The Cub Cadet Tank M60 is a well-known commercial-grade lawn mower for its durability and efficiency. However, like any other machine, it can develop issues that must be addressed to ensure peak performance.
So, what are the most common cub cadet tank M60 problems? The most common issues are-
- Faulty ignition switch, Faulty PTO clutch
- Dead battery, engine issues, or a broken blade
- Transmission problems such as difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, or leaking fluid.
These issues can cause your lawn mower to stall, refuse to start, or cut unevenly. In this article, we will highlight these Cub Cadet Tank M60 problems and offer solutions to fix them.
Cub Cadet Tank M60 Problems and Their Solution
Here is a table that summarizes the Cub Cadet M60 Problems. Before getting deep, have a quick look over them to get the resolution ideas.
| Problem | Solution |
| Hydraulic issues | Repair any leaks, top up hydraulic fluid and replace faulty pumps |
| Engine issues | Clean or replace clogged fuel and air filters, check the oil and coolant levels, and replace damaged carburetor and radiator |
| Faulty ignition switch | Replace faulty ignition switch |
| Transmission issues | Replace old transmission fluid and replace worn transmission belt |
| Faulty PTO clutch | Check the wiring and clutch for damage; replace or repair as required |
| Damaged blade | Replace damaged blades |
1. Faulty Ignition Switch
A faulty ignition switch can prevent the engine from starting or cause intermittent starting problems. If your ignition switch is malfunctioning, you may notice the following symptoms:
- Car won’t start: When you turn the key, your car won’t start.
- If your engine stalls while you’re driving or idling, it could be due to a faulty ignition switch.
- A bad ignition switch can cause electrical issues such as flickering lights or malfunctioning accessories.
- When you turn the key, you may not have power to accessories such as the radio, air conditioner, or power windows.
- You may experience difficulty turning the ignition key or it may become stuck.
Diagnosis
To ensure the problem is in the ignition switch,
- You need to check the battery to ensure it has sufficient charge.
- Next, inspect the wiring connections to ensure they are secure and corrosion-free.
- Finally, use a multimeter to test the voltage and continuity of the switch.
Solution
- If your ignition switch is faulty, it must be replaced.
- Also, if the wiring connections are corroded, ensure you clean them. If they are damaged, you need to replace them.
2. Malfunctioning PTO Clutch
A faulty PTO clutch can prevent the mower deck from engaging, causing the blades to not turn. Symptoms of a faulty PTO clutch include;
- The blades not turning, or the mower deck not engaging.
- A bad PTO clutch may make unusual noises, such as grinding, whirring, or squealing, when you engage the clutch.
Diagnosis
- Inspect the clutch for signs of wear or damage that could be causing the problem.
Solution
- If your PTO clutch is damaged, you need to replace it.
3. Battery Issues
A faulty battery can prevent the Cub Cadet Tank M60 lawn mower from starting. It can also cause electrical problems with the mower’s lighting and other electrical components. A dead battery, a faulty charging system, or a corroded or loose battery connection can all lead to battery problems.
If you experience recurring battery issues, it could be a sign of an underlying problem, such as a faulty alternator or charging system.
Diagnosis
- Use a multimeter to check the battery voltage.
- If the voltage is less than 12.5 volts, you need to charge the battery.
- If the charging system fails, the problem could be the battery itself or the alternator.
- Examine the battery connections for corrosion or looseness.
Solution
- Charge the battery. If that does not work, the battery must be replaced.
- If the issue is with the alternator, it should be replaced with a new one that meets the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Finally, if the battery connections are corroded, clean them and ensure the battery connections are tight.
4. Broken Blade
A broken blade can cause your Cub Cadet Tank M60 lawn mower to cut unevenly.
Diagnosis
- Visually inspect the blades for damage or wear.
- After that, check the blades for balance and sharpness.
- Check for if the blade becomes bent, dull, or unbalanced.
Solution
- If the blades are damaged or bent, you need to replace them. If they are blunt and unbalanced, you need to sharpen and balance them.
5. Engine Issues
Engine problems with the Cub Cadet Tank M60 lawn mower can result in various issues, including hard starting, overheating, poor performance, and engine failure.
Several factors, including a clogged fuel filter, a dirty air filter, a bad radiator, a low oil level, a low coolant level, or a damaged carburetor, can cause engine problems.
Diagnosis
- Inspect the air filter and fuel filter for dirt or debris.
- Then, examine the spark plug and the carburetor for signs of wear or damage.
- If the spark plug fails, the engine may misfire or fail to start.
- Also, check the coolant level.
- Check the radiator for damage.
- And finally, check the oil’s level and condition.
Solution
- Replace the air and fuel filters if they are dirty or clogged.
- If the spark plug is faulty, it should be replaced with a new one that meets the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Also, if the carburetor becomes damaged or worn, it must be replaced or repaired.
- To fix overheating issues, add coolant if needed.
- If the radiator is damaged, you need to replace it.
- If the oil level is low, top it off, but if it is in bad condition, replace it with new oil.
Regular oil checks and changes help to keep the engine in good working order.
6. Hydraulic Issues
Hydraulic problems with the Cub Cadet Tank M60 lawn mower can make steering difficult. They can also cause the mower to slow down or stop or cause the mower to move erratically.
Several factors, including low hydraulic fluid levels, leaks, and faulty pumps, can cause hydraulic problems. Symptoms of hydraulic issues include poor performance, unusual noises, or sluggish movements.
Here is a video showing a hydraulic fluid leak on a Cub Cadet Tank.
Diagnosis
- Check the hydraulic fluid level and look for signs of leaks such as:
Puddles of fluid: If you see pools of fluid on the ground or on your equipment, it may be a sign of a hydraulic leak. Hydraulic fluid is usually a bright color, such as green or red, so it should be easy to spot.
Low fluid levels: If your hydraulic system is losing fluid, you may notice a drop in the fluid level in the reservoir.
Slow or weak system performance: If your hydraulic system is not performing as well as it used to, it may be a sign of a leak. The system may be low on fluid or the leak may be causing a drop in pressure.
Hissing or whistling noises: If you hear hissing or whistling noises coming from your hydraulic system, it may be a sign of a leak. The noise may be caused by fluid escaping from a cracked or damaged hose.
- Inspect the hydraulic lines, fittings, and hoses for any signs of damage or wear.
- Next, check the pressure and flow rate of the hydraulic pump.
- If the pump is not working correctly, the problem could be with the pump or the pump drive system.
Solution
- Begin by inspecting the hydraulic system and, if necessary, adding hydraulic fluid.
- Repair or replace any damaged parts if there is a leak.
- If the hydraulic pump fails, it must be replaced.
7. Transmission Issues
Transmission issues can cause your Cub Cadet Tank M60 lawn mower to stall, not shift gears properly, or leak fluid.
Diagnosis
- Check the transmission fluid level and condition. Transmission problems can be caused by low or dirty fluid.
- Next, look for signs of wear or damage on the transmission belt.
- Finally, engage and disengage the transmission to see if it shifts gears properly.
Solution
- If the transmission fluid is low or dirty, drain and refill it with the manufacturer’s recommended type and amount.
- If the transmission belt is worn or damaged, it should be replaced.
- And if the transmission continues to malfunction, it may require professional replacement or repair.
Conclusion
The Cub Cadet Tank M60 is a powerful, dependable lawn mower designed for heavy-duty use. However, like any machine, it is susceptible to various issues that can impair its performance and longevity.
Many of these issues can be avoided by performing routine maintenance and responding to problems as soon as they arise. However, if the problems occur, diagnose and fix them fast to ensure the prolonged lifespan of your mower. Take professional help for crucial issues.
