Cub Cadet 125

jb9959 · May 1, 2017

I was mowing with my CC 125 yesterday and everything was going great. I parked it overnight and continued with my mowing this morning. After about 10 minutes, I noticed the engine starting to slow down for no apparent reason. I slowed the engine down just a tad then increased the speed to mowing rpms. Then came the "clank" engine died with a broken rod. What Happened? I have used this tractor for more than 6 years and never had a problem???

T.R.K. · May 1, 2017

Have you ever found the engine oil low? Perhaps not today, but maybe last fall?

Usually the rod fails because the crankpin bearing loses lubrication. It overheats and the aluminum welds to the crank. Then it breaks the rod.
Sometimes the aluminum begins to transfer a while before the rod lets go. I can recall taking apart a Tecumseh that had aluminum all over the crank, but the rod hadn't broken yet.

also, it is possible the dipper broke off the rod. Then the rod breaks from lack of lubrication. If it happened in that order, the dipper will probably be a much lighter color than the big end of the rod.

R Bedell · May 2, 2017

jb9959:

The 125 was built from 1967 to 1969. Thus making this tractor, 50 years old.

The aluminum connecting rod, under extreme conditions (past or present), "can" become fatigued overtime, and simply break or let go.

Considering the age, it is time for a rebuild.

ray hofstetter · May 2, 2017

Jeez,,,,don't say that - my Kohler is 43
years old....

Cub Cadet 125

jb9959

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T.R.K.

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R Bedell

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ray hofstetter

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