Cub Cadet 1204 lawn tractor

Cub Cadet 1204

Power

12 hp

Production

1987-1988

Engine

1-cylinder

Transmission

Belt-driven gear

Drive

2WD

From the same series:

1210

Introduction

Cub Cadet 1204 Garden Tractor

The Cub Cadet 1204 is a garden tractor produced between 1987 and 1988. Designed for residential property maintenance and lawn care, this two-wheel-drive machine represents the entry-level segment of the 1210 series, focusing on mechanical simplicity and operational reliability.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by a 12 hp (8.9 kW) air-cooled, single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 476 cc (29.07 ci). It utilizes an electric starting system operating on 12 volts. The engine is designed to run at an idle speed range of 1800-3600 RPM, providing consistent power for mowing and light utility tasks.

Transmission and Drivetrain

Power is transferred to the wheels via a belt-driven gear transmission system, offering four forward gears and one reverse gear. A spring-loaded dry disc clutch facilitates gear changes. The tractor features a two-wheel-drive configuration, paired with a manual steering system and dual disk brakes to ensure controlled operation during lawn maintenance.

Dimensions and Equipment

The 1204 model is built on a 44-inch wheelbase with an overall length of 72 inches and a width of 37.75 inches. It offers a ground clearance of 6 inches, suitable for standard lawn terrain. The unit is equipped with lawn and turf tires, measuring 16x6.50-8 on the front and 23x10.50-12 on the rear. It supports the attachment of 38-inch or 44-inch mower decks.

Conclusion

The Cub Cadet 1204 is a straightforward, mechanically driven garden tractor well-suited for homeowners requiring a dedicated machine for grass cutting and basic yard upkeep. Its design prioritizes accessibility and ease of maintenance, characteristic of late 1980s garden equipment.

Production Information of Cub Cadet, 1204

  • Garden tractor
ManufacturerCub Cadet (a part of MTD)

Dimension and Tires Information of Cub Cadet, 1204

Rear tread27 inches [68 cm]
Wheelbase44 inches [111 cm]
Ground clearance6 inches [15 cm]
Height (steering wheel)43 inches [109 cm]
Length72 inches [182 cm]
Front tread29 inches [73 cm]
Width37.75 inches [95 cm]
Lawn/turf front16x6.50-8
Lawn/turf rear23x10.50-12

Engine Specifications of Cub Cadet, 1204

  • Air-cooled
  • 1-cylinder
Sparkplug gap0.025 inches [0.635 mm]
Displacement476 cc [29.07 ci]
Oil capacity2 qts [1.9 L]
Idle RPM1800-3600
Bore/Stroke3.38x3.25 inches [86 x 83 mm]
Exhaust valve clearance0.018 inches (cold) [0.457 mm]
Intake valve clearance0.009 inches (cold) [0.229 mm]
Starter volts12
StarterElectric
Power (gross)12 hp [8.9 kW]

Transmission Information of Cub Cadet, 1204

Transmission variants 1

TypeBelt-driven gear
Oil capacity2 qts [1.9 L]
Gears4 forward and 1 reverse
ClutchSpring-loaded dry disc

Mechanical Specs of Cub Cadet, 1204

  • Two-wheel drive
  • Open operator station.
  • Manual steering
  • Dual disk brakes

Electrical System of Cub Cadet, 1204

GroundNegative
Battery volts12
Charging systemAlternator
Charging amps15

Where it sits

Its power puts it in the 56th percentile of 1980s models in our database (977 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Cub Cadet 1204 have?

The Cub Cadet 1204 delivers 12 HP.

What years was the Cub Cadet 1204 produced?

The Cub Cadet 1204 was produced in 1987-1988.

What engine does the Cub Cadet 1204 have?

The Cub Cadet 1204 is powered by a 1-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the Cub Cadet 1204 use?

The Cub Cadet 1204 uses a Belt-driven gear transmission.

Is the Cub Cadet 1204 4WD?

The Cub Cadet 1204 is available in 2WD.

Compare the Cub Cadet 1204 with another model