What's it worth?
 

So I've got cub fever pretty bad and I've saved some cash lately and I'm wanting an original. What would be a fair price for one in not-perfect shape, with a mower deck and a 10 hp, rather than a 7 hp? Also, it has no lights or fenders. the ad said it runs and is used to mow. Any advice is appreciated!!!!

It all depends how bad you want it.
Here in WI and the real "world" couple hundred bucks at best. Price could be better, or even less pending on the time it was built.
I've personally paid $50 for a complete non running tractor, that I had going in a couple hours. $125 for the one I "restored", $100 for another complete non running one with snowthrower...
You get the picture, if the sellers price is more than you want to spend, walk on to the next one...

I believe Cub Cadet Originals are worth more with their original engines or the replacement 8 hp engines. The 7/8 hp engines had more than enough power to do anything that would be expected from an "O"

It is difficult at best, to put a 10 hp engine in an Original. The 10 hp engines and fuel tanks are much taller than the 7/8 hp engines and the gas tank mounting or hood is normally butchered in the process. Please understand that I have seen pictures of Originals with 10 hp engines installed that did look alright, but that is very much the exception rather than the rule.

"In not-perfect shape" can mean many things, pictures would be most helpful.

I'm pretty sure I would steer clear of an "O" with a 10 hp engine, unless it was VERY well done or I needed it for parts. If this were my first "O", I would wait patiently for a nicer one to come along. Don't let this guy take your money just because you're antsy for a classic piece of American history, there are A LOT of pretty nice Originals out there for a reasonable price.

Good luck to you.

Another concern with the heavier engine might be the frame where they tend to crack at the rear.

If it runs, mows, and looks half decent it may be worth buying but without the original engine its not worth much, especially if anything has been butchered. The condition of the tires needs to be considered also because new ones could cost more than the tractor is worth.

Big question is 'How bad do you want one'

IMO... they are cute little tractors that are too small and light to do anything very well, more of a novelty toy than machine with a purpose. If your looking for a toy project fine, but if you need a lawn mower you should find something more modern with readily available parts.

Thanks everyone for your input. I will probably just wait for another "o" because I don't want to chance something being mangled on it. There's only one picture on the listing, so it kinda makes you wonder why :bigthink: I live in the Chicago area if anyone comes across a decent "o". Alos, I would like to add in the fact that the seller wants 500 dollars for it. In myh opinion, its only with 200 at most

I would let that guy sit on that one. Offer the 200 in a couple of weeks
He's not going to sell that for 500(at least I wouldn't give that for it)

yeah I know. Its been there for quite some time so I'm thinking I'll offer 200 later on. I'm only 13, so this is my spring break and this is "cub week" at my house with me and my dad. Mom isn't exactly jumping up and down excited LOL

$200 might be stretchin it a little on that one, doesnt look like a well cared for machine, he might have just splashed some paint on it to dump it.

Be patient with your search. You live in a very good area for Cub Cadets. Illinois was blessed with IH dealers in the '60-'80s so there a lot of Cubs floating around in our state.
I live 200 miles south of Chicago and in this area you can find about any model Cub. Just be patient, I'm sure a tractor will find you!