Cub Cadet 300 Series - Manual (Page 13)

TRACTION DRIVE SYSTEM
9
Description of the traction drive system
• A belt transfers power from the engine crankshaft to the input pulley of the transmission.
• A spring-loaded idler pulley keeps the belt under constant tension.
• On the three-speed version, a cable operated variable speed pulley changes the drive ratio to the transmission:
the sheaves of the pulley close or spread to change its effective circumference. The idler pulley automatically com-
pensates for the change in belt tension.
• The transmission is a sealed unit with an internal clutch. The clutch is actuated by a cable attached to the drive
control bale on the handle.
• The transmission drives a 14T pinion gear which turns a 70T bull gear.
• The bull gear turns the axle at a 5:1 ratio from the transmission input shaft speed.
Wheels and Tires
IMPORTANT: The proper inflation pressure is a maximum
20 psi. See Figure 3.1.
Uneven air pressure between the two tires may result in:
• Uneven tire wear
• Irregular drive tracking
• Pulling from one side or the other
NOTE: While it is possible to replace the tires on the
wheels, they are generally serviced as an assembly.
Tire Replacement
1. Loosen the bolts that hold the wheels to the axles using a 1/
2” wrench. See Figure 3.2.
2. Tip the snow thrower forward onto its auger housing.
3. Remove the bolts and slip the wheels off of the axles.
NOTE: The wheels fit onto the axle with a double “D”.
4. On installation, lubricate the axle shaft with anti-seize.
5. Install the bolts and Belleville washers with the outer edge
of the washers tapered in to meet the axle.
Figure 3.1
Air pressure gauge
! CAUTION ! CAUTION
If you encounter a snow thrower with
plastic wheels, see Special Reminder
Service Advisory MTD-098.
! CAUTION ! CAUTION
Do not overinflate the tires.
Figure 3.2
Wheel bolt
! CAUTION ! CAUTION
Allow the engine to cool, then drain
the fuel and oil from the engine before
starting any service procedure.
CHAPTER 3: TRACTION DRIVE SYSTEM