Looking at a 123 have questions

[sd38-2]

Im going this week to look at a 123 hydro. Tractor is running and is in good condition, an older restoration. This will be my first time looking at a hydro cub, what should i look out for on a 123? Ive only owned a 104 so the hydro is new to me. Any advice and tips are very appriciated.

[cubby102]

Really the only thing on the narrow frames is the steering linkage on the spindle and check to see if it stays in neutral when u push down on the brake pedal. If it dosnt could be a worn trunion or need adjusting

[Cub Cadet 123]

The 123 is a very solid and reliable cub cadet....also, the first of they hydrostatic drives! To add to what was already stated by Cubby102, it might also be prudent for you to ask about how often the hydrostat was serviced (like when was the last time the filter and fluid was changed?). Not that it really matters because most guys will change that out when they get the cub since they do not know the past history of it, but it never hurts to ask to get a feel for how the cub was taken care of if there is any doubt in your mind.

Looking forward to seeing your pics if and when you get it. I think you will really like the versatility of the hydrostatic drive.

Cub Cadet 123

[Terry C]

I can't think of any other things to look at than what has been mentioned.
Maybe look underneath by the filter for excessive leaking, which could be a cork seal or leaking release valve. Neither of these would keep me from buying one just something to use when bargaining with the owner.
If this is your first hydro you will be spoiled. The forward/reverse lever is a manly device which was only used on a 123. On later models the lever is like a door handle from a car

[sd38-2]

Thanks for the input! Ill be going to look at the 123 saturday, im excited about it. Now i see why alot of you guys have more than one cub!

Now how is it plowing snow with a hydro tractor?

[olds45512]

Originally Posted by sd38-2

Now how is it plowing snow with a hydro tractor?

That's gonna bring out all the hydro fan boys, I can hear it now.

[Jeff in Pa]

Originally Posted by sd38-2

Thanks for the input! Ill be going to look at the 123 saturday, im excited about it. Now i see why alot of you guys have more than one cub!

Now how is it plowing snow with a hydro tractor?

Here's my 125 with my QA-42

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tfWy8jbj_GY

It works quite well

[Jeff in Pa]

Originally Posted by olds45512

That's gonna bring out all the hydro fan boys, I can hear it now.

Well, if you want to do it right ........

[Yosemite Sam]

I used one of my 123's to push snow with for several years... The only thing better is a hydro with a hydraulic lift.

[zippy1]

Originally Posted by sd38-2

Now how is it plowing snow with a hydro tractor?

Picture this if you will.
No clutching, shifting gears. Just grab a handful of the motion lever and go
Unless you really like clutching and shifting, then it's really not good for plowing