Cub Cadet has five models in their new Series 1000 lawn tractors, all powered by Kohler engines. Cub Cadet models -- as several other lawn equipment brands -- are manufactured by MTD Products.

The Cub Cadet LT 1045 has a 20-hp Kohler single-cylinder engine, with an aluminum block and cast-iron sleeve for longer life. It has a full-pressure lubrication system with spin-on oil filter for easier maintenance. This engine is not as powerful or as long lasting as the Kohler V-Twin OHV, which is available in other models in the line, but the LT 1045's engine is still solid enough to provide years of mowing.

The hydrostatic (automatic) transmission is a good match with the engine and provides sufficient grip to cut grass on moderate inclines. Power is transferred from the engine to the transmission by a heavy-duty Kevlar belt rather than a more expensive shaft drive. A Kevlar belt also drives the three cutting blades.

The mowing deck cuts a swath of grass 46 inches wide at one pass, and is removable for service and cleaning. Four anti-scalping wheels help keep the deck from scalping grass on uneven ground. The cutting height is manually adjusted from 1-1/2 to 4 inches. The turning radius is 18 inches, which standard for lawn tractors. This model is intended for use on 1- to 2-acre lawns without many turns or small obstacles.

How about comfort? The controls are placed well for easy rider access. However, the seat may be designed to encourage you to get the job done quickly. That's okay. It's not supposed to be ridden for hours every day.

The warranty for all Cub Cadet 1000 series lawn tractors is a little different from most comparable models. The warranty covers the frame, chassis and front axle for five years, and covers everything else for three years. Regardless of the warranty, we recommend that you purchase your tractor from a dealer that has a qualified service department or uses a reputable repair service for customer problems.

A couple more things: We like that the mulching kit, optional with some lawn tractors, is standard on the LT 1045. But we didn't like that we had to get off the tractor and go to the rear to check the fuel level in the 3-1/2 gallon tank. Overall, the Cub Cadet LT 1045 is not the cheapest, nor is it the most expensive lawn tractor in the lineup. It's an adequately built, popular machine that will cut your large lawn for many years.


Pros: Good engine and transmission, convenient controls, good warranty
Cons: Thinner metal, inconvenient fuel check