Lawn Mowers

How to change the oil and oil filter in your Toro Time Cutter Zero Turn

Published on April 27th, 2015 | by Kimberly Myers

How to Change the Oil and Oil Filter on a Toro TimeCutter Zero Turn Mower

Want to increase the lifespan of your Toro zero turn?

It is very important that you change the oil in your Toro TimeCutter zero turn to keep it in optimal shape!

Things you will need:

Toro Time Cutter Zero Turn
New Oil Filter
Oil*
A pan
A drain tube
Paper towels or newspaper
A wrench

Before beginning, check your owner’s manual for safety instructions and maintenance information.

Step 1:

Park your mower on a level surface and engage the parking brake.

Step 2:

Disengaged the blade control switch.

Step 3:

Stop the engine and remove the key.

Step 4:

Let the engine cool so oil has time to drain into the sump.

Step 5:

Clean off any dirty or grass clippings before unscrewing the oil cap to prevent contamination.

Step 6:

Remove the cap and check the oil level.

Note:

To get an accurate reading wipe the oil off of the dipstick and reinsert it into the tube. Remove the dipstick and check the level of the oil, it should be up to the “full” or “f” mark, but not over. If it is below this mark or at the “l” mark you will need to add fresh oil*.

Step 7:

Cover the floor with paper towels or old newspaper just in case of a spill.

Step 8:

Locate the drain plug and loosen if necessary.

Step 9:

Attach a hose for draining

Step 10:

Place a pan under the mower directly below the drain hose.

Step 11:

Using a wrench loosen and remove the plug.

Step 12:

While the engine is draining remove the dipstick.

Step 13:

Find the oil filter on the right side of the engine and remove it.

Step 14:

Wipe the filter adapter with a clean cloth.

Step 15:

Apply a thin film of oil to the rubber gasket on the new oil filter.

Step 16:

Install the filter by turning it clockwise until the rubber gasket contacts the pad, then tighten an additional ¾ to 1 full turn to be sure it is securely attached.

Step 17:

After the engine is completely drained slowly pour about 80% of the specified amount of oil (see owner’s manual for amount) into fill tube.

Step 18:

Screw on oil fill cap dipstick.

Step 19:

Check oil level – if it is adequate, replace the dipstick and secure tightly, if it is not quite full, slowly add more oil as necessary to bring it to the “full” line.

*Be sure to check your owner’s manual for what kind of oil you should be using.

Helpful Hints:

While being sure to let your engine cool, oil will flow more freely and carry away more impurities if the engine is warm. So don’t let it cool completely, but make sure that it is not so hot that you could burn yourself on it.
Park the machine so the drain side is slightly lower than the opposite side to help aid in the oil flow.
Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands from the oil.
Be sure to allow enough time for all of the oil to drain out of the engine.
You can dispose of your old oil filters at your local recycling center.
Change the oil in your zero turn after every 50 hours of use.

Featured Parts & Products:

Jack’s Safety Tips: Before servicing or repairing any power equipment, disconnect the spark plug and battery cables. Remember to wear appropriate safety glasses and gloves to protect against harmful chemicals and debris. View our Disclaimer.

Tags: Oil, oil filter, Time Cutter, Toro DIY - Repair Your Toro Lawn Mower and Snow Blower, zero turn

About the Author

Kimberly Myers