TimeCutter® HD MyRide 48in, 54in, or 60in Riding Mower

• 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 fuel stabilizer/conditioner in the machine at all times to keep the fuel fresh longer when used as directed by the fuel-stabilizer manufacturer.

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

Add the amount of fuel stabilizer/conditioner to fresh fuel as directed by the fuel-stabilizer manufacturer.

1. Park the machine on a level surface.

2. Engage the parking brake.

3. Shut off the engine and remove the key.

4. Clean around the fuel-tank cap.

5. Fill the fuel tank until the fuel gauge reads at the full mark (Figure 8).

   Note: Do not fill the fuel tank completely full. The empty space in the tank allows the fuel to expand.

   

   Figure 8

The safety-interlock system is designed to prevent the engine from starting unless:

• The blade-control switch (PTO) is disengaged.

• The motion-control levers are in the NEUTRAL-LOCK position.

• The parking brake is engaged.

The safety-interlock system also is designed to shut off the engine whenever the control levers are out of the NEUTRAL-LOCK position and you rise from the seat.

Test the safety-interlock system before you use the machine each time. If the safety system does not operate as described below, have an Authorized Service Dealer repair the safety system immediately.

1. Sit on the seat, engage the parking brake, and move the blade-control switch (PTO) to the ON position. Try starting the engine; the engine should not crank.

2. Sit on the seat, engage the parking brake, and move the blade-control switch (PTO) to the OFF position. Move either motion-control lever (out of the NEUTRAL-LOCK position). Try starting the engine; the engine should not crank. Repeat for other control lever.

3. Sit on the seat, engage the parking brake, move the blade-control switch (PTO) to the OFF position, and move the motion-control levers to the NEUTRAL-LOCK position. Start the engine. While the engine is running, release the parking brake, engage the blade-control switch (PTO), and rise slightly from the seat; the engine should shut off.

4. Sit on the seat, engage the parking brake, move the blade-control switch (PTO) to the OFF position, and move the motion-control levers to NEUTRAL-LOCK position. Start the engine. While the engine is running, center either motion-control lever and move it forward or reverse; the engine should shut off. Repeat for other motion-control lever.

5. Sit on the seat, disengage the parking brake, move the blade-control switch (PTO) to the OFF position, and move the motion-control levers to NEUTRAL-LOCK position. Try starting the engine; the engine should not crank.

The slots for the rear-shock assemblies have detent positions for reference. You can position the rear-shock assemblies anywhere in the slot, not just in the detent positions.

The following graphic shows the position for a soft or firm ride and the different detent positions (Figure 10).

Figure 10

1. Firmest position
2. Softest position
3. Detents in the slots

Note: Ensure that the left and right rear-shock assemblies are always adjusted to the same positions.

Adjust the rear-shock assemblies (Figure 11).

Figure 11

Park the machine on a level surface.

Figure 14

To disengage the parking brake, pull the lever out of the detent slot and toward you, then push it down (Figure 15).

Figure 15

1. Push the parking brake out of the detent slot and toward you.
2. Push the parking brake down.

Note: The engine shuts off when you move the traction-control with the parking brake engaged.

To stop the machine, pull the motion-control levers to the NEUTRAL position.

1. Disengage the parking brake; refer to Disengaging the Parking Brake.

2. Move the levers to the center, unlocked position.

3. To go forward, slowly push the motion-control levers forward (Figure 24).

   

   Figure 24

1. Move the levers to the center, unlocked position.

2. To go backward, slowly pull the motion-control levers rearward (Figure 25).

   

   Figure 25

• Press the deck-lift pedal down to raise the deck; continue to press the pedal until the deck locks in the transport position (Figure 27).

• Push on the deck-lift pedal with your foot and pull the transport lock handle rearward to disengage the transport lock (Figure 27).

Figure 27

Transport Lock Position

You can adjust the height of cut from 38 to 114 mm (1-1/2 to 4-1/2 inches) in 6 mm (1/4 inch) increments by moving the height-of-cut pin into different hole locations.

1. Push on the deck-lift pedal with your foot and raise the mower deck to the transport-lock position (also the 114 mm (4-1/2 inch) cutting height position) as shown in Figure 28.

2. To adjust, remove the pin from the height-of-cut bracket (Figure 28).

3. Select a hole in the height-of-cut system corresponding to the desired height of cut and insert the pin (Figure 28).

4. Push on the deck-lift pedal with your foot and pull the handle rearward to disengage the transport lock (Figure 27).

5. Lower the deck slowly until the lever makes contact with the pin.

   

   Figure 28

   1. Deck-lift pedal
   2. Handle
   3. Pin
   4. Height-of-cut positions

For best mowing and maximum air circulation, operate the engine at the FAST position. Air is required to thoroughly cut grass clippings, so do not set the height-of-cut so low as to totally surround the mower deck in uncut grass. Always try to have 1 side of the mower deck free from uncut grass, which allows air to be drawn into the mower deck.

Cut grass slightly longer than normal to ensure that the cutting height of the mower deck does not scalp any uneven ground. However, the cutting height used in the past is generally the best one to use. When cutting grass longer than 15 cm (6 inches) tall, you may want to cut the lawn twice to ensure an acceptable quality of cut.

It is best to cut only about a third of the grass blade. Cutting more than that is not recommended unless grass is sparse, or it is late fall when grass grows more slowly.

Alternate the mowing direction to keep the grass standing straight. This also helps disperse clippings, which enhances decomposition and fertilization.

Grass grows at different rates at different times of the year. To maintain the same cutting height, mow more often in early spring. As the grass growth rate slows in mid summer, mow less frequently. If you cannot mow for an extended period, first mow at a high cutting height, then mow again 2 days later at a lower height setting.

To improve cut quality, use a slower ground speed in certain conditions.

When mowing uneven turf, raise the cutting height to avoid scalping the turf.

If you must stop the forward motion of the machine while mowing, a clump of grass clippings may drop onto your lawn. To avoid this, move onto a previously cut area with the blades engaged or you can disengage the mower deck while moving forward.

Clean clippings and dirt from the underside of the mower deck after each use. If grass and dirt build up inside the mower deck, cutting quality will eventually become unsatisfactory.

Maintain a sharp blade throughout the cutting season because a sharp blade cuts cleanly without tearing or shredding the grass blades. Tearing and shredding turns grass brown at the edges, which slows growth and increases the chance of disease. Check the mower blades after each use for sharpness, and for any wear or damage. File down any nicks and sharpen the blades as necessary. If a blade is damaged or worn, replace it immediately with a genuine Toro replacement blade.

Use a heavy-duty trailer or truck to transport the machine. Ensure that the trailer or truck has all necessary lighting and marking as required by law. Thoroughly read all of the safety instructions. Knowing this information could help you, your family, pets, or bystanders avoid injury.

To transport the machine:

• Lock the brake and block the wheels.

• Be sure the fuel shut-off valve is closed.

• Securely fasten the machine to the trailer or truck with straps, chains, cable, or ropes. Only use the four designated tie-down locations on the mower–two on the left side and two on the right (Figure 30). Use these locations even when transporting the mower with an attached accessory. Using non-designated locations may cause damage to the mower and/or attachment.

  

  Figure 30

  1. Tie-down location

• Secure a trailer to the towing vehicle with safety chains.

  Warning

  Driving on the street or roadway without turn signals, lights, reflective markings, or a slow moving vehicle emblem is dangerous and can lead to accidents causing personal injury.

  Do not drive machine on a public street or roadway.

Use extreme caution when loading or unloading machines onto a trailer or a truck. Use a full-width ramp that is wider than the machine for this procedure. Back up ramps and drive forward down ramps (Figure 31).

Figure 31

1. Back up ramps
2. Drive forward down ramps

Important: Do not use narrow individual ramps for each side of the machine.

Ensure the ramp is long enough so that the angle with the ground does not exceed 15 degrees (Figure 31). On flat ground, this requires a ramp to be at least four times (4X) as long as the height of the trailer or truck bed to the ground. A steeper angle may cause mower components to get caught as the unit moves from the ramp to the trailer or truck. Steeper angles may also cause the machine to tip or lose control. If loading on or near a slope, position the trailer or truck so that it is on the down side of the slope and the ramp extends up the slope. This will minimize the ramp angle.

Figure 32

1. Full-width ramp in stowed position
2. Side view of full-width ramp in loading position
3. Not greater than 15 degrees
4. Ramp is at least four times (4X) as long as the height of the trailer or truck bed to the ground
5. H= height of the trailer or truck bed to the ground
6. Trailer

• Do not attach towed equipment except at the hitch point.

• Follow the attachment manufacturer's recommendation for weight limits for towed equipment and towing on slopes. Towed weight must not exceed the weight of the machine, operator, and ballast; otherwise hydrostatic transmission failure may occur. Use counterweights or wheel weights as described in the attachment manufacturer's manual.

• Never allow children or others in or on towed equipment.

• On slopes, the weight of the towed equipment may cause loss of traction, increased risk of rollover, and loss of control. Reduce the towed weight and slow down.

• Stopping distance increases with the weight of the towed load. Travel slowly and allow extra distance to stop.

• Make wide turns to keep the attachment clear of the machine.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, and disengage the blade-control switch.

2. Engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

3. Locate the bypass levers on the frame on both sides of the engine.

4. Move the bypass levers forward through the key hole and down to lock them in place (Figure 33).

   Note: Do this for each lever.

5. Disengage the parking brake.

   Note: Do not start the machine.

   

   Figure 33

   1. Bypass lever
   2. Lever position for operating the machine
   3. Lever position for pushing the machine

6. When finished, engage the parking brake.

Move the bypass levers rearward through the keyhole and down to lock them in place as shown in Figure 33.

Note: Do this for each lever.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the blade-control switch (PTO), and engage the parking brake.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

3. Clean around the air-cleaner cover to prevent dirt from getting into the engine and causing damage.

4. Lift the cover and rotate the air-cleaner assembly out of the engine (Figure 34).

   

   Figure 34

5. Separate the foam and paper elements (Figure 35).

   

   Figure 35

1. Wash the foam element in liquid soap and warm water. When the element is clean, rinse it thoroughly.

2. Dry the element by squeezing it in a clean cloth.

   Important: Replace the foam element if it is torn or worn.

1. Clean the paper element by tapping it gently to remove dust.

   Note: If it is very dirty, replace the paper element with a new one.

2. Inspect the element for tears, an oily film, or damage to the rubber seal.

3. Replace the paper element if it is damaged.

   Important: Do not clean the paper filter.

1. Install the foam element over the paper element.

   Note: Ensure that you do not damage the elements.

2. Align the holes of the filter into the manifold ports.

3. Rotate the filter down into the chamber and fully seat it against the manifold (Figure 36).

   

   Figure 36

4. Close the cover.

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

Crankcase Capacity: 2.4 L (81 fl oz) with oil filter

Viscosity: See the table below.

Figure 37

Note: Check the oil when the engine is cold.

Important: If you overfill or underfill the engine crankcase with oil and run the engine, you may damage the engine.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the blade-control switch (PTO), and engage the parking brake.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

   Note: Ensure that the engine is cool so that the oil has had time to drain into the sump.

3. To keep dirt, grass clippings, etc., out of the engine, clean the area around the oil-fill cap and dipstick before removing it (Figure 38).

Figure 38

1. Park the machine on a level surface to ensure that the oil drains completely.

2. Disengage the blade-control switch (PTO) and engage the parking brake.

3. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

4. Drain the oil from the engine.

   

   Figure 39

5. Change the engine-oil filter (Figure 40).

   Note: Ensure that the oil-filter gasket touches the engine and then turn the filter an extra 3/4 turn.

   

   Figure 40

6. Slowly pour approximately 80% of the specified oil into the filler tube and slowly add the additional oil to bring it to the Full mark (Figure 41).

   

   Figure 41

7. Dispose of the used oil at a recycling center.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the blade-control switch (PTO), and engage the parking brake.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

3. Clean the area around the base of the plug to keep dirt and debris out of the engine.

4. Remove the spark plug (Figure 42).

   

   Figure 42

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 43

1. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the blade-control switch (PTO), and engage the parking brake.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

3. Loosen the 2 fasteners on the battery cover counterclockwise 1/4 turn, and remove the battery cover (Figure 46).

   

   Figure 46

   1. Battery cover
   2. Fasteners

4. Disconnect the negative (black) ground cable from the battery post (Figure 47).

   Note: Retain all fasteners.

5. Slide the rubber cover up the positive (red) cable.

6. Disconnect the positive (red) cable from the battery post (Figure 47).

   Note: Retain all fasteners.

7. Remove the battery hold-down (Figure 47), and lift the battery from the battery tray.

   

   Figure 47

   1. Battery
   2. Negative (–) battery post
   3. Bolt, washer, and nut for the negative (–) battery post
   4. Bolt, washer, and nut for the positive (+) battery post
   5. Positive (+) battery post
   6. Terminal boot
   7. Battery hold-down

1. Remove the battery from the chassis; refer to Removing the Battery.

2. Charge the battery for a minimum of 1 hour at 6 to 10 A.

   Note: Do not overcharge the battery.

3. When the battery is fully charged, unplug the charger from the electrical outlet, then disconnect the charger leads from the battery posts (Figure 48).

   

   Figure 48

   1. Positive (+) battery post
   2. Negative (–) battery post
   3. Red (+) charger lead
   4. Black (–) charger lead

1. Position the battery in the tray (Figure 47).

2. Using the fasteners previously removed, install the positive (red) battery cable to the positive (+) battery terminal.

3. Using the fasteners previously removed, install the negative battery cable to the negative (-) battery terminal.

4. Slide the red terminal boot onto the positive (red) battery post.

5. Secure the battery with the hold-down (Figure 47).

6. Install the battery cover by pushing down and tightening the 2 fasteners clockwise (Figure 46).

1. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the blade-control switch (PTO), and engage the parking brake.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and disconnect the spark-plug wires from the spark plugs.

1. Inspect the cutting edges (Figure 53).

2. If the edges are not sharp or have nicks, remove and sharpen the blade; refer to Sharpening the Blades.

3. Inspect the blades, especially in the curved area.

4. If you notice any cracks, wear, or a slot forming in this area, immediately install a new blade (Figure 53).

   

   Figure 53

   1. Cutting edge
   2. Curved area
   3. Wear/slot forming
   4. Crack

Note: The machine must be on a level surface for the following procedure.

1. Raise the mower deck to the highest height-of-cut position.

2. While wearing thickly padded gloves, or other adequate hand protection, slowly rotate the blade into a position that allows you to measure the distance between the cutting edge and the level surface the machine is on (Figure 54).

   

   Figure 54

   1. Deck
   2. Spindle housing
   3. Blade

3. Measure from the tip of the blade to the flat surface (Figure 55).

   

   Figure 55

   1. Blade (in position for measuring)
   2. Level surface
   3. Measured distance between blade and the surface (A)

4. Rotate the same blade 180 degrees so that the opposing cutting edge is now in the same position (Figure 56).

   

   Figure 56

   1. Blade (side previously measured)
   2. Measurement (position used previously)
   3. Opposing side of blade being moved into measurement position

5. Measure from the tip of the blade to the flat surface (Figure 57).

   Note: The variance should be no more than 3 mm (1/8 inch).

   

   Figure 57

   1. Opposite blade edge (in position for measuring)
   2. Level surface
   3. Second measured distance between blade and surface (B)

   1. If the difference between A and B is greater than 3 mm (1/8 inch), replace the blade with a new blade; refer to Removing the Blades and Installing the Blades.

      Note: If a bent blade is replaced with a new blade, and the dimension obtained continues to exceed 3 mm (1/8 inch), the blade spindle could be bent. Contact an Authorized Service Dealer for service.

   2. If the variance is within constraints, move to the next blade.

6. Repeat this procedure on each blade.

Replace the blades if they hit a solid object, or if the blade is out of balance or bent.

1. Hold the blade end using a rag or thickly padded glove.

2. Remove the blade bolt, curved washer, and blade from the spindle shaft (Figure 58).

   

   Figure 58

   1. Sail area of the blade
   2. Blade
   3. Curved washer
   4. Blade bolt

1. Use a file to sharpen the cutting edge at both ends of the blade (Figure 59).

   Note: Maintain the original angle.

   Note: The blade retains its balance if the same amount of material is removed from both cutting edges.

   

   Figure 59

   1. Sharpen at original angle.

2. Check the balance of the blade by putting it on a blade balancer (Figure 60).

   Note: If the blade stays in a horizontal position, the blade is balanced and can be used.

   Note: If the blade is not balanced, file some metal off the end of the sail area only (Figure 59).

   

   Figure 60

   1. Blade
   2. Balancer

3. Repeat this procedure until the blade is balanced.

1. Install the blade onto the spindle shaft (Figure 58).

   Important: The curved part of the blade must be pointing upward toward the inside of the mower to ensure proper cutting.

2. Install the curved washer (cupped side toward the blade) and the blade bolt (Figure 58).

3. Torque the blade bolt to 135 to 150 N∙m (100 to 110 ft-lb).

   

   Figure 61

   1. Sail area of the blade
   2. Blade
   3. Curved washer
   4. Blade bolt

1. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the blade-control switch (PTO), and engage the parking brake.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

3. Carefully rotate the blades side to side.

4. Measure between the outside cutting edges and the flat surface (Figure 62).

   Note: If both measurements are not within 5 mm (3/16 inch), an adjustment is required; refer to Leveling the Mower Deck.

   

   Figure 62

   1. Blades side to side
   2. Outside cutting edges
   3. Measure from the tip of the blade to the flat surface here.

Check the front-to-rear blade level any time you install the mower. If the front of the mower is more than 7.9 mm (5/16 inch) lower than the rear of the mower, adjust the blade level.

1. Park the machine on a level surface, disengage the blade-control switch (PTO), and engage the parking brake.

2. Shut off the engine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operating position.

3. Carefully rotate the blades so they are facing front to rear (Figure 63).

4. Measure from the tip of the front blade to the flat surface and the tip of the rear blade to the flat surface (Figure 63).

   Note: If the front blade tip is not 1.6 to 7.9 mm (1/16 to 5/16 inch) lower than the rear blade tip, continue to the Leveling the Mower Deck procedure.

   

   Figure 63

   1. Blades front to rear
   2. Outside cutting edges
   3. Measure from the tip of the blade to the flat surface here.

1. Set the anti-scalp rollers to the top holes or remove them completely for this procedure; refer to Adjusting the Anti-Scalp Rollers.

2. Set the height-of-cut lever to the 76 mm (3 inch) position; refer to Adjusting the Height of Cut.

3. Place 2 blocks, each having a thickness of 6.6 cm (2-5/8 inches), under each side of the front edge of the deck but not under the anti-scalp roller brackets (Figure 64).

4. Place 2 blocks, each having a thickness of 7.3 cm (2-7/8 inches), under the rear edge of the cutting deck skirt, 1 on each side of the cutting deck (Figure 64).

   

   Figure 64

   1. Wood block—6.6 cm (2-5/8 inches) thick
   2. Wood block—7.3 cm (2-7/8 inches) thick
   3. Front edge

5. Loosen the adjustment bolts on all 4 corners so that the deck is sitting securely on all 4 blocks (Figure 65).

   

   Figure 65

   1. Deck-lift arm
   2. Chain
   3. Hook
   4. Adjustment bolt

6. Ensure that there is tension on all 4 chains (Figure 65).

7. Tighten the 4 adjustment bolts (Figure 65).

8. Ensure that the blocks fit snugly under the deck skirt and that all bolts are tight.

9. Verify that the deck is level by checking the side-to-side level and front-to-rear blade slope; repeat the deck leveling procedure if necessary.