1320 Hydrostat Weak Reverse

[npalen]

I'm guessing that by reading the forum my problem is the reverse valve. The hydro is strong going forward but can't back up an incline.
This tractor is new to me so wondering how to pull the sheet metal off to expose the hydro. Do the running boards need to come off along with all the rear sheet metal? Thanks.

 

[jstertz]

The "easiest" way with those lawn mowers is to remove the deck, remove the drive belt, disconnect the brake and drive linkage, there is either one or two bolts holding a vertical bracket off the front of the hydro to a bracket across the frame rails, and then the four nuts and washers on the ubolts on each axle tube. Then you can lift and support the tractor and remove the entire rear end to work on it. Good luck with the repair.

 

[jstertz]

One thing I should say though is to make sure that you have enough rearward travel on the arm that goes up into the transaxle. You may want take the locknuts loose, overcompensate the adjustment to the rear, then try it. If it gives you the same result, you very likely have an issue with a valve or else something internally.

If that is the case, you may be better like I've done, to hunt for a similar tractor that has a good transaxle but a blown motor and switch in that rear end. Just my .02

 

[npalen]

Thanks, guys. Will first try changing the adjustment to increase the rearward travel as that sounds like the easiest.

 

[npalen]

Assuming that changing the adjustment to provide "more reverse", I'm wondering how then to re-adjust the neutral position for the hydrostat.

 

[npalen]

I changed the hydrostat input adjustment to put more throw to the reverse side. This resulted in having plenty of power in reverse but reduced the maximum forward speed. It also displaces the neutral position on the speed control lever which stands to reason. I can live with that but wonder if there isn't another adjustment in the control linkage that would realign the neutral position?

 

[jstertz]

Nelson--someone else may have a better idea than I but I would say adjust it to the rearward position only as far as you need it to travel to achieve the desired rearward speed/power. Then with that locked in on the lower Rod, you should be able to adjust the upper shift Rod to bring the neutral adjustment corresponding with the handle on the dash...

 

[npalen]

Thanks, I will do that. Wasn't sure if there was a second adjustment but will see if I can find it.
It's very apparent that the later models of lawn and garden tractors in general are designed for looks and not ease of service. Quite a challenge just to find adjustments and then getting to them is another.

 

[jstertz]

That series of little lawn tractors wasn't build to service a whole lot, that is for sure. However, having had some seat time on several different models. I'd take one of those over a new "throw away" Chinese made lawn tractor any day. Good luck and keep us posted!

 

[mhomrighausen]

Joshua S. You're correct when saying those little tractors aren't meant to do much more than light duty work. I stay away from those transmissions. I can't remember if they were a Japanese made transmission or not.

 

[jstertz]

Marlin--you said it brother

 

[npalen]

Would anyone know the make and model number of the hydrostat used in the 1320? I'm guessing Sunstrand but also know there was at least one other make. Would like to "read up" on it.
Thanks

 

[digger]

Nelson P.
You guessed correctly!

 

[npalen]

http://cubcadet.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/1722/~/cub-cadet-professional-shop-manuals

Any idea which one of those listed at the bottom of this page?

 

[digger]

I know for sure, your gonna have to pull the numbers off the tag on it.
It should be right under the front shaft.

 

[npalen]

Will do. I did get the hydro working well in forward and reverse. I bought the little cub just for pulling the fertilizer spreader but am amazed at how fun it is to mow with.
The closest lawn tractor to it that I've had was a Case 446.

 

[jstertz]

Nelson--my buddy has one that he has his wife and kids mow with in the tight areas around his property. He got it from the original owner free with a broken transaxle. We swapped out a functioning one from a parts tractor and got him back rolling. They are fun little tractors. HOWEVER, let me just say that if you picked up a 100 or a 125 or a 149 garden tractor Cub, you'd really be hooked! If you think that is fun, just try the big brother! I'm glad it is working out for you and you are enjoying it. The "big wheel" Case GT's are really impressive. My cousin has a collection of them. They are really sweet. Do you still have yours or did you sell it?

 

[npalen]

I sold the Case 446 several years ago. It had a hydraulic dozer on the front and Brinley backhoe on the rear.

 

[jstertz]

Sounds pretty cool!
Welcome to the Cub fraternity! Be careful though, these little yellow and white (sometimes Red) machines are very addictive. I started out with one about six years ago and have owned nearly two dozen since then. I have six in my "permanent" collection but that is much smaller than most on this site! Have fun with your little Cub and post a couple pics in this thread of you using it sometime. That is what Cubs are built for--work. I'm glad you found us...

 

[ecaye]

Can I hear some opinions on the 2185 mtd cub cadet?
Thanks