Category:
Compact Utility Tractor
Target User:
Homeowners, small farm operators, groundskeepers, collectors.
Competitors:
John Deere 110/112, Ford LGT series, Wheel Horse models of the era.
Versatility:
Designed for a range of tasks including mowing, tilling, snow removal, and light landscaping, often with PTO and 3-point hitch options.
Durability:
IH reputation for robust construction and reliable mechanical components.
Simplicity:
Relatively straightforward mechanical design, making it more accessible for DIY maintenance and repair.
Manual Value:
Inexpensive way to keep the vehicle operational and maintain its value.
Engine:
Engine overhaul, maintenance, troubleshooting, specifications, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system (if applicable).
Transmission:
Gearbox service, clutch operation, differential, drive axles, lubrication, troubleshooting.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter, generator/alternator, battery, lighting, ignition switch, troubleshooting electrical faults.
Hydraulics:
Hydraulic system operation, pump service, cylinder repair, valve body troubleshooting, fluid specifications and maintenance.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, front axle, steering system, rear axle, suspension components.
Braking System:
Brake mechanism repair, adjustment, fluid specifications, troubleshooting.
Bodywork And Controls:
Sheet metal repair, operator controls, seat adjustments, fenders, hood, dashboard.
Power Take Off Pto:
PTO engagement, maintenance, troubleshooting.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, lubrication points, filter replacement, fluid checks and changes.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common problems.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, reassembly, and installation.
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for complete engine and transmission overhauls.
Adjustments:
Precise instructions for adjusting brakes, clutch, steering, and engine components.
Depth:
Comprehensive - covers everything from basic adjustments and maintenance to full engine rebuilds and hydraulic system overhauls.
Diagnostics:
Includes diagnostic procedures and symptom-based troubleshooting.
Specifications:
Detailed technical specifications, tolerances, torque values, and clearances for all components.
Digital Format:
PDF (if digital), often optimized for printing.
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans or professional typesetting, clear diagrams and images.
Binding Type:
Perfect bound, spiral bound, or case bound (for printed versions).
Paper Type:
Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, gasoline-powered, horizontally opposed twin-cylinder (typical configuration for this era of Cadet).
Displacement:
Varies by specific model year and engine option, but commonly in the 12-16 cubic inch range.
Horsepower:
Typically 7-12 HP, depending on engine variant.
Cooling System:
Forced Air Cooling via flywheel fan.
Carburetor:
Single barrel carburetor, often from brands like Zenith or Walbro.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (though older models may have used leaded).
Ignition System:
Magneto ignition or battery ignition with points and condenser.
Oil Type:
SAE 30 or SAE 10W-30 (depending on climate and manufacturer recommendation at the time of manufacture).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 40-45 inches, varies by configuration.
Tire Size Front:
Typically 4.00-8 or 4.80-8.
Tire Size Rear:
Typically 6.50-12 or 7.50-12.
Approximate Operating Weight:
Around 500-700 lbs, depending on attachments.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 25-50 operating hours or annually, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Clean every 25 operating hours, replace as needed.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Replace annually or as needed.
Transmission Oil Change:
Every 100-200 operating hours or annually.
Hydraulic Fluid Type:
IH Hytran or equivalent tractor hydraulic fluid (check specific manual for exact grade and capacity).
Gear Oil Type:
SAE 80W-90 gear oil for transmission and differential.
Carburetor Problems:
Clogging due to ethanol fuels, worn needle and seat causing flooding.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion and loose connections due to age and environment.
Hydraulic Leaks:
Worn seals in pump, cylinders, or hoses.
Drive Belt Wear:
Wear on engine to transmission drive belt, requiring replacement.
Manufacturer:
International Harvester (IH), a major American manufacturer of agricultural and construction equipment.
Cadet Line:
The Cadet line was IH's entry into the lawn and garden tractor market, beginning in the early 1960s. The '55' designation refers to a specific series within this lineage, known for its robustness and versatility for its size.
Production Period:
The Cadet 55 model was primarily produced in the late 1960s to early 1970s.
Manufacturing Location:
United States (multiple IH plants).