Brand Heritage:
Cub Cadet, a premium line of outdoor power equipment, was established in 1961 as part of the International Harvester (IH) company.
Initial Target Market:
Aimed at owners of increasingly popular rural homes with large yards and private gardens during the 1960s.
Brand Reputation:
Known for dependability and rugged construction, fostering a cult-like following.
Attachment Availability:
Wide variety of attachments available including mowers, blades, snow blowers, front loaders, plows, and carts.
Advertising Focus:
Emphasis on thorough testing by 'boys,' highlighting durability and resilience.
Acquisition By Mtd:
Purchased by MTD Products, Inc. in 1981, operating as a subsidiary for many years before integration.
Engine Systems:
Engine operation, identification, basic adjustments, troubleshooting, and maintenance
Drivetrain Systems:
Transmission operation, clutch, differential, PTO engagement, and lubrication
Hydraulic Systems:
Operation of lift systems, hydraulic fluid maintenance, and common issues (if applicable to models)
Electrical Systems:
Basic electrical operation, lighting, ignition system (if applicable), and battery maintenance
Operator Controls:
Identification and operation of steering, throttle, brake, clutch, and implement controls
Rotary Mower:
Operation, maintenance, cleaning, and safety related to the rotary mower attachment
Maintenance Procedures:
Lubrication points and schedule, filter changes, spark plug maintenance, tire pressure checks, battery care
Adjustment Procedures:
Carburetor adjustment, clutch engagement adjustment, governor settings, brake adjustments
Troubleshooting Guides:
Common operational problems, diagnosis steps, and potential solutions
Disassembly Reassembly:
Exploded views facilitating component identification, careful disassembly, and correct reassembly for repairs
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive coverage for safe operation, routine maintenance, and basic repair tasks.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Provides guidance for identifying and rectifying common operational issues without requiring specialized diagnostic tools.
Engine Manufacturer Typical:
Kohler, Onan, or IH-specific engines were common for this era of Cub Cadet tractors.
Engine Configuration Typical:
Single-cylinder or twin-cylinder, air-cooled, 4-stroke gasoline engines.
Horsepower Range:
Typically ranging from 8 HP to 16 HP depending on the specific model (86, 108, 109, 128, 129, 149).
Torque Characteristics:
Designed for sustained power delivery suitable for mowing, tilling, and light-duty hauling.
Carburetion:
Doubtless features a carburetor, with specific models and adjustments covered in the manual.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Spark Plug Type Spec:
Manual will specify exact spark plug type (e.g., Champion H10, NGK B-4L) and gap.
Transmission Type:
Hydrostatic or manual gear transmission options were available across these models.
Gear Ratios Spec:
Specific gear ratios for manual transmissions will be detailed in the manual for each model.
Differential Lock:
Some models may feature a differential lock for enhanced traction, operation of which is described.
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Manual will specify the correct type and grade of hydraulic fluid or transmission oil (e.g., IH Hy-Trans, SAE 30 or 20W-50 depending on application and climate).
Wheelbase Typical:
Wheelbase varies by model, typically in the range of 45-50 inches for garden tractors of this era.
Operating Weight Typical:
Operating weight typically between 400-600 lbs, depending on configuration and attachments.
Front Tire Size Typical:
Commonly 4.00-8 or 6.00-12
Rear Tire Size Typical:
Commonly 8.3-16 or 10-16.5
Safety Focus:
The manual emphasizes safe operation and component identification for safe usage.
Operator Presence Control:
Likely equipped with operator presence levers or sensors that disengage the mower or engine if the operator leaves the seat.
Guards And Shields:
Details on the correct installation and maintenance of all safety guards and shields for the tractor and mower.
Engine Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 25-50 operating hours, or annually, as specified in the manual.
Air Filter Cleaning Interval:
Recommended cleaning or replacement based on operating conditions, detailed in the manual.
Greasing Points Interval:
Regular lubrication of all grease fittings as per the maintenance chart provided in the manual.
Engine Oil Spec:
Manual will specify SAE viscosity grade, likely SAE 30 or 20W-50 depending on ambient temperature.
Hydraulic Fluid Spec:
Likely IH Hy-Trans fluid or an equivalent heavy-duty tractor hydraulic fluid with specific viscosity requirements.
Common Wear Points:
Steering components, PTO engagement mechanisms, and seat suspension can experience wear over time; manual provides guidance on adjustment and maintenance.
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetors may require cleaning or adjustment due to fuel gumming over time; manual covers basic tuning.
Origins:
Cub Cadet was developed by International Harvester (IH) to compete in the burgeoning lawn and garden tractor market of the 1960s.
Generation:
These models represent a specific generation of Cub Cadet tractors known for their robust construction and versatility.
Manufacturing Period Approximate:
These models (86, 108, 109, 128, 129, 149) were primarily produced in the 1970s.
Collectibility:
Cub Cadet tractors from this era are highly regarded by enthusiasts and collectors, often compared to a cult following.
