60in Side or Rear Discharge Rotary Mower

Groundsmaster® e3200 2-Wheel Drive Traction Unit

Model No. 31890-Serial No. 400000000 and Up

Model No. 31891-Serial No. 400000000 and Up

Introduction

This rotary-blade lawn cutting unit is mounted to a ride-on machine and is intended to be used by professional, hired operators in commercial applications. It is primarily designed for cutting grass on well-maintained lawns in parks, sports fields, and on commercial grounds. Using this product for purposes other than its intended use could prove dangerous to you and bystanders.

Read this information carefully to learn how to operate and maintain your product properly and to avoid injury and product damage. You are responsible for operating the product properly and safely.

Visit www.Toro.com for product safety and operation training materials, accessory information, help finding a dealer, or to register your product.

Whenever you need service, genuine Toro parts, or additional information, contact an Authorized Service Dealer or Toro Customer Service and have the model and serial numbers of your product ready. Figure 1 identifies the location of the model and serial numbers on the product. Write the numbers in the space provided.

Important: With your mobile device, you can scan the QR code on the serial number decal (if equipped) to access warranty, parts, and other product information.

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Figure 1

Model 31890 shown

  1. Model and serial number location

This manual identifies potential hazards and has safety messages identified by the safety-alert symbol (Figure 2), which signals a hazard that may cause serious injury or death if you do not follow the recommended precautions.

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Figure 2

  1. Safety-alert symbol

This manual uses 2 words to highlight information. Important calls attention to special mechanical information and Note emphasizes general information worthy of special attention.

This product complies with all relevant European directives. For details, please see the Declaration of Incorporation (DOI) at the back of this publication.

Warning

CALIFORNIA

Proposition 65 Warning

Use of this product may cause exposure to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

Safety

General Safety

This product is capable of amputating hands and feet and of throwing objects. Always follow all safety instructions to avoid serious personal injury

  • Read and understand the contents of this Operator’s Manual before starting the machine.

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

  • Do not put your hands or feet near moving components of the machine.

  • Do not operate the machine without all guards and other safety protective devices in place and functioning properly on the machine.

  • Keep clear of any discharge opening.

  • Keep bystanders and children out of the operating area. Never allow children to operate the machine.

  • Before you leave the operator’s position, do the following:

    • Park the machine on a level surface.

    • Lower the cutting unit(s).

    • Disengage the drives.

    • Ensure that the parking brake is engaged.

    • Shut off the machine and remove the key.

    • Wait for all movement to stop.

Improperly using or maintaining this machine can result in injury. To reduce the potential for injury, comply with these safety instructions and always pay attention to the safety-alert symbol Graphic, which means Caution, Warning, or Danger—personal safety instruction. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal injury or death.

Cutting Unit Safety

  • The cutting unit is only a complete machine when installed on a traction unit. Read the traction unit Operator’s Manual carefully for complete instructions on the safe use of the machine.

  • Stop the machine, wait for all moving parts to stop, remove the key, and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position before inspecting the attachment after striking an object or if there is an abnormal vibration in the machine. Make all necessary repairs before resuming operation.

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

  • Use only accessories, attachments, and replacement parts approved by Toro.

Safety and Instructional Decals

Graphic

Safety decals and instructions are easily visible to the operator and are located near any area of potential danger. Replace any decal that is damaged or missing.
decal116-8283

116-8283

  1. Warning—read the Operator's Manual for instructions on torquing the blade bolt/nut to 75 to 81 N∙m (55 to 60 ft-lb).
decal120-6604

120-6604

  1. Thrown object hazard—keep bystanders away from the machine.
  2. Cutting/dismemberment hazard of hand, mower blade—stay away from moving parts, keep all guards and shields in place.
  3. Cutting/dismemberment hazard of foot, mower blade—stay away from moving parts, keep all guards and shields in place.
decal133-8061

133-8061

decal127-0326

127-0326

  1. Read the Operator's Manual.
  2. Height of cut
  3. Remove the key and read the Operator's Manual before performing maintenance.

Decal 131-1180: Model 31890 only

decal131-1180

131-1180

  1. Read the Operator's Manual.
  2. Short, light grass; dry conditions
  3. Bagging setting
  4. Tall, dense grass; wet conditions

Decal 137-5945: Model 31890 only

decal137-5945

137-5945

  1. Height of cut (inches/millimeters)

Decal 137-5946: Model 31890 only

decal137-5946

137-5946

  1. Height of cut (inches/millimeters)
decal137-8127

137-8127

  1. Attention—do not spray with high-pressure water.

Decal 144-0542: Model 31891 only

decal144-0542

144-0542

  1. Height of cut

Decal 144-0543: Model 31891 only

decal144-0543

144-0543

  1. Height of cut
decal144-7008

144-7008

  1. Warning—turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position before performing maintenance.
decal147-2081

147-2081

  1. Thrown object hazard—keep bystanders away from the machine.
  2. Thrown object hazard—keep the deflector in place, do not operate the machine with an open deck.
  3. Cutting/dismemberment hazard of hands or feet, mower blade—stay away from moving parts.
decal137-5949

137-5949

  1. Height of cut
  2. Mounting holes

Setup

Warning

If you leave the key in the switch, someone could accidentally start the machine and seriously injure you or other bystanders.

Remove the key from the switch before you install the cutting unit.

Note: Determine the left and right sides of the machine from the normal operating position.

Preparing the Machine

  1. Park the machine on a level surface.

  2. Use the display to turn off the weight transfer setting; refer to your traction unit Operator’s Manual.

  3. Move the lift arms to the lowest position.

  4. Shut off the machine and remove the key.

Installing the Cutting Unit to the Traction Unit

Parts needed for this procedure:

Hex-head bolt2
Washer2
Height-of-cut pin2

  1. Position the cutting unit in front of the traction unit.

  2. Push a lift arm down until the holes in the lift arm line up with the holes in the castor arms, then insert a washer and bolt through both arms.

  3. Align the lift-arm holes with the castor-arm holes.

  4. Use 2 hex-head bolts and 2 washers to secure the castor arms to the lift arms (Figure 3).

    Ensure that the washers are positioned with the curved side adjacent to the bolt head (Figure 3).

    If you have previously used the bolts to install the cutting unit: Apply thread-locking compound to the threads of the bolts.

    g433394

    Figure 3

    1. Lift arm
    2. Castor arm
    3. Washer
    4. Bolt

  5. Torque the bolts to the appropriate specification:

    • If you are using the bolts to install the cutting unit for the first time:

      Torque the bolts to 256 to 313 N∙m (189 to 231 ft-lb).

    • If you have previously used the bolts to install the cutting unit:

      Torque the bolts to 195 to 239 N∙m (144 to 176 ft-lb).

  6. Insert the cutting-unit connector to the machine connector (Figure 4).

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    Figure 4

    1. Machine connector
    2. Cutting-unit connector

  7. Use the machine-connector latches to secure the connection (Figure 5).

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    Figure 5

    1. Latches

  8. Set the height of cut; refer to Adjusting the Height of Cut.

Leveling the Cutting Unit

Level the cutting unit; refer to Leveling the Cutting Unit.

Greasing the Cutting Unit

Before operating the cutting unit, it must be greased to ensure proper lubricating characteristics; refer to Greasing the Castor-Arm Bushings. Failure to properly grease the machine will result in premature failure of critical parts.

Product Overview

Note: Specifications and design are subject to change without notice.

Width of Cut

Model No. 31890: 1.52 m (60 inches)

Model No. 31891: 1.52 m (60 inches)
Height of CutAdjustable from 25 to 152 mm (1 to 6 inches) in 13 mm (1/2 inch) increments
Net Weight

Model No. 31890: 190 kg (419 lb)

Model No. 31891: 200 kg (440 lb)

Attachments/Accessories

A selection of Toro approved attachments and accessories is available for use with the machine to enhance and expand its capabilities. Contact your Authorized Service Dealer or authorized Toro distributor or go to www.Toro.com for a list of all approved attachments and accessories.

To ensure optimum performance and continued safety certification of the machine, use only genuine Toro replacement parts and accessories. Replacement parts and accessories made by other manufacturers could be dangerous, and such use could void the product warranty.

Operation

Note: Determine the left and right sides of the machine from the normal operating position.

Caution

If you leave the key in the ignition switch, someone could accidently start the machine and seriously injure you or other bystanders.

Remove the key from the key switch and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position before you do any adjustments or maintenance.

Evaluating the Quality of Cut

Due to differences in grass conditions and the counterbalance setting of the traction unit, it is advised that grass be cut and appearance checked before formal cutting is started.

  1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting unit, shut off the machine, remove the key, and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position.

  2. Set the cutting unit to the desired height of cut; refer to Adjusting the Height of Cut.

  3. Check and adjust the front and rear traction-unit tire pressure to the specified tire pressure in the traction unit Operator’s Manual.

  4. Check for bent blades; refer to Checking for a Bent Blade.

  5. Cut grass in a test area to determine if the cutting unit is cutting at the appropriate height.

  6. If cutting unit adjustments are still needed, perform the following procedures:

    1. Leveling the Cutting Unit

    2. Adjusting the Height of Cut

    3. Adjusting the Cutting-Unit Pitch

Leveling the Cutting Unit

Note: Perform this procedure on a flat, level surface.

  1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting unit, shut off the machine, remove the key, and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position.

  2. Rotate the blade on each outer spindle until the ends face forward and backward.

  3. Measure from the floor to the front tip of the blade.

  4. Raise the cutting unit to the TRANSPORT position.

  5. Adjust the shims on the front caster forks to match the desired height of cut.

  6. Rotate the blades 180° and measure from the floor to the rear-facing tip of the blade.

  7. Loosen the lower jam nuts on the height-of-cut chain U-bolt (Figure 6).

    g296783

    Figure 6

    1. Jam nuts
    2. U-bolt
    3. Height-of-cut chain

  8. Adjust the nuts (Figure 6) to raise or lower the rear of the cutting unit so that the tips of the rear blades are 6 to 10 mm (1/4 to 3/8 inch) higher than the front tips.

  9. Tighten the jam nuts.

Adjusting the Height of Cut

The height of cut is adjustable from 25 to 152 mm (1 to 6 inches) in 13 mm (1/2 inch) increments. To adjust the height of cut:

  1. Park the machine on a level surface, raise the cutting unit to the TRANSPORT position, shut off the machine, remove the key, and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position.

  2. Perform the following procedures:

Positioning the Castor-Wheel Axles

Position the castor-wheel axles in the same holes in both castor forks. Refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 to determine the correct holes for the setting.

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Figure 7

  1. Tensioning cap
  2. Spacers
  3. Shims
  4. Axle mounting holes
  5. Castor wheel
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Figure 8

  1. Castor wheel height-of-cut mounting holes
  2. Castor fork height-of-cut spacers

Note: If you operate with a 64 mm (2-1/2 inch) height of cut or higher, set the axle bolt in the lower hole to prevent grass buildup. If you detect grass buildup while operating, reverse the machine direction to pull any clippings away from the wheel/fork area.

Positioning the Castor-Fork Spacers

  1. Remove the tensioning cap from the spindle shaft (Figure 7) and slide the spindle out of the castor arm. Put the 2 shims onto the spindle shaft as they were originally installed. These shims are required to achieve a level across the entire width of the cutting units.

  2. Slide the appropriate number of spacers onto the spindle shaft to get the desired height of cut (Figure 7).

    Refer to Figure 8 to determine the combinations of spacers for your desired height-of-cut setting.

    Note: You may use the shims in any combination above or below the castor-arm hub (as required) to achieve the desired height of cut or cutting-unit level.

  3. Push the castor spindle through the castor arm.

  4. Install the shims (as they were originally installed) and the remaining spacers onto the spindle shaft.

  5. Install the tensioning cap to secure the assembly.

Positioning the Height-of-Cut Chain

  1. Remove the pins that secure the height-of-cut chains to the rear of the cutting unit (Figure 9).

    g296784

    Figure 9

    1. Height-of-cut chain
    2. Pin

  2. Refer to the height-of-cut decal to determine the appropriate hole for your desired height of cut.

    Note: The decal [shown in ] is adjacent to each height-of-cut plate.

  3. Mount the height-of-cut chains to the desired height-of-cut hole with the pin.

    The pin should be installed in the lowest height-of-cut chain link. The chain (Figure 9) should not be twisted.

Adjusting the Cutting-Unit Pitch

A blade pitch of 6 to 9.5 mm (1/4 to 3/8 inch) is recommended (i.e., the back of the blade plane is 6 to 9.5 mm (1/4 to 3/8 inch) higher than the front). A pitch larger than 9.5 mm (3/8 inch) results in less required power, larger clippings, and a poorer quality of cut. A pitch less than 6 mm (1/4 inch) results in more required power, smaller clippings and a better quality of cut.

  1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting unit, shut off the machine, remove the key, and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position.

  2. Set the cutting unit to the desired height-of-cut.

  3. Rotate 1 blade so that it points straight forward.

  4. Using a short ruler, measure from the floor to the front tip of the blade. Rotate the blade tip to the rear and measure from the floor to the tip of the blade.

  5. Subtract the front dimension from the rear dimension to calculate the blade pitch.

  6. Loosen the jam nuts at the top or bottom of the height-of-cut chain U-bolt (Figure 10).

    g296783

    Figure 10

    1. Jam nuts
    2. U-bolt
    3. Height-of-cut chain

  7. Adjust the other set of nuts to raise or lower the rear of the cutting unit and attain the correct mower-deck pitch.

  8. Tighten the jam nuts.

Adjusting the Anti-Scalp Rollers

Whenever you change the height-of-cut, adjust the height of the anti-scalp rollers (Figure 11 or Figure 12).

g431236

Figure 11

Model 31980 shown

g431247

Figure 12

Model 31981 shown

  1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting unit, shut off the machine, remove the key, and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position.

  2. Adjust the anti-scalp rollers as shown in Figure 13.

    Note: Select a hole so the anti-scalp roller is positioned to the nearest corresponding height-of-cut desired.

    g296902

    Figure 13

    Front rollers shown

    1. Anti-scalp roller
    2. Bushing
    3. Flange nut
    4. Bolt

Adjusting the Skid

Mount the skid in the lower position when operating in height of cuts equal to or higher than 64 mm (2-1/2 inches) and in the higher position when operating in height of cuts lower than 64 mm (2-1/2 inches).

  1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting unit, shut off the machine, remove the key, and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position.

  2. Remove the flange-head bolts and nuts from the skid.

  3. Move the skid to the desired position and secure it to the cutting unit with the flange-head bolts and nuts (Figure 14).

    g464413

    Figure 14

Adjusting the Flow Baffle

Model 31890 Only

You can adjust the mower-discharge flow for different types of mowing conditions. Position the baffle to give the best quality of cut.

  1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting unit, shut off the machine, remove the key, and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position.

  2. Loosen the nut (Figure 15).

    g295677

    Figure 15

    1. Nut
    2. Baffle-adjustment decal

  3. Adjust the baffle and nut in the slot to the desired discharge flow; refer to Positioning the Flow Baffle.

  4. Tighten the nut.

Positioning the Flow Baffle

Model 31890 Only

Refer to the following sections for a description of each flow-baffle position. Figure 15 illustrates each position (i.e., A, B, and C) as seen on the decal.

The following positions are only recommendations for use. Adjustments will vary by grass type, moisture content, and height of grass.

Position A

This is the full rear position. The suggested use for this position is a follows.

  • Use for short, light grass mowing conditions.

  • Use in dry conditions.

  • For smaller grass clippings.

  • Propels grass clippings farther away from the mower.

Position B

Use this position when bagging. Always align it with the blower opening.

Position C

This is the full open position. The suggested use for this position is as follows.

  • Use in tall, dense grass mowing conditions.

  • Use in wet conditions.

  • Lowers the machine power consumption.

  • Allows increased ground speed in heavy conditions.

Using the Side Discharge

Model 31890 Only

The Model 31890 cutting unit has a hinged grass deflector that disperses clippings to the side and down toward the turf.

Danger

Without a grass deflector, discharge cover, or complete grass catcher assembly mounted in place, you and others are exposed to blade contact and thrown debris. Contact with rotating mower blade(s) and thrown debris will cause injury or death.

  • Never remove the grass deflector from the mower because the grass deflector routes material down toward the turf. If the grass deflector is ever damaged, replace it immediately.

  • Never put your hands or feet under the mower.

  • Never try to clear the discharge area or mower blades unless you move the power take off (blade control switch (PTO) to the OFF position, rotate the ignition key to off, remove the key, and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position.

  • Make sure that the grass deflector is in the down position.

Operating Tips

Quality of Cut

Mowing Direction

Alternate mowing direction to avoid making ruts in the turf over time. This also helps disperse clippings which enhances decomposition and fertilization.

Cutting Speed

To improve cut quality, use a slower ground speed.

Avoid Cutting Too Low

If the cutting width of the cutting unit is wider than the mower you previously used, raise the cutting height to ensure that uneven turf is not cut too short.

Select the Proper Height-of-Cut Setting to Suit Conditions

Remove approximately 1 inch (25 mm) or no more than 1/3 of the grass blade when cutting. In exceptionally lush and dense grass, you may have to slow down the forward speed and/or raise the height-of-cut to the next higher setting.

Long Grass

If the grass is ever allowed to grow slightly longer than normal, or if it contains a high degree of moisture, raise the cutting height higher than the usual setting and cut the grass. Then, cut the grass again using the lower, normal setting.

Keep the Cutting Unit Clean

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

To reduce the risk of fire hazard, keep the battery compartment and cutting units free of grass, leaves, or excessive grease. Clean up any spilled oil.

Blade Maintenance

  • Maintain a sharp blade throughout the cutting season; 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 blades daily for sharpness and for any wear or damage. Sharpen the blades as necessary.

  • If a blade is damaged or worn, replace it immediately with a genuine Toro replacement blade. Refer to Removing and Installing the Cutting-Unit Blade(s).

Maintenance

Note: Determine the left and right sides of the machine from the normal operating position.

Recommended Maintenance Schedule(s)

Maintenance Service IntervalMaintenance Procedure
Before each use or daily
  • Lubricate the castor-arm bushings.
  • Inspect the blades.
  • Check the condition of the electrical cables.
  • Clean under the cutting unit.
    		•
    Every 50 hours
  • Lubricate the grease fittings.Lubricate the grease fittings immediately after every washing.
    		•

    Greasing the Castor-Arm Bushings

    Maintenance Service IntervalMaintenance Procedure
    Before each use or daily
  • Lubricate the castor-arm bushings.
    		•
    Every 50 hours
  • Lubricate the grease fittings.Lubricate the grease fittings immediately after every washing.
    		•

    The machine has grease fittings that you must lubricate regularly with No. 2 lithium grease.

    1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting unit, shut off the machine, remove the key, and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position.

    2. Lubricate the castor-arm bushings (Figure 16).

      g011557

      Figure 16

    Removing the Cutting Unit from the Traction Unit

    1. Park the machine on a level surface with the cutting unit raised.

    2. Remove the height-of-cut pins (Figure 17) from the cutting-unit side plates.

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      Figure 17

      1. Height-of-cut chain
      2. Pin

    3. Lower the cutting unit, shut off the machine, and remove the key.

    4. Remove the bolts and washers that secure the lift arms to the castor arms (Figure 18).

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      Figure 18

      1. Lift arm
      2. Castor arm
      3. Washer
      4. Bolt

    5. Disconnect the cutting-unit connector from the machine connector (Figure 19).

      g433400

      Figure 19

      1. Machine connector
      2. Cutting-unit connector

    Servicing the Bushings in the Castor Arms

    The castor arms have bushings pressed into the top and bottom of the tube, and after many hours of operation, the bushings wear.

    To check the bushings, move the castor fork back and forth and from side to side. If the castor spindle is loose inside the bushings, the bushings are worn; replace them.

    1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting unit, shut off the machine, remove the key, and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position.

    2. Remove the tensioning cap, spacer(s), and thrust washer from the top of the castor spindle.

    3. Pull the castor spindle out of the mounting tube. Allow the thrust washer and spacer(s) to remain on the bottom of the spindle.

    4. Insert a pin punch into the top or bottom of the mounting tube and drive the bushing out of the tube (Figure 20). Also, drive the other bushing out of the tube. Clean the inside of the tubes to remove dirt.

      g004737

      Figure 20

      1. Castor arm tube
      2. Bushings

    5. Apply grease to the inside and outside of the new bushings. Use a hammer and flat plate to drive the bushings into the mounting tube.

    6. Inspect the castor spindle for wear and replace it if damaged.

    7. Push the castor spindle through the bushings and mounting tube, slide the thrust washer and spacer(s) onto the spindle, and install the tensioning cap on the castor spindle.

    Servicing the Cutting Blades

    Blade Safety

    A worn or damaged blade can break, and a piece of the blade could be thrown toward you or bystanders, resulting in serious personal injury or death.

    • Inspect the blade periodically for wear or damage.

    • Use care when checking the blades. Wrap the blades or wear gloves, and use caution when servicing the blades. Only replace or sharpen the blades; never straighten or weld them.

    Checking for a Bent Blade

    After striking a foreign object, inspect the machine for damage and make repairs before starting and operating the equipment.

    1. Park the machine on a level surface, raise the cutting unit to the TRANSPORT position, shut off the machine, remove the key, and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position.

    2. Raise the cutting unit to the SERVICE position; refer to your traction unit Operator’s Manual.

    3. Rotate the blade until the ends face forward and backward and measure from the inside of the cutting unit to the cutting edge at the front of the blade (Figure 21).

      Note: Remember this dimension.

      g010549

      Figure 21

    4. Rotate the opposite end of the blade forward and measure between the cutting unit and cutting edge of the blade at the same position as in step 3.

      Note: The difference between the dimensions obtained in steps 3 and 4 must not exceed 3 mm (1/8 inch). If the dimension exceeds 3 mm (1/8 inch), the blade is bent and must be replaced; refer to Removing and Installing the Cutting-Unit Blade(s).

    Removing and Installing the Cutting-Unit Blade(s)

    Replace the blade if it hits a solid object, is out of balance, or is bent. Always use genuine Toro replacement blades to ensure safety and optimum performance.

    1. Park the machine on a level surface, raise the cutting unit to the TRANSPORT position, shut off the machine, remove the key, and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position.

    2. Raise the cutting unit to the SERVICE position; refer to your traction unit Operator’s Manual.

    3. Place a wrench on the flat of the blade retainer or hold the blade end using a rag or thickly padded glove.

    4. Remove the blade bolt, washer, and blade from the spindle shaft.

      g464417

      Figure 22

      1. Blade retainer
      2. Blade
      3. Washer
      4. Blade bolt

    5. Install the blade to the shaft.

      Ensure that the washer is oriented as shown in Figure 23 to ensure proper cutting.

      Warning

      Operating a machine after incorrectly installing the blade assembly and/or not using genuine Toro blade and blade hardware could allow a blade or blade component to be thrown out from under the deck, resulting in serious injury or death.

      Always install genuine Toro blades and blade hardware according to the instructions.

      g464416

      Figure 23

      1. Blade retainer
      2. Blade
      3. Washer
      4. Blade bolt

    6. Place a wrench on the flat of the spindle shaft and torque the blade bolt to 75 to 81 N∙m (55 to 60 ft-lb).

    Inspecting and Sharpening the Cutting Unit Blade(s)

    Maintenance Service IntervalMaintenance Procedure
    Before each use or daily
  • Inspect the blades.
    		•

    Both cutting edges and the sail, which is the turned-up portion opposite of the cutting edge, contribute to a good quality of cut.

    Maintain sharp blades throughout the cutting season. Sharp blades create a clean cut without tearing or shredding the grass blades.

    Check the blades for any wear or damage. The sail lifts the grass up straight, thereby producing an even cut and gradually wears down during operation.

    1. Park the machine on a level surface, raise the cutting unit to the TRANSPORT position, shut off the machine, remove the key, and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position.

    2. Raise the cutting unit to the SERVICE position; refer to your traction unit Operator’s Manual.

    3. Examine the cutting ends of the blade carefully, especially where the flat and curved parts of the blade meet (Figure 24).

      Note: Because sand and abrasive material can wear away the metal that connects the flat and curved parts of the blade, check the blade before using the mower. If you notice wear (Figure 24), replace the blade.

      g004653

      Figure 24

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

    4. Examine the cutting edges of all of the blades and sharpen the cutting edges if they are dull or nicked (Figure 25).

      Note: Sharpen only the top of the cutting edge and maintain the original cutting angle to ensure sharpness (Figure 25). The blade remains balanced if the same amount of metal is removed from both cutting edges.

      g000276

      Figure 25

      1. Sharpen at the original angle.

      Note: Remove the blades and sharpen them on a grinder. After sharpening the cutting edges, install the blade; refer to Removing and Installing the Cutting-Unit Blade(s).

    Replacing the Grass Deflector

    Model 31890 Only

    Warning

    An uncovered discharge opening allows the machine to throw objects toward you or bystanders, which can result in serious injury. Contact with the blade can also occur.

    • Do not operate the machine unless you install a cover plate, a mulch plate, or a grass chute and catcher.

    • Ensure that the grass deflector is lowered.

    1. Park the machine on a level surface, lower the cutting unit, shut off the machine, remove the key, and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position.

    2. Remove the locknut, bolt, spring and spacer holding the deflector to the pivot brackets (Figure 26). Remove the damaged or worn grass deflector.

    3. Place the spacer and spring onto grass deflector. Place the L-end of the spring behind the cutting unit edge.

      Note: Ensure that the L-end of the spring is installed behind the cutting unit edge before installing the bolt as shown in Figure 26.

    4. Install the bolt and nut. Place the J-hook end of the spring around the grass deflector (Figure 26).

      Important: You must be able to lower the grass deflector into position. Lift the deflector up to test that it lowers into the full down position.

      g000977

      Figure 26

      1. Bolt
      2. Spacer
      3. Locknut
      4. Spring
      5. Spring installed
      6. Grass deflector
      7. L-end of spring, place behind the cutting unit edge before installing bolt
      8. J-hook end of the spring

    Checking the Electrical Cables

    Maintenance Service IntervalMaintenance Procedure
    Before each use or daily
  • Check the condition of the electrical cables.
    		•

    Check the condition of the cutting-unit connector cable and the blade-motor cables (Figure 27) for damage or wear. Make all necessary repairs before operating the machine.

    g464415

    Figure 27

    1. Cutting-unit connector cable
    2. Blade-motor cables

    Cleaning under the Cutting Unit

    Maintenance Service IntervalMaintenance Procedure
    Before each use or daily
  • Clean under the cutting unit.
    		•

    Remove the grass buildup under the cutting unit daily.

    Important: Do not use a pressure washer and do not spray the electrical components on the top of the cutting unit directly with water, as you could damage the motors and other electric components.

    Warning

    Using compressed air improperly to clean the machine could result in serious injury.

    • Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as eye protection, hearing protection, and a dust mask.

    • Do not aim compressed air at any part of your body or at anyone else.

    • Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the air compressor for operating and safety information.

    1. Park the machine on a level surface, raise the cutting unit to the TRANSPORT position, shut off the machine, remove the key, and turn the battery-disconnect switch to the OFF position.

    2. Raise the cutting unit to the SERVICE position; refer to your traction unit Operator’s Manual.

    3. Clean debris from under the cutting unit using compressed air or water.

      Important: Do not use a pressure washer to clean the cutting unit.

    Storage

    1. Disengage the PTO and release the traction pedal to the neutral position.

    2. Shut off the machine, remove the key, and wait for all moving parts to stop before leaving the operator’s position.

    3. Allow the machine to cool before adjusting, cleaning, storing, or repairing the machine.

    4. Thoroughly clean the cutting unit, paying special attention to these areas:

      • Underneath the cutting unit

      • Controller box (i.e., electrical items)

      • All grease fittings and pivot points

    5. Remove, sharpen, and balance the cutting-unit blades. Install the blades and torque the blade fasteners to the specified torque in Removing and Installing the Cutting-Unit Blade(s).

    6. Check all fasteners for looseness and tighten them as necessary.

    7. Grease or oil all grease fittings and pivot points. Wipe off any excess lubricant.

    8. Lightly sand and use touch up paint on painted areas that are scratched, chipped or rusted. Repair any dents.