Cub Cadet 1872 User manual

Owners Manual
TRACTORS
Model Numbers
1872
2072
Important:
Read Safety Rules and Instructions Carefully
Thank you for purchasing an American-built product.
CUB CADET CORPORATION • RO. BOX36930 • CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
FORM NO. 772-3868
R870205

Cub Cadet Corporation’s
Promise To You
We promise you, the first user purchaser, that we will
replace or repair any part or parts of your new outdoor
power product which is defective in material or workman¬
ship without charge for either parts or labor during the first
year following delivery to you.
We also promise you, the first user purchaser, a second
year warranty on the engine and drive train of your new
Cub Cadet Tractor, Lawn Tractor or Riding Tractor.
What the second year covers
(A) It will cover the engine internal parts contained within
the engine shielding except for points, condensers, spark
plugs, air filters, oil filters, and routine maintenance parts.
(8) It will cover the tractor drive train including drive shafts,
drive shaft clutch, all parts enclosed by transmission hous¬
ing, and axle housing, axle shafts, final drives, spindle
pulleys, spindle bearings, and electric PTO clutch.
Home Maintenance Products: We promise you, the first
user purchaser, a 1 year warranty on all Home
Maintenance Products. This will cover Push Mowers, Self
Propelled Mowers, Utility Trailers, Walk Behind Tillers,
Chore Performers and Snow Throwers.
The Tecumseh engine, used on Walk Behind Snow
Throwers, will carry a 2 year warranty on the engine only.
Cub Cadet Attachments:
We promise you, the first user purchaser, that we will
replace or repair any part or parts which are defective in
material or workmanship without charge for parts or labor
during the first year following delivery to you. This will
cover all Cub Cadet attachments. This does not include
Approved Allied Equipment which is sold and warranted
directly by the manufacturer.
Obtaining Warranty Service
Through Cub Cadet Deaiers
Warranty repairs will be made by your selling Cub
Cadet dealer or any Cub Cadet dealer authorized to
sell the type of equipment involved during the normal
working hours of the dealer service department. You,
the purchaser, are responsible for transportation of
the equipment to the dealership for warranty service
or for any service call expense, along with any over¬
time labor you request.
Replacement Parts Warranty
Cub Cadet parts which are furnished and installed under
this warranty are themselves within the coverage of this
warranty for the duration of the original warranty period
or for ninety days after installation, whichever period shall
expire last.
ChbChdet
Power Equipment
What is not Covered
Tires and tubes are not covered by this warranty, but are
warranted by their manufacturer. Regular maintenance
replacement items such as spark plugs, ignition points,
condensers, belts, cutting parts, filters and lubricants, and
maintenance adjustments such as fuel system cleaning,
engine tune-up, brake and/or clutch inspection or adjust¬
ment, when such replacement or adjustments are made
as part of normal maintenance service are excluded from
coverage. Any non-Cub Cadet product which you may
have installed in or upon the product is also excluded.
No person is authorized to give any other warranty or to
assume any other liabilities on the Company’s behalf
unless made or assumed in writing by the Company, and
no person is authorized to give any warranties or to
assume any liabilities on the seller’s behalf unless made
or assumed in writing by the seller.
Limitations On Our
Responsibility
Please carefully note that this is a two-way agreement.
We promise to make free repairs or replacements as
stated, but you agree, that except for our obligation to
make good on this promise, we shall not be responsible
for any expenses or inconvenience which you might in¬
cur or experience with respect to our product, nor shall
we be liable for defects, damage, or failures caused by
unauthorized alterations, unreasonable use, accident or
abuse, including failure to provide reasonable and
necessary maintenance, after our product has been
delivered to you. Some states do not allow the exclusion
or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so
the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may
also have other rights which vary from state to state.
Personal Use
The foregoing paragraphs constitute Cub Cadet Corpora¬
tion’s entire warranty with respect to any product pur¬
chased and used for personal, family, or household
purposes as distinguished from commercial usage.
Commercial Use:
All Cub Cadet products will be warranted against
defective parts or workmanship. This is for Cub Cadet
Tractor, Attachments and Home Maintenance prod¬
ucts and for one year only.
THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EX¬
PRESSED OR IMPLIED. WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND
FITNESS FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE EXCLUDED, AS ARE
ALL OTHER REPRESENTATION TO THE USER-PURCHASER, AND
ALL OTHER OBLIGATIONS OR LIABILITIES, INCLUDING LIABILI¬
TY FOR INCIDENTAL AND CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, ON THE
PART OF THE COMPANY OR THE SELLER.
2

CONTENTS
Warranty. 2
Safe Operations. 3
To The Owner. 5
Serial Number Location. 5
Controls . 0
Operation. 1 1
Adjustments. 1 4
Maintenance. 1 9
Off-Season Storage. 23
Optional Equipment and Accessories .... 23
Maintenance Chart.23
Trouble Shooting.24
Lubrication Table.26
Lubrication Guide.26
Specifications.29
A Instructions given with this symbol are
for personal safety. Be sure to follow
them.
A WARNING
This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved
forest-covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine's exhaust system is equipped with a
spark arrester meeting applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained
in effective working order by the operator.
In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code).
Other states may have similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester muffler Is available at
your nearest engine authorized service center.
A WARNING
To reduce the potential for any injury, comply with the following safety instructions. Failure to comply with the
instructions may result in personal injury.
SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES FOR RIDING VEHICLES
1. Read the owner’s manual carefully in Its entirety
before attempting to assemble or operate this unit.
Keep this manual In a safe place for future and reg¬
ular reference and for ordering replacement parts.
2 . This unit is a precision piece of power equipment
not a plaything. Therefore, exercise extreme cau¬
tion at all times.
3. Know the controls and how to stop quickly - READ
THE OWNER'S MANUAL
4. Do not allow children to operate vehicle. Do not
allow adults to operate it without proper instruction.
Only persons well acquainted with these rules of
safe operation should be allowed to use your
mower.
5. No one should operate this unit while intoxicated or
while taking medication which impairs the senses or
reactions.
6 . Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-
fitting slacks and shirts to avoid entanglement in the
moving parts. Never operate a unit in bare feet,
sandals, or sneakers.
7. To prevent injury, do not carry passengers or give
rides. Keep children, pets and bystanders out of the
area while mowing. Only the operator should ride
on the unit and he/she should ride only in the seat.
8 . Check overhead clearance carefully before driving
under power lines, guy wires, bridges or low hang¬
ing tree branches: before entering or leaving build¬
ings, or in any other situation where the operator
may be struck or pulled from the unit. Such negli¬
gence could result in serious injury.
9. To maintain control of the unit and reduce the pos¬
sibility of upset or collision, operate the tractor
smoothly. Avoid erratic operation and excessive
speed.
10. K eep the area of operation clear of all persons, par¬
ticularly small children and pets. Stop engine when
they are in the vicinity of your mower. Although the
area of operation should be completely cleared 0 ^

foreign objects, a small object may have been over¬
looked and could be accidentally thrown by the
mower in any direction and cause injury.
11 . Clear work area of objects which might be picked
up and thrown in any direction by the mower and
cause injury.
12. Stop the blade(s) when crossing gravel drives,
walks or roads.
13. Disengage all attachment clutches and shift into
neutral before attempting to start engine.
14. Disengage power to attachment(s) and stop engine
before leaving operating position.
15. Do not put hands or feet near or under rotating
parts. Stay clear of the discharge opening at all
times as the rotating blade(s) can cause injury.
16. Disengage power to attachment(s) and stop engine
before making any repairs or adjustments. Discon¬
nect the spark plug wire(s) and keep the wire(s)
away from the plug to prevent accidental starting.
17. Before attempting to unclog the rrwwer or discharge
chute, stop the engine. The mower blade(s) may
continue to rotate for a few seconds after the engine
is shut off. Therefore, be sure the blade(s) have
stopped completely. Disconnect the spark plug
wire(s) and keep the wire(s) away from the plug to
prevent accidental starting.
18. Disengage power to attachment(s) when transport¬
ing or not in use.
19. Take all possible precautions when leaving vehicle
unattended such as disengaging power-take-off,
lowering attachments, shifting into neutral, setting
parking brake, stopping engine and removing key.
20. Do not stop or start suddenly when going uphill or
downhill. Mow up and down face of steep slopes;
never across the face. Use extreme caution if it is
necessary to drive the tractor up an incline or back
the tractor down an incline because the front of the
tractor could lift and rapidly flip over backward
which could cause serious injury.
21 . Reduce speed on slopes and in sharp turns to
prevent tipping or loss of control. Always keep the
tractor in gear when going down steep hills to take
advantage of engine braking action.
22 . Slay alert for holes in terrain and other hidden
hazards.
23. Use care when pulling loads or using heavy equip¬
ment.
A. Use only approved drawbar hitch points.
B. Limit loads to those you can safely control.
C. Do not turn sharply. Use care when backing.
D. Use counterweight(s) or wheel weights when
suggested in owner’s manual.
24. Watch out for traffic when crossing or near road¬
ways.
25. When using any attachments, never direct
discharge of material toward bystanders. Do not
allow anyone near vehicle while in operation.
26. Handle fuel with care. It is highly flammable.
A. Use approved fuel container.
B. Never remove cap or add fuel to a running or
hot engine or fill fuel tank indoors. Wipe up
spilled fuel.
C. Open doors if engine Is run in garage.
Exhaust fumes are dangerous. Do not run
engine indoors.
27. Keep the vehicle and attachments in good operating
condition, and keep safety devices in place. Use
guards as instructed In operator’s manual.
28. Keep alt nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.
29. Never store the equipment with fuel in the tank
inside a building where fumes may reach an open
flame or spark. Allow engine to cool before storing
in any enclosure.
30. To reduce fire hazard, keep engine free of grass,
leaves or excessive grease.
31. The vehicle and attachment should be stopped and
inspected for damage after striking a foreign object.
The damage should be repaired before restarting
and operating the equipment.
32. Do not change the engine governor settings or
overspeed the engine.
33. When using the vehicle with mower, proceed as fol¬
lows:
A. Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light.
B. Never make a cutting height adjustment while
engine is running if operator must dismount to
do so.
C. Shut the engine off and‘wait until the blade
comes to a complete stop before removing
the grass catcher.
D. Check blade mounting bolts for proper tight¬
ness at frequent intervals.
34. Check grass catcher bags frequently for wear or
deterioration. For safety protection, replace only
with new bag meeting original equipment
specifications.
35. Look behind to make sure the area is clear before
placing the transmission in reverse and continue
looking behind while backing up. Disengage blades
before shifting into reverse and backing up.
36. This unit should not be driven up a ramp onto a
trailer or truck under power, because the unit could
tip over, causing serious personal injury. The unit
must be pushed manually to load properly.

TO THE OWNER
Assembled in this manual are operation, lubrication,
and maintenance instructions for the Cub Cadet 1872
and 2072 tractors. The material has been prepared
in detail to help you better understand the correct
care and efficient operation of your tractor. Before
you operate the tractor, study this manual carefully.
Additional copies may be ordered from your dealer at
a nominal price.
Your local authorized dealer is Interested In the per¬
formance you receive from your tractor. He has
factory-trained servicemen, informed In the latest
method of servicing tractors, modern tools, and
original-equipment service parts which assure proper
fit and good performance.
The Cub Cadet 1872 and 2072 tractors have a
hydrostatic drive unit available and will require
minimum service if recommended operation and
maintenance procedures are followed.
To obtain top performance and assure economical
operation the tractor should be inspected, depending
on Its use, periodically, or at least once a year, by
your authorized dealer.
When in need of parts, always specify the model,
chassis, and engine serial numbers, including the
prefix and suffix letters. Write these serial numbers in
the space provided on this page.
Should you have difficulties with the unit, consult your
authorized dealer. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES
SHOULD YOU ATTEMPT TO SERVICE THESE
UNITS YOURSELF. Only your dealer is authorized
to repair or replace units on this drive under the terms
of the warranty. Should you desire additional Infor¬
mation not found in this manual, contact your author¬
ized Cub Cadet dealer.
SERIAL NUMBER LOCATION
■ ^NOTE
LEFT and RIGHT indicate the left and right
sides of the tractor when facing forward in
the driver’s seat. Reference to FRONT indi¬
cates grille end of the tractor; to REAR the
drawbar end.
Chassis serial number plate Is located near left rear
fender. (See Figure 1.)
CHASSIS SERIAL NUMBER
NUMBER
Figure 1
Figure 2
MODEL_
DELIVERY DATE

CONTROLS
Your Cub Cadet Tractor has been safely engineered. A. FUSE
Thoroughly acquaint yourself with all the instruments The fuse is installed to protect the tractor's electrical
and controls before attempting to start or operate the circuitry and components from damage caused by
tractor. excessive amperage overload. (See Figure 3.)
L E
Cam Lock Knob
Steering Wheel (Removed for Clarity)
Ignition/Light Switch
Charge Indicator
Hour Meter
Throttle Control Lever
Speed Control Lever
Speed Control Stop
Fuel Tank Filler Cap Gauge
Oil Indicator Light
A.
Fuse
L.
B.
Choke Control
M.
C.
Single Brake Pedal
N.
D.
Single Brake Pedal Lock
0 .
E.
Turning Brake Pedals
P.
F.
Turning Brake Pedal Lock Q.
G.
Power Take-Off Control Switch
R.
H.
Interlock Safety Switches (Not Shown)
S.
1 .
Hydraulic Lift Control Lever
T.
J.
Lift Height Indicator
U.
K. Hydraulic Front Power Outlet Control Lever
6

B. CHOKE CONTROL
The choke control is operated manually. Pull knob
out to choke engine. Push knob in to open choke.
(See Figure 3.)
C. SINGLE BRAKE PEDAL
■ ^NOTE
Do not rest your toot on the single brake
pedal while driving the tractor as this would
cause the speed control lever to return to the
"N" position.
Brake pedal must be pressed all the way down to
activate the satety starting switch. When brake pedal
is in the depressed position it automatically moves
the speed control lever to the "N" position. (See Fig¬
ure 4.)
1. Single Brake Pedal
2. Single Brake Pedal Lock
Always lock the brake when tractor is parked on a
grade. To lock the brake, the turning brake pedals
must be locked together to provide braking to both
rear wheels. Reter to "TURNING BRAKE PEDAL
LOCK." Depress single brake pedal and place the
single brake pedal lock In the engaged position. (See
Figure 4.) To disengage the lock, press down on the
pedal, lift the lock up and place it in the disengaged
position.
E. TURNING BRAKE PEDALS
CAUTION
Use the two pedal brakes as turning brakes
only at low speeds to maintain control of the
tractor when using rear mounted equipment.
Two brake pedals are used for Individual braking of
the rear wheels to aid in turning the tractor in soft soil
conditions. (See Figure 5.) Depress the right brake
pedal to stow or stop the right rear tractor wheel;
depress the left brake pedal to slow or stop the left
rear tractor wheel. The tractor will turn In the direc¬
tion of the wheel that is slowed or stopped.
F. TURNING BRAKE PEDAL LOCK
A CAUTION
Turning pedal brakes should not be used
when mowing lawns. The wheel being
braked may skid and cause lawn damage.
Turning pedals should be locked together.
The tractor can be stopped either by pressing the
pedal all the way down, or placing the speed control
lever in the "N" position.
D. S I N G LE BRAKE PEDAL LOCK
▲ WARNING
The hydrostatic transmission will not hold
the tractor on a hill. In a short period of time
(depending on the steepness of the hill) the
oil will drain from the transmission and allow
the tractor to roll downhill. To avoid an
accident and/or possible injury, lock the
brake.
■ I^NOTE
Pedals must be latched together when
operating the tractor in transport speeds.
The brake pedal lock is located in the top edge of the
right brake pedal (see Figure 5) and is used to lock
the two pedals together to provide simultaneous brak¬
ing to both rear wheels when the brake pedals are
depressed. To lock the pedals together, pivot the
lock and engage it in the slot in the left pedal. For
individual brake action, pivot the lock Into the storage
slot in the right brake pedal.
If the brake pedals are not locked together and the
single brake pedal is used, only the left rear tractor
wheel is slowed or stopped.

2. the PTO is in the "OFF" position, 3. the operator
is seated.
Figure 5
1. Turning Brake Pedals
2. Turning Brake Pedal Lock
G. FRONT POWER TAKE-OFF CONTROL
SWITCH
The power take-off (PTO) control switch, which is
located on the left side of the instrument panel (see
Figure 3). operates an electric clutch. This electric
clutch controls the engagement ("ON") or disengage¬
ment ("OFF") of the front PTO.
H. INTERLOCK SAFETY SWITCHES
A CAUTION
The engine will not start unless:
1 . The single brake pedal is depressed.
2. The PTO switch is in the "OFF" posi¬
tion.
3 . The operator is seated.
When using PTO operated equipment, the
operator must remain in tractor seat at all
times. If operator should leave tractor seat
without turning off the PTO switch the PTO
will automatically disengage.
Interlock safety switches are activated by the single
brake pedal, the PTO switch located on the control
panel, and a switch located underneath the operator’s
seat.
The interlock safety switches, activated by the brake
pedal, PTO switch and seat switch serve to prevent
starting the engine accidentally. The engine will not
start unless: 1. the single brake pedal Is depressed,
I. HYDRAULIC LIFT CONTROL LEVER
■ i^NOTE
The engine must be running In order to
operate the hydraulic lift.
The hydraulic lift control lever controls the raising and
lowering of a nrowing deck, if installed (see Figure 6).
The control lever is spring loaded. To raise the
equipment move the lever back toward the tractor
seat. To lower the equipment move the lever for¬
ward.
J. LIFT HEIGHT INDICATOR
The lift height indicator will indicate the height of deck
attachment when installed. (See Figure 7.)
INDICATOR
Figure 7
8

K. H YDRAULIC FRONT POWER OUTLET CON¬
TROL LEVER
The front hydraulic outlet control lever (see Figure 6 )
controls angling of a front mounted blade, if installed,
through hydraulic outlets located on the front of the
tractor. (See Figure 8 .)
Figure 8
L. C AM LOCK KNOB
The cam lock knob is used to adjust the cam stop,
which will allow an attached implement to return to a
single preset height. (See Figure 9.)
With the implement at a desired height, release cam
stop by turning locking knob counterclockwise. Turn
cam stop until it contacts tang. Lock cam stop into
this position by turning cam knob clockwise.
-
^ 1
To operate equipment in a fixed "Locked" position,
where down pressure of the implement is required
(blade work), remove frame cover and install bolt, 1/2
X 1-1/8 inch, (not furnished with tractor) between the
lift arm and lift bracket. (See Figure 10.)
1
Figure 10
1. Lift Bracket
2. Hole (Not Seen) for Bolt
3. Lift Arm
M. S TEERING WHEEL
The steering wheel is used to control the direction the
tractor is heading when moving.
N. I GNITION/LIGHT SWITCH
A WARNING
Remove the key from the tractor when the
tractor is not in use to prevent accidental
starting and battery discharge.
The combination lights and ignition switch is a four-
position switch. (See Figure 11 . )
Figure 9
1. Locking Knob
2. Cam Stop
3. Tang
Equipment is normally operated in a "Float" position
(implement free to move upward).
O. C HARGE INDICATOR
This instrument indicates whether the alternator is
charging or the battery is discharging. If it shows
discharge continuously, investigate the cause to
avoid completely discharging the battery and possible
damage to the charging circuit. (See Figure 3.)
9

Figure 11
P. H O UR METER
The hour meter is located on the instrument panel.
(See Figures 3 and 12.) It indicates the actual hours
of engine operation, enabling the operator to deter¬
mine without guesswork when lubrication, change of
oil or periodic inspections are necessary. It also pro¬
vides a means of computing cost of specific jobs.
The hour meter operates whenever the engine is run¬
ning or the ignition key is in the "ON" position.
Figure 12
Q. T HROTTLE CONTROL LEVER
This lever controls the speed of the engine. When
set In a given position, it will maintain a uniform
engine speed. (See Figure 3.)
When using power take-off operated equipment, best
performance is achieved with the throttle lever in the
"FAST" position.
This symbol shows slow position.
This symbol shows fast position.
R. S PEED CONTROL LEVER
NOTE
Do not rest your foot on the single brake
pedal while driving the tractor as this would
cause the speed control lever to return to the
"N" position.
The lever is used to select any speed from a standstill
"N" position to eight miles per hour in the forward
direction and four miles per hour in the reverse direc¬
tion.
Moving the speed control lever forward provides
increased forward speed, and moving the lever rear¬
ward provides the reverse speeds. (See Figure 3.)
S. SPEED CONTROL STOP
An adjustable speed control stop is provided to allow
the operator to return to a predetermined speed.
(See Figure 3.)
T. FUEL TANK FILLER CAP GAUGE
The fuel tank filler cap gauge indicates how much fuel
is present in the fuel tank. It also works as the fuel
tank cap. Remove the fuel tank filler cap gauge to fill
the fuel tank. Reinstall filler cap after filling tank.
(See Figure 3.)
U. OIL INDICATOR LIGHT
Indicates oil pressure of engine.
NOTE
Oil indicator light will be on when engine is
started. (See Figure 3.)
FUEL SHUT-OFF VALVE
The fuel shut-off valve which is located below the
gasoline tank is used as a main fuel shut off to the
engine. To turn the fuel on, turn the knob counter¬
clockwise to the stop. To turn the fuel off, turn the
knob clockwise until it is tight.
HOOD AND NOISE ISOLATION PANELS
The tractor hood is arranged to swing up and forward
for easy access to the engine compartment. When¬
ever engine maintenance is required, the noise isola¬
tion panels can be readily removed by removing the
two wings nuts and two washers (one on each side)
and disconnecting the panel spring. (See Figure 13.)
Figure 13
1. Noise Isolation Panel (One On Each Side)
2. Panel Spring
3. Hood
10

OPERATION
WARNING
RECEIVE INSTRUCTION - Read operator’s
manual. Learn to operate this machine
SAFELY. Don’t risk INJURY or DEATH.
1 . Before starting engine or operation: Be
familiar with controls. Be in operator’s
position with transmission in neutrai,
PTO turned off, and brake depressed.
2. Keep shields in place. Keep away
from moving parts.
3. NO RIDERS! Keep all people and
pets a safe distance away. Look
before backing up.
4. Don’t point mower discharge at peo¬
ple.
5. Avoid slopes. Tractors can be rolled
over.
6 . Before leaving operator’s position;
Shut off PTO. Place transmission in
neutral. Set parking brake. Shut off
engine. Remove ignition key. Wait for
all movement to stop before servicing
or cleaning.
7. Do not fill gasoline tank when engine is
running or while engine is hot. Tighten
cap securely.
STARTING THE ENGINE
A WARNING
Do not operate tractor if the interlock system
is malfunctioning because it is a safety
device designed for protection.
■ I^NOTE
This unit is equipped with a safety interlock
system for your protection. The purpose of
the safety interlock system is to prevent the
engine from cranking or starting unless the
single brake pedal is depressed, the PTO
switch is in the "OFF" position and the
operator is seated.
■ ^NOTE
This unit can be equipped with an optional
disconnect clutch.
■ ^NOTE
This disconnect clutch is mounted on the
engine to transmission drive shaft. The pur¬
pose of the disconnect clutch is to allow the
engine to start before the transmission Is
engaged. This will greatly reduce the load
on the engine when it is started, thus making
it easier to start the engine. (See Figure 14.)
It is available through your authorized Cub
Cabef dealer.
■ ^NOTE
The disconnect clutch should be installed by
your authorized Cub Cabef dealer.
DISCONNECT
CLUTCH
Figure 14
1 . Pull choke control button to full choke position.
Less choking may be necessary due to varia¬
tions in temperature, grade of fuel, etc. Little or
no choking will be needed when the engine is
warm.
2 . Place the throttle just off "SLOW” position.
3. To start the engine, safety starting switches
must be activated by pressing the single brake
pedal all the way down and moving the PTO
switch to the OFF position.
■ ^NOTE
The speed control lever will return to neutral
when the single brake pedal is pressed all
the way down, and the linkage is properly
adjusted.
11

4. Turn the ignition key clockwise to the “START'
position and release it as soon as the engine
starts; however do not operate the starter for
nrxjre than 10 seconds at any one time. If the
engine does not start within this time, turn the
key "OFF" and wait a few minutes, then try
again.
5. After the engine starts, slowly release the single
brake pedal and gradually push the choke con¬
trol button all the way in. Do not use the choke
to enrich the fuel mixture, except as necessary
to start the engine.
STOPPING THE ENGINE
A CAUTION
Remove the key to prevent accidental start¬
ing and battery discharge if equipment is left
unattended.
Move the throttle lever to the "SLOW" position and
allow the engine to idle for a short time before stop¬
ping. Then turn the key to the "OFF” position.
Remove key from ignition switch.
■ ^NOTE
In cold weather the starting motor may
disengage prematurely. This is caused by
the engine firing once but falling to continue
running. If this happens several times, the
engine will be flooded and it will be neces¬
sary to leave the throttle in the "SLOW" posi¬
tion but push the choke in all the way; then
turn the Ignition key to the "START" position
and slowly pull the choke out to the position
which will cause the engine to start and con¬
tinue running. If the engine falters after put¬
ting tractor into motion, pull the choke out
part way until the engine runs smoothly, then
gradually push the choke back in as the
engine warms.
Engine starting is possible in cold weather providing
the correct weight of engine oil is used, the battery is
fully charged, and the proper starting procedure is fol¬
lowed. The best procedure for starting at tempera¬
tures near or below freezing are as follows:
TRACTOR BREAK-IN PROCEDURE
A CAUTION
Never operate a new engine immediately
under full load. Break it in carefully as
shown in the table below.
Period
Engine Throttle
Control Lever
Position
Load
V& % Full
1st hour
X
None
X
Light drawbar load
or
2 hour
X
Mowing with tractor
at slow speed
X
Medium draw¬
bar load
3rd through
or
13th hour
X
Normal mowing
COLD WEATHER STARTING
A WARNING
During operation do not run the engine in
confined area such as storage building any
longer than is necessary. Immediately move
the tractor outside into the air.
1 . Pull the choke all the way out into the full choke
position.
2 . Move the throttle lever just off "SLOW" position.
3. Press the single brake pedal all the way down
and be sure the PTO switch is in the "OFF"
position. The safety interlocks will prevent start¬
ing unless this is done.
4. Move the key switch into the "START position
and hold until the engine starts: however, do not
operate the starter for more than 10 seconds at
any one time. As soon as the engine starts,
slowly push the choke in part way.
DRIVING THE TRACTOR
WARNING
When the engine is off, the tractor will
become very difficult to steer. This is
because the engine must be on for the
power steering to operate. Do not turn off
engine until tractor comes to a complete
stop or damage to equipment or injury to
persons might occur.
12

A CAUTION
Avoid sudden starts, excessive speed, and
sudden stops. Keep tractor in gear when
going down hills.
A CAUTION
Do not leave the seat of the tractor without
depressing the single brake pedal and set¬
ting the brake lock. If leaving the tractor
unattended, also turn the Ignition key off and
remove the key.
■ i^NOTE
Hydraulic power for the power steering will
take priority over installed hydraulically
driven accessories.
■ ^NOTE
When using power take-off operated equip¬
ment, best performance is achieved with the
throttle lever in the "FAST" position.
Unless turning brake pedals are needed for control in
turning the tractor, they should be locked together at
all times to provide simultaneous braking to both rear
wheels.
1 . Depress the single brake pedal, release the
brake lock, and let the pedal up. Move the
throttle lever to the position where the engine
operates best for the load to be handled.
2 . Start the tractor in motion by moving the speed
control lever slowly forward or rearward to
desired speed.
DRIVING ON SLOPES
A CAUTION
Always drive up or down the face of a slope.
Do not drive so that the tractor may tip over
sideways.
Before operating the tractor on any slope, walk the
slope to look for possible hazards such as rocks,
mounds, ruts, stumps or other surface irregularities
which could cause an upset.
Back the tractor with implement up the steepest por¬
tion of each slope you intend to work. If the tractor
cannot negotiate the slope in reverse, the slope is too
steep to be worked.
Avoid turns when driving on a slope. If a turn must be
made, turn down the slope. Turning up a slope
greatly increases the chance of a roll over.
Avoid stopping when driving up a slope. If it is neces¬
sary to stop while driving up a slope, start up
smoothly and carefully to reduce the possibility of
flipping the tractor over backward.
STOPPING THE TRACTOR
CAUTION
Always engage single brake pedal lock,
lower equipment and shut off engine before
dismounting. Never try to start engine from
ground.
Move the speed control lever to the "N" position or
use the single brake pedal. Before dismounting
always lock the brake pedal and turn the ignition
"OFF". Also disengage the PTO switch.
The turning brake pedals must be latched together to
provide braking to both rear wheels. Latch turning
brake pedals together before locking single brake
pedal.
DRAWBAR
Drawbar equipment must be hitched to the tractor
only at the hitch hole in the drawbar.
Figure IS
13

OPERATING THE FRONT POWER TAKE-OFF
CLUTCH (PTO)
■ ^NOTE
Be certain to follow break-in instructions,
listed below.
1 . Move the throttle lever back to the medium or
"SLOW” position.
2. Flip the toggle switch to the "RUN" (C) position.
3. Advance throttle to operating speed (full speed).
4. The operator must remain in tractor seat at all
times. If operator should leave tractor seat
without turning off the power take-off switch, the
PTO will automatically disengage.
5. PTO switch must be in the "OFF" (A) position
when shifting the tractor into reverse or the PTO
will shut off automatically. To re-engage the
PTO, shift unit into neutral. Move PTO switch
to "OFF" (A) position. Then pull knob out and
lift up to "START" (B) position and release.
Figure 16
FRONT PTO CLUTCH BREAK-IN PROCEDURE
To break in the components and increase the life of
the clutch assembly, proceed as follows.
1. Attach mowing deck, snow thrower, etc. to the
tractor.
2. Adjust the belt tension as recommended in
attachment owner’s manual.
3. Engage and disengage the PTO ten to fifteen
times without any load (not cutting grass, not
blowing snow, etc.).
ADJUSTMENTS
ADJUSTING THE SEAT
Before starting the tractor, adjust the seat to the most
comfortable driving position. Tilt the seat fonward
over the steering wheel, loosen the four cap screws in
the seat support, and slide the seat assembly fonward
or reanward to the position which is most comfortable
for the operator. (See Figure 17.)
Retighten the cap screws after the seat is adjusted.
■ I^NOTE
The battery is located in a well under the
operator’s seat for ease in servicing or
replacement when necessary.
SEAT ADJUSTMENT
Figure 17
14

adjusting the power take-off clutch
A WARNING
To avoid possible injury, always disengage
all clutches, move speed control into neutral,
depress the brake, set the brake pedal lock
and turn the ignition "OFF” before working
on the machine.
The clutch is factory adjusted and should not require
further adjustment under normal operating conditions.
However, if the clutch fails to operate properly, check
as follows:
Check fuse on pedestal.
Using a feeler gauge, check the air gap. (See Figure
18.) Insert feeler gauge into one of three access slots
located around the outside of the brake plate. The air
gap should be .017 inch. Adjust the self-locking nuts
to obtain the proper clearance. Repeat the operation
in all three access slots.
1. Access Slots
2. Brake Plate
3. Self-Locking Nuts
BRAKE ADJUSTMENT
During normal operation on this machine, the brakes
are subject to wear and will require periodic examina¬
tion and adjustment.
Brake adjustment check:
1. To check brake adjustment, place a 1 inch thick
wood block between the single brake pedal and
the brake pedal lock (see Figure 19).
2 . With the 1 inch thick wood block installed, the
brake disc pads should be applying a light
amount of friction against the brake disc rotor.
If they are not, the brakes need adjustment (see
Figure 20).
Figure 19
1. Single Brake Pedal
2. Brake Pedal Lock
3. 11nch Thick Wood Block
Brake adjustment:
(See Figure 20)
1. Latch turning brake pedals together.
2 . Place a 1 inch thick wood block between the
single brake pedal and the brake pedal lock
(see Figure 19).
3. Remove cotter pins and washers from rear end
of both brake rods and loosen jam nuts from
clevises.
4. B lock the front wheels and raise the rear
wheels.
15

Figure 20. Right Side Shown
1. Cotter Pin and Washer (Both Sides)
2. Brake Rod (Both Sides)
3. Jam Nut (Both Sides)
4. Clevis (Both Sides)
5. Disc Pads (Both Sides)
5. Adjust each brake rod in turn by;
A. To tighten the brakes, shorten the length
of the brake rod by turning it into the
clevis.
B. To loosen the brakes, make the brake rod
longer by turning it away from the clevis.
6 . Adjust the brake rods until the disc pads apply a
light amount of friction against the rotor.
7. Reinstall cotter pins, washers, and tighten jam
nuts.
8 . Recheck brake adjustment. If the adjustment is
correct, remove wood block and lower tractor.
9. With the wood block removed, the brake disc
pads must not rub against the brake rotor.
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
The front wheels should toe-in approximately 1/8
inch.
Measure the distances A and B on the front wheels,
(See Figure 21.)
6. Rotor (Both Sides)
7. Clearance Between Disc Pads and Rotor
(Both Sides)
8. Turning Brake Pedal Arms
9. Wheel Lug Bolts
■ ^NOTE
Dimension B should be approximately 1/8
inch less than dimension A.
(1/8” LESS THAN A)
Figure 21
For adjustments of toe-in see your authorized Cub
Cadet dealer.
16

FRONT WHEEL ADJUSTMENTS.
Check the front wheels to ensure that the turning
radius of the unit is equal in both directions. Turn the
wheels all the way to the left. Measure the angle of
the wheel to the frame. Turn the wheel all the way to
the right and repeat the measurement. The angles
shall be equal.
■ i^NOTE
Power steering components are under
hydraulic pressure. If not properly adjusted,
serious damage may occur to steering com¬
ponents.
For adjustments on front wheels, see your authorized
Cub Catfef dealer.
PIVOT BAR ADJUSTMENT BOLTS
▲ CAUTION
The tractor must be checked every 50 hours
of tractor operation for play between the
front axle and the pivot bar adjustment bolts.
The adjustment bolt heads must fit against
the front axle. If play Is discovered, the pivot
bar adjustment bolts must be adjusted.
If play is discovered between the front axle and the
pivot bar adjustment bolt heads, adjust both bolts as
follows: (See Figure 22.)
1. Loosen jam nut 3 to 4 turns or as required.
2. Turn both pivot bar adjustment bolt counter¬
clockwise until they hit against the front axle.
3. Tighten jam nut.
4. Repeat the above steps for the other pivot bar
adjustment bolt.
1. Jam Nut
2. Pivot Bar Adjustment Bolts
3. Front Axle
Figure 22
17

CARBURETOR ADJUSTMENTS
WARNING
If any adjustments are made to the engine
while the engine is running {e.g., carbure¬
tor), disengage ail clutches and blades.
Keep clear of all moving parts and be careful
of heated surfaces and muffler.
WARNING
To avoid injury or an accident, be sure the
brake pedal is in the locked position,
transmission is in neutral, and any equip¬
ment is disengaged before starting engine to
make carburetor adjustments.
WARNING
Carbon monoxide fumes can be fatal! Do
not make any adjustments to the carburetor
in a confined area such as a storage build¬
ing. Move the tractor outside into the air.
■ ^NOTE
Model 1872 tractors will be equipped with
either a fixed jet or an adjustable carburetor.
Model 2072 tractors will be equipped with
fixed jet carburetors only. The difference
between the carburetors is that the fixed jet
carburetor does not have a main fuel adjust¬
ment; therefore the fixed jet carburetor has
only two adjustment screws.
The carburetor is adjusted at the factory and under
normal operating conditions it will not require read¬
justing. However, if the engine does not operate
properly, what may appear to be a faulty carburetor
adjustment is in many cases a clogged air filter. This
possibility should be ruled out before attempting to
readjust carburetor. Refer to "MAINTENANCE" sec¬
tion in this manual.
To prevent possible damage to the carburetor nee¬
dles, be very careful closing the carburetor needles
before basic adjustments are made. Improper adjust¬
ment of the carburetor may result in engine damage.
MAIN FUEL ADJUSTMENT
(1872 Tractor with Adjustable Carburetor Only)
Preliminary setting - turn screw out 2 1/2 turns. Final
setting - start engine and raise engine speed to max¬
imum governed, no load speed. Turn screw in just
until engine speed decreases and note the position of
the screw. Now turn the screw out. The engine
speed will first increase, but then decrease as screw
is turned out. Note the position of screw when engine
spread starts to decrease. Set the screw midway
between the two points noted above.
IDLE SPEED ADJUSTMENT
(1872 and 2072 Tractors)
Run engine at maximum governed, no load speed for
a minimum of 30 seconds, then allow engine speed to
fall to idle or pul throttle into idle position. Set engine
speed to 1200 (+ or -75 RPM) by turning the idle
speed screw in or out.
IDLE FUEL ADJUSTMENT
(1872 and 2072 Tractors)
Set the idle fuel mixture by turning the idle fuel screw
out, from the closed position, 3/4 to 1-1/4 full turn.
1
Figure 23. 1872 Tractor With Adjustable
Carburetor
1 . Main Fuel Adjustment Screw
2. Idle Fuel Adjustment Screw
3. Idle Speed Adjustment Screw
2
Figure 24, All 2072 Tractors and 1872 Tractors
With Fixed Jet
1. Idle Fuel Adjustment Screw
2. Idle Speed Adjustment Screw
18

MAINTENANCE
ENGINE OIL
The engine crankcase is filled with ship-away oil.
This oil may be used for the first 5 hours of engine
operation at temperatures between 0 degrees F and
90 degrees F, If temperatures are not within this
range, drain the oil from the oil filter and crankcase
and replace with new oil as specified in the "LUBRI¬
CATION TABLE."
To aid starting, the selection of crankcase lubricating
oils should be based on the lowest anticipated tem¬
peratures until the next drain period.
Cub Cadet Low Ash Engine Oil meeting API Service
Classification SF is recommended. For maximum
engine life select API SF oils with lowest levels of
barium, calcium, or magnesium additives and
minimum ash content (approximately 0.5%). Lubri¬
cant suppliers will normally furnish this information on
their engine oils.
For oil change Inten/als of 50 hours the following oils
are recommended.
32®F and above — Cub Cadet Low Ash Engine Oil
S.A.E.-30.
O^F to 32®F — Cub Cadet Low Ash Engine Oil S.A.E.
10W-30.
Below 0®F — S.A.E. 5W-20 or S.A.E. 5W-30.
For other approved oils refer to lubrication table.
■ ^NOTE
For temperatures above 32®F a multi-
viscosity oil 10W-30 or 10W-40 can be used.
When either of these oils is used, the oil
change interval increases to every 25 hours.
Regularly check the oil level of the engine
crankcase to see that it is filled to the correct
level. Always keep the oil level between the
"FULL" and the "LOW" marks on the dip¬
stick. When checking the oil lever the dip¬
stick must be withdrawn and wiped clean,
then inserted all the way and withdrawn for a
true reading.
Check the oil level only while the engine is
stopped and tractor is level.
During initial break-in period the engine oil
level should be checked frequently.
FILLING THE CRANKCASE
To fill the crankcase with oil, place the tractor on a
level surface. Clean the area around the oil fill tube
and dipstick to prevent debris from entering the
crankcase. Remove the oil fill cap and slowly pour 3
pints of oil into the crankcase. Replace the oil fill cap.
The 18-HP and 20-HP Kohler engine is equipped with
a remote oil filter; it is necessary to run the unit for
approximately one minute to allow the oil to fill the
filter and oil lines. After stopping the engine remove
oil fill cap and add the remaining 14 ounces of oil.
pouring slowly, (Engine oil capacity — 3 pints 14
ounces.) When checking the oil level, push the dip¬
stick assembly firmly but slowly until cap bottoms on
tube. DO NOT OVERFILL. Dipstick assembly MUST
BE PUSHED FULLY INTO TUBE AT ALL TIMES
WHEN ENGINE IS OPERATING.
■ I^NOTE
Never overfill the engine crankcase. Engine
may overheat and/or damage may result if
the crankcase is below the "LOW" mark or
over the "FULL" mark.
OIL FILTER
The oil filter is located behind the right side panel and
is mounted to the fire wall. (See Figure 25.) The oil
filter should be changed every oil change interval.
The filters can be obtained through your Cub Cadet
dealer under Pari Number KH-52-050-02; this is the
only approved filler due to the pressure specifications
required for the 18-HP and 20-HP engine.
1. Oil Filter
2. Fire Wall
19

AIR CLEANER
Servicing Foam Pre-Cleaner Element
Clean and re-oil foam pre-cleaner element at 1 month
intervals or every 10 hours, whichever occurs first.
■ ^NOTE
Service more often under dusty conditions.
1 . Remove wing nut and cover (See Figure 26.)
2 . Remove foam pre-cleaner element by sliding it
up off the paper cartridge.
A. Wash pre-cleaner element in liquid deter¬
gent and water.
B. Squeeze dry In cloth.
C. Saturate in engine oil. Squeeze to distrib¬
ute oil evenly.
D. Wrap in shop towel and squeeze to
remove excess oil.
Discard used element and replace with new one at
least once a year.
Figure 26. Air Cleaner Assembly
1. Wing Nut 5. Paper Cartridge
2. Cover 6. Foam Pre-Cleaner
3. Rubber Tube Element
4. Cover Plate 7. Base Backplate
SERVICING PAPER CARTRIDGE
This engine is equipped with a dry type air cleaner
element, which should be checked every 100 operat¬
ing hours and replaced if dirty. It should be checked
and if necessary replaced more often under
extremely dirty, dusty conditions. Do not wash ele¬
ment in any liquid or attempt to blow dirt off with air
hose as this will puncture filter element. Carefully
handle new element — do no! use if gasket surfaces
are bent or twisted. Check the following when instal¬
ling a new element: (See Figure 26.)
1 . Backplate must be flat on gasket of carburetor
elbow. Replace backplate if bent or cracked.
2 . Gasket surfaces of element must be flat against
backplate and covered to seal effectively.
3. Seal on cover must be in place to reduce noise
and vibration of the cover. Vibration can cause
stud hole In cover to enlarge, thus permitting dirt
to enter carburetor.
4. Wing nuts must be finger tight — do not over¬
tighten.
Properly cleaned and Installed air cleaner elements
are the best guarantee to continued long and satisfac¬
tory engine life.
CLEANING ENGINE
This tractor has an air-cooled engine. Air must be
able to circulate freely around the engine, through the
screen, shroud, and over the fins of the cylinder head
and cylinder block. Keep these areas free of accu¬
mulated dirt and trash or engine will overheat and
result in damaged moving parts. Periodically clean
the inside of the side panels and grille for adequate
cooling.
■ i^NOTE
This machine is designed to cool properly
with the engine side panels in place. Oper¬
ating the machine without panels in place
may result in inadequate cooling.
SPARK PLUGS
WARNING
To avoid possible injury, be sure engine is
off and cool before making any adjustment
or repairs.
■ ^NOTE
Remove all dirt from around the spark plugs
before removing.
20