Cub Cadet 1200
Power
12 hp
Production
1974-1980
Transmission
Shaft-driven gear
Weight
650 lbs [294 kg]
Drive
2WD
From the same series:
Introduction
Cub Cadet 1200 Garden Tractor
The Cub Cadet 1200 is a garden tractor manufactured by International Harvester in Louisville, Kentucky, between 1974 and 1980. This model was designed for residential lawn maintenance and versatile light-duty tasks, serving as a core unit in the Cub Cadet product lineup of that era.
Engine and Performance
The tractor is powered by an air-cooled Kohler engine with a displacement of 476 cc (29.07 ci). It produces a gross power output of 12 hp (8.9 kW) at a rated speed of 3400 RPM. The fuel system utilizes a Kohler side-draft carburetor, and the engine is protected by a dry-type air cleaner. Maintenance requirements include a 1.5-quart oil capacity and regular adjustments to the intake and exhaust valve clearances, both set at 0.010 and 0.020 inches respectively when cold.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 1200 features a shaft-driven gear transmission. The standard configuration provides 3 forward and 1 reverse gear, while an optional creeper range expands the capability to 6 forward and 2 reverse gears for precision work. Power is transmitted through a 4.5-inch dry disc clutch. The tractor operates on a two-wheel drive system and is equipped with manual steering and dry disc brakes for operator control.
Power Take-Off and Attachments
Versatility is provided by an independent front PTO and a transmission-driven rear PTO. The front PTO is engaged via an electric clutch, allowing for the operation of various front-mounted implements. The tractor is compatible with several mower deck sizes, specifically 38, 44, and 50 inches, and offers an optional sleeve hitch for towing equipment.
Dimensions and Chassis
The unit features a 44-inch (111 cm) wheelbase and an open operator station. With a shipping weight of 650 lbs (294 kg), the machine maintains a ground clearance of 6 inches (15 cm). It is typically fitted with 4.80/4.00-8 front tires and 23x10.50-12 rear tires, specifically designed for lawn and turf applications to ensure stability and traction.
Conclusion
The Cub Cadet 1200 is a robust, mechanically straightforward garden tractor. Its combination of a reliable Kohler engine, shaft-driven transmission, and flexible PTO options makes it well-suited for homeowners and collectors requiring a durable machine for mowing and basic utility tasks.
Production Information of Cub Cadet, 1200
- Garden tractor
- Built in Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| Manufacturer | Cub Cadet (a part of International Harvester) |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Cub Cadet, 1200
| Front tread | 27 inches [68 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 44 inches [111 cm] |
| Shipping weight | 650 lbs [294 kg] |
| Height (steering wheel) | 41 inches [104 cm] |
| Length | 69 inches [175 cm] |
| Rear tread | 27 inches [68 cm] |
| Ground clearance | 6 inches [15 cm] |
| Width | 37 inches [93 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 4.80/4.00-8 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 23x10.50-12 |
| Lawn/turf rear | 23x8.50-12 |
| Lawn/turf front | 6.50-8 |
Engine Specifications of Cub Cadet, 1200
- Air-cooled
| Intake valve clearance | 0.010 inches [0.254 mm] |
|---|---|
| Point gap | 0.020 inches [0.508 mm] |
| Fuel system | Kohler side-draft carburetor |
| Exhaust valve clearance | 0.020 inches [0.508 mm] |
| Rated RPM | 3400 |
| Idle RPM | 1800-3600 |
| Air cleaner | Dry |
| Displacement | 476 cc [29.07 ci] |
| Power (gross) | 12 hp [8.9 kW] |
| Oil capacity | 1.5 qts [1.4 L] |
| Oil change | 30 h |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.375x3.25 inches [86 x 83 mm] |
| Sparkplug gap | 0.035 inches [0.889 mm] |
| Sparkplug | Champion H-10 |
| Starter volts | 12 |
Cold
Cold
Transmission Information of Cub Cadet, 1200
Transmission variants 1
- Tractor must be stopped, and clutch used, to shift gears.
| Type | Shaft-driven gear |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 4 qts [3.8 L] |
| Gears | 3 forward and 1 reverse |
| Clutch | 4.5-inch dry disc |
Transmission variants 2
- Adds a creeper range to the basic transmission. Creeper engaged by separate control lever.
| Type | Creeper |
|---|---|
| Oil capacity | 4.25 qts [4.0 L] |
| Gears | 6 forward and 2 reverse |
| Clutch | 4.5-inch dry disc |
- 3-speed gear
- 6-speed creeper
Mechanical Specs of Cub Cadet, 1200
- Two-wheel drive
- Open operator station.
| Steering | Manual |
|---|---|
| Brakes | Dry disc |
Power Information of Cub Cadet, 1200
| Rear PTO | Transmission |
|---|---|
| Front PTO Type | 3400 |
| Clutch | Electric |
| Rear PTO Type | 515 (0.937) |
| Front PTO | Independent |
Three-Point Hitch of Cub Cadet, 1200
| Type(optional) | Sleeve hitch |
|---|
Electrical System of Cub Cadet, 1200
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
| Charging system | Flywheel alternator |
| Charging amps | 15 |
Where it sits
With 12 HP, the Cub Cadet 1200 sits between 1100 (11 HP) and 582 (16 HP) in Cub Cadet's range. Its power puts it in the 76th percentile of 1970s models in our database (1008 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Cub Cadet 1200 have?
The Cub Cadet 1200 delivers 12 HP.
What years was the Cub Cadet 1200 produced?
The Cub Cadet 1200 was produced in 1974-1980.
What transmission does the Cub Cadet 1200 use?
The Cub Cadet 1200 uses a Shaft-driven gear transmission.
How much does the Cub Cadet 1200 weigh?
The Cub Cadet 1200 weighs 650 lbs [294 kg].
Is the Cub Cadet 1200 4WD?
The Cub Cadet 1200 is available in 2WD.