Cub Cadet 72 lawn tractor

Cub Cadet 72

Power

7 hp

Production

1967-1969

Transmission

Shaft-driven gear

Weight

555 lbs [251 kg]

Drive

2WD

From the same series:

104

Introduction

Cub Cadet 72 Garden Tractor

The Cub Cadet 72 is a compact garden tractor manufactured by International Harvester in Louisville, Kentucky, between 1967 and 1969. Designed primarily for residential lawn care and light-duty utility tasks, this model is characterized by its air-cooled engine and robust gear-driven transmission system.

Engine and Performance

The tractor is powered by an air-cooled engine delivering 7 horsepower (5.2 kW) with a displacement of 266 cc. It features a compression ratio of 6.2:1 and operates at a rated speed of 3600 RPM. The engine cooling system relies on natural airflow, and the fuel system is managed via a manual starter setup, though electric starting was available as an optional feature.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The standard transmission is a shaft-driven gear type providing three forward gears and one reverse gear. An optional creeper transmission was offered to provide a lower speed range, resulting in a total of six forward and two reverse gears. Both configurations utilize a 4.5-inch dry disc clutch, requiring the tractor to be brought to a full stop before shifting gears.

Hydraulics and PTO

The tractor is equipped with a rear PTO operating at 525 RPM and an independent front PTO. Optional hydraulic systems were available, providing a pump flow of 2.5 gallons per minute (9.5 lpm) at a pressure of 400 psi, which allows for the operation of various hydraulic implements compatible with the Cub Cadet three-point hitch system.

Dimensions and Chassis

Built on a two-wheel-drive chassis, the machine has a wheelbase of 43 inches (109 cm) and a total length of 64 inches (162 cm). The operator station is an open design featuring a steel pan seat. The tractor weighs approximately 555 lbs (251 kg) and provides a ground clearance of 6 inches (15 cm), ensuring stability for mowing decks ranging from 38 to 48 inches.

Conclusion

The Cub Cadet 72 serves as a durable, entry-level platform for homeowners and garden enthusiasts. Its simple mechanical design, combined with the availability of a creeper transmission and various mower deck sizes, makes it a versatile tool for routine property maintenance and light horticultural work.

Production Information of Cub Cadet, 72

  • Garden tractor
  • Built in Louisville, Kentucky, USA
ManufacturerCub Cadet (a part of International Harvester)

Dimension and Tires Information of Cub Cadet, 72

Rear tread27 inches [68 cm]
Wheelbase43 inches [109 cm]
Weight555 lbs [251 kg]
Height (steering wheel)39.75 inches [100 cm]
Length64 inches [162 cm]
Ground clearance6 inches [15 cm]
Width33.25 inches [84 cm]
Lawn/turf front4.80x4.00-8
Lawn/turf rear6-12

Engine Specifications of Cub Cadet, 72

  • Air-cooled
Intake valve clearance0.006 inches (cold) [0.152 mm]
Sparkplug gap0.025 inches [0.635 mm]
Compression6.2:1
Exhaust valve clearance0.017 inches (cold) [0.432 mm]
Idle RPM1000-3780
StarterManual
Rated RPM3600
Displacement266 cc [16.25 ci]
Power7 hp [5.2 kW]
Oil capacity1.125 qts [1.1 L]
Oil change30 h
Bore/Stroke2.875x2.5 inches [73 x 64 mm]
SparkplugChampion J-8
Starter volts12
Starter volts(optional)Electric

Transmission Information of Cub Cadet, 72

Transmission variants 1

  • Three-speed transmission operated by gear shift lever and combination clutch/brake pedal. Tractor must be stopped, and clutch used, to shift.
TypeShaft-driven gear
Oil capacity3.5 qts [3.3 L]
Gears3 forward and 1 reverse
Clutch4.5-inch dry disc

Transmission variants 2

  • Optional creeper adds an additional low range to the base transmission. Creeper drive is engaged when creeper shift lever is pulled to the rear.
TypeCreeper
Gears6 forward and 2 reverse
Clutch4.5-inch dry disc
  • 3-speed gear
  • 6-speed creeper

Mechanical Specs of Cub Cadet, 72

  • Two-wheel drive
  • Open operator station with steel pan seat.
  • Dry disc brakes
SteeringManual

Power Information of Cub Cadet, 72

Rear PTOTransmission
ClutchMechanical
Front PTOIndependent
ClutchDry disc
Front PTO Type3600
Rear PTO Type525

Hydraulics Specifications of Cub Cadet, 72

TypeOptional
Pressure400 psi [27.6 bar]
Pump flow2.5 gpm [9.5 lpm]

Three-Point Hitch of Cub Cadet, 72

TypeCub Cadet three-point

Electrical System of Cub Cadet, 72

GroundNegative
Battery volts12
Charging systemGenerator
Charging amps15

Where it sits

With 7 HP, the Cub Cadet 72 sits just below 104 (10 HP) in Cub Cadet's range. Its power puts it in the 66th percentile of 1960s models in our database (550 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Cub Cadet 72 have?

The Cub Cadet 72 delivers 7 HP.

What years was the Cub Cadet 72 produced?

The Cub Cadet 72 was produced in 1967-1969.

What transmission does the Cub Cadet 72 use?

The Cub Cadet 72 uses a Shaft-driven gear transmission.

How much does the Cub Cadet 72 weigh?

The Cub Cadet 72 weighs 555 lbs [251 kg].

Is the Cub Cadet 72 4WD?

The Cub Cadet 72 is available in 2WD.

Compare the Cub Cadet 72 with another model