CUB CADET 2165 (01) PDF Document

Always follow these safety rules when performing service on your CUB CADET 2165:

• To prevent accidental starting, always pull the high tension wire(s) off the spark plug(s) before servicing and/or adjusting the machine.

• To prevent injury, do not allow children or bystanders in the vicinity of the machine while it is being adjusted and/or serviced.

• Do not wear jewelry (rings, wrist watches, necklaces, etc.) or loose fitting clothing when working on machinery; they could catch on moving parts, causing serious injury. Wear sturdy, tough-soled work shoes. Never adjust and/or service a machine in bare feet, sandals or sneakers.

• Always wear safety glasses when using a hammer, chisel or other tools that may cause chips to fly.

• Be sure to reinstall all safety devices, guards or shields after adjusting and/or servicing the machine.

• When operating a power washer to clean a machine before servicing, be careful at all times to avoid injury. Maintain proper footing and balance at all times. Never direct the spray at people or animals, as high pressure spray can cause serious injury.

• Always use safety stands in conjunction with hydraulic jacks or hoists. Do not rely on the jack or hoist to carry the load; it could fail, causing serious injury and/or damage. Be sure jack stands are properly positioned to prevent tipping or rollover.

• When removing supporting components or disassembling machines, be sure to use safety stands and adequate supports to prevent tipping or rollover and to prevent components from falling.

• Use a safety catch on all hoist hooks. Do not take a chance, the load could slip off the hook.

• Use pullers to remove bearings, bushings, gears, sleeves, etc. when applicable. Use hammers, punches and chisels only when absolutely necessary. Then, be sure to wear safety glasses.

Gasoline is highly flammable. Observe the following precautions when handling gasoline for your CUB CADET 2165:

a. Use an approved gasoline container.

b. Never remove the fuel tank cap or fill the fuel tank when the engine is running, is hot, or is indoors. DO NOT SMOKE when working around flammable fuel.

c. Avoid fires — be sure container or funnel does not touch the battery. Do not overfill the fuel tank. Wipe up all spilled gasoline.

d. Replace fuel tank cap securely.

Specifications are subject to change without notice.

Proper activation of the battery will affect its life and performance. Failure to follow these steps can cause premature failure of the battery. Activate the battery with electrolyte as follows:

1. Remove the battery from the tractor and place on a work bench or table.

2. Fill each cell to the top of the plates with electrolyte.

3. Allow the battery to sit 30 minutes. This will allow the chemical action to take place between the electrolyte and battery plates. Note that when the battery is charged, the heat will cause expansion of the electrolyte.

4. Re-check the electrolyte level and, if necessary, add electrolyte to completely cover the plates.

5. Connect the charger to the battery per instructions with the charger. Charging the battery at more than the recommended 4 AMPS will shorten the service life of the battery, and may cause the plates to warp and short out the battery.

6. Charge the battery at 4 AMPS maximum until the specific gravity of each cell is 1.250 or higher.

7. Check the level of electrolyte in all cells and add, if necessary, to bring level up to split ring.

8. Wash off any spilled electrolyte.

9. Install the battery in the tractor and connect the POSITIVE battery cable to the positive terminal of the battery.

10. Connect the NEGATIVE battery cable to the negative terminal of the battery.

NOTE: Maintenance information for optional equipment may be found in the manual which is included with that specific piece of equipment.

If the battery on your CUB CADET 2165 will not hold a charge, several issues could be the cause.

Probable Cause: Low electrolyte level

Possible Solution:

Never use electrolyte to fill an operating battery. Plate separators will be destroyed.

• Use pure water and fill to level indicator or 1/2 inch above top of the plates.

Probable Cause: Electrolyte (specific gravity)

Possible Solution:

Test each cell and evaluate the condition.

• All readings even at 1.250 or above — Battery O.K.

• All readings even but less than 1.250 — Recharge and retest.

• High-low variation between cells less than 50 gravity points — Recharge and retest.

• High-low variation between cells exceeds 50 gravity points — Replace battery.

Probable Cause: Battery capacity

Possible Solution:

Test capacity and evaluate condition.

• Minimum voltage of 10.5 volts measured across battery terminals.

• Recharge battery for 10 minutes at a 25 amp charge rate, measure for an increase in voltage across terminals. If voltage increases — Recharge battery at recommended 4 amp charge rate. If no increase — Replace battery.

If the battery on your CUB CADET 2165 is not charging, check the following:

Probable Cause: Charge system not operating

Possible Solutions:

• With ignition switch in ON position, check for battery voltage at charge terminal of regulator. If no voltage, check wire harness for broken wires or connections.

• If battery voltage is present at regulator, start the engine and check charging voltage from output terminal of regulator (12.5 to 14.5 VDC). If voltage is low, check engine stator output (24 VAC minimum).

If the battery on your CUB CADET 2165 is boiling over, it may be due to the following:

Probable Cause: Battery overfilled or charging system overcharging

Possible Solutions:

• Adjust electrolyte level.

• Check voltage regulator output.

If your CUB CADET 2165’s engine cranks but won’t start, perform the following checks:

Probable Cause: Defective ignition module (cont.)

Possible Solutions:

• If no spark, remove yellow wire from connector block where tractor harness and engine harness connect. Crank engine.

• If still no spark, refer to engine service manual for ignition module testing and replacement.

Probable Cause: Grounded yellow wires or defective safety switches.

Possible Solution:

• If engine has spark, ignition module is O.K. Test tractor harness and switches for proper operation.

Probable Cause: Engine not getting fuel.

Possible Solutions:

• Check fuel tank for fuel.

• Check fuel flow to filter. If no flow, check tank and fuel lines for obstructions or kinks.

• Check fuel flow through filter. If no flow, replace clogged filter.

• Check operation of fuel pump as follows:

a. Disconnect carburetor fuel line at fuel pump.

b. Attach a test length of fuel line to the fuel pump and position over an appropriate container.

c. Start engine and check for a steady stream of fuel from the test line.

• If steady flow is present, refer to engine service manual.

• If fuel flow is weak, check engine vacuum. Refer to engine service manual if below specifications.

• If vacuum is to specifications, replace the fuel pump.

Probable Cause: Carburetor fuel solenoid not operating (Models 2165).

Possible Solutions:

• With ignition in start position, test for battery voltage at the carburetor fuel solenoid.

• Models 2165 – If no voltage, check continuity of diode assembly.

• If voltage is present – remove and check solenoid.

If the engine on your CUB CADET 2165 shuts down unexpectedly during operation, consider the following causes and solutions:

Probable Cause: Defective ignition module, grounded yellow wire, or defective safety switch.

Possible Solutions:

• Remove yellow wire from connector block where tractor harness and engine harness connect. Crank engine. If engine starts, ignition module is O.K. Test tractor harness and switches for proper operation. See Electrical Circuit Troubleshooting.

• If no spark, refer to engine service manual for ignition module testing and replacement.

If the engine on your CUB CADET 2165 is cranking slowly, the most likely cause is a poor engine ground. Check the engine ground cable from the negative terminal of the battery to the engine crankcase.

If the engine on your CUB CADET 2165 fails to crank, investigate the following possibilities:

Probable Cause: PTO switch in ON position or brake pedal NOT fully depressed.

Possible Solution: Turn PTO switch OFF and fully depress brake pedal.

Probable Cause: Low battery voltage.

Possible Solution: Refer to Battery Troubleshooting.

Probable Cause: Starter not being activated due to one or more of the following: Loose connections or broken wire in tractor wire harness, loose or broken wires in Engine wire harness, inoperative switches, defective solenoid, defective starting motor.

Possible Solutions:

• Check battery cable connection at solenoid for battery voltage. If no voltage, check connections.

• With ignition switch in start position, check for battery voltage through the activator wire (small red wire) at the solenoid.

• If no voltage, inspect the wire harness for loose or broken connections. Check operation of interlock (pedal switch), PTO, and ignition switches.

• If voltage is present, check solenoid to starter cable lead for battery voltage. If no voltage, replace solenoid. If voltage is present, refer to engine service manual for starter inspection procedures.

Probable Cause: Drive line or PTO clutch lockup.

Possible Solution: Disconnect drive shaft and test engine. If engine cranks, inspect drive shaft and transaxle. Remove PTO and test engine. If engine cranks inspect PTO.

If the electric PTO on your CUB CADET 2165 is not engaging, follow these troubleshooting steps:

Probable Cause: Low battery voltage.

Possible Solution: Refer to Battery Troubleshooting.

Probable Cause: No voltage to PTO.

Possible Solution: Test for battery voltage in red wire at PTO connector. If no voltage, check for blown fuses or loose/broken connections in red wire to PTO. If voltage is present, proceed to next test.

Probable Cause: Open circuit in PTO field coil.

Possible Solution: Disconnect PTO connector. Using an ohmmeter, measure resistance of field coil. For CUB CADET 2165, it should be 2.4 to 3.4 ohms. If measurements are not within specifications, the field coil is defective.

Probable Cause: No continuity through blue wire.

Possible Solution: Test for battery voltage in blue wire connection at PTO switch. If no voltage, check wire. If voltage is present, proceed to next test.

Probable Cause: Defective PTO switch.

Possible Solution: Disconnect wire harness and test continuity of PTO switch per Appendix C (C-3.2). If switch is OK, proceed to next test.

Probable Cause: Defective reverse relay.

Possible Solution: Unplug the relay from wire harness and test for proper operation per Appendix C (C-3.3). If relay is OK, proceed to next test.

Probable Cause: PTO safety circuit not operating correctly.

Possible Solution: Test safety circuit as follows:

• Using an ohmmeter, test continuity of brown wire between the coil terminal of the relay and the PTO switch terminal (7). If NO continuity, check wire and connections. If OK, proceed to next test.

• Using an ohmmeter, test continuity of brown wire between the coil terminal of the relay and the contact pin terminal of the relay. If NO continuity, check wire and connections. If OK, proceed to next test.

• With ignition switch in the RUN position, test for battery voltage in the white wire at the reverse relay. If voltage is present, PTO circuit is OK. If no voltage, proceed to next test.

• With ignition switch in the RUN position, test for battery voltage in the red wire at the reverse switch. If voltage is present, the reverse switch is not operating correctly. If no voltage, check red wire and connections between reverse switch and ignition switch.

If the PTO on your CUB CADET 2165 has engagement issues, consider these causes:

Probable Cause: Air gap of PTO out of adjustment.

Possible Solution: For CUB CADET 2165, adjust air gap to 0.012-0.017 in. and retest. If problem persists, inspect the clutch assembly per paragraph 5-7.4.

Probable Cause: Low battery voltage.

Possible Solution: Refer to Battery Troubleshooting.

Probable Cause: Defective PTO bearings.

Possible Solution: Inspect PTO clutch per paragraph 5-6.4 or 5-7.4.

If the PTO clutch engages on its own, it could be due to the following reasons:

Probable Cause: PTO bearing seized.

Possible Solution: Inspect PTO clutch per paragraph 5-6.4 or 5-7.4. If bearings are OK, proceed to next test.

Probable Cause: Blue wire in PTO circuit grounding.

Possible Solution: TURN ENGINE OFF BEFORE PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING PROCEDURE. Remove blue wire from wire harness connection at PTO and PTO switch. Then test for continuity to ground. Continuity should NOT be present. If no continuity, proceed to next test.

Probable Cause: PTO field coil grounding through PTO housing.

Possible Solution: TURN IGNITION SWITCH TO THE OFF POSITION BEFORE PERFORMING THE FOLLOWING PROCEDURE. Remove blue wire from wire harness connector at PTO clutch. While turning the ignition switch to the ON position, listen for the audible click of clutch engaging. If PTO engages, field coil is defective.

If your CUB CADET 2165 tractor with a hydrostatic transaxle will not move in forward or reverse, check the following:

Probable Cause: Parking brake engaged.

Possible Solution: Disengage parking brake.

Probable Cause: Hydro disengagement rod locked in disengage position.

Possible Solution: Release disengagement rod from notch of drawbar plate.

Probable Cause: Hydro transmission not being actuated.

Possible Solutions:

• Hydro adjustment rod disconnected from clutch cam on clutch shaft, or from control arm on hydro transmission. Connect adjustment rod.

• Set screw securing control arm to hydro transmission is loose. Reposition control arm and tighten set screw.

Probable Cause: Bypass valve stuck or jammed in the engaged position.

Possible Solution: Actuate valve button to ensure smooth operation, then check that button extends approximately 0.22 in. from bottom of plug.

Probable Cause: Hydro transmission not primed with oil.

Possible Solutions:

• Check oil level in transaxle.

• Inspect pickup tube and tighten tube fittings to prevent suction of air.

• Remove and inspect oil filter and filter nipple. Replace plugged oil filter. Ensure nipple is not blocking oil passage of transaxle.

• Remove charge pump and inspect for damage or excessive wear.

Probable Cause: Extensive internal wear or damage to hydro transmission.

Possible Solution: Rebuild or replace hydro transmission.

Probable Cause: Drive collar disengaged inside transaxle.

Possible Solutions:

• Make certain hydro dump arm is securely fastened to shift yoke of transaxle.

• Pull arm rearward to ensure good spring tension against drive collar. If no tension is felt, disassemble transaxle and inspect compression spring.

• If tension is felt, release the dump arm while rocking the tractor forward or backward. Feel for drive collar to engage gear inside transaxle (tractor should stop abruptly). If drive collar does not engage, disassemble transaxle.

If your CUB CADET 2165 tractor will not reach its normal operating speed, consider these possible causes:

Probable Cause: Low engine RPM.

Possible Solution: Move throttle control lever to full throttle position. Check and, if necessary, adjust top no load engine speed to specifications (Usually 3500-3600 RPM).

Probable Cause: Improper brake adjustment or operation causing drag on transmission.

Possible Solutions:

• Check for too tightly adjusted brake rod — Readjust brake rod.

• Damaged, weak or missing brake return spring — Replace spring.

• Corroded or damaged brake actuator seizing in brake plate — Repair or replace necessary components.

• Broken or damaged brake shoes or drum causing binding — Replace necessary components.

Probable Cause: Trunnion arm of hydro transmission not being fully actuated.

Possible Solutions:

• Hydro adjustment rod not correctly installed. Pivot sleeve on adjustment rod should be installed in lower hole of control arm. Ferrule on front end of rod should be installed in rear slotted hole of clutch cam.

• Hydro adjustment rod incorrectly adjusted — Readjust clutch rod.

• Hex flange lock nut on rear end of adjustment rod not completely tightened, causing loss of forward speed. Tighten nut fully against shoulder of rod.

• Set screw securing control arm to hydro transmission is loose, allowing slippage of control arm. Reposition control arm and tighten set screw.

• Damper cylinder restricting range of motion of pedal/clutch shaft. Test cylinder for full extension and retraction of piston. Replace if defective.

Probable Cause: Full input not being transmitted to hydro input shaft.

Possible Solution: Pump adapter loose on hydro input shaft. Tighten bell washer and hex lock nut.

Probable Cause: Check valves not properly seating.

Possible Solution: Inspect valve poppets and seats for foreign matter, burrs or wear. Repair as necessary.

Probable Cause: Cradle bearings displaced.

Possible Solution: Replace and reposition cradle bearings.

Probable Cause: Extensive internal wear or damage to hydro transmission.

Possible Solution: Rebuild or replace hydro transmission.

If your CUB CADET 2165 creeps when it should be in neutral, examine the following:

Probable Cause: Centering spacer not properly positioned on neutral bracket.

Possible Solution: Referring to Section 6 — Adjustments, adjust centering spacer so that hydro control arm is in neutral position.

Probable Cause: Hydro adjustment rod not properly adjusted.

Possible Solution: Readjust hydro rod. The hydro rod should be readjusted whenever the centering spacer is repositioned.

Probable Cause: Set screw securing control arm to hydro transmission is loose.

Possible Solution: Reposition control arm on hydro transmission and tighten set screw.

Probable Cause: Loss of tension or distortion in the neutral arm spring — preventing control arm from being consistently neutralized.

Possible Solution: Replace damaged spring. Correct spring is yellow dichromate plated.

Probable Cause: Surface interference in neutral return bracket of clutch shaft causing sluggish return to neutral.

Possible Solution: Remove material from the bottom surface of opening in neutral return bracket per Service Bulletin CC-292.

Probable Cause: Defective damper cylinder restricting normal rotation of pedal/clutch shaft.

Possible Solution: Fully extend and retract cylinder to test for return to static (neutral) length. Replace if defective.

Probable Cause: Swashplate leveler and/or leveler pin distorted.

Possible Solution: Repair or replace hydro transmission.

If the hydro transmission on your CUB CADET 2165 is sluggish or noisy under load, check these possibilities:

Probable Cause: Low engine RPM.

Possible Solution: Run tractor at full throttle.

Probable Cause: Hydro transmission is not being properly primed with oil, or oil is contaminated with water.

Possible Solutions:

• Check oil level in transaxle.

• Inspect pickup tube and tighten tube fittings to prevent suction of air.

• Remove and inspect oil filter and filter nipple. Replace plugged oil filter. Ensure nipple is not blocking oil passage of transaxle.

• Remove charge pump and inspect for damage or excessive wear.

1. Check for appearance of residual oil for foaming, indicating the suction of air.

2. Check for milky appearance, indicating water in oil. Drain and replace oil.

Probable Cause: Check valves not properly seating.

Possible Solution: Inspect valve poppets and seats for foreign matter, burrs or wear. Repair as necessary.

An overheating hydro unit on your CUB CADET 2165 can be caused by several factors:

Probable Cause: Low oil level.

Possible Solution: Fill to proper level.

Probable Cause: Broken or missing cooling fan blades.

Possible Solution: Replace cooling fan.

Probable Cause: Cooling fins on hydro housing dirty or plugged.

Possible Solution: Clean housing.

Probable Cause: Brake not fully releasing.

Possible Solution: Inspect brake assembly for proper operation and correctly adjust brake linkage.

Probable Cause: Excessive loading of tractor.

Possible Solution: Reduce load.

If the steering on your CUB CADET 2165 feels loose, check the following components:

Probable Cause: Worn ball joints.

Possible Solution: Replace ball joints.

Probable Cause: Excessive axle side play.

Possible Solution: Adjust limiter cap screws to eliminate play.

Probable Cause: Worn front pivot axle and/or steering knuckle assemblies caused by lack of lubrication.

Possible Solution: Replace excessively worn parts.

Probable Cause: Worn steering housing bearings caused by lack of lubrication.

Possible Solution: Replace worn bearings.

Probable Cause: Incorrect installation of steering shaft washers causing separation of pinion gear from segment gear and/or excessive steering shaft end play.

Possible Solutions:

• Ensure that single thrust washer (approx. 0.030 in.) is placed between pinion gear and steering housing assembly.

• Add washers as necessary to obtain the correct steering shaft end play.

Removal

1. Set the parking brake and remove the battery ground cable for safety.

2. Remove the side panels and the hood and grille assembly per paragraph 5-3.2.

3. Disconnect the electrical connection from the PTO clutch.

4. Remove the hex flange lock nuts securing the muffler to the tractor frame and remove the muffler.

5. Remove the PTO clutch assy. from the engine crankshaft by removing the hex cap screw, lock washer, and flat washer. Note the position of the electrical lead wires before removing the clutch assy.

6. Slide the spacer off the crankshaft. Note the position of the beveled I.D. of the spacer.

7. Remove the torque bracket by removing the hex cap screws and bell washers.

Disassembly

1. Remove the hex lock nuts and slide the armature assembly off the rotor and field coil studs.

2. Remove the compression springs from the field coil studs and separate the rotor from the field coil assy.

Inspection

1. Inspect all threaded areas for damage.

2. Inspect the armature assy. for excessive scoring or wear of the armature drive plate, bent/nicked/split pulley sheaves, distortion or excessive wear on the brake plate, and binding/looseness in the bearing.

3. Inspect the rotor drive surface for excessive wear or scoring.

4. Check the keyway of the rotor hub for damage or wear.

5. Inspect the field coil assy. for cracks or damage to the insulation of the coil windings and the electrical lead wires.

6. Inspect the compression springs for damage or distortion.

7. Check the torque bracket for wear or distortion.

Repair

1. Deburr and dress damaged threads.

2. Repair minor surface damage or corrosion with a fine honing stone or emery cloth.

3. Replace all damaged or worn parts.

Reassembly

1. Assemble the rotor onto the field coil assy, making certain the rotor hub is fully seated in the coil bearing.

2. Place the compression springs on the field coil studs and install the armature assy. onto the rotor and field coil. Secure with the hex lock nuts.

Installation

1. Install the torque bracket on the engine with the hex cap screws and bell washers. Slide the torque bracket to its highest position and snug the screws.

2. With the beveled I.D. toward the engine, slide the spacer onto the crankshaft.

3. Position the electrical lead as noted during removal and align the rotor key with the crankshaft keyway; then slide the PTO clutch assy. onto the crankshaft.

4. Secure the clutch assy. with the flat washer, lock washer, and hex cap screw. For Models 2165, torque the screw to 40-50 ft. lbs. For Model 2185, torque the screw to 50-60 ft. lbs.

5. Using a feeler gauge, adjust the air gap to .017 inch. Refer to Adjustments in Section 6 for a description of this procedure.

6. Adjust the torque bracket evenly against the top edge of the field coil back plate and tighten the cap screws.

7. Install the muffler and secure to the frame with the hex flange lock nuts.

8. Connect the main harness connector to the PTO clutch.

9. Install the hood and grille assembly and the side panels per paragraph 5-3.7.

Any time a new PTO clutch is put into service on your CUB CADET 2165, this procedure should be performed prior to operating the new clutch under load.

1. With the engine warm (run approximately 5 minutes) and the mower deck installed, proceed as follows:

2. With the engine running at approximately 50% throttle, engage and disengage the clutch at ten second intervals (ten seconds ON/ ten seconds OFF) five times. The engine choke may have to be pulled out slightly to accomplish this.

3. Increase the engine speed to 75% throttle and again engage and disengage the PTO clutch at ten second intervals five times.

4. Make certain the PTO is disengaged and stop the engine.

5. On Models 2165, recheck the PTO air gap and adjust if necessary per paragraph 6-4.

Disengage the PTO, stop the engine and engage the parking brake before adjusting the PTO clutch on your CUB CADET 2165. The PTO clutch may be hot.

1. Locate the three access slots which are equally spaced around the circumference of the armature brake plate.

2. Using a feeler gauge, measure the gap between the armature drive plate and the rotor at all three access slots. The air gap measurements should be equal and between .012 to .017 inch.

3. Loosen or tighten the self-locking nuts as necessary to achieve an equal air gap measurement within specification at all three locations. Re-measure each location after adjusting any of the self locking nuts.

The turning radius should be approximately equal in each direction, and the front wheels should have a toe-in of approximately 1/8 inch. Place the tractor on a firm and level surface and chock the rear wheels before beginning alignment procedures on your CUB CADET 2165.

1. Turn the steering wheel fully to the left and note the distance between the front pivot axle and the steering stop on the left steering knuckle.

2. Turn the steering wheel fully to the right and compare the distance between the axle and right steering knuckle stop with that of the left knuckle observed in the previous step. The clearances should be approximately equal.

3. If the steering knuckle clearances differ significantly, check the lower steering arm for proper positioning.

4. If the lower steering arm is correctly installed, re-adjust the tie rods and set the 1/8 inch toe-in as follows:

a. Remove the hex lock nuts from the tie rod assemblies from the arms.

b. Manually place each front wheel in the straight ahead position (as close as visually possible).

c. Place a mark at the same spot on both front wheels; for example, the mold seam in the center of the tire tread or the inner bead flange of the wheel rim.

d. Rotate the wheels to position the marks at the front horizontal diameter of the wheels, then measure the distance between the marks.

e. Rotate the marks to the rear horizontal diameter and measure the distance between the marks. The distance between the marks at the front should be 1/8 inch less than the distance measured at the rear.

f. If the difference between the measurements is more or less than 1/8 inch, move each wheel equally, in the direction necessary, to achieve the required toe-in dimension.

g. Loosen the hex jam nuts from the front ball joints, if necessary per NOTE below.

h. Turn the ball joint in or out on each tie rod, as necessary to align with the hole in each steering arm.

i. Reinstall the ball joints in the steering arms, but do not tighten the jam nuts against the ball joints now.

j. Remove the dowel pin from the segment gear, and repeat steps 1 and 2 above to ensure the steering knuckle clearances are approximately equal.

k. If the steering knuckle clearances are not approximately equal, determine the difference between the two measurements by subtracting the smaller from the larger.

l. Disconnect the tie rod assembly from the steering knuckle having the least clearance. Turn the ball joint (and tie rod if necessary) in full turn increments, shortening the assembly by an amount equal to half (or closest to half) the difference. Reinstall the tie rod assembly in the steering arm.

m. Disconnect the other tie rod assembly and lengthen by the number of full turns required in the previous step. Reinstall the tie rod assembly in the steering arm.

n. Tighten the hex jam nuts against the ball joints.

5. The turning radius and toe-in should now be correctly adjusted. Recheck and, if necessary, readjust per the previous instructions.

NOTE: Due to the form in the tie rods, the ball joints should be adjusted only in full turn increments. If adjustment requires two or more full turns, it is recommended that the adjustment be split between the front and rear ball joints.

Due to normal wear, the tractor brake system on your CUB CADET 2165 should be periodically tested for proper operation and adjusted as follows:

1. Place the tractor on a firm and level surface and stop the engine.

2. The following step applies to Models 2135, 2145, 2165 and 2185. Pull the hydro disengagement rod rearward and lock in the slot of the drawbar plate to disengage the hydro transmission.

3. Depress the brake pedal and engage the park brake lever. While observing the rear wheels, push the tractor forward or rearward. If the tractor can be pushed AND the wheels rotate, the brake tension must be increased.

4. Depress the brake pedal to disengage the park brake lever, then release the brake. While observing the rear wheels, push the tractor forward or rearward. If the wheels do not rotate, the brake tension must be decreased.

5. Release the brake pedal and adjust the brake tension as follows:

a. Working from underneath the tractor, remove the internal cotter pin from the adjustment ferrule and disconnect the brake rod assembly from the brake cam.

b. Lightly pull the brake rod forward to ensure the rod is fully seated in the spring and that the spring hook is at the front of the hole in the brake arm. DO NOT actuate the brake arm when pulling the rod.

c. Turning one full turn at a time, turn the adjustment ferrule inward or outward on the brake rod to align the ferrule with the hole in the brake cam.

d. Turn the ferrule outward one full turn and install the ferrule in the brake cam.

e. Depress and release the brake pedal, then check to ensure the spring is not tensioned. There should be a small amount of slack in the brake rod and spring.

f. Manually depress the brake pedal and observe that the spring begins to extend during the initial movement (approximately 1 inch) of the pedal.

g. Repeat steps 4 and 5 above to again test the brakes.

If able to rotate the wheels with the park brake engaged — check for oil on brake shoes, excessively worn brake shoes, or possible internal transaxle damage. If unable to push the tractor with the brake disengaged — check for possible brake assembly and/or internal transaxle damage.

The correct installation and adjustment of the hydro adjustment rod is essential to proper operation of the transmission. The adjustment ferrule must be in the REAR slotted hole of the clutch cam, and the pivot sleeve must be installed in the LOWER hole of the control arm.

1. Depress the brake pedal and engage the park brake.

2. Working from underneath the left frame channel of the tractor, remove the internal cotter pin, securing the pivot sleeve to the control arm. Disconnect the clutch adjustment rod from the control arm.

3. Ensure the adjustment ferrule is at the back of the proper slotted hole of the clutch cam. The extension spring should hold the ferrule against the back of the hole.

4. Without moving the clutch cam or control arm, check the pivot sleeve pin for direct alignment with the lower hole of the control arm. If not aligned, proceed as follows:

a. Loosen the hex jam nut from the front of the adjustment ferrule.

b. Turn the rod into, or out of, the adjustment ferrule as necessary to align the pivot sleeve with the hole in the control arm.

5. Install the pivot sleeve in the proper hole of the control arm and secure with the internal cotter pin.

6. Tighten the hex jam nut.

Incorrect neutral adjustment of the hydrostatic transmission will affect the output performance; most notably in reverse. If the tractor attempts to drive (creep) forward or rearward when neither the forward nor reverse pedal is depressed, neutral adjustment should be checked and readjusted.

1. Drive the tractor for approximately 5-10 minutes to warm up the hydro transmission, then stop the engine and engage the parking brake.

2. Place the tractor on a firm and level surface and chock the front wheels before raising the rear wheels from the ground. Use jack stands to support the rear of the tractor when raised. Raise the rear of the tractor so that the rear tires are at least one inch above the surface, and set it on jack stands.

3. Carefully start the tractor engine and release the parking brake. Observe both rear wheels for rotation in either direction.

4. If wheel rotation is observed, adjust the neutral setting as follows:

a. Disconnect the hydro adjustment rod from the control arm by removing the internal cotter pin from the pivot sleeve.

b. If wheel rotation stops when the rod is disconnected, check and readjust the rod per paragraph 6-10. Also check the pedal linkage and damper cylinder for binding.

c. If wheel rotation continues, loosen the hex top lock nut and hex cap screw securing the centering spacer to the neutral bracket.

d. If the rotation is in the forward direction, slide the centering spacer rearward until the wheels just begin to rotate in the reverse direction. Then slowly slide the spacer slightly forward until wheel rotation stops.

e. If the rotation is in the reverse direction, slowly slide the centering spacer slightly forward until rotation stops.

f. Carefully tighten the hex cap screw and top lock nut, making certain the spacer does not move.

g. Stop the engine and engage the parking brake.

h. Check and, if necessary, readjust the hydro adjustment rod per paragraph 6-10.

5. If unable to obtain a neutral setting by adjusting the centering spacer, refer to paragraph 5-25 for information concerning inspection and repair of the hydrostatic transmission.

Throttle Cable Adjustment

If the engine does not achieve its high (no load) speed when the throttle control is moved to the full throttle position, check the cable adjustment before performing any other engine or carburetor inspections.

1. Raise the hood and locate the throttle cable connection at the engine.

2. While observing the direction of movement of the engine throttle arm, move the tractor’s throttle control lever to the full throttle position.

3. Loosen the screw securing the cable clamp.

4. Push and hold the engine throttle arm fully in the direction of movement noted in step 2 above.

5. While continuing to hold the throttle arm, pull the throttle cable conduit back through the clamp (away from the arm) to remove any slack in the cable and tighten the screw securing the clamp.

6. Start the engine. Use a tachometer to check the high and low speed engine rpm to specifications. Refer to the appropriate Engine Service Manual if adjustment is necessary.

Choke Cable Adjustment

If the engine is difficult to start or runs roughly when warmed up, check the choke cable setting before performing any other engine or carburetor inspections.

1. Raise the hood and locate the choke cable connection at the engine.

2. While observing the direction of movement of the engine choke arm, pull the tractor’s choke handle out.

3. Loosen the screw securing the cable clamp.

4. Push and hold the engine choke arm fully in the direction of movement noted in step 2 above. If desired, the air cleaner cover and element may be removed to ensure that the carburetor choke plate is closed completely.

5. While continuing to hold the choke arm, pull the choke cable conduit back through the clamp (away from the arm) to remove any slack in the cable and tighten the screw securing the clamp.

Model 2165 tractors are standardly equipped with a lift assist rod and spring assembly for the 48-inch deck. Model 190-301 requires installation of a LH lift assist rod and spring assembly. Refer to paragraph 5-17 for information regarding these assemblies. The general installation procedure involves attaching the mower deck to the tractor frame, connecting the lift linkage, and installing the PTO belt.

For detailed, step-by-step instructions on attaching, removing, and operating the mower deck, always refer to the specific Owner’s Manual provided with the attachment.

Removal

The spindle assembly can be rebuilt without being removed from the deck. However, it is recommended that the assemblies be removed to ensure a satisfactory overhaul. Refer to the applicable paragraph to remove the spindle assemblies from the mower deck.

Disassembly

1. Remove the spindle shaft assembly by withdrawing from the top of the spindle housing.

2. If not previously removed, remove the woodruff key from the spindle shaft.

3. If necessary only, remove the lube fitting by pulling from the spindle shaft. The lube fitting must be replaced if removed.

4. Remove the spindle cup from the top of the spindle housing and pull the seal spacer from the center of the oil seal.

5. Using care to avoid damage to the spindle housing, pull the oil seal from the top of the housing. Discard the seal.

6. Remove the bearing cone and bearing spacer from the top of housing.

7. Remove the spindle cup and seal spacer from the bottom of the housing.

8. Again using care to prevent damage, pull the bottom oil seal from the housing.

9. Remove the bearing cone from the bottom of the housing.

Inspection

1. Inspect the spindle shaft for damage to threads and for cracks/distortion.

2. Inspect the bearing spacer for wear.

3. Inspect the seal spacers for wear and for nicks or damage to the seal contact surfaces.

4. Inspect the bearing cones for cracked, worn, or broken roller bearing cages and for broken or bent roller bearing cages.

5. If any of the following problems exist, replace the spindle housing assembly: Bearing races fit loosely, bearings are damaged, or housing is cracked/damaged.

Repair and Reassembly

1. Pack the bearing cones with Cub Cadet 251H EP grease using a bearing packer. If a bearing packer is not available, place approximately one tablespoon of grease in the palm of one hand. Holding the bearing vertically, scrape the outer roller cage across the grease until grease comes out the top. Rotate the bearing and continue until the bearing is completely filled. Completely coat the outer surface of the bearing with grease.

2. Lubricate the outer surface of the seal spacer and carefully press through the seal lip of the oil seal.

3. Install the upper and lower bearing cones, seal spacers, oil seals, and spindle cups in the reverse order of disassembly.

4. Install the woodruff key in the keyway of the shaft.

5. Install the spindle assemblies on the deck per the applicable paragraph.

6. Lubricate the spindle assemblies with 251 H EP grease. Do not over lubricate.