Hi Dave,
I posted this earlier, you may have already read it?
Curt
Let me start out by saying I'm a huge fan of Cub products, but have some concerns about their marketing of the CUT products. Other folks who have experienced the problems I'm about to mention can either confirm or deny the accuracy. My problem is that Cub doesn't seem to be able to decide on a make and model in the compact line and just about every year or two, new models are introduced, made for Cub by different companies. I'd be OK with that but I hear about relatively new models thet are already seeing parts in short supply or not available.
If you look at Ford/New Holland, Kubota or many other manufacturers, they develop a product line and build them for years. As a result there is a large installed base and a demand for parts that keeps them from becoming obsolete. I'd like to hope Cub and Yanmar are hooked up for the long haul, but I'm doubtful, because some Finance/Materials guy will find someone to build a cheaper version next year. They seem to be so short sighted.
I bought a Ford 1220 eight years ago. It's comparable to todays TC18. The local New Holland dealer has had all the supplies and parts I've needed since I bought it. Also, many parts/supplies can be bought online in a generic format, because they made thousands of them and because they shared parts with the 1320. 1520, 1620 and numerous other similar models.
If Cub wants to be a player, they better start playing on a level comparable to the leaders in the CUT category.
Just my opinion.
Curt