt.

6. Turn the adjustment bolt in or out as needed to achieve the desired tension.

7. Tighten the jam nut.

8. Torque the 2 bolts and nuts securing the boom to 183 to 223 N∙m (135 to 165 ft-lb).

Over time, the drive sprocket wears, especially when it is used in sandy or clay soils. When this happens, the digging chain begins to slip. If the chain slips, replace the drive sprocket as follows:

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake

2. Raise the trencher a few inches above the ground.

3. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

4. Remove the spoils auger (Figure 61).

   

   Figure 61

   1. Spoils auger
   2. Bolts
   3. Drive sprocket
   4. Sprocket mounting surface

5. Loosen the 2 bolts and nuts securing the boom to the trencher arm.

6. Loosen the jam nut on the adjusting bolt in the boom.

7. Loosen the adjusting bolt until you can remove the chain from the boom.

8. Remove the chain from the drive sprocket.

9. Remove the 6 bolts securing the drive sprocket (Figure 61).

10. Remove and discard the drive sprocket (Figure 61).

11. Clean the sprocket mounting surface on the trencher (Figure 61).

12. Slide the new sprocket onto the shaft (Figure 61).

    Important: The arrow on the sprocket face should be visible from the right side of the trench and should point in a clockwise direction; if not, turn the sprocket around.

13. Thread the 6 bolts into the sprocket finger tight (Figure 61).

14. Slowly begin tightening the bolts progressing around the sprocket until all bolts are torqued to 129 to 155 N∙m (95 to 115 ft-lb).

    Important: Tighten each bolt only halfway first, working your way around the 6 bolts, then return to each bolt in turn and torque them

15. Loop the chain over the auger drive shaft and onto the drive sprocket, ensuring that the teeth point forward on the upper span.

16. Set the upper span of the chain into place on the trencher boom, then wrap the chain around the roller at the end of the boom.

17. Thread the adjustment bolt into the boom and turn it in until there is 3.8 to 6.3 cm (1-1/2 to 2-1/2 inches) of slack in the chain on the bottom span.

18. Thread the jam nut down the adjusting bolt and tighten it securely against the boom.

19. Torque the 2 bolts and nuts securing the boom to 183 to 223 N∙m (135 to 165 ft-lb).

20. Install the spoils auger using the bolt and nut you removed previously.

    Note: Torque the bolt and nut to 102 N∙m (75 ft-lb).

Important: Operating the engine with blocked screens, dirty or plugged cooling fins, and/or cooling shrouds removed will result in engine damage from overheating.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, engage the parking brake (if applicable), and lower the hydraulic lift.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for the engine to cool.

3. Wipe away debris from the air cleaner.

4. Clean any debris buildup on the engine with a brush or blower.

   Important: It is preferable to blow dirt out, rather than washing it out. If you use water, keep it away from electrical items and hydraulic valves. Do not use a high-pressure washer. High-pressure washing can damage the electrical system and hydraulic valves or deplete grease.

5. Clean debris from the oil cooler.