question update

Question- I have heard that Kohler has two grades of engine. One is called command, can't remember the other. Not for me, neighbor is looking at a New Cub Cadet.
Update- JD LT180 transaxle.
Tom Arnold is right, there are a few differences in the basic Tuff Torq K46, but nothing that can't be overcome.
As luck would have it, the one that came in the box was for MTD. JD uses a square key in the wheel hub, MTD uses double flats, aka double D, in the hub. Quick trip to machine shop took care of that.
Other differences were minor. Bolt in end of axle instead of snap ring to hold wheel on, use old fan, adjust brake pedal link. Everything else fits good.
Took it for a test drive this week. Can pop wheelies, climb road ditch bank, pulls estate rake easy.
Tractor is a 2002 model, has just over 600 hours, original trans lasted 12 years. I'm a 1940 model, so if it lasts another 12 years it will out last me.
Thanks to all who offered advise on this project.
To make easier working, I put it up on trailer, took off rearmounted gas tank. Could work sitting on a low stool instead of lying on my back, & had access through frame to linkage on top of trans, etc.
Willie

The other engine is a courage. The early one in the early 2010 range were REAL JUNK. Had a bad habit of the cylinder trys to pull away from the crank case! Nice big crack down the side of the block. Also could throw the cylinder hear into the front headlites!

Thanks for posting the update Wilie and I am happy that it all worked out for you. Everyone's situation is different and we all have to do whatever it takes to get to the end result for a reasonable price.

My condolences to your friend that is buying the new Cub Cadet. LOL


Kohler makes a wide variety of gasoline engines ranging from the water-cooled Aegis to the air cooled Command Pro, the Courage Pro, the Courage, the 2000, 3000 and 7000 Series, the Confidant and the XT Series. Kohler also builds four different diesel engines - water cooled and air cooled.

Premium quality outdoor power equipment usually have the top tier engines in them. But tractors such as the ones bearing the Cub Cadet nameplate use engines with much shorter life expectancy because the finished product must compete in a certain price bracket.

Once upon a time, when the name Cub Cadet stood for a quality garden tractor made by International Harvester, only top tier engines were under the hood. Today....... there is no such thing as a Cub Cadet garden tractor. All that is left is the brand name with the yellow and ivory signature paint.