Need help: New CC XT1 Enduro vs. Used CC 129

[ethanre]

I could purchase a new (on credit) CC from Home depot .. this one
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Cub-Cadet...GT50/205617449

or get a used CC like these:
Cub 109, Cub 129, or Cub 1650

I want to use this tractor to:

1- mow 3 acres once a week of relatively flat ground with plenty of bumps, some uneven areas, and a large septic hill.

2- pull a pull-behind field mower (swisher 44") twice a year (3 acres of field)

I am in MN

Is the one at home depot dependable and capable of pulling the pull-behind mower (strong enough differential)? Are these as good as the other (like the older) models?


thank you

[J-Mech]

The old and new models aren't in the same league. Matter of fact, they don't even play the same sport. Do yourself a favor.... buy an older tractor. Now, you can go back to the 1X8/9 series if you want to, but it's fairly easy to find a Cyclops tractor in good shape. I.E. 186X, or 1641 or similar.

[ethanre]

Thank you so much, I had a feeling that was the case.. hmm

could you please help me understand all the model numbers? I have this "model number" question posted in this post here: http://www.onlycubcadets.net/forum/s...903#post430903
Thank you

Does everyone else agree, go with an old one??


I can pay more if i used a credit card for a new one.. and pay less if i have to pay cash for a used one.. so the budget for an old one is $500 to $1k can I get anything reliable in this price range?

[J-Mech]

Originally Posted by ethanre

so the budget for an old one is $500 to $1k can I get anything reliable in this price range?

Yes, you can. But even in that price range, know that some work may be needed. You will be buying at least a 25 year old machine. Craigslist is your friend.

[ethanre]

I'm looking at home depot and i see these 2 models

XT1 Enduro Series LT 50
XT1 Enduro Series GT 50


Is the GT a higher quality one: i.e with a thicker deck, axel quality, transmission that is repairable? or is this basically crap like the rest of the tractors at the big box stores (like the LT 50) ?

[CubDieselFan]

Do you have a local dealer other than Home Depot?

[J-Mech]

Originally Posted by ethanre

Is the GT a higher quality one: i.e with a thicker deck, axel quality, transmission that is repairable? or is this basically crap like the rest of the tractors at the big box stores (like the LT 50) ?

Anything made after the early 1990's is basically crap. Some on here say the 3000 series machines are good..... but that group is a small one.


Hey, seriously, you have 2 threads on the same topic..... no need for that. I'm combining two of them for simplicity to us, and also moving them to the proper section.

[ethanre]

Thank you guys!

so, I'll limit myself to anything made in the mid 90's and older...

what's the oldest i should go?

I can do some repair (no welding though) but due to lack of time repair would be slow going.. I need something that will be reliable and not end up broken more often than running.

[J-Mech]

For the sake of not needing as much work, I'd look for something like an 1811 or an 1864. Those are different series, but same size and hp, but the tractors don't look anything similar.

Since you're new to this, look for something like this:

download.jpg

Problem with this series may include a tired engine, so look for a low hour machine.



Or this:

79265.jpg


Problem with this series is the electrical system sometimes needs some work, and the rear ends tend to have developed leaks. Look for a clean machine, or one that has been stored inside.

[zippy1]

I would recommend as the others. Go older, "if" you are willing, and able to work on them occasionally. You may have to pony up when you bring one home, and work some bugs out of it, then you'll have a fine machine for doing your chores around the place.
I used to be nothing but IH Cub Cadet's for tractors, but have found the CCC and even early MTD cub cadets are a great machine, in fact my Cub Cadet 782, and 2372, and bought and sold 1811 are real nice tractors.
Just try and find something with lower hours. Check the rear attachment areas for broken bolts, wollowed out holes, broken or cracked housings...
Ask me how I know, seems I brought in a 1811 that had some of those hidden things going on.
Check out the condition of the residence, and the vehicles they drive, and sometimes that'll tell you a lot about the care/maintenance that was done on the machine...