[zilla24]

They can be great machines, I have had a few of them over the years.

Things to look for:
Start with the ISO mounts on the engine. This is 40+ year old machine and the rubber mounts unless maintained by the previous owner are likely cracked or crumbling. When they fail it causes clutch/driveline issues that can really become expensive. The clutch driver is nothing more than a spring steel sheet with a reinforced ring, it is designed this way to allow some flex as the engine moves during normal operation. Failed ISO mounts translate into excessive pressure on the spring steel plate and ultimately cracking or failure. If upkept a quiteline cub such as a 1200 really is a joy to operate and can be quite smooth, with their age today this seems to be the exception rather than the norm. Common fixes are to replace the ISO mounts with OEM or aftermarket rubber or a solid metal engine mount. When you use solid metal mounts you can use a solid clutch driver out of an earlier machine. This is sacrilegious to some cub purists however I've done it and not noticed much ill effect.

Otherwise look for general wear and tear items, is the steering loose? The Ross steering box if often neglected and may need rebuilt. Tie rod ends? Seat? PTO work? Lights? Tires?

As for pricing anywhere from $500-750 would be fair in PA, condition obviously will control that as will accessories. 1200s weren't exceptionally rare which is probably why I have ended up with 2 or 3 of them over the years. I paid $300 for one, it was probably the best running cubs I've ever had. One a parts machine and the other a restoration project with my daughter. Does it have a creeper gear or 3pt hitch setup? If so that can add $250 or so.

Look it over well, if you do decide to move forward there are tons of great resources here that are willing to help.