Cub Cadet TANK S Series: Steering System Adjustments User Manual
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SYSTEM & ADJUSTMENT TERMINOLOGY:
Neutral Setting:
With the brake off, the unit should not creep forward or reverse w/o applying the directional control pedals.
The drive pumps and linkage have an adjustable return to neutral setting built in.
Steering Synchronization:
When a turn is negotiated, the individual rear drive wheel speed must be synchronized, or coordinated with the
steer angle of the front wheels. Driving in a straight line requires the rear RH & LH drive wheels to rotate at the
same rate pushing the unit in a straight line. During a turn, the inside drive wheel must rotate at a slower rate
than the outside wheel. The difference in rotation rate allows the outside wheel to push the unit through the
turning arc determined by the front wheels.
In a zero turn maneuver, the inside drive wheel must rotate in reverse.
If the system is not synchronized, the wheels will skid, resulting in turf defacement.
Front Wheel Toe:
This refers to the position of the front wheels in relation to the center line of the unit.
The TANK-S
Unit requires 1/8” to 1/4” toe-in to be effective. This means that the front wheels are pointed in
toward the center line of the unit. The toe-in adds a slight amount of grip to the front wheels which reduces
wandering when driving in a straight line.
Front Wheel Tracking:
When the control linkage is set for the unit to be driven in a straight line, the front wheels must be pointed
straight and equally in relation to the center line of the unit. If the track is not set properly, the unit will turn
more in one direction than the other, and the front tires may scuff turf.
Speed Setting:
The maximum forward speed can be adjusted from approximately 11mph to 8mph.
The maximum speed may be reduced to accommodate operator skill level, terrain etc.
Return to Neutral & Speed Setting:
The return to neutral mechanism part of the speed control assembly must be re adjusted if the max. speed is
adjusted. When the parking brake is released, the forward control pedal must remain in neutral.
Parking Brake Neutral Lockout:
When the parking brake is applied and locked, the FWD and REV. pedals must be locked in the neutral
position. The lockout also prevents the operator from engaging the FWD or REV pedals when the parking
brake is engaged.
MAINTENANCE:
Pivot Points within the system incorporate pre-lubricated sealed bearings and Teflon washers requiring no
maintenance. These components are replaceable as individual parts.
Periodically, check components for loose fasteners, as well as worn, bent, damaged and or distorted parts.
The hydraulic oil level, if allowed to drop below the recommended level, can permanently damage pumps and
drive motors. If the system requires adding oil frequently, check for leaks throughout the system.
DIAGNOSTICS:
If an issue is suspected, first and always check components for loose fasteners, as well as worn, bent,
damaged and or distorted parts. Check the hydraulic system oil level and look for leaks or air in the system.
Steering Not Responsive or Jerky:
Check the hydraulic system oil level, filter, kinked hoses, leaks or air in the system.
Low fluid, flow restriction (filter, hoses etc.) or fluid contamination ( air, dirt etc.) will effect the response
when the steering wheel is turned.
Check all mechanical components.
Return to Neutral Checks:
With unit parked on a flat level surface, start unit with parking brake engaged and locked. Apply very
slight pressure on the FWD control pedal. If the unit moves FWD, go to adjustment procedure # 3.
Release the parking brake. If the unit creeps FWD or REV go to adjustment procedure # 2.
Slight creep is acceptable if the unit will not climb a ¾” block.
With out depressing the FWD or REV control pedals turn the steering wheel right and left.
If the unit creeps FWD or REV go to adjustment procedure # 2.
Drive unit on flat level surface. Release the FWD control pedal abruptly. The unit should stop
accordingly. If not, go to adjustment procedure # 2.
jms. ctp
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1/10/2012