Toro TimeMaster (30") Self-Propelled Lawn Mower w/ Electric Start

Jose Castellanos,
Product Expert
Power Equipment Direct

Hello to all!

I just received my Toro Timemaster and lawn striper from Mowers Direct on the promised delivery date......very impressed!!

It came in a huge box and weighed about a 100 lbs. All that had to be done is add the supplied oil and my gas. The electric start was sweet .......just a touch of the key and it started like a dream! The engine labored when the blades are engaged and stalled once when mulching. I had to raise the front wheels and engaged the blades while on the lawn. To be fair....I like to keep my lawn short but I may have to leave it a bit longer now! I double cut my lawn in opposite directions and it looks fantastic.....the wide mower deck left a very even cut.....a big improvement over my 21 inch mower!

I can corroborate the previous reviews that the mower needs swivel front wheels, needs a little more power for mulching moist grass that wasn't very long and needs a bigger gas tank because it is a gas hog.

I will revise my review in the fall after I mulch my yard of leaves!

Enjoy the summer and please stay safe everyone!

Hello to all!

I just received my Toro Timemaster and lawn striper from Mowers Direct on the promised delivery date......very impressed!!

It came in a huge box and weighed about a 100 lbs. All that had to be done is add the supplied oil and my gas. The electric start was sweet .......just a touch of the key and it started like a dream! The engine labored when the blades are engaged and stalled once when mulching. I had to raise the front wheels and engaged the blades while on the lawn. To be fair....I like to keep my lawn short but I may have to leave it a bit longer now! I double ... more

I will have to admit, the Toro TimeMaster does save me more than 50% of the time it took me to mow my lawn with a 21" push behind self-propelled mower. If your yard is too small for a riding mower and too big for a smaller walk-behind....THIS IS THE MOWER FOR YOUR YARD!
I purchased a generator from this company last year and was VERY pleased with the experience, so I came back again without hesitation and purchased this mower. I went on-line on a Monday and purchased the mower. Got a call 2 days later from the trucking company to schedule the shipment to my house, and the mower was in my garage by Thursday of that week! I live on the East Coast. It took me about 30 minutes from unpacking to start-up and the mower was "Fully Mission Ready"!

The only negative thing, and I read this from other comments on this site about this particular mower that it does actually almost stall when you engage the blades every time, and has actually stalled 2 times on my first run. Yes, I believe that the mower is a little underpowered and Toro needs to do something about the stalling when engaging the blades. This could be due to it being underpowered I believe. Even if you slowly engage the blades, it doesn't seem to help.

Other than that...I"M KEEPING IT and I LOVE IT!

Thanks for a VERY speedy delivery, great follow-up and huge savings on BOTH the products I purchased from you!

I will have to admit, the Toro TimeMaster does save me more than 50% of the time it took me to mow my lawn with a 21" push behind self-propelled mower. If your yard is too small for a riding mower and too big for a smaller walk-behind....THIS IS THE MOWER FOR YOUR YARD!
I purchased a generator from this company last year and was VERY pleased with the experience, so I came back again without hesitation and purchased this mower. I went on-line on a Monday and purchased the mower. Got a call 2 days later from the trucking company to schedule the shipment to my house, and the mower was in m... more

This mower needs much more engineering. I have used it for almost two seasons on a 3/4 acre lawn. If the grass has the slightest amount of moisture the mower will clog. During spring mowing (every 2-3 days) I have to rake the yard area due to deposits from the mower deck that did not make it to the bag. My lawn area has some inclines. The self propel drive on this mower is not strong enough to drive the mower when the bag is more than 25% full. Overall the idea of this 30" mower is great. This mower is not ready to meet the demands of that much mowing area as a walk behind. More drive power, better traction wheels and much more blower power under the deck is needed!

This mower needs much more engineering. I have used it for almost two seasons on a 3/4 acre lawn. If the grass has the slightest amount of moisture the mower will clog. During spring mowing (every 2-3 days) I have to rake the yard area due to deposits from the mower deck that did not make it to the bag. My lawn area has some inclines. The self propel drive on this mower is not strong enough to drive the mower when the bag is more than 25% full. Overall the idea of this 30" mower is great. This mower is not ready to meet the demands of that much mowing area as a walk behind. More drive pow... more

Folks, I purchased the 30" self-propelled electric start. Ordered on a Friday and received the next Thursday. The carriers were great they brought the mower right to the garage with the pallet jack. The package was not damaged at all, unpacked the mower and put it on the charge before doing anything. Next day removed all the packing, added oil and gas, turned the key and the mower started right up. I did the final adjustments on height and tried the mower out. It ran great with no problems, let it sit overnight to see if it leaked any gas and found none. So far it seems like a great machine would not hesitate recommending this mower to anyone. I never saw the mower in person and wow it is a 30" mower, looks commercial grade, great job Toro.

Folks, I purchased the 30" self-propelled electric start. Ordered on a Friday and received the next Thursday. The carriers were great they brought the mower right to the garage with the pallet jack. The package was not damaged at all, unpacked the mower and put it on the charge before doing anything. Next day removed all the packing, added oil and gas, turned the key and the mower started right up. I did the final adjustments on height and tried the mower out. It ran great with no problems, let it sit overnight to see if it leaked any gas and found none. So far it seems like a grea... more

It worked well until it died and would not restart while mowing under pine trees. The governor return spring got disconnected by one of the branches. I reconnected it and it started right up.

I set the blades at about 3 inches. I have used it in mulch, bag, and discharge mode on an acre lot. They all work well, even with leaves. We have a deciduous cedar-like tree and the mower picked up its heavy flat leaves.

Fast and slow range is adjustable on the fly from a very slow walk to almost a jog. The handle adjusts to a 5'10" man and a 5'2" woman successfully. Is a little heavier than a 22" mower but is very manageable - wheel size and other adjustments help out.

The long pull on the starter rope may mean that a smaller person could have a problem as the mower ages, but it starts easily- so maybe not. The electric start works well and the battery seems pretty tough.

It does the job of a small tractor mower but it's more maneuverable. It also takes much less time than a standard mower. I've owned it for 2 months.

It worked well until it died and would not restart while mowing under pine trees. The governor return spring got disconnected by one of the branches. I reconnected it and it started right up.

I set the blades at about 3 inches. I have used it in mulch, bag, and discharge mode on an acre lot. They all work well, even with leaves. We have a deciduous cedar-like tree and the mower picked up its heavy flat leaves.

Fast and slow range is adjustable on the fly from a very slow walk to almost a jog. The handle adjusts to a 5'10" man and a 5'2" woman successfully. Is a little heav... more

I haven't used it much yet, but this is a really nice mower. This size is just what I needed, it's much lighter then the 33 inch mowers out there.

The personal pace is great. One curious thing is that when you engage the blades, the engine almost dies. You have to engage slowly. I'm just going to trust that this is by design and live with it. If this is the size mower you are looking for, get this one.

I've had a lot of mowers in my days, and this is the best mower I have ever had.

MD RESPONDS: Please feel free to give the folks at Toro Tech Support a call, toll free, at (888) 384-9939 for advice on getting the best performance from your mower.

I haven't used it much yet, but this is a really nice mower. This size is just what I needed, it's much lighter then the 33 inch mowers out there.

The personal pace is great. One curious thing is that when you engage the blades, the engine almost dies. You have to engage slowly. I'm just going to trust that this is by design and live with it. If this is the size mower you are looking for, get this one.

I've had a lot of mowers in my days, and this is the best mower I have ever had.

MD RESPONDS: Please feel free to give the folks at Toro Tech Support a call, toll free, at (888) 384-99... more

You people lied about how much time I would save by buying this lawn mower. You said that I would save 40% mowing time. I have saved about 60%.

I have a Sears 22 inch self-propelled lawn mower. It would take me 30 minutes to mow my front yard and about 1.5 hours to cut my backyard. It took me about 40 minutes to cut both front and back.

I would have to still push my old mower some even though it was self propelled. I would have to stop and rest to many times with the old one. My new one pulls me thru the yard so fast I don't have time to get tired.

I am handy with tools and I need a service manual. Where can I get one? I have the Operators Manual. I'm a very happy camper.

EGD RESPONDS: You can purchase Service Manuals through Toro's web site: www.toro.com.

You people lied about how much time I would save by buying this lawn mower. You said that I would save 40% mowing time. I have saved about 60%.

I have a Sears 22 inch self-propelled lawn mower. It would take me 30 minutes to mow my front yard and about 1.5 hours to cut my backyard. It took me about 40 minutes to cut both front and back.

I would have to still push my old mower some even though it was self propelled. I would have to stop and rest to many times with the old one. My new one pulls me thru the yard so fast I don't have time to get tired.

I am handy with tools and I need ... more

I researched the TimeMaster reviews and was excited to purchase one based on the Toro name, 30 inch cut, and self propelled feature. It utterly failed to cut properly in mulch setting and the local store that put it together failed in customer support. Details are as follows...

I mowed my Shag type Bermuda using a 4 inch cut clearance with a mulch set up. Shag like shag carpet. The grass is not dense, stiff and upright as you find of the Bermuda grass used at a nice golf course. However, the Shag Bermuda is prevalent in north Texas. I found a frequent lack of grass being cut for a thin strip right where my right foot would plant itself as I walked behind the mower. So, I mowed again immediately using a 3 inch cut clearance with mulch set up. Same "uncut" problem. Grass was dry.

I put the mower on its side and found the mower blades were not perpendicular to each other as the manual calls out. They were significantly not perpendicular as opposed to being barely out of proper alignment.

So, I returned the mower to the local store and requested it number 1 make the blades spot on perpendicular and number 2 call Toro to research the cut problem. Just imagine using the TimeMaster on your lawn and then seeing many relatively uncut strips of grass. It would require two passes using only the left side of the mower to get a proper cut.

The local store rep called me to ask me what was wrong. I asked in return "didn't the other staff tell you of my story?" (I had gone to extensive lengths to describe my complaints and drew diagrams to enhance my communications.) The store rep then acknowledged he knew of my story, that he had his assembler look at the blades alignment, that the assembler said nothing was wrong, and the store rep said he had mowed grass outside the store with excellent results. I then requested the store rep bring himself and the mower to my home to visually see my lawn cut results. He did so and acknowledged the uncut strips problem. He then cut some of my lawn at the 2 1/2 inch clearance with mulch set up. Same poor cut results. At that point, he could not argue with my complaint and agreed to refund my money.

Now, I would assure everyone I wanted this mower very much. And maybe a "spot on" blades alignment would have changed the air turbulence in the cut well so that no grass was effectively pinned down to the ground. But since the store felt the blades alignment was fine and did not care to call Toro to discuss this cut oddity, I found it sensible to get a refund and move on. In the end, I don't know if the mower has an inherent design flaw in cutting "shaggy" grass.

I researched the TimeMaster reviews and was excited to purchase one based on the Toro name, 30 inch cut, and self propelled feature. It utterly failed to cut properly in mulch setting and the local store that put it together failed in customer support. Details are as follows...

I mowed my Shag type Bermuda using a 4 inch cut clearance with a mulch set up. Shag like shag carpet. The grass is not dense, stiff and upright as you find of the Bermuda grass used at a nice golf course. However, the Shag Bermuda is prevalent in north Texas. I found a frequent lack of grass being cut for a thi... more

My mower ran great out of the box. My lawn is fairly thick Kentucky Bluegrass and I try to always mulch it to avoid the hassle of bagging and to return the nutrients (finely chopped grass clippings) back into the soil. I usually cut at 3 to 3 1/2". Any lower and the grass can start to clump in mulching mode, especially if the grass is lush or wet. If the grass is very dry then this is less of a problem. Mulching wet grass also causes the grass to really collect heavily under the deck, which reduces it's mulching ability. I have to walk very slowly sometimes to avoid this and clean the deck out after mowing every 10 minutes or so.

Handling is good...a little more bulky than a 21" mower but very acceptable for a 30" deck. Personal Pace is probably the easiest system I have ever used for a walk behind mower. I think that the mower is very good overall, and I would recommend it to anyone needing a high end residential 30" mower that is easy to use.

My mower ran great out of the box. My lawn is fairly thick Kentucky Bluegrass and I try to always mulch it to avoid the hassle of bagging and to return the nutrients (finely chopped grass clippings) back into the soil. I usually cut at 3 to 3 1/2". Any lower and the grass can start to clump in mulching mode, especially if the grass is lush or wet. If the grass is very dry then this is less of a problem. Mulching wet grass also causes the grass to really collect heavily under the deck, which reduces it's mulching ability. I have to walk very slowly sometimes to avoid this and clean t... more

I bought a Toro Timemaster 20200 in March to cut my Zoysia front lawn. Especially appealing was the 30" wide cut.
Mower starts fine but it has trouble cutting, it seems to lack power. I investigated and found the engine (190 cc) is same size they put on the 21" mower???? The bagging system will only fill the bag halfway. If I try to use mulch mode the mower will stall. I am only trying to remove 1/4" of grass.
Most annoying is advice I received from Toro tech support. To prevent stalling I should only cut in half widths - 15". I traded in 21" cut mower for this???
Sorry I made this purchase. The 21" cut mower took longer but it did the job.

I bought a Toro Timemaster 20200 in March to cut my Zoysia front lawn. Especially appealing was the 30" wide cut.
Mower starts fine but it has trouble cutting, it seems to lack power. I investigated and found the engine (190 cc) is same size they put on the 21" mower???? The bagging system will only fill the bag halfway. If I try to use mulch mode the mower will stall. I am only trying to remove 1/4" of grass.
Most annoying is advice I received from Toro tech support. To prevent stalling I should only cut in half widths - 15". I traded in 21" cut mower for t... more

I ordered this mower back in March when it was back ordered, and it finally arrived in early May. I had one scheduling hiccup with the delivery company, but the mower was delivered, unboxed and used the same day. I had a smaller self-propelled model (different brand) for 8 years or so, and didn't think I'd like the Toro configuration. After the first use, I can't imagine going back to the old style. This mower is bigger and heavier but handles much easier. I cut my grass only once a week so there's always plenty to cut, but mower has no problem, plus it seems quieter. I also really like the washout feature. I couldn't be more pleased at this point.

I ordered this mower back in March when it was back ordered, and it finally arrived in early May. I had one scheduling hiccup with the delivery company, but the mower was delivered, unboxed and used the same day. I had a smaller self-propelled model (different brand) for 8 years or so, and didn't think I'd like the Toro configuration. After the first use, I can't imagine going back to the old style. This mower is bigger and heavier but handles much easier. I cut my grass only once a week so there's always plenty to cut, but mower has no problem, plus it seems quieter. I also really like ... more

There are some problems with this mower. First of all it stalls when I engage the cutter bar. It needs adjustment, it has done this every time I tried to use it. This is a big shortcoming. Secondly it stalls when I tried to cut grass about four inches tall! So I think it is underpowered. It should have a bigger engine. I would like to return it or at least have the Toro company correct the stalling problem at no cost to me since the mower has always done this since day one.

MD RESPONDS: You can contact Toro technical service at (888) 384-9939, they may be able to help you solve the stalling problem over the phone. If it is a more complicated problem, you can take the mower into a local authorized Toro service center and see if the problem is covered under warranty.

There are some problems with this mower. First of all it stalls when I engage the cutter bar. It needs adjustment, it has done this every time I tried to use it. This is a big shortcoming. Secondly it stalls when I tried to cut grass about four inches tall! So I think it is underpowered. It should have a bigger engine. I would like to return it or at least have the Toro company correct the stalling problem at no cost to me since the mower has always done this since day one.

MD RESPONDS: You can contact Toro technical service at (888) 384-9939, they may be able to help you solve the s... more

I received my mower yesterday. The delivery not only was on time but the driver even placed the over sized mower box in my garage at not extra charge. The mower was in perfect condition with no damage. The set up was effortless and very simple to do. All parts came included with none missing. You fill the oil reservoir with supplied oil and charge the electric start battery for 24 hrs. Unless you use the pull cord to start the engine you will have to wait till the following day to cut for the first time.

The engine started immediately when I turned the ignition key. The blades engaged correctly and I immediately cut my grass for the first time with this wonderful mower. Toro has a gem of a product here. The machine runs and cuts flawlessly. It's 30 inch cutting width reduces mowing time almost in two.

So far I love this machine. No hidden problems. The ease of dealing with Mowers Direct and quality of their products will absolutely make me a returning customer. Thank you Mowers Direct for all of your professional service.

I received my mower yesterday. The delivery not only was on time but the driver even placed the over sized mower box in my garage at not extra charge. The mower was in perfect condition with no damage. The set up was effortless and very simple to do. All parts came included with none missing. You fill the oil reservoir with supplied oil and charge the electric start battery for 24 hrs. Unless you use the pull cord to start the engine you will have to wait till the following day to cut for the first time.

The engine started immediately when I turned the ignition key. The blades enga... more

This is the best mower I've ever owned. I've always purchase 21" mowers from Sears or Lowe's. I've been wanting a wide-cut for 2-3 years. I saw this recently and had to have it. I have to say it is well worth the money. Smooth cut, powerful motor, easy push.

More on the easy push: I like to walk fast. This self-propel will wear you out. I was afraid the self-propel would be too slow. It is not. I haven't had it wide open yet and there have been a couple of times it kind of got away from me. AWESOME self-propel!!

The electric start kicks right in without a hitch. Glad I spent the extra $100.

Love being able to adjust the wheels from just one side. Very convenient.

I've only used this twice but it's the best push mower I've ever used!!

This is the best mower I've ever owned. I've always purchase 21" mowers from Sears or Lowe's. I've been wanting a wide-cut for 2-3 years. I saw this recently and had to have it. I have to say it is well worth the money. Smooth cut, powerful motor, easy push.

More on the easy push: I like to walk fast. This self-propel will wear you out. I was afraid the self-propel would be too slow. It is not. I haven't had it wide open yet and there have been a couple of times it kind of got away from me. AWESOME self-propel!!

The electric start kicks right in without a hitch. Glad I spe... more

It was necessary to stop our lawn service due to finances. After researching in person and online, I found your site. Then I found the awesome Toro TimeMaster. Due to chronic back pain and a weak left leg, I needed a unit with easy maneuvering, starting and quickness of getting the job done. The 20200 meets and exceeds all the requirements and more. The key start, 30" cutting path, personal pace with a power boost for steep inclines and easy cleaning all sold me.

The low price, no sales tax and free shipping were huge bonuses. Great communication and the delivery driver was fantastic going above and beyond in helpfulness.

A great purchase experience from start to finish!

It was necessary to stop our lawn service due to finances. After researching in person and online, I found your site. Then I found the awesome Toro TimeMaster. Due to chronic back pain and a weak left leg, I needed a unit with easy maneuvering, starting and quickness of getting the job done. The 20200 meets and exceeds all the requirements and more. The key start, 30" cutting path, personal pace with a power boost for steep inclines and easy cleaning all sold me.

The low price, no sales tax and free shipping were huge bonuses. Great communication and the delivery driver was fanta... more