Toro Timemaster PRO TIPS

[@RJLgardens]

Going too tight on the blade engagement belt tension can also render the blade brake useless, So be aware of that.

[@truthloveandhappiness3026]

It tells you in the manufacturer's directions not to over tighten the cable. It says to remove all slack from the cable but don't over tighten it. How is that a bad design? That's like complaining that a bolt strips when you over tighten it. It's not a bad design, is to consumer that is abusing the product and not following the manufacturer's directions. If you take out 100% of the slack and don't put it under tension, the blade stop works just fine. When you defeat that safety feature by intentionally over tightening the belts, what do you think's going to happen?

[@RJLgardens]

@@truthloveandhappiness3026 The belts are not over tensioned, the problem arises when the belts stretch/wear and then you need to adjust the cable. The more you adjust it the less contact there is on the blade brake, which in my opinion is a bad design as the brake should ideally be independent of the belt tensioner bracket.

[@truthloveandhappiness3026]

@@RJLgardens there is the bolt that you loosen to tighten the cable. There's also a bolt to the right of that and further back towards the back of the deck that bolt is the belt tensioner which are independent of each other.

[@RJLgardens]

@@truthloveandhappiness3026 On the uk timemaster versions i believe the only way to adjust the tension of the blade engagement belt is via the cable/bolt as per the video, so not sure what adjustment part you are on about.

[@SinnerSince1962]

Thanks for that tip. Never thought about it.

[@Whiskey.Tango.Actual]

As an American, I'm going to start telling people my lawnmower has a 76cm cutting width. That sounds way more badass than 30 inches. Cheerio bro and thanks for the good tips for real

[@RJLgardens]

🤣 cheers

[@insurroundsound]

Bruh!...hands down the best video I've found on KZbin for these adjustments. Concise and well explained! Thanks for the knowledge share. ✊🏾

[@RJLgardens]

Nice one 👍

[@criley011]

Thanks for taking the time to teach us about the Timemaster. Very helpful for fellow owners of this machine!

[@RJLgardens]

👍

[@SinnerSince1962]

When my mower was new, I rotated the pull cord towards the side. I gently removed the Briggs sticker and re-oriented it to properly match the new orientation. I didn't like pulling from the rear as I just knew I would have busted knuckles in my future from hitting the handle assembly.

[@kyleknight8267]

I don't have one of these, the gardener who does several yards in my neighborhood let me use his when my mower was being worked on, and I LOVED it, got the lawn mowed in half the time

[@RJLgardens]

I think its a good mower once setup properly 👍

[@kyleknight8267]

@@RJLgardens the only thing I don't like about is is how expensive it is $1500 (usd)

[@SinnerSince1962]

I kept my blue filter in for a long time and put up with the slow fill times (worrying about it overfilling and me not realizing the level first because the sponge was in the way). I eventually yanked it out and have never looked back. I believe I stuck the sponge in a measuring cup and the volume it took up was quite substantial to the total volume of an empty tank. I can't remember exactly what the number was, but when you have two strips to finish mowing and you're out of gas, you'll curse that little blue thingy...

[@RJLgardens]

I'm yet to pull mine out 😅

[@joejustus3169]

Finally a nice concise straightforward,useful video. Appreciate all the great tips. Thanks so much!🙏

[@RJLgardens]

Thanks 👍

[@michaelbyrne4087]

great video. the blade engagement cable clamp plate, the reason there is a hole is due to it being the same part number the the same plate holding that same cable just behind the motor where it holds to a small nipple. in the location you speak about it (under the spindle cover) there is no purpose

[@RJLgardens]

cheers for that 👍

[@jameschristensen6169]

The blade tension cable fastening plate is dual use. The second hole is used on an identical plate for routing the blade cable on the chassis at the rear of the engine. The hole positions on a plastic boss to act as a bridge securing the cable.

[@RJLgardens]

👍

[@richardpridgen7801]

Lots of great information in a short amount of time. Thanks for the video.

[@RJLgardens]

Thanks for watching 👍

[@TheGav0071]

You also DEFINATELY have to upgrade to the commercial pulley kit used on the Turf master (commercial model). P/N is 126-7890. I've owned 2 time masters and both original tension pulleys wore out within weeks of using it. This is a must do item!

[@RJLgardens]

I have planned to get those, but not needed yet, my original ones are still going strong and with no issues. I think they develop problems when the belt is over tensioned. 👍

[@me137137]

I found the fix if you bought a new timemaster and it squeals. It's so simple. I think I can see it in this video. Once you take off the pulley cover, there is a cable running near the engine that is not installed correctly. Unscrew the metal piece and slide it toward the skinny part of the cable(to the right) then bring it back with the cable in the loop. Once tighten I turned on my mower and not only no squeak, there was a powerful roar. Hope this helps. It the only cable running through the front I believe.

[@cathy9622]

Thank you so much. I’m happy to finally find solutions for the underpowered bog down of the toro. Can’t wait to get started.

[@RJLgardens]

👌

[@cathy9622]

@@RJLgardens I tightened the blade belt ( the one on top) about a month ago. The difference in operation is amazing. No more hogging down. Thanks again.

[@RJLgardens]

@@cathy9622 No worries, glad it helped 👍

[@dw.imaging]

I long to figure out how to keep grass out of the belt over it fills up regularly and is a PIA to take off and put back on… not really difficult, just time consuming. I’ve been tempted to run mine without it one day.

[@RJLgardens]

Ive never really had that issue, dont get much grass in mine. How are you mowing?

[@dw.imaging]

@@RJLgardens 80% mulch, 20% bag. I have never used side shoot. Since commenting, I am suspecting the issue is due to my dismembered and damaged rear flap letting grass get up in areas it should not. Instead of ordering another replacement this season, I think I am going to try the DIY route using John Deer Flaps as seen in Garage Gear video "MAKE YOUR OWN DIY TORO TIMEMASTER DRAG FLAP THAT LASTS".

[@Rockyspropertycare]

Use Ballard Blades. Their high lift gold blades are awesome. They are much higher and cut is unbelievable.

[@RJLgardens]

Cant get those in the uk unfortunately. Not a fan of flat blades either as they end up not cutting low enough in some cases, and i find the finish is better with a stepped down blade (cutting edge lower than the mounting hole). Cheers 👍

[@JoeMcCole-wu3np]

Can I please ask what's your go to height for domestic lawns? I've got it on a 3. Sometimes 2. Thanks

[@RJLgardens]

It varies alot but around 2-3 (notches from lowest setting) mostly, depends on grass type and how often im cutting it. 👍

[@JoeMcCole-wu3np]

Thank you

[@BrettsAustralia]

Almost everything I needed to know..Cheers😊

[@RJLgardens]

👌

[@WhiskeyCharged]

How are you using that tach? Are you pressing the wire up against the spark plug wire?

[@RJLgardens]

Yep thats all you need to do with this one

[@gustavoherbas1350]

Excuse me, I have my slicer, the same as yours, I have a problem, it does not turn off, I changed the switch and nothing does not turn off, what could it be, I want a suggestion, thank you

[@RJLgardens]

Dont know without looking, check your work over to make sure you didn't install new switch wrong or cable damaged.

[@mikewood4378]

I pulled the blue spong out of my tank and it caused no problems for me so Im sure you did the same. Have you done any up grades to the pullys and belts? Thanks for your video.

[@RJLgardens]

I didn't end up taking the blue sponge out on mine 🤷‍♂️. I am also still on the stock pulleys, they haven't let go on me yet. I've also just changed the drive belts out as well for some better ones and so far performing great. 👍

[@mikewood4378]

@@RJLgardens I am still learning about it. Found out today the rear wheels are not positive traction (don't pull together). We call that a (slip deferential). Hope it holds up. I really enjoy it so far.

[@aaronanderson6958]

Did I miss something? Where does the tachometer click into so it tracks the RPMs?

[@RJLgardens]

The little black wire from the tach acts as an antenna and picks up the pulse from the ignition coil.

[@Williamchang23]

Can you help me understand how to use a tachometer? Do you just touch it near the spark plug area and the tool will pick it up?

[@RJLgardens]

There are a few different types of tachs you can get, this one picks up the pulse from the ignition coil so all you need to do is hold it on the HT lead somewhere or near sparkplug for it to pick it up.

[@johndollin4620]

Hi mate I watch your videos regularly I have been looking to upgrade and liked the looks of the toro time master because of the larger deck so saves time but after watching a fair few videos and reviews there not sounding that great especially in wet grass and for reliability what is your opinion Thanks

[@RJLgardens]

It works for my business. Will be doing a review soon 👍

[@peterstansfield3391]

biggest thing i found out today is the front height adjustment plate is discontinued once it wears out you cant get a original one. I ordered 4 from companies on line saying they are original and they are not all cheap made part from china they are off by a 1/8 to 1/4 on the part. I went to my small engine dealer who sells toro he said he cant even get one that will fit and no one has a oem to replace so if you haven't bought a time master don't

[@RJLgardens]

Well that sucks if thats true, where are you in the world? looks like you can still get that part here in uk.

[@peterstansfield3391]

@@RJLgardens in the USA all you can get is people offering parts saying they are original but they are all aftermarket, becuase i ordered many from different companies and they are all from china not even close to original size

[@stevekovacs6250]

Pro tip: Get rid of that head gasket blowing slob of an engine and replace it with a direct fit Kohler CV224 engine with 11lbs of torque vs 10. The deck is usable as the transmission works okay and will directly take the upgraded Kohler without issues.

[@RJLgardens]

I would if I could find a cheap priced engine, I'm not gona spend around $500 just for a new engine for a timemaster 😅. Besides once you set the mower up properly it performs fine.

[@stevekovacs6250]

@@RJLgardens I understand it's a large outlay of money but after blowing head gaskets a few times but you take it in to have it worked on like I did, because of no time to fix it myself, a new engine makes up for that cost of repairs. I too own a landscaping business and use 2-3 commercial walk behinds but I like the weight of the Timemaster after using it all day. Cheers M8!

[@Hitm8kr]

So what’s the advantage of raising the idle rpm’s?

[@RJLgardens]

I was raising the high rpms, this mower doesn't have a low idle. This gets the blades spinning quicker for better cutting/performance

[@josephmccole4132]

Great video. I'm considering buying a Timemaster. I have a 1000m2 lawn to cut. Are they any good? Thanks

[@RJLgardens]

Cheers, Yes i really like the timemaster now (after setting it up properly) and wouldnt be without it these days. 👍

[@josephmccole4132]

Thanks. I really want one!

[@Tuszz]

I have a question. I replaced the blade engagement cable and when I idle now my blades VERY slowly spin. I thought i tensioned too much so I loosened it completely and they still spin

[@RJLgardens]

Sounds weird, Why did you need to replace the blade cable? make sure the blade belt is good and on correctly and no obstructions/issues causing it to be tighter than it should be. Just double check everything is as it should be.

[@robertschurrer2158]

How often do you need to change the belts, and pulleys?

[@RJLgardens]

Hard to say, depends how much you use it.

[@Top_Pops]

Just hooked up tach to my mower, rpms were 6600. I bent the tab as far backwards as I am comfortable with and got it down to 5300 not under load. How can I get the rpm’s lower?

[@RJLgardens]

That def is not right, your tach is not reading correctly

[@rebfan9200]

While cutting I sometimes hear a squeak, or more like a chirping noise. I've never made any adjustments. Any idea what I should do?

[@RJLgardens]

Find out when its doing it to start with, but it is most likely squeal from the transmission belt, i get it from time to time and nothing to worry about unless your drive is poor in which case you can adjust the belt tension via the cable on the top left side of the handle. 👍

[@rebfan9200]

@@RJLgardens OK thanks.

[@robs.8629]

Is that door on the belt cover custom or did you buy it from somewhere?

[@RJLgardens]

Thats how they come here in the uk. I noticed the american ones dont have that 🤷‍♂️

[@dagtailgroundmaintenance]

maybe you should go into servicing mate as a sideline if you don't already.

[@RJLgardens]

Yeh already do bits and pieces mate 👍

[@harryfinch4986]

wonder if exmark version of this mower well ever come to the UK 🤔 great vid 👍

[@RJLgardens]

Thanks mate, probably unlikely there, not a massive market for 30 inch mowers over here. 👍

[@rollawy]

same mower, same company...

[@harryfinch4986]

@@rollawy no the exmark has a Kawasaki engine and beefy body and better gear box and larger tyre's and a few have been sold in the UK now. 👍

[@rollawy]

@@harryfinch4986 my toro has a kawasaki engine, but it's the commercial one...

[@Jaeswindell]

Great video! Thanks!

[@RJLgardens]

👍

[@shadwell749]

did you change the pulleys too because I thought they came with brass looking ones Good video

[@RJLgardens]

No, these are still the factory ones. They have held up for me better than other users i see out there who have had them fail. 👍

[@shadwell749]

@@RJLgardensyou got lucky,those are the good ones

[@SinnerSince1962]

How hard is it for a company the size of Toro to realize that a 5 cent gas cap o-Ring is not the proper size, and DO something about it? The leaking gas cap problem has been going on for every owner of this machine for years, yet they keep putting out the same defective design. Utterly amazing. If I was the CEO, I'd be firing some engineering dudes.

[@RJLgardens]

Yep agree there. Gas cap/tank is awful.

[@SinnerSince1962]

@@RJLgardens I figured out what works to fix the problem. A Danco #18 (1-3/16” OD x 15/16” ID x 1/8”) O-Ring will stretch over and fit snugly. It prevents these leaks. I cannot believe Briggs and Stratton or Toro haven’t addressed this problem.

[@xbhollandx]

Thanks, very helpful vid

[@bigcatkim]

Thank you!

[@andreabond3501]

I got a Turfmaster with gators can get more hrs out of them than my high lifts on my Scag

[@RJLgardens]

Yeh the gators are normally a bit beefier and hold an edge better 👍

[@timgutter2708]

I have to retighten the nuts that hold the motor in place once s month

[@RJLgardens]

get some loctite on the bolts 👍

[@got2getit204]

Pull the blue thing out I do all the time

[@bamb1000]

Cheers

[@RJLgardens]

@@bamb1000 👌

[@LewisgardenservicesLtd]

New machines often need some adjustments.... unfortunately 🙄

[@RJLgardens]

Yeh very rare having something come setup optimally these days, I tweak pretty much everything 😀

[@johnfoster7626]

Yeah but you don't want your belts too tight either or you'll wear your pulley bearings out too quickly.

[@RJLgardens]

The worse belt to have too tight is the front timing belt, I think thats why so many have had the spindles go out on them.

[@johnfoster7626]

@@RJLgardens Apply the same tension as the fan belts on your car. About 10 mm should be sufficient. In saying that, there is an old cliche in the mechanicing game. Read the f#*^%!cken book.

[@RJLgardens]

@@johnfoster7626 My spindles are all fine, not one gone in 3+ yrs so i know what im doing 😅, Considering Toro themselves suggest running the timing belt tighter than it should really be, what good is the 'book'? Common sense prevails my friend.

[@johnfoster7626]

@@RJLgardens I accept thst line of reasoning but just keep in mind thats what workshop manuals are for. Having said that they are generally a guide.

[@kevinbrooks1104]

I would take the sponge like material out of the tank

[@Inglewolf]

I got a black heart for a reply; whaddya wish death on me?

[@joe1071]

As a time master owner this dude is spot on. Poorly assembled from factory. Mine basically rattled apart. The exhaust cover rattled off. The carb bolts rattled out. The engine literally rattled the mount bolts out and came off. Gas leaks from tank. Oil from base of spout. Concept is great, but it’s a cheap piece of shit

[@DARKKNIGHT56999]

five years on mine not one problem at all

[@daverogers5609]

Reviews say too many problems. I’ll pass.

[@tedlodholz1039]

Pro tip: Don't buy one.

[@RJLgardens]

I would still buy another one.

[@davidwatson9124]

I have one of these mowers. My only problem is that the deck keeps getting clogged up. Any idea's would be appreciated.

[@k3ith20]

I've seen ppl buy Slip Plate, apply it to the deck and it worked great. I've yet to buy any but that's my number problem with this mower too, deck clogging is the worst.