New Member with 1864 Tractor
 

Hello,

New to the forum and have an old 1864 Tractor that came with new house 2 years ago. Love the tractor but it needs some work and debating on a new tractor or fixing this one.

I see that newer models with comparable features can easily run over $5K without attachments.

Main issue at this point is many parts are worn and needing replacement. Front end steering parts, leaking a lot of hydraulic fluid (puddles behind rear axle overnight), and 54" cutting deck doesn't seem to cut clean/evenly and leaves high spots on chute side.

My question really is are parts readily available and "reasonably" priced? I have strong mechanical background and can do repairs but thinking it may be very expensive. Also was machinist and have access to Mill, Lathe , Grinder, etc..

Appreciate any feedback and comments about this. She must have a been quite the tractor years ago and I believe in good quality equipment!

Thanks,

First, welcome to OCC ........ :Welcome2:

In my personal opinion ---------

I would fix the 1864 over any of the "5 yr planned obsolescence" of the new stuff out there today. $1000 a year for 5 yrs, then time for another new one.

Yes, there are many places to buy Cub Cadet Parts. That would not be an issue.

However, it is your time, your money, and your call.

Sell your old re-cappable tire carcass to me.

I think you'd have to go out of your way to spend money to put anywhere near $5k into your machine in the time it would take to wear out a comparable brand new $5k tractor.

You might, however, find yourself going out of your way to spend money on more old Cub Cadets and accessories if you continue to spend time in the forum.

Welcome to OCC! Let's see some pictures of your machine!

Welcome to OCC :Welcome2:

Your investment fixing up your 1864 will outweigh over anything made today.

1864 was the last of the best of the Cub GT's. I have one that I have gone through and it's my go to mower.

Here are some tips on the care and feeding of the Cyclops series.
https://www.onlycubcadets.net/forum/...ad.php?t=33244

Them old klub kibbits are just junk and a money pit.
Go to the big box store and buy one of them purdy Green ones.
They are guaranteed and will most assuredly make the warranty period.
After that, just trade every few years and instead of getting yer hands greasy
in yer off time, go fishing/boating with a young lady.
Let me know when you decide, as I'll come and take that broken, leaky lawn mower thingy away with no charge to you!

Welcome to OCC!

Thanks for all the feedback. I am going to keep it no matter what even I do decide on a new tractor.

Main thing I could use now is a service manual for the 1864. I found the owners manual but need more info. Need to replace the PTO belt to 54" deck but can't find procedure on how to properly adjust it?

Any help or links to download info would be great!