Oil stick reading level

[SundaySailor]

Hey folks.

I'm getting ready to do some hard work with the 1200 Cub Cadet this weekend. Before doing so, I want to make sure the oil level is up to par. (This is my very first Cub Cadet, so bear with me).

When I try to read the dip stick, one side with the indicators says the oil is right on the mark. But, if you flip the stick over, the other side reads about 1/4" lower. Since I plan on working the Cadet hard this weekend, I certainly want to make sure the oil level is in good shape. This reading is consistent whether I clean the stick off and get a fresh reading with the cap fully inserted, or just by letting the stick set for a day or so and then just pull it out and do a reading.

Engine is a 12 HP Kohler, K301AQS, spec # 47541d.

Thanks for all your help. It is greatly appreciated.

SS

[gitractorman]

I wouldn't really be that concerned. You could always put a little more in it if you are concerned. That small of an amount will not "overfill" the engine and hurt anything. If you are going to work her hard, like roto tilling, pushing soil, or mowing brush, I would be more concerned about stopping periodically, letting the engine cool down and check the oil again. Don't be suprised if you have to add some oil during the day.

I had a 149 with a new replacement kohler 14-hp engine, that I had used for a couple of years mowing the lawn. I finally got a rototiller, and spent a weekend in 90-degree temps, tilling about an acre of my lawn. That new Kohler engine used about 1/2 quart of oil over the course of the weekend. I was giving her a real workout, especially with all the clay around here.

Bill

[SundaySailor]

Thanks Bill. This is a recently rebuilt engine on this Cub Cadet. I know it isn't broke in yet, and know to keep an eye out on the oil.

I'm hoping to turn (plow) in my little corn field for the winter this weekend. I've already been using the CC to aerate my yard, but now comes the big push/work load. I'll either get the rings to start breaking in, or I'll blow it up one.

[Bigdog]

Split the difference and add enough oil to bring the level up so that you are 1/8" high on one side and 1/8" low on the other. That much definately won't make any difference.

[mikethefixitman1]

Sunday Sailor
Keep an eye on your oil level,at least once a day. Aircooled engines have been known to actually use as much as 1 oz per hr. especially recently rebuilt engines.
Keep checkin and addin OIL IS CHEAP compaired to engines.
ROGER