Cub Cadet Hydro 1210 - Transmission Issues

WrongwayJ · Apr 9, 2011

I have a Cub Cadet Hydro 1210 /Model 148-620-100 and the transmission seems to be having a problem. It seems to be whining/ straining when going up an incline? The top two bolts on both sides of the housing assembly (where the axels are attached - 2 bolts on each side) will work themselves out and I have to tighten them back up every time I run it. Reverse is slow and the entire housing seems to have transmission fluid all on the outside of it?

I am about to change fluid, filter and check the hydrostatic linkage.

Any and all help is most appreciated.

Bob_Bainbridge · Apr 9, 2011

You might try putting some LOCKTITE on the bolt threads to see if that will stop them from loosening. The Whining/straining sounds like it's probably low on fluid after all the leaking.

Bob B.

WrongwayJ · Apr 10, 2011

Bob_Bainbridge said:
You might try putting some LOCKTITE on the bolt threads to see if that will stop them from loosening. The Whining/straining sounds like it's probably low on fluid after all the leaking.

Bob B.

Thanks Bob. I will try the Locktite on the bolts. What is driving me crazy is the dipstick says it is ok, but maybe not. I bought this CC 1210 used about 2 summers ago and have been slowly updating this monster. What I mean is that it wasn't Garage kept. Again Thanks.
Do you recommend using a non-Cub Cadet fluid?

wsp617 · Apr 12, 2011

Sounds like you have a Tuff Torq tranny. They put them in many differnet brands...including John Deere.

I have a JD LA140. Tranny whines like a power steering pump. Won't climb hills anymore.

WrongwayJ · Apr 13, 2011

Great something to look forward to. I am going to research the tranny this weekend when I change the fluids and filter. thanks for the info.

Carl_NH · Apr 13, 2011

The leaking could be the relief valves on the top of the transmission (under the center housing cover) as over time the o-rings degrade and also dirt/debris get in them. If these are the culprit you can clean them and reinstall but most replace them ($60+ea).

I ran non CC fluid and it whined a LOT more, versus the Hytran CC fluid. Also use a CC filter as some filters look the same but the internals are different and wont work. There should be a drain plug in the bottom of the tranny.

As far as the bolts I have never had an issue with my CC1811 loosening - you might find there are some other loose bolts causing this - i am no help on this issue.

At the end of the day I would clean up the tranny, then change fluid and filter and this might solve your problem..