This is my stock answer for trunnion problems.
If you have or suspect that you have trunnion problems with your Cub Cadet hydro, start by going here.
http://cubfaq.com/hydrolurch.html
And then here.
http://cubfaq.com/trunionrepair.html
More information here.
http://www.onlycubcadets.net/forum/s...ead.php?t=4635
There is a lot of good debate here.
http://www.onlycubcadets.net/forum/s...ead.php?t=5495
After you have fixed your trunnion your forward-reverse lever and foot pedal may be out of wack, so go here.
http://cubfaq.com/neutraladjust.html
Personally, I see no need to add extra metal pieces to the square hole, unless the ends are worn crooked. I have never had this problem with any that I have fixed. So I simply weld the slots in the corners and then file them back square again.
I think someone said one of my links is dead, I don't know for sure, haven't checked them in awhile.
It also sounds like you may need to adjust the friction on the lever under the dash, I believe you can find that information in your repair manual.
Good Luck.