Toro 30799 User manual

FORM NO. 3323-978 Rev B
The Toro Company  2000
OPERATOR'S
MANUAL
72” Flex DeckSide Discharge Mower
FOR GROUNDSMASTER300 SERIES TRACTION UNITS
MODEL NO. 30799 - 200000001 & UP
To ensure maximum safety, optimum performance,
and to gain knowledge of the product, it is essential
that you or any other operator of the machine read
and understand the contents of this manual before
the engine is ever started. Pay particular attention
to the SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS highlighted by this
symbol 
The safety alert symbol means CAUTION,
WARNING or DANGER  personal safety
instruction. Failure to comply with the instruction
may result in personal injury.

The Groundsmaster 300 Series Traction unit with a
72" Flex Deck Side Discharge Mower conforms to
the American National Standards Institute's for
Riding Mowers when weights are installed
according to chart on page 12.

2
FOREWORD
The 72" Flex Deck Side Discharge Mower has advanced concepts in engineering, design and safety; and if
maintained properly, will give excellent service.
Since this is a high-quality product, Toro is concerned about the future use of the machine and safety of the user.
Therefore, read this manual to familiarize yourself with proper set-up, operation and maintenance instructions. The
major sections of the manual are:
1. Safety Instructions 3. Before Operating 5. Lubrication
2. Set-up Instructions 4. Operation 6. Maintenance
Certain information in this manual is emphasized. DANGER, WARNING and CAUTION identify personal safety
related information. IMPORTANT identifies mechanical information demanding special attention. Be sure to read
this directive because it deals with the possibility of damaging a part or parts of the machine. NOTE identifies general
information worthy of special attention.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page Page
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 3-4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SAFETY AND INSTRUCTION DECALS 5. . . . . . . . .
SPECIFICATIONS 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
LOOSE PARTS 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS 8-12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mount Hose Clamp 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Grass Deflector 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mount Rear Castor Wheels 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Connect R.H. Push Arm to Cutting Unit 8. . . . . . .
Connect L.H. Push Arm to Cutting Unit 9. . . . . . .
Mount Front Lift Arm 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Mount Rear Lift Bracket 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Install Drive Shaft to Traction Unit 11. . . . . . . . . . .
Install Lift Chains 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjust Counterbalance Spring 11. . . . . . . . . . . . .
Grease Cutting Unit 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Install Rear Weight 12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BEFORE OPERATING 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Check Lubricant in Gear Box 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting Height-of-Cut 13. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Check Tire Pressure 14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting Skid 14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adjusting Roller 14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Grass Deflector 15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating Tips 15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
LUBRICATION 16. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Grease Bearings, Bushings and Gear Box 16. . .
MAINTENANCE 18-19. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trouble Shooting 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Separating Cutting Unit from Traction Unit 19. . .
Mounting Cutting Unit to Traction Unit 19. . . . . . .
Adjusting Drive Belts 19. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing Drive Belts 20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Servicing Front Bushings in Castor Arms 20. . . .
Servicing Castor Wheels and Bearings 20. . . . . .
Replacing Grass Deflector 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Removing Cutter Blades 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Inspecting and Sharpening Blades 22. . . . . . . . .
Correcting Cutting Unit Mismatch 23. . . . . . . . . . .
IDENTIFICATION AND ORDERING 23. . . . . . . . . . . .
WARRANTY Back Cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
The safety alert symbol means
CAUTION, WARNING or DAN
GER  personal safety
instruction". Read and under
stand the instruction because
it has to do with safety. Failure to comply with
the instruction may result in personal injury.
Hazard control and accident prevention are
dependent upon the awareness, concern, and
proper training of the personnel involved in the
operation, transport, maintenance, and storage of
the machine. Improper use or maintenance of the
machine can result in injury or death. To reduce the
potential for injury or death, comply with the
following safety instructions.
WARNING: Engine exhaust contains carbon
monoxide which is an odorless, deadly poison. Carbon
monoxide is also known to the State of California to
cause birth defects. Do not run engine indoors or in an
enclosed area.
BEFORE OPERATING
1. Read and understand the contents of this
Operator's Manual before operating the machine.
Become familiar with all controls and know how to stop
quickly. A free replacement manual is available by
sending complete Model and Serial Number to:
The Toro Company
8111 Lyndale Avenue South
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55420-1196
2. Never allow children to operate the machine. Do
not allow adults to operate machine without proper
instruction. Only trained operators who have read this
manual should operate this machine.
3. Never operate the machine when under the
influence of drugs or alcohol.
4. Remove all debris or other objects that might be
picked up and thrown by the cutter blades. Keep all
bystanders away from the mowing area.
5. Keep all shields and safety devices in place. If a
shield, safety device or decal is illegible or damaged,
repair or replace it before operation is commenced.
Also tighten any loose nuts, bolts and screws to ensure
machine is in safe operating condition.
6. Do not operate machine while wearing sandals,
tennis shoes, sneakers or shorts. Also, do not wear
loose fitting clothing which could get caught in moving
parts. Always wear long pants and substantial shoes.
Wearing safety glasses, safety shoes and a helmet is
advisable and required by some local ordinances and
insurance regulations.
7. Check interlock switches daily for proper operation
(Refer To Section in Traction Unit Operator's Manual on
Checking Interlock Switches). Do not rely entirely on
safety switches shut off engine before getting off seat.
If a switch fails, replace it before operating the
machine. The interlock system is for your protection,
so do not bypass it. Replace all interlock switches
every two years. Interlock switches should be adjusted
so:
A. Engine cannot be started unless traction pedal
is released (neutral position) and PTO lever is
DISENGAGED (off position).
B. Engine stops if operator gets off seat when
traction pedal is depressed.
C. Engine stops if operator gets off seat when
PTO lever is ENGAGED (on position).
8. Fill fuel tank before starting the engine. Avoid
spilling any fuel. Since fuel is flammable, handle it
carefully.
A. Use an approved fuel container.
B. Do not fill tank while engine is hot or running.
C. Do not smoke while handling gasoline.
D. Fill fuel tank outdoors and up to about one inch
from top of the tank, not the filler neck.
E. Wipe up any spilled gasoline.
WHILE OPERATING
9. Do not run the engine in a confined area without
adequate ventilation. Exhaust fumes are hazardous
and could possibly be deadly.
10. Maximum seating capacity is one person. Never
carry passengers.
11. Sit on the seat when starting the engine and
operating the machine.
12. This product may exceed noise levels of 85 dB(A)
at the operator position. Ear protectors are
recommended for prolonged exposure to reduce the
potential of permanent hearing damage.
13. Before starting the engine:
A. Engage the parking brake.
B. Ensure traction pedal is in neutral and PTO is in
the OFF, disengaged position.
C. After engine is started, release parking brake
and keep foot off traction pedal. Machine must not
move. If movement is evident, the neutral return
mechanism is adjusted incorrectly; therefore, shut
engine off and adjust until machine does not move
when traction pedal is released.
14. Using the machine demands attention, and to
prevent loss of control:
A. Mow only in daylight or when there is good
artificial light.
B. Drive slowly and watch for holes or other
hidden hazards.
C. Do not drive close to a sand trap, ditch, creek
or other hazard.

4
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
D. Reduce speed when making sharp turns and
when turning on hillsides.
E. Avoid sudden starts and stops.
F. Before backing up, look to the rear and ensure
no one is behind the machine.
G. Watch out for traffic when near or crossing
roads. Always yield the right-of -way.
15. If engine stalls or machine loses headway and
cannot make it to the top of a slope, do not turn
machine around. Always back slowly straight down the
slope.
16. The grass deflector must always be installed and in
lowest position on the side discharge cutting unit.
Never operate mower without deflector or entire grass
collector. This product is designed to drive objects into
the ground where they lose energy quickly in grassy
areas. However, don't take an injury risk!! When a
person or pet appears unexpectedly in or near the
mowing area, STOP MOWING. Careless operation,
combined with terrain angles, ricochets, or improperly
positioned guards, can lead to thrown object injuries.
Do not resume mowing until area is cleared. If the
cutting unit discharge area ever plugs, shut engine off
before removing the obstruction.
17. Never raise the cutting unit while the blades are
rotating.
18. If the cutting blades strike a solid object or the
machine vibrates abnormally, disengage PTO, move
throttle to SLOW, set parking brake and shut engine off.
Remove key from switch to prevent possibility of
accidental starting. Check cutting unit and traction unit
for damage and malfunctioning parts. Repair any
damage before restarting the engine and operating the
cutting unit. Be sure blades are in good condition and
blade bolts are tight.
19. Cut grass slopes carefully. Do not start, stop, or
turn suddenly.
20. Do not touch engine or muffler while engine is
running or soon after it is stopped. These areas couId
be hot enough to cause a burn.
21. Before getting off the seat:
A. Move traction pedal to neutral position and
remove foot from pedal.
B. Set the parking brake and disengage the PTO.
C. Shut the engine off and remove the key from
the ignition switch. Wait for all movement to stop
before getting off the seat.
22. Lower the cutting unit to the ground and remove
key from ignition switch whenever machine is left
unattended.
23. This product may exceed noise levels of 85 dB(A)
at the operator position. Ear protectors are
recommended for prolonged exposure to reduce the
potential of permanent hearing damage.
MAINTENANCE
24. Remove key from ignition switch to prevent
accidental starting of the engine when servicing,
adjusting or storing the machine.
25. Perform only those maintenance instructions
described in this manual. If major repairs are ever
needed or assistance is desired, contact an Authorized
Toro Distributor.
26. To reduce potential fire hazard, keep the engine
free of excessive grease, grass, leaves and
accumulations of dirt.
27. Be sure machine is in safe operating condition by
keeping nuts, bolts and screws tight. Check the blade
mounting bolts and nuts frequently to be sure they are
tightened to specification.
28. Make sure all hydraulic line connectors are tight,
and all hydraulic hoses and lines are in good condition
before applying pressure to the system.
29. Keep body and hands away from pin hole leaks in
hydraulic lines that eject high pressure hydraulic fluid.
Use cardboard or paper to find hydraulic leaks.
Hydraulic fluid escaping under pressure can penetrate
skin and cause injury. Fluid accidentally injected into
the skin must be surgically removed within a few hours
by a doctor familiar with this form of injury or gangrene
may result.
30. Before disconnecting or performing any work on
the hydraulic system, all pressure in system must be
relieved by stopping engine and lowering cutting unit
to the ground.
31. If the engine must be running to perform a
maintenance adjustment, keep hands, feet, clothing
and other parts of the body away from the cutting unit
blades and other moving parts.
32. Do not overspeed the engine by changing
governor settings. To be sure of safety and accuracy,
have an Authorized TORO Distributor check maximum
engine speed with a tachometer.
33. Engine must be shut off before checking oil or
adding oil to the crankcase.
34. At the time of manufacture the cutting unit
conformed to safety standards in effect for riding
mowers. Therefore, to ensure optimum performance
and safety, always purchase genuine TORO
replacement parts and accessories to keep the Toro all
TORO. NEVER USE WILL-FIT" REPLACEMENT
PARTS AND ACCESSORIES MADE BY OTHER
MANUFACTURERS. Look for the TORO logo to ensure
genuineness. Using unapproved replacement parts
and accessories could void the warranty of The Toro
Company.

5
SAFETY AND INSTRUCTION DECALS
The following decals are installed on the machine. If any become damaged or illegible, replace it. The decal part
number is listed below and in your parts catalog. Replacements can be ordered from your Authorized Toro
Distributor.
ON LEFT CHAMBER COVER
(Part No. 93-3709 )
ON FRONT CENTER OF
EACH CHAMBER
(Part No. 100-8046)
ON FRONT NOSE OF EACH
CHAMBER
(Part No. 100-6582)
ON FRONT CENTER OF
EACH CHAMBER
(Part No. 100-6578)
LOCATED BY SPRINGS
(Part No. 93-6696)
ON LEFT SIDE OF GEAR BOX
(Part No. 93-6697)
NEAR REAR HANGER BRACKETS,
RIGHT CHAMBER
(Part No.100-8039 )
ON LEFT RIGHT SUPPORT
OF LEFT CHAMBER
(Part No. 93-7818)
NEAR DISCHARGE CHUTE
(Part No. 93-7824)
ON RIGHT REAR HANGER,
CENTER CHAMBER
(Part No. 100-8038)
ON REAR OF LEFT CHAMBER
(Part No. 93-7809)
ON FRONT OF LEFT ARM
ASSEMBLY
(Part No. 92-3035)

6
SPECIFICATIONS
Width of Cut: 72"
Configuration: Three blades, one blade center
section, and two 1 blade floating wings. Wings flex up
and down 12 degrees in a single plane perpendicular
to from center section.
Height of Cut: Adjustable front and rear, in .50 inch
increments from 1 to 4 inches.
Construction: 12-gauge steel, 5.25 inches deep,
welded construction and reinforced with 10-gauge
steel channels.
Blades: Three 25 inch long, .250 inch thick, heat
treated steel blades.
Cutter Drive: PTO driven gearbox with 1.26-1 spiral
bevel gears. One "B" section belt on center section.
One "B" section belt on each wing. Center section
tensioned through spring loaded idler. Wings
tensioned through adjustable fixed idler.
Spindles: Cast iron housing, 1-1/4 inch dia shaft with
welded blade retainer. Turning on two greaseable
tapered roller bearings. A positive splined connection
attaches pulley to spindle shaft.
Castor Wheels: Front: Four 8 inch pneumatic wheels
with greaseable roller bearings. Rear: Two 8 inch
pneumatic wheels with greaseable roller bearings (one
on each wing). Center section suspended from push
arms.
Anti Scalp: Anti-scalp cup (11 inch diameter) located
on each blade. One anti-scalp roller on rear of center
section. Adjustable skid on right wing.
Trimability: 34" uncut circle, 25" uncut circle with use
of individual wheel brakes.
Tip Speed: 15,000 ft./min. @ 3200 engine RPM.
Discharge: Left hand, side discharge (recycler kit
available).
Safety Certification: To meet, proposed ANSI
B71.4-1990 and 1999, safety specifications for power
lawn mowers, and CE requirements.
Belt Covers: Steel covers bolted down, meets CE
requirements.
Sound Levels: 90 dba @ operator ear.
Weight: 550 lbs.
Width: 83.5 in.
Options:
High Lift Blade: Part No. 23-2410
Height of cut spacers 1/4" Part No. 54-8810
Tire - Foam Filled 8" Part No. 93-5974
Specifications and design subject to change without notice.

7
LOOSE PARTS
NOTE: Use this chart as a checklist to ensure all parts have been received. Without these parts, total set-up cannot
be completed.
Hose Clamp 1
Hose Bracket 2 Install hose clamp
Capscrew 1/4-20 x 1" lg. 2
Nut 2
Push Arm Adapter 1
Push Arm Plate 1
Capscrew 3/8-16 x 2-3/4" lg. 4 Install right push arm adaptor
Flat Washer 4
Nut 4
Front Lift Arm 1
Lock Nut 2
Capscrew 1/2-13 x 3-1/2" lg. 2
Rear Lift Bracket 1
Square U-Bolt 1
U-Bolt 1
H.O.C. Chain 1 Install rear lift support
Clevis Pin 1
Hair Pin 1
Nut 6
Capscrew 3/8-16 x 7/8" lg. 4 Secure covers for C.E.
Operator's Manual 1 Read Before Operating Machine.
Parts Catalog 1
Registration Card 1 Fill Out And Return To Toro.
Description UseQty.

8
SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS
MOUNT HOSE CLAMP (Fig. 1 -2)
1. Using dimensions shown in figure 1, locate, mark
and drill (2) .280" dia. holes in traction unit platform.
Use caution when drilling as there are hoses and
cables under platform.
Figure 1
.75"
4.41"
12.75"
2. Secure hoses to under side of platform with clamp,
(2) brackets, capscrews and nuts. Position brackets to
fit contour of hoses and platform.
Figure 2
1
1. Clamp
2. Bracket (2)
2
GRASS DEFLECTOR (Fig. 3)
3. Remove shipping bands allowing deflector to be
lowered.
Defector is spring loaded in the down position
and will rotate downward, if not retrained,
when band is cut. If done improperly, personal
injury may occur.
WARNING
Figure 3
1. grass Deflector
1
MOUNT REAR CASTOR WHEELS (Fig. 4)
The rear castor wheels are shipped secured upside
down to deck brackets.
1. Remove capscrew and locknut securing front of
rear castor pivot to deck bracket.
Figure 4
1. Rear castor pivot arm
1
2. Turn pivot right side up and secure front of castor
pivot arm to front of deck bracket with capscrew and
locknut removed.
3. Align the pivot arm holes with selected
height-of-cut bracket holes in the deck frame, install
clevis pin and secure with hairpin cotter.
4. Repeat procedure on other castor wheel
assembly.
CONNECT RIGHT HAND PUSH ARM TO
CUTTING UNIT (Fig. 5- 6)
Note: Ball joints are shipped with traction unit.
1. Thread a jam nut fully onto ball joint.
2. Thread ball joint into push arm adapter until a
dimension of 2-3/8" from end of adapter to center of
ball joint is attained. Do not tighten jam nut.

9
SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS
Figure 5
1. Ball joint
2. Jam nut
3. Push arm adapter
1
32-3/8"
2
3. Remove (2) flange head capscrews and flange
nuts securing right hand ball joint mount to castor arm.
Remove ball joint mount from castor arm.
4. Install ball joint to right hand ball joint mount with a
castle nut and cotter pin (Fig. 6).
5. Loosely mount push arm adapter to bottom of right
push arm with a push arm bracket and (4) capscrews,
flat washers and flange head locknuts. Push arm
bracket to be positioned approximately 1" from end of
right push arm.
Note: Push arm plate to be positioned on top of push
arm. Push arm adapter is mounted to under side of
push arm.
6. Move cutting unit into position in front of traction
unit.
Figure 6
1. R.H. Push Arm
2. Push arm adapter
3. Push arm plate
4. Ball Joint Mount
1
2
3
4
Since the right hand push arm is spring loaded
to about 100 pounds, a helper is needed to
push the arm down. Sudden release of the
push arm could cause injury.
WARNING
7. Have a helper carefully push down on the right
push arm until holes in ball joint mount line up with
holes in castor arm. Immediately slide a 4 x 4 in. block
of wood between top of push arm and underside of
chassis.
8. Secure ball joint mount to castor arm with (2)
flange head capscrews and flange nuts previously
removed.
Note: Capscrew heads to be positioned on inside of
castor arm.
9. Tighten large jam nut securing ball joint to push
arm adapter (FIg. 5). When tightening jam nut, hold
ball joint straight to permit proper oscillation during
raising and lowering of cutting unit. Carefully remove
wood block holding push arm down.
CONNECT LEFT HAND PUSH ARM TO
CUTTING UNIT (Fig. 7- 8)
Since the left hand push arm is spring loaded
to about 150 pounds, a helper is needed to
push the arm down. Sudden release of the
push arm could cause injury.
WARNING
1. Thread a jam nut fully onto ball joint.
2. Thread ball joint into left push arm until a
dimension of 2-3/8" from end of push arm to center of
ball joint is attained. Do not tighten jam nut.
Figure 7
1. Ball joint
2. Jam nut
2. Left push arm
1
3
2-3/8"
2

10
SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS
3. Remove (2) flange head capscrews and flange
nuts securing left hand ball joint mount to castor arm.
Remove ball joint mount from castor arm.
4. Install ball joint to left hand ball joint mount with a
castle nut and cotter pin.
Figure 8
1. L.H. Push Arm
2. Ball joint
3. Ball Joint Mount
1
2
3
5. Have a helper carefully push down on the push
arm until holes in ball joint mount line up with holes in
castor arm. Immediately slide a 4 x 4 in. block of wood
between top of push arm and underside of chassis.
Make sure the wooden block does not slip out
accidentally. Sudden release of the push arm
could cause injury.
WARNING
6. Secure ball joint mount to castor arm with flange
head capscrews and flange nuts previously removed.
Note: Flange head capscrew heads to be positioned
on inside of castor arm.
7. Tighten large jam nut securing ball joint to push
arm. When tightening jam nut, hold ball joint straight to
permit proper oscillation during raising and lowering of
cutting unit. Carefully remove wood block holding
push arm down.
Note: Position deck so there is a 2" gap between
front of traction unit tires and rear of deck (Fig.).
Figure 9
2"
8. Tighten fasteners securing right push arm adapter
to right push arm.
MOUNT FRONT LIFT ARM (Fig. 10 & 11)
1. Remove rubber bumper from bottom of .traction
T-bar.
Figure 10
1. Traction T-bar
2. Rubber bumper
1
2
2. Slide front lift arm onto traction unit t-bar,
positioning as shown in figure 11.
3. Secure front lift arm to t-bar with with (2)
capscrews and locknuts.
Figure 11
1. Front lift arm
2. Traction unit T-bar
1
2
MOUNT REAR LIFT BRACKET (Fig. 12-)
1. Loosely mount rear lift bracket to right push arm
with square U-bolt, (2) nuts and flange nuts. Bracket
to be positioned on push arm so it is centered and
parallel to castor arm.
Figure 12
1. Lift bracket
2. Square u-bolt
3. U-bolt
1
2
3

11
SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS
Figure 13
1. Lift bracket
2. Castor arm
1
2
2. Hook H.O.C. chain onto remaining U-bolt.
3. Thread a hex nut onto each end of U-bolt.
4. Loosely mount U-bolt and H.O.C. chain to rear lift
bracket (2) nuts and (2) flange nuts
5. Mount height-of-cut chain to 2" height-of-cut
hole with clevis pin and hair pin cotter.
6. Position rear castors in 2" height-of-cut.
7. Adjust nuts on U-bolt until rear of deck is parallel
to floor (Distance from floor to bottom rear edge of all
three deck chambers must be equal).
INSTALL DRIVE SHAFT TO TRACTION
UNIT
NOTE: To ease installation of PTO shaft, remove
right traction tire.
1. Slide smaller yoke end of drive shaft onto traction
unit PTO shaft while aligning mounting holes. Secure
with roll pin.
Figure 14
1. Drive shaft
1
INSTALL LIFT CHAINS (Fig. 15)
1. Connect lift chains to lift arm and cutting unit chain
brackets with (6) shackles, (3/8 x 1-1/2" lg.) shackle
pins and (1/8 x 3/4" lg.) cotter pins. To ensure cutting
unit lifts properly, secure chains to the following links
when connecting:
Front Left - 8th link
Front Right - 8th link
Rear - 14th link (All links)
Check operation to ensure all chains lift deck tight
against stops when lift arm is raised.
Figure 15
1. Front Left Lift Chain
2. Front Right Lift Chain
3. Rear Lift Chain
1
2
3
ADJUST COUNTER BALANCE SPRING
(Fig. 16)
1. Tighten nuts on adjusting rod until there is equal
weight on castor wheels of left and left center
chambers.
Figure 16
1. Counter balance spring
2. Adjusting rod
1
2
GREASE CUTTING UNIT
Before the cutting unit is operated, it must be greased
to ensure proper lubricating characteristics: refer to
Lubrication, page 13. Failure to properly grease the
cutting unit will result in premature failure of critical
parts.

12
SET-UP INSTRUCTIONS
INSTALL REAR WEIGHT
GROUNDSMASTER 300 Series Traction Units comply with ANSI B71.4-1990 Standard when equipped with rear
weight. Use chart below to determine combinations of weight required. Order parts from your local Authorized Toro
Distributor.
Rear Weight
Required Weight Part
Number
Weight
Description Qty.
Groundsmaster 325-D
(30788 / 30739)
24-5780140 lb. Rear Weight Kit
(includes two 35 lb.
weights and mounting
hardware)
2
Traction Unit
Description
Groundsmaster 345
(30789)
24-5780175 lb. Rear Weight Kit
(includes two 35 lb.
weights and mounting
hardware)
&
2
24-5790 Rear Weight Kit
(includes one 35 lb.
weight and mounting
hardware)
1
Groundsmaster 325-D
4 Wheel Drive
(30795 / 30741)
70 lb. 1
24-5780 Rear Weight Kit
(includes two 35 lb.
weights and mounting
hardware)

13
BEFORE OPERATING
CHECK LUBRICANT IN GEAR BOX
The gear box in designed to operate on SAE 80-90 wt.
gear lube. Although the gear box is shipped with
lubricant from the factory, check the level before
operating the cutting unit.
1. Position the machine and cutting unit on a level
surface.
2. Remove check plug from side of gear box and
make sure lubricant is up to bottom of hole. If level of
lubricant is low, remove fill plug on top of gear case and
add enough lubricant to bring it up to bottom of hole in
side.
Figure 17
1. Filler Plug
2. Check Plug
3. Drain Plug
1
2
3
ADJUSTING HEIGHT - OF - CUT
The height-of-cut is adjustable from 1 to 4 inches in
1/4 inch increments.
1. Start the engine and raise the cutting unit so
height-of-cut can be changed. Stop engine after
cutting unit is raised.
FRONT CASTOR WHEELS
Figure 18
1. Remove H.O.C. cap from spindle shaft and slide
spindle out of front castor arm. Slide spacers onto
spindle shaft to get desired height-of-cut.
Figure 19
1. Front castor wheel
2. H.O.C. Cap
3. Spacer
4. Washer
2
3
4
4
1
2. Push castor spindle through front castor arm install
remaining spacers onto spindle and install HOC cap to
secure assembly.
REAR CASTOR WHEELS
Figure 20
1. Remove hairpin cotter and cotter pin securing rear
castor pivot arm to deck bracket.
Figure 21
1. Rear Castor Pivot
1
2. Align the pivot arm holes with selected
height-of-cut bracket holes in the deck frame, install
cotter pin and secure with hairpin cotter.

14
BEFORE OPERATING
REAR DECK CHAIN
1. Remove hair pin cotter and clevis pin securing
height-of-cut chain to chamber bracket.
2. Mount height-of-cut chain to desired
height-of-cut hole with clevis pin and hair pin cotter.
Figure 22
1. H.O.C. Chain
1
Figure 23
CHECK TIRE PRESSURE
Ensure that the air pressure in the front and rear castor
wheels is 40 psi (276 kPa).
IMPORTANT: Maintain even pressure in all tires to
ensure a good qualityofcut and proper machine
performance. Do not underinflate.
ADJUST SKID
Skid, on right side of cutting unit, should be located in
upper holes for 1 and 1-1/2 inch heights-of-cut and
lower holes for 2 to 4 inch heights-of-cut.
1. Adjust skid by removing flange nuts, positioning as
desired and re-installing flange nuts.
ADJUST ROLLER
Anti-scalp rollers should be located in upper holes for
1 and 1-1/2 inch heights-of-cut and lower holes for
2 to 5 inch heights-of-cut. Five rollers are located on
the deck, three under the main deck and one on each
wing.
1. Adjust anti-scalp rollers by removing screw
securing roller shaft to deck, positioning roller as
desired and reinstalling shaft with screw.

15
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
GRASS DEFLECTOR (Fig. 24)
WARNING
The grass deflector (Fig. 24) is a safety
device that diverts grass and other foreign
objects being discharged downward. WE
STRONGLY RECOMMEND THAT THE
DEFLECTOR BE IN ITS NORMAL
OPERATING POSITION WHENEVER THE
CUTTING UNIT IS ENGAGED. NEVER
OPERATE CUTTING UNIT WITH THE
DEFLECTOR REMOVED FROM THE
CUTTING UNIT OR IT TIED/BLOCKED IN A
RAISED POSITION. SINCE THE BLADES
COULD THEN THROW DEBRIS A
CONSIDERABLE DISTANCE WITH
SUFFICIENT FORCE TO CAUSE PERSONAL
INJURY OR DAMAGE TO PROPERTY. If the
grass deflector is damaged, repair or
replace the affected part(s).
Note: The deflector is spring loaded into its
downward normal operating position, but
the operator can temporarily swing it out of
the way to facilitate loading in a trailer or
when otherwise necessary.
Figure 24
1. Grass deflector
2. Springs
2
1
OPERATING TIPS
1. MOW WHEN GRASS IS DRY-Mow either in the
late morning to avoid the dew, which causes grass
clumping or in late afternoon to avoid the damage that
can be caused by direct sunlight on the sensitive,
freshly mowed grass.
2. SELECT THE PROPER HEIGHT-OF-CUT
SETTING TO SUIT CONDITIONS - Remove
approximately one inch or no more than 1/3 of the
grass blade when cutting. In exceptionally lush and
dense grass you may have to raise your
height-of-cut setting another notch. When cutting in
1" or 1-1/2" height-of-cut, add a second washer
between rear castor forks and bottom of castor arm
housings to increase blade rake.
3. MOWING IN EXTREME CONDITIONS - Air is
required to cut and recut grass clippings in mower
housing, so do not set height-of-cut too low or totally
surround housing by uncut grass. Always try to have
one side of the mower housing free from uncut grass,
allowing air to be drawn into housing. When making an
initial cut thru center of uncut area, operate machine
slower and back up if mower starts to clog.
4. ALWAYS START MOWING WITH SHARP BLADES
- A sharp blade cuts cleanly and without tearing or
shredding the grass blades like a dull blade. Tearing
and shredding causes the grass to turn brown at the
edges which impairs growth and increases
susceptibility to diseases. Make sure blade is in good
condition and a full sail is present.
5. CHECK CONDITION OF DECK - Make sure
cutting chambers are in good condition. Straighten
any bends in chamber components to ensure correct
blade tip/chamber clearance.
CAUTION: This product may exceed noise levels of 85
dB(A) at the operator position. Ear protectors are
recommended for prolonged exposure to reduce the
potential of permanent hearing damage.
6. STOPPING - If forward motion has to be stopped
while cutting, a clump of grass clippings may be
deposited on lawn. Follow this procedure for stopping
while cutting:
A. With deck engaged, move onto a previously cut
area.
B. Shift to neutral, move throttle control lever to SLOW
position and rotate ignition key to OFF.
7. AFTER OPERATING - To ensure optimum
performance, clean underside of mower housing,
especially around inserts (kickers) after each use. If
residue is allowed to build up in mower housing and on
inserts, cutting performance will decrease.

16
LUBRICATION
GREASE BEARINGS, BUSHINGS AND
GEAR BOX (Fig. 25-30 )
The cutting unit must be lubricated regularly. If
machine is operated under normal conditions,
lubricate castor bearings and bushings with No. 2
general purpose lithium base grease or molybdenum
base grease, after every 8 hours of operation or daily,
whichever comes first.
1. The cutting unit has bearings and bushings that
must be lubricated, and these lubrication points are:
front castor spindle bushings (2) (Fig. 25); front castor
wheel bearings (4) (Fig. 25); rear castor wheel
bearings (2) (Fig. 26); blade spindle bearings (3)
(Fig. 27); right and left push arm ball joints (Fig. 27);
drive shaft (3) (Fig. 27) idler arm pivots (3) (Fig. 28);
and deck pivot pins (4) (Fig. 29)
Figure 25
Figure 26
Figure 27
Figure 28

17
LUBRICATION
Figure 29
2. Position the machine and cutting unit on a level
surface and lower cutting unit. Remove check plug
from side of gear box (Fig. 30) and make sure lubricant
is up to bottom of hole. If level of lubricant is low,
remove fill plug on top of gear case and add SAE
80-90 wt. gear lube until level is up to bottom of hole in
side.
Figure 30
1. Filler Plug
2. Check Plug
3. Drain Plug
1
2
3

18
MAINTENANCE
TROUBLE SHOOTING
85 To 110

19
MAINTENANCE
To prevent accidental starting of the engine,
while performing maintenance, shut engine
off and remove key from ignition switch.
CAUTION
SEPARATING CUTTING UNIT FROM
TRACTION UNIT
1. Position machine on level surface, lower cutting
unit to floor, shut engine off and engage parking brake.
2. Remove self tapping screws securing shield to top
of cutting unit and set shield aside.
3. Drive out roll pin securing drive shaft yoke to input
shaft of gear box. Loosen capscrews and locknuts and
slide yoke off input shaft. If traction unit will be used
without the cutting unit, drive roll pin out of yoke at
traction unit PTO shaft and remove entire drive shaft
from traction unit.
Do not start the engine and engage the PTO
lever when PTO shaft is not connected to gear
box on cutting unit. If engine is started and
PTO shaft is allowed to rotate, serious injury
could result.
DANGER
4. Disconnect cotter pins and clevis pins securing lift
chains to lift arms.
Since the right hand push arm is spring loaded
to about 100 pounds and the left hand push
arm is spring loaded to about 150 pounds, a
helper is needed to push the arm down.
Sudden release of the push arm could cause
injury.
WARNING
5. Have a helper push down on the right push arm
while you remove the flange head capscrews and
locknuts securing the ball joint mount to castor arm on
cutting unit. Now the helper can carefully allow push
arm to move upward, which will gradually release the
100 pounds of spring load.
6. Have a helper push down on the left push arm
while you remove the flange head capscrews and
locknuts securing the ball joint mount to castor arm on
cutting unit. Now the helper can carefully allow push
arm to move upward, which will gradually release the
150 pounds of spring load.
7. Roll the cutting unit away from the traction unit.
MOUNTING CUTTING UNIT TO
TRACTION UNIT
1. Position machine on a level surface and shut
engine off.
2. Move cutting unit into position in front of traction
unit.
Since the right hand push arm is spring loaded
to about 100 pounds and the left hand push
arm is spring loaded to about 150 pounds, a
helper is needed to push the arm down.
Sudden release of the push arm could cause
injury.
WARNING
3. Have a helper carefully push down on the right
push arm until holes in ball joint mount line up with
holes in castor arm.
4. Secure ball joint mount to castor arm with flange
head capscrews and flange nuts. Capscrew heads to
be positioned to inside of castor arm.
5. Have a helper carefully push down on the left push
arm until holes in ball joint mount line up with holes in
castor arm. Immediately slide a 4 x 4 in. block of wood
between top of push arm and underside of chassis
Make sure the wooden block does not slip out
accidentally. Sudden release of the push arm
could cause injury.
WARNING
6. Secure ball joint mount to castor arm with flange
head capscrews and flange nuts. capscrew heads to
be positioned to inside of castor arm. Chain bracket to
be mounted in forward set of holes.
7. Carefully remove wood block holding push arm
down.
8. Line up holes in yoke and input shaft of gear box.
Slide yoke onto shaft and secure together with a roll pin
and (2) 5/16 - 18 x 1-3/4" lg. capscrews and 5/16 -
18 locknuts.
ADJUSTING DRIVE BELTS (Fig. 31 )
The blade drive belts are tensioned by the spring
loaded idlers, are very durable. However, after many
hours of use, the belts will stretch and will need
adjusting.
1. Lower cutting unit to the shop floor. Remove belt
covers from top of cutting unit and set covers aside.
2. Adjust spring tensioning rods until 10 lbs tension is
achieved for side belts and 30 lbs tension for center
gear box belt.

20
MAINTENANCE
Figure 31
1. Spring tensioning rod (3)
1
REPLACING DRIVE BELTS
The blade drive belts, tensioned by the spring loaded
idlers, are very durable. However, after many hours of
use, the belts will show signs of wear. Signs of a worn
belt are: squealing when belt is rotating, blades
slipping when cutting grass, frayed edges, burn marks
and cracks. Replace the belt if any of these conditions
are evident.
1. Lower cutting unit to the shop floor. Remove belt
covers from top of cutting unit and set covers aside.
2. To replace gear box belt, loosen spring tension rod
and remove belt. Retention new belt to 30 lbs. Refer to
Figure 32 for belt routing.
Figure 32
3. To replace wing belts, loosen spring tension rod
and remove gear box belt.
4. Pull spring loaded idler pulley away from belt, with
hand, to relieve belt tension and remove belt. Retention
new belts to 10 lbs. Refer to Figure 32 for belt routing.
8. Reinstall belt covers.
SERVICING FRONT BUSHINGS IN
CASTOR ARMS
The castor arms have bushings pressed into the top
and bottom of the tube and after many hours of
operation, the bushings will wear. To check the
bushings, move castor fork back and forth and from
side to side. If castor spindle is loose inside the
bushings, bushings are worn and must be replaced.
1. Raise cutting unit so wheels are off floor and block
it so it cannot fall accidentally.
2. Remove tensioning cap, spacer(s) and thrust
washer from top of castor spindle.
3. Pull castor spindle out of mounting tube. Allow
thrust washer and spacer(s) to remain on bottom of
spindle.
4. Insert pin punch into top or bottom of mounting
tube and drive bushing out of tube. Also drive other
bushing out of tube. Clean inside of tubes to remove
dirt.
Figure 33
1. Front Castor Arm Tube
2. Bushings
1
2
5. Apply grease to inside and outside of new
bushings. Using a hammer and flat plate, drive
bushings into mounting tube.
6. Inspect castor spindle for wear and replace it if
damaged.
7. Push castor spindle through bushings and
mounting tube. Slide thrust washer and spacer(s) onto
spindle. Install tensioning cap on castor spindle to
retain all parts in place.
SERVICING CASTOR WHEELS AND
BEARINGS
The castor wheel rotates on a high-quality roller
bearing and is supported by a spanner bushing. Even
after many hours of use, provided that the bearing was
kept well-lubricated, bearing wear will be minimal.
However, failure to keep bearing lubricated will cause
rapid wear. A wobbly castor wheel usually indicates a
worn bearing.