Toro 74274 User Manual (English)

Questions and Answers:

D
David Nelson DDSAug 13, 2025
Why won't my Toro 74274 Lawn Mower engine start?
- S
  Steven FieldsAug 13, 2025
  If the engine on your Toro Lawn Mower will not start, starts hard, or fails to keep running, the possible causes include an empty fuel tank, a dirty air cleaner, or dirt/water in the fuel filter. To resolve this, fill the fuel tank, clean or replace the air cleaner element, or replace the fuel filter. If the issue persists, it may be due to dirt, water, or stale fuel in the fuel system, in which case you should contact an Authorized Service Dealer.
J
Jamie MasseyAug 17, 2025
What to do if my Toro Lawn Mower starter does not crank?
- M
  Madeline ThomasAug 17, 2025
  If the starter on your Toro Lawn Mower does not crank, ensure that the blade control (PTO) is disengaged, the parking brake is set, and you are seated on the seat. Also, check if the battery is dead and charge it if necessary. Inspect the electrical connections for corrosion or looseness and ensure they have good contact. Replace the fuse if it's blown. If the problem persists, the relay or switch may be defective, and you should contact an Authorized Service Dealer.
K
Kelly FernandezAug 21, 2025
Why does my Toro 74274 engine lose power?
- L
  lloydpatrickAug 21, 2025
  If your Toro Lawn Mower engine loses power, there might be several reasons. The engine load could be excessive, so try reducing the ground speed. A dirty air cleaner can also cause this, so clean the air cleaner element. Check the oil level in the crankcase and add oil if it's low. Make sure the cooling fins and air passages above the engine are free from obstructions. The vent hole in the fuel cap could be plugged, so clean or replace the fuel cap. Also, check for dirt or water in the fuel filter and replace it if necessary. If none of these steps work, there might be dirt, water, or stale fuel in the fuel system, and you should contact an Authorized Service Dealer.
R
Robert LucasAug 25, 2025
Why does my Toro Lawn Mower have an uneven cutting height?
- J
  John NelsonAug 25, 2025
  If your Toro Lawn Mower has an uneven cutting height, it could be due to several reasons. The blades might not be sharp, so sharpen them. Bent cutting blades can also cause this, so install new ones. Make sure the mower is level from side to side and front to rear. A dirty underside of the mower can interfere with cutting, so clean it. Check and adjust the tire pressure as needed. If the blade spindle is bent, contact an Authorized Service Dealer.
W
William MathisAug 28, 2025
What to do if the blades do not rotate on my Toro 74274?
- F
  fleeAug 28, 2025
  If the blades on your Toro Lawn Mower do not rotate, it could be due to a worn, loose, or broken drive belt, so check the belt tension. It could also be that the drive belt is off the pulley, so install the drive belt and check the adjusting shafts and belt guides for correct position. Another possibility is a worn, loose, or broken deck belt, so install a new deck belt. It may also be that the deck belt is off the pulley, so install the deck pulley and check the idler pulley, idler arm, and spring for correct position and function. Finally, a broken or missing idler spring could be the cause, so replace the spring.
V
vporterSep 1, 2025
Why is my Toro Lawn Mower vibrating abnormally?
- A
  Amber LiuSep 1, 2025
  If your Toro Lawn Mower is experiencing abnormal vibration, it could be due to several factors. The cutting blades might be bent or unbalanced, in which case you should install new cutting blades. Check if the blade mounting bolt is loose and tighten it. Also, ensure the engine mounting bolts are tightened. Examine the engine pulley, idler pulley, or blade pulley for looseness and tighten the appropriate pulley. For issues such as a damaged engine pulley, bent blade spindle, or loose/worn motor mount, contact an Authorized Service Dealer.
M
Maria WeeksSep 4, 2025
Why is my Toro Lawn Mower engine overheating?
- C
  craigfloresSep 4, 2025
  If your Toro Lawn Mower engine overheats, there are a few things you can check. First, make sure the engine load isn't excessive by reducing the ground speed. Also, check the oil level in the crankcase and add oil if it's low. Finally, ensure that the cooling fins and air passages above the engine are not blocked; remove any obstructions.
D
Donna LaneSep 8, 2025
What to do if my Toro 74274 does not drive?
- K
  Kathleen NelsonSep 9, 2025
  If your Toro Lawn Mower is not driving, ensure that the bypass valve is closed tightly. If it is already tight, inspect the drive or pump belt for wear, looseness, or breakage, and change the belt if needed. Check if the drive or pump belt is off a pulley, and if so, change the belt. Also, look for a broken or missing idler spring and replace it. Finally, check the hydraulic fluid level; add fluid to the reservoir if it's low or let it cool down if it's too hot.

Toro 74274 Specifications

General

Engine Type	Gas
Cutting Width	60" (152 cm)
Deck Material	Steel
Mulching Capability	Optional
Bagging Capability	Optional
Side Discharge Capability	Standard

Summary

Introduction

Safety

Safe Operating Practices

Guidelines for safe operation, including training, preparation, and general rules.

Slope Operation

Safety and Instructional Decals

Product Overview

Controls

Operation

Adding Fuel

Instructions for safely adding diesel fuel to the machine's fuel tank.

Checking the Engine Oil Level

Switching the Fuel Tanks

Using the Rollover Protection System (ROPS)

Operating the Parking Brake

Setting the Parking Brake

Steps to engage and secure the parking brake on the machine.

Releasing the Parking Brake

Procedure for disengaging the parking brake.

Starting and Stopping the Engine

Starting the Engine in Normal Weather

Procedure for starting the engine under normal weather conditions.

Starting the Engine in Cold Weather

Operating the Power Take Off (PTO)

The Safety Interlock System

Testing the Safety Interlock System

Procedure to test the functionality of the safety interlock system.

Driving Forward or Backward

Stopping the Machine

Adjusting the Height-of-Cut

Adjusting the Anti-Scalp Rollers

Positioning the Flow Baffle

Positioning the Seat

Pushing the Machine by Hand

Loading Machines

Transporting Machines

Operating Tips

Fast Throttle Setting

Using the fast throttle setting for optimal mowing and air circulation.

Cutting a Lawn for the First Time

Recommendations for cutting grass for the first time.

Cut 1/3 of the Grass Blade

Guideline for cutting only one-third of the grass blade for optimal health.

Mowing Direction

Advice on alternating mowing direction for grass health and appearance.

Mow at Correct Intervals

Guidance on the frequency of mowing based on grass growth rates.

Cutting Speed

Tips on adjusting cutting speed for improved cut quality.

Avoid Cutting Too Low

Caution against cutting the grass too short.

Long Grass

Recommendations for mowing long or wet grass.

When Stopping

Advice on where to stop when mowing to avoid leaving clippings.

Keep the Underside of the Mower Clean

Importance of cleaning the mower underside for optimal cutting.

Blade Maintenance

Importance of maintaining sharp blades for clean cuts and grass health.

Maintenance

Recommended Maintenance Schedule(s)

Table outlining maintenance tasks and their recommended service intervals.

Lubrication

Greasing the Front Caster Pivots

Procedure for greasing the front caster pivots.

Where to Add Grease

Locations for lubricating grease fittings as shown on the Check Service Reference Aid decal.

Where to Add Light Oil or Spray Lubrication

Areas requiring lubrication with spray lubricant or light oil.

Greasing the Mower Deck and Belt Idlers

Procedure for greasing the mower deck and belt idlers.

Engine Maintenance

Servicing the Air Cleaner

Procedure for removing and inspecting the air filter.

Removing the Air Filter

Steps to remove the air filter for inspection or replacement.

Engine Maintenance

Installing the Air Filter

Procedure for installing the air filter and air cleaner cover.

Servicing the Engine Oil

Information on oil type, capacity, and viscosity for engine oil service.

Engine Maintenance

Checking the Engine Oil Level

Procedure for checking and adding engine oil.

Changing the Engine Oil

Steps for draining and replacing the engine oil.

Engine Maintenance

Adding Engine Oil

Procedure for adding engine oil to the correct level.

Engine Maintenance

Changing the Engine Oil Filter

Procedure for replacing the engine oil filter.

Fuel System Maintenance

Servicing the Fuel Filters

Information on replacing fuel filters, recommending Authorized Service Dealer.

Servicing the Fuel Tank

Note that draining the fuel tank should be done by an Authorized Service Dealer.

Electrical System Maintenance

Servicing the Battery

Safety warnings and procedures for servicing the battery.

Removing the Battery

Procedure for safely removing the battery, with safety precautions.

Electrical System Maintenance

Installing the Battery

Steps for correctly installing the battery and securing cables.

Charging the Battery

Safety warning regarding charging the battery and potential explosions.

Electrical System Maintenance

Servicing the Fuses

Procedure for accessing and replacing fuses in the electrical system.

Drive System Maintenance

Adjusting the Tracking

Procedure for adjusting the tracking knob to ensure straight machine movement.

Checking the Tire Pressure

Procedure for checking and maintaining proper tire pressure for even cutting.

Drive System Maintenance

Checking the Wheel Hub Slotted Nut

Procedure for checking and torquing the wheel hub slotted nut.

Adjusting the Caster Pivot Bearing

Procedure for adjusting the caster pivot bearing for proper steering.

Servicing the Gear Box

Checking the Gear Box Oil Level

Procedure for checking the gear box oil level.

Cooling System Maintenance

Servicing the Cooling System

Safety warnings and procedures for servicing the cooling system.

Checking the Radiator Coolant

Procedure for checking the radiator coolant level.

Cooling System Maintenance

Cleaning the Hydraulic Oil Cooler and Radiator Screen

Procedure for cleaning the hydraulic oil cooler and radiator screen.

Brake Maintenance

Adjusting the Parking Brake

Procedure for adjusting the parking brake to ensure proper function.

Belt Maintenance

Inspecting the Belts

How to inspect belts for wear and signs of damage.

Replacing the Mower Belt

Procedure for replacing the mower belt.

Belt Maintenance

Adjusting the Mower Belt Tension

Procedure for adjusting mower belt tension for optimal belt life.

Belt Maintenance

Replacing the PTO Drive Belt

Procedure for replacing the PTO drive belt.

Replacing the Pump Drive Belt

Procedure for replacing the pump drive belt.

Belt Maintenance

Replacing and Tensioning the Alternator Belt

Procedure for replacing and tensioning the alternator belt.

Controls System Maintenance

Adjusting the Control Handle Neutral Position

Procedure to adjust control levers to the neutral position.

Hydraulic System Maintenance

Servicing the Hydraulic System

Procedure for checking the hydraulic fluid level.

Checking the Hydraulic Fluid

Steps to check the hydraulic fluid level under warm and cold conditions.

Hydraulic System Maintenance

Replacing the Hydraulic Filter and Oil

Procedure for replacing the hydraulic filter and changing the hydraulic oil.

Hydraulic System Maintenance

Bleeding the Hydraulic System

Procedure for bleeding the hydraulic system if needed.

Checking the Hydraulic Hoses

Procedure for checking hydraulic hoses for leaks and wear.

Setting the Hydraulic Pump Neutral Position

Setting the Right-hand Hydraulic Pump Neutral Position

Procedure to adjust the right-hand hydraulic pump neutral position.

Setting the Left-hand Hydraulic Pump Neutral Position

Procedure to adjust the left-hand hydraulic pump neutral position.

Mower Deck Maintenance

Leveling the Mower at Three Positions

Procedure for leveling the mower at three different positions.

Leveling the Mower Side-to-Side

Procedure for leveling the mower deck from side to side.

Mower Deck Maintenance

Adjusting the Front-to-Rear Mower Pitch

Procedure for adjusting the front-to-rear pitch of the mower deck.

Mower Deck Maintenance

Servicing the Cutting Blades

Procedure for maintaining sharp blades for optimal cutting performance.

Checking for Bent Blades

Procedure to check if mower blades are bent.

Mower Deck Maintenance

Sharpening the Blades

Procedure for sharpening mower blades to maintain original angle and balance.

Removing the Blades

Procedure for removing mower blades if they are damaged or unbalanced.

Mower Deck Maintenance

Installing the Blades

Procedure for installing mower blades onto the spindle shaft.

Replacing the Grass Deflector

Procedure for replacing a damaged or worn grass deflector.

Cleaning

Cleaning Under the Mower

Procedure for removing grass buildup from under the mower deck.

Waste Disposal

Storage

Cleaning and Storage

Procedure for cleaning and preparing the machine for storage.

Troubleshooting

Starter does not crank

Possible causes and corrective actions when the starter does not crank.

Engine will not start, starts hard, or fails to keep running

Possible causes and corrective actions for engine starting issues.

Engine loses power

Possible causes and corrective actions when the engine loses power.

Engine overheats

Possible causes and corrective actions when the engine overheats.

Machine does not drive

Possible causes and corrective actions when the machine fails to drive.

Abnormal vibration

Possible causes and corrective actions for abnormal machine vibration.

Troubleshooting

Uneven cutting height

Possible causes and corrective actions for uneven cutting height.

Blades do not rotate

Possible causes and corrective actions when the blades do not rotate.

Schematics

Evaporative Emission Control Warranty Statement

Introduction

Explanation of California's evaporative emission control system warranty.

Manufacturer's Warranty Coverage

Details of the warranty coverage for the evaporative emission control system.

Owner's Warranty Responsibilities

Owner's responsibilities for maintaining warranty coverage.

Defects Warranty Requirements

Requirements for warranty claims related to defects.

Emission Warranty Parts List

List of parts covered under the evaporative emission warranty.

The Toro Total Coverage Guarantee

Conditions and Products Covered

Details of products and conditions covered by the Toro Total Coverage Guarantee.

Owner Responsibilities

Owner's responsibilities regarding product maintenance and warranty.

Items and Conditions Not Covered

List of items and conditions not covered by the warranty.

Instructions for Obtaining Warranty Service

Procedure for obtaining warranty service for Toro products.

General Conditions

General terms and conditions applicable to the warranty coverage.

Countries Other than the United States or Canada

Information for customers outside the US and Canada regarding warranty.

Related product manuals

Toro 74274 User Manual

Table of Contents

Questions and Answers:

Toro 74274 Specifications

Summary

Introduction

Safety

Safe Operating Practices

Slope Operation

Safety and Instructional Decals

Product Overview

Controls

Operation

Adding Fuel

Checking the Engine Oil Level

Switching the Fuel Tanks

Using the Rollover Protection System (ROPS)

Operating the Parking Brake

Setting the Parking Brake

Releasing the Parking Brake

Starting and Stopping the Engine

Starting the Engine in Normal Weather

Starting the Engine in Cold Weather

Operating the Power Take Off (PTO)

The Safety Interlock System

Testing the Safety Interlock System

Driving Forward or Backward

Stopping the Machine

Adjusting the Height-of-Cut

Adjusting the Anti-Scalp Rollers

Positioning the Flow Baffle

Positioning the Seat

Pushing the Machine by Hand

Loading Machines

Transporting Machines

Operating Tips

Fast Throttle Setting

Cutting a Lawn for the First Time

Cut 1/3 of the Grass Blade

Mowing Direction

Mow at Correct Intervals

Cutting Speed

Avoid Cutting Too Low

Long Grass

When Stopping

Keep the Underside of the Mower Clean

Blade Maintenance

Maintenance

Recommended Maintenance Schedule(s)

Lubrication

Greasing the Front Caster Pivots

Where to Add Grease

Where to Add Light Oil or Spray Lubrication

Greasing the Mower Deck and Belt Idlers

Engine Maintenance

Servicing the Air Cleaner

Removing the Air Filter

Engine Maintenance

Installing the Air Filter

Servicing the Engine Oil

Engine Maintenance

Checking the Engine Oil Level

Changing the Engine Oil

Engine Maintenance

Adding Engine Oil

Engine Maintenance

Changing the Engine Oil Filter

Fuel System Maintenance

Servicing the Fuel Filters

Servicing the Fuel Tank

Electrical System Maintenance

Servicing the Battery

Removing the Battery

Electrical System Maintenance

Installing the Battery

Charging the Battery

Electrical System Maintenance

Servicing the Fuses

Drive System Maintenance

Adjusting the Tracking