Any tips for buying an older CC

Guitar Guy · #1 03-09-2011, 02:28 AM

I'm trying to read and soak up all the info I can before buying my first CC.

I'm somewhat mechanically inclined, but not an expert when it comes to tractors. I'm wondering if anyone can give me some things to check for, problem areas, expensive issues, mower deck issues, features / models to avoid, etc., when looking for an older used CC. Any info. appreciated.

Josh

JaysNJcub127 · #2 03-09-2011, 06:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Guitar Guy

I'm trying to read and soak up all the info I can before buying my first CC.

I'm somewhat mechanically inclined, but not an expert when it comes to tractors. I'm wondering if anyone can give me some things to check for, problem areas, expensive issues, mower deck issues, features / models to avoid, etc., when looking for an older used CC. Any info. appreciated.

Josh

I think the best way is to find something running. Make sure the motor is not smoking and it shifts into all gears. If a Hydro tractor check for creep when it is in Neutral. Look in the gas tank make sure its clean and not all rusty. I usually take a multimeter with me to make sure it is charging correctly. Alot of the older ones have very brittle wires in there and needs replacing. A new harness will run you under a $100 so that is a good way to get some money knocked off. Check the for sale section here too, if someone is close worth going to see it. Hope this helps a little, i am sue i missed like 100 things.

cub cadet people II · #3 03-09-2011, 07:05 AM

I would watch out for the steering on those tractors. If you buy a narrow frame those tractors have spindle issues, check for slop in the steering. Sometimes you could get lucky and you can adjust the steering box. Wide frames have better spindles on them. Also check the tie rods because sometimes there worn out. Otherwise older CC are great tractors!

T-Mo · #4 03-09-2011, 07:22 AM

If you have any mechanical skills, most of the problems you will encounter is easily fixed. Advice given above is spot on. But all of these issues mentioned are fixable. Always remember, that these older IH Cub Cadets are now 40 to almost 50 years old. Things WILL require work. You must be realistic on this and also know what you want to tackle and what you don't. Gear drives will probably need some clutch work or attentions, pto clutches may need repair, steering will almost certainly be loose at this point in their life, engines may need to be rebuilt. But all these things are fixable, parts are still readily available.

My main point is - expect some work to be required. Finding one running would be a good start, checking to see if there is any engine noise, smoke, etc. Does the starter/generator charged, does the transmission shift, does the clutch release properly, etc.

bkeicks · #5 03-09-2011, 10:35 AM

I can't say what in particular to look for as I am new to CC's as well but in my opinion it is a good idea to have a back-up tractor in case your primary tractor needs work. I took the motor out of my 169 and without a cheap back-up unit I would have been stressing to get everything up and going again before the lawn was thigh high.

like the guys said the things are getting long in the tooth and will be breaking down.

bugs and sam have nothing to do with this post I am just a big fan of looney tunes.

_DX3_ · #6 03-09-2011, 01:09 PM

It might be possibly worth your time to locate someone somewhat nearby from this forum that has a couple of cubs and would let you look them over and show you in person things to check for and the oem additions to look for that add to the value of the tractor.

Cub Cadet 123 · #7 03-09-2011, 09:30 PM

Everyone has given you excellent advice. One thing that probably needs to be said, whether we are always willing to admit it or not, we enjoy working on our cubs, too. Of course we would rather ride them, but there is enjoyment in working (tinkering) on them-like a teenager working on his first car. I know that you want to cautiously proceed so that you make "the right choice", but life isn't always about making the right choice......because you won't.....instead it's about making the choice right!!

So, whatever cub you get for your first one will be your most memorable one and soon you'll want another one.......all of us know and understand that (haha)! Each cub has its advantages and disadvantages-that's what makes them unique and special. Happy hunting on that first cub.

Cub Cadet 123

_DX3_ · #8 03-09-2011, 09:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cub Cadet 123

Everyone has given you excellent advice. One thing that probably needs to be said, whether we are always willing to admit it or not, we enjoy working on our cubs, too. Of course we would rather ride them, but there is enjoyment in working (tinkering) on them-like a teenager working on his first car. I know that you want to cautiously proceed so that you make "the right choice", but life isn't always about making the right choice......because you won't.....instead it's about making the choice right!!

So, whatever cub you get for your first one will be your most memorable one and soon you'll want another one.......all of us know and understand that (haha)! Each cub has its advantages and disadvantages-that's what makes them unique and special. Happy hunting on that first cub.

Cub Cadet 123

hehehehe... My wife swears I prefer to take my cubs apart than I do having them fixed to run and mow. Therefore one is for tinkering and one is up and ready to work.

Well said Cub 123

steve59 · #9 03-09-2011, 09:38 PM

Amen to that 123!!!

Yamaguy · #10 03-09-2011, 10:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by steve59

Amen to that 123!!!

Agreed, that is a good reason to start the search for my new SGT diesel. scratch that, my next one is a 100 that I will restore, and then since it will not be a backup while its in pieces I will need the SGT diesel!!! Plan in motion