Original vs Narrow Frame differences
 

I did do some searching, what are the main differences between an original and the early narrow frames because I'm still looking for an early Cub Cadet to restore.

The originals are very pretty but I would wonder if there are any issues like if the drivetrain is as rugged or if parts are harder to get or if the entire tractor is less or more rugged than the later ones. Basically just looking for the upshot on the main issues.

I don't think I would be happy with only 7 horsepower so I suppose I should ask what is the largest upgrade Engine that vould be put onto an Original without modifying things too much. I'm going to guess that it might be the 10 horse Kohler...

thanks 😀

I have seen a 16HP Kohler installed into a CCO. It was nick named the "Furrow Maker". Seems at a Plow Day event, it did really well. I'll see if I can find a picture of it.

well I read that would require frame mods, they went to wide frame because anything over 12hp was too wide of an engine, right?

It's fun to talk about mods and in fact if I wasnt into keeping whatever I get mostly original, I'd machine a way to separate the hydro pump from the hyd motor in it, and install a vee twin with a big hydraulic pump, and run it straight hydro with all attachments running off hydro motors too (deck, snow blower, front loader). but that's a lot of work!

But anyway just trying to find out what the main advantages or disadvantes are of Orig vs NF...

It’s just a preference I feel. Like the gear drive vs hydro debate. They both have pros and cons as far as applications to use them in but neither is less rugged or dependable than the other. I’ve seen an original pull the front wheels off the ground pulling a sled with 26x12x12s on it and it’s belt drive but not the belt drive like people are used to today. The frame mods happen with the nf series after the original except for the 147 that had a factory knotched frame. Original has engine mounting different and the frame is inverted compared to a later nf so the engine doesn’t sit “down” in the frame on an O. Also, you can get around the frame mod in a nf by using a k301 (12 horse) flywheel and blower housing on the bigger 14 and 16 k series.

Anyway, it’s all about preference as there’s plenty of people who throw snow, plow, mold board, and mow with the 7 horses and have for 50 years. Keep an open mind and look for a good deal on ANY IH tractor and you won’t be dissapointed.

thanks man thats helpful!

This has a Honda Goldwing motor in it.
I would stick to what it came with, you can put an 8 hp kohler in it.

Look in the frame section of the parts manuals.
There will be exploded views of each cub ever built.
Actually, the originals only had about 1/2 of a frame.
O's and later models 2 completely different set-ups

Ya I noticed that frame design difference and I like the look of the Orig. I was just wondering if the trabnsmission is as strong, or any other issue like that from orig to NF. Can the original accept a creeper gear?

Yes the O can have a creeper. It’s a different one than the later nfs as well

are they harder to come by I wonder?