Cub Cadet 1200
 

I am going to purchase a very nice restored 1200 later this week. Looks like new with correct IH paint and appears to be a very thorough restoration. I don't have much experience with the Quietline models or wide frame gear drives. Do the 1200's have the same issue with the motor mounts wearing out and needing the cradle modification? Is there anything else I should look for before buying. Thanks.

Yes, the 1200 has rubber mounts and needs the cradle mod, hopefully that's all been taken care of while the restoration was taking place. Another big issue on the 1200 is the flexible 3 pin driver, they are prone to cracking and failure if ran with bad engine mounts and they cost a pretty penny to replace.

Rubber ISO mounts
 

Any thoughts on how many hours do the rubber ISO mounts last? I know it's an issue and a lot of forum members go the solid mounts, But most of us get these tractors after unknown years of use and abuse. If you do the cradle mod and put in the new mounts, I would think they last a very long time.

I am currently working on two 1200's simultaneously. When I got them, both had destroyed rubber mounts, and as Tim pointed out, destroyed 3 pin drivers and clutch discs because of the mounts.

The route that I am taking is with new three pin drivers for non-quiet line cubs. Also, I did the cradle mod, and got solid mounts from Jeff in PA. I have one motor back in and the other is ready to go in. I'll know in a couple days if I took the right path.

But to answer your question, the rubber mounts and the flexy 3-pin driver are the main things that are of concern on an otherwise bullet proof tractor. If it has side panels on it, make the owner take them off so you can get a good look at the clutch area and the mounts. Grab the engine and see if you can shake or wiggle it. Get underneath and see it the oil pan is rubbing or resting on the frame cross member. If it has an electric lift, make sure you test it out. That is another pricey item. Test the PTO too. Hope all that helps you.

Thanks for the advice. I will definty check those. It has a manual lift. Here are some pics I was sent of the tractor. If anyone has the ability to rotate the pics that would be great. :bash2:

It's not hydro so it's gonna have manual lift.

He mentioned electric lift.

I absolutely love the Quiet Line models! They are about the nicest looking garden tractor IH ever made, and really have no more problems than some of the newer 82 series.

Being one of the most produced model tractors, you often will get a number of replies. I happen to have a 1450, that I have gone through and upgraded. I'm currently going through a few more upgrades, and cleaning up a few parts.

Your 1200 looks nice and fresh! Congrats! :beerchug:

The engine cradle modification, for those who actually done it, is a very simple procedure. I don't know if there is on official procedure here at OCC that discusses it, but you should use a bolt on brace for the rear of the engine cradle. Sometimes the oil pan does not serve as a secure jig, and those two ends of the engine cradle can turn in from the heat of the welding procedure. You will want to decide if you want factory replacement engine mounts, or some have had good luck with car suspension parts, and solid steel mounts so I read. I went with the factory replacements after reading Myron Bound's comments and opinion of them.

You ought to keep an eye out for a cast iron oil pan, and maybe add a Kirk Engines muffler brace at some point. I can't say much for the clutch aspect because I never had a all-gear Quiet Line to share in the experience your having.

I love all my QL tractors. The 1200 is a nice workhorse. Check the mounts and hopefully the cradle mod has been done. Check the 3 pin coupler for cracks. If you choose to put in solid mounts later, the solid 3 pin drivers are substantially cheaper. That looks like a nice 1200. Don't forget to test out the shifter to make sure the cup isn't broken.

I really like the 1650 I traded the 125. Hopefully it was everything I represented. Did you get the part for the spring assist?

Be safe out there at work. God speed.