is a flashing “OIL” at each recommended engine oil and filter change. Reset after hour.

C.Initial Adjustments

1.Check the fluid levels and tires:

Note: These checks should be made daily, before starting the engine.

a.Fuel: Using a good grade of unleaded, regular gasoline (for a gasoline engine), fill the fuel tank. When the fuel reaches one inch from the top of the tank, stop. DO NOT OVERFILL. Space must be left for expansion.

b.Engine Oil: (Filled at the factory before shipment.) Pull out the oil dipstick, wipe it off and reinsert it. Pull it out again and read the oil level. If it is below the operating range, add oil through the fill tube using a funnel to bring it up to the top of the operat- ing range.

Note: Gasoline Engine: Use SAE 10W30 or SAE 10W40 engine oil, rated for service SJ.

c.Hydraulic Oil: (Filled at the factory before shipment.) The hydraulic oil tank is located beneath the operator’s seat. Always wipe off the area around the oil tank fill neck before checking the oil level to prevent dirt from contaminating the oil. Remove the cap and make sure the oil level is up to the lowest hole on the oil tank fill neck. The top hole is for venting. If the oil level is low, fill with a good grade of SAE20W-50 oil.

d.Tires: 8-10 psi Rear, 20-25 psi Front Caster Tires

Note: New tires are overinflated in order to

properly seat the bead to the rim. The normal working pressure for the traction tires is 8-10 psi. The front caster wheels should be inflated to 20-25 psi.

2.Check that all Nuts, Bolts and Screws are Tight.

3.Check the tension of the deck drive belts.

a.Remove the deck cover

b.The tension of the deck drive belts are maintained by a spring mechanism that adjusts for wear and stretch.

c.Examine the belts for cuts, fraying, and excessive wear. Replace if any of these are detected.

d.Replace the deck cover.

4.Adjust the Mowing Deck: The cutting height is set anywhere in the range of 1-1/2" to 4". You may need to adjust the mowing deck to achieve the proper angle for mowing. Follow

the procedures below to set the appropriate angle to the mowing deck.

a.Park the mower on a flat paved surface, engage the parking brake, shut off the engine, remove the key from the ignition switch, remove connection of the spark plugs and using the transport lever, lower the mowing deck into the cutting position.

b.Using a ruler, pencil and paper, measure and note the distance from the paved sur- face to the bottom edge of the mowing blade at the front and the back of the deck on each side of the mower. (Four dimen- sions.)

Note: The front edge of the mowing deck should be 1/8"-1/4" below the rear edge of the deck so that the blades are cutting grass in only the front half of their circular path. This decreases friction and reduces the drive power required.

c.If the dimension at the front of the mowing deck is 1/8"-1/4" lower than the dimension at the rear of the deck on each side of the mower, do not adjust. If not, you will need to adjust the Deck Lift Spring Assist (See Figure 5). You may also need to adjust the Deck Links (See Figure 5).

Deck Lift Spring inner nut

Figure. 5

Deck Links

d.Lower the mower deck to the cutting posi- tion. With a wrench loosen the inner rear nut on the Deck Lift Spring Assist. To adjust the deck up or down, use a wrench and with a few turns, adjust clockwise or counter clockwise the outer rear nut of the Deck Lift Spring Assist. Repeat this proce- dure on the opposite side of the Mower. Once the deck is adjusted, retighten bolts.

e.With the deck still in the cutting position, adjust the Deck Links. With a wrench loosen the top inner bolt of the Deck Link. To adjust the side of the deck up or down turn the top bolt clockwise or counter

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Cub Cadet 18HP service manual Initial Adjustments, Check the fluid levels and tires
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18HP specifications

The Cub Cadet 18HP is a robust and versatile garden tractor designed to meet the demanding needs of homeowners and landscaping professionals alike. This machine packs a powerful engine, advanced features, and user-friendly technologies that make lawn care and garden maintenance an efficient and enjoyable experience.

At the heart of the Cub Cadet 18HP is a high-performance 18 horsepower Kohler engine. This engine is engineered for reliability and effectiveness in a variety of mowing and hauling tasks. With a smooth and powerful operation, it efficiently tackles tough grass and uneven terrain, ensuring a pristine cut every time. The engine's two-cylinder design contributes to reduced vibrations and improved fuel efficiency, making it not only powerful but also economical to operate.

One of the standout features of the Cub Cadet 18HP is its innovative Cub Cadet signature cutting deck. The tractor is equipped with a 42-inch or 50-inch cutting deck, meticulously designed for superior grass cutting and discharge. This cutting system features twin blades that deliver an exceptional cut quality while reducing clumping and providing optimal air flow. The adjustable cutting height allows users to customize the grass length to their preference, ensuring a well-manicured lawn.

Incorporating advancements in technology, the Cub Cadet 18HP is equipped with a hydrostatic transmission. This feature provides smooth and effortless speed control, allowing homeowners to easily navigate around their properties without the need for constant gear shifting. Whether tackling inclines or navigating tight spaces, the hydrostatic transmission ensures maximum control and maneuverability.

Comfort is also a priority with the Cub Cadet 18HP. The tractor boasts a spacious, ergonomically designed seat that offers excellent support during extended use. Additionally, the easy-to-reach controls and cup holder enhance the overall user experience. Built-in headlights provide visibility for early morning or late evening mowing sessions, ensuring that users can work with ease at any time of day.

For those looking to expand the functionality of their tractor, the Cub Cadet 18HP supports a variety of attachments. From baggers to snow blades and tillers, this versatility allows users to tackle different tasks throughout the seasons, making it a true all-in-one gardening solution.

In summary, the Cub Cadet 18HP stands out in its category for its powerful engine, innovative cutting deck, hydrostatic transmission, and user-centric design. This garden tractor promises durability and efficiency, making it an indispensable tool for anyone serious about lawn care. Whether you are a weekend warrior or a landscaping professional, the Cub Cadet 18HP is built to handle the job with ease and reliability.
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