Tranny fluid, 20 years, Cub 70, help?
 

I have never changed transmission fluid on a garden tractor and am still new to this stuff and learning. My International Cub Cadet 70 was sitting in the previous owners garage for 20 years. I have completed a variety of repairs on it over Winter so hopefully I can get it started within 2 months time. Anyways, I was wondering if I need to change the transmission fluid before even attempting to drive the tractor? I plan on using Pennzoil straight 30 in the transmission. The previous owner said that before she parked it 20 years ago it would only go into 2nd speed and occasionally reverse. Thanks for your time.

Could have a clutch issue that is not totally disengaging the transmission. It would be a sound practice to know that the oil in the transaxle is filled to the proper level, and is in good condition.

Thanks 1711 Cub
1 follow up question.
I bought an owner’s manual for the tractor a while after I bought it. It says to change the transmission fluid every year. Is that really necessary?

Nope,
but necessary to sustain a profitable International Harvester company by using their oil :biggrin2:

LOL. It seems like everything is that way.

Here in the South, it makes sense to perform a yearly fluid change. We have bizarre weather here, sometimes in the “winter”, it’s cold one day then humid the next. That makes anything metal “sweat”. My tools in my tool chest do it, so I know these tractors do it. I change oils once a year for that reason.

For a little bit of safety and not to cause any damage while you are doing your evaluations, I would put the rear up on jack stands, just off the floor. You can move wheels, watch linkages etc, and lube .Lots of FAQ here, if you have a question, ask and post a picture. There is an abundance of knowledge here, and the guys are happy to help. And please by patronizing are parts people at the top of the page we all win. Good Luck

If this rig has been left out in the elements, or even "shedded" in an unheated or fully or partially enclosed building, you will have condensation.

I'd start evaluating things by draining the oil. You will likely be greeted with water at first when you do this.
Then, pull the gearshift with cover plate from the transmission.
If there are shifting issues with this unit you will have to do this anyway.
You may be able to see what is causing them.
Don't be too surprised if you are looking at a rusty mess once the cover is off, but, then again, you may just get lucky!
OE 30 weight is fine for these gear drive transmissions.
Good luck!

Thanks for the help everyone.