Which Old IH Cadet?
 

A curious question and I am sure all members have their favorites, but I'll ask anyway.

For a worker tractor, deck not needed, which model of the pre-MTD cub cadets is favored for durability, ease of use, and lesser repairs or breakdowns? No ground engaging implements and no snow throwing.
Thanks

I like the 70/100 version. I like stick over hydro. Less problems, very reliable.

Hmmm. No mowing or blowing, no pulling, no ground work. If just getting the mail, then most should last you a lifetime.

What would you do with it??? Sounds like it might be a show tractor. My favorite is 149 and 782

If it has to be pre-MTD and not necessarily the rarest or most collectable, but just a great tractor overall, these would be my picks....
(of course others have different opinions)

Best NF gear - 122
Best NF hydro - 147
Best WF gear - 128
Best WF hydro - 149
Best QL gear - 1200
Best QL hydro - 1250/1450
Best 82 series gear - 582
Best 82 series hydro - 782

For ease of service, I prefer the Wide Frame (WF) models., ie: the 1x8/9, the Quietlines, and the 82 series tractors.

:IH Trusted Hand:

782/784 with updated engine.

My all time overall favorite is an 1811/1812. Unlike some of you, I don't get all bothered that IH didn't produce it. IH designed it with some good upgrades by MTD before they destroyed the brand.

Why pre-mtd? I'd take a 1811 over a 782 all day long or even better yet an 1864.:TwoCents:

122 bomber

Wide frames are much easier to work on. But all in all as far as capability goes. In respect of what engine they have pretty much all the IH models are equally capable machines. Quietlines tend to take more maintance but are excellent machines. 82 series are my go to for all around workhorses. But still have a soft sport for the single cylinder engines on all the older models. Nothing quite like the sound of a working k161/181.


All in all I say pick what one you think looks the best. Then decide if you want hydro or gear drive.