Why do we have NF and WF cubs?
 

First, I don't know if this belongs in general discussion. Pardon me if it does and I won't mind if it gets moved.

So... What's the deal? Why did IH make the switch to "wide frames"? It seems that the basic Kohler power plants of the same HP can be made to fit either. I like the improvements made to the WF tractors (for the most part... I'm looking at you QL tractors) but it seems they could have been a design change on NF just as easily.

So.... What's the scoop? Why did IH change the frame?

More power. The engines bigger than 12 horses needed the frame notched to fit the bigger flywheel. (Hence the 147) Rather than produce 2 separate frames, they updated to one larger frame that could fit all the engines, and while they were at it they made the driveline more accessible with the removable tunnel cover, so tractors didn't need to be split as often. NF cubs, though my favorite, can be a royal PITA to work on anything outside the engine bay.

Things like KT17's and Mag18-20's wouldn't fit in a NF.

Narrow frames are nice tractors but working on them can be a pain, the removable tunnel cover on the wf makes all the difference.

Back to Cad, no sir, see the 147.

To Sam, sure, but was that the cause in the early 70s?

To Olds, I personally have no desire to own a NF for the concept you mentioned (other than the 127 and 102 that Dad current owns that I have sentimental attachment to).

Soooo... Does anyone really know why they did it? These answers so far are ok, but I'm not buying it yet.

I have read books on the history of the Cub Cadet. They all agree, engine size was the main motivation for the wider frame. Buy it or not, doesn't matter to me, that's the reason.

I hate to let you down, but the book learin' isn'ti enough considering the other pawns in motion...

That's why I wasn't sure where this thread belonged. If they are still out there, even secondh generation, I'd like to hear the story.

Max

Maybe if you got in contact with the engineers that designed hem and the marketing people they could give you the true answer. I have no idea and honestly at this point what does it matter? :beerchug:

Because it is what it is, now if it were toilet paper that would be different.

1 - If you have contact info I would do that in less than a heartbeat! I worked for the same parent company buty 60 years apart. I always loved to hear the old timers stories from back in the day when IH made their own bearings on refrigerators! I've never had the rare pleasure to talk with an IH CC designer.

2 - I guess I'm sorry I asked? I suppose it doesn't make any difference NOW but I like knowing that the SBC started in 1955 too despite the fact that I own several later models (and the original prototype is owned by LPE... a 30 minute drive from me.. Why do I know that? Why do I care?... I'm starting to think this type of thread is better left in my mind).l