For professional landscapers and serious homeowners, achieving a flawless cut requires more than just a mower—it demands a high-performance precision tool. That’s exactly what you get with the Toro 51820, a commercial-grade stand-on mower built to deliver unmatched results on any terrain.
This machine isn’t just about cutting grass; it’s about redefining efficiency and quality in your daily work. Let’s look at what makes the Toro 51820 a top contender for those who need reliability and a perfect stripe, season after season.
Toro 51820 – High-Performance Precision Tool
At its core, the Toro 51820 is engineered for productivity. It combines a powerful engine with a robust chassis and a cutting system designed for accuracy. If you’re managing large properties, sports fields, or demanding commercial accounts, this mower helps you finish faster while leaving a beautiful, consistent finish behind.
Key Features That Set It Apart
What makes this mower a true high-performance precision tool? It’s the sum of its parts. Here are the features that matter most:
* Powerful EFI Engine: The fuel-injected Kawasaki FX850V engine provides reliable starts, strong torque in tough conditions, and improved fuel efficiency. You get consistent power without the hassle of carburetor issues.
* Toro’s MyRIDE Suspension System: This isn’t just a seat. The MyRIDE system isolates you from the machine, dramatically reducing vibration and fatigue. You can operate comfortably for longer hours, which is crucial for productivity.
* Commercial-Grade 52″ or 60″ Deck Options: The fabricated steel decks are built to last. With Toro’s classic deep dish design and optimized airflow, they provide exceptional cut quality and superb vacuuming for a clean, striped finish.
* Precise Controls and Stability: The low center of gravity and wide wheelbase offer incredible stability on slopes and uneven ground. Responsive hand controls let you maneuver with confidence around tight obstacles.
Getting Started: Your First Day with the 51820
When your new Toro 51820 arrives, proper setup is key to unlocking its full potential. Follow these steps to ensure everything runs smoothly from the first mow.
1. Inspection and Assembly: Carefully uncrate the mower and inspect for any shipping damage. Most dealers will deliver it ready-to-go, but you may need to install the ROPS (Roll-Over Protective Structure) and check tire pressures.
2. Fluids and Pre-Operation Check: Add engine oil and fuel to the recommended levels. Don’t forget to check the hydraulic fluid. It’s a simple step that’s easy to overlook but vital for the mower’s lifespan.
3. Familiarize Yourself with Controls: Before starting the engine, sit on the mower. Locate the parking brake, throttle, blade engagement switches, and drive controls. Practice the neutral positioning for the drive levers until it feels natural.
4. Initial Test Run: Start in an open, flat area. Practice driving forward and backward, making turns, and engaging the blades. Get a feel for the machine’s responsiveness without the pressure of a job.
Daily Operation for Best Results
To use the Toro 51820 effectively, adopt these professional habits. They’ll extend the life of your equipment and improve your cut quality.
* Always Perform a Walk-Through: Before you even get on the mower, walk the property. Remove sticks, toys, rocks, and debris. This protects your deck, blades, and anyone nearby.
* Adjust Cutting Height Properly: Use the single-point deck lift system to set your desired height. Remember, you should never cut more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mowing for plant health.
* Master the Overlap: For a streak-free finish, overlap each pass by 2-3 inches. This ensures no strips of uncut grass are left behind and contributes to that professional striped look.
* Vary Your Mowing Pattern: Don’t mow the same direction every week. Alternating your pattern prevents soil compaction and encourages grass to grow upright for a better cut.
Essential Maintenance: Keeping Your Investment Sharp
A high-performance tool demands high-performance maintenance. Neglect leads to downtime, and downtime costs money. Here’s a straightforward schedule to follow.
After Every Use:
* Blow off or wash down the deck to prevent grass buildup and corrosion.
* Check for any loose bolts or fittings, especially on the deck and wheels.
* Visually inspect the blades for obvious damage.
Weekly or Every 25 Hours:
* Check engine oil levels and tire pressure.
* Grease all fittings (zerks) on the deck spindles and steering components.
* Inspect the air filter and clean or replace if its dirty.
Monthly or Every 100 Hours:
* Change the engine oil and oil filter (more frequently in dusty conditions).
* Sharpen or replace the mower blades. Dull blades tear grass, leading to a brownish hue and increased disease risk.
* Check the drive belt for wear and proper tension.
Seasonal/Annual Maintenance:
* Replace the air filter and spark plug.
* Consider changing the hydraulic fluid and filter as per the manual’s severe service schedule.
* Give the entire mower a thorough cleaning and inspection before off-season storage.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even the best equipment can have hiccups. Here are quick fixes for common problems with the Toro 51820.
* Uneven Cut: This is almost always caused by dull, damaged, or improperly installed blades. Check blade balance and sharpness first. Next, ensure the deck is level from side-to-side and front-to-back.
* Loss of Power or Poor Performance: Check the air filter and fuel filter first. Old fuel can also cause issues. If the engine bogs down in thick grass, try mowing at a slower speed or taking a smaller bite with a higher cut setting.
* Vibration or Unusual Noise: Immediately stop the engine and inspect. A bent blade, loose blade bolt, or a failing spindle bearing are likely culprits. Never operate a mower with unusual vibrations.
FAQ: Your Toro 51820 Questions Answered
Q: Is the Toro 51820 suitable for steep hills?
A: While its low center of gravity provides good stability, always consult your manual for slope recommendations. Use extreme caution on slopes, mow up and down (not across), and avoid wet conditions.
Q: How does the fuel injection benefit me?
A: Fuel injection means easier cold starts, consistent engine performance in varying temperatures, and generally better fuel economy compared to carbureted engines. It’s a major reliability upgrade.
Q: Can I use mulching kit with this model?
A: Yes, Toro offers a mulching kit for the 51820. It includes mulching baffles and specific blades that recut clippings finely, returning nutrients to the soil without leaving clumps.
Q: What’s the main advantage of the stand-on design over a zero-turn rider?
A: The stand-on design offers a smaller footprint for better transport and storage. It also allows you to easily step off and on for frequent debris removal, and many operators find it reduces back strain compared to sitting all day.
Q: How do I get the best striping pattern?
A: For pronounced stripes, use a roller attachment behind your deck. Also, mow when grass is dry and ensure your blades are razor-sharp. The quality of the stripe often comes down to the operators skill and attention to detail.
The Toro 51820 stands as a testament to what a purpose-built machine can achieve. It blends raw power with operator comfort and cutting precision in a way that few mowers can match. By following the setup, operation, and maintenance tips outlined here, you’ll ensure this high-performance precision tool remains a reliable partner in your business or lawn care routine for years to come. The initial investment pays for itself through durability, time saved, and the consistently superior results you can deliver to every client or for your own property.