Cub Cadet P418 Operator's Manual

Operator’s Manual

18” Mulching Push

Mower

Model

P418

IMPORTANT: Read safety rules and instructions carefully before operating equipment.

Warning:

covered, brush-covered or grass-covered land unless the engine’s exhaust system is equipped with a spark arrester meeting
applicable local or state laws (if any). If a spark arrester is used, it should be maintained in effective working order by the operator.
In the State of California the above is required by law (Section 4442 of the California Public Resources Code). Other states may have
similar laws. Federal laws apply on federal lands. A spark arrester for the muffler is available through your nearest engine authorized
service dealer or contact the service department, P.O. Box 368023 Cleveland, Ohio 44136-9722.

PRINTED IN U.S.A.

This unit is equipped with an internal combustion engine and should not be used on or near any unimproved forest-

CUB CADET CORPORATION P.O. BOX 368023 CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136-9722

FORM NO.

770-10087C.fm

(10/00)

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Content Page

Important Safe Operation Practices................................................................... 3-5

Slope Gauge...................................................................................................... 6

Unpacking.......................................................................................................... 7

Assembling Your Lawn Mower........................................................................... 7

Know Your Lawn Mower .................................................................................... 8

Operating Your Lawn Mower ............................................................................. 9

Making Adjustments .......................................................................................... 10

Maintaining Your Lawn Mower ........................................................................... 11

Service............................................................................................................... 11

Off-Season Storage ........................................................................................... 12

Troubleshooting ................................................................................................. 13

Parts List............................................................................................................ 14

FINDING MODEL NUMBER

This Operator’s Manual is an important part of your new Lawn Mower. It will help you assemble, prepare
and maintain the unit for best performance. Please read and understand what it says.

Before you start assembling your new equipment, please locate the model plate on the
equipment and copy the information from it in the space provided below. The information on
the model plate is very important if you need help from our Customer Support Department or
an authorized dealer.

• You can locate the model number by standing behind the unit in the operating position and looking at
the rear of the deck. A sample model plate is explained below. For future reference, please copy the
model number and the serial number of the equipment in the space below.

(Model Number)

(Serial Number)

Copy the model number here:

Copy the serial number here:

CUB CADET CORP.

P.O. BOX 368023

CLEVELAND, OHIO 44136

CALLING DEALER REFERRAL LINE

If you have difficulty assembling this product or have any questions regarding the controls, operation or
maintenance of this unit, please call the Dealer Referral Line.

Call 1- (800)-528-1009 to reach the dealer referral line.

2

SECTION 1: IMPORTANT SAFE OPERATION PRACTICES

WARNING: This symbol points out important safety instructions which, if not followed, could endanger the
personal safety and/or property of yourself and others. Read and follow all instructions in this manual
before attempting to operate this machine. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in personal
injury. When you see this symbol—HEED ITS WARNING.

WARNING: The Engine Exhaust from this product contains chemicals known to the State of California to
cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm.

DANGER:

type of power equipment, carelessness or error on the part of the operator can result in serious injury. This machine is
capable of amputating hands and feet and throwing objects. Failure to observe the following safety instructions could
result in serious injury or death.

This machine was built to be operated according to the rules for safe operation in this manual. As with any

General Operation

1. Read this operator’s manual carefully in its entirety
before attempting to assemble this machine. Read,
understand, and follow all instructions on the machine
and in the manual(s) before operation. Be completely
familiar with the controls and the proper use of this
machine before operating it. Keep this manual in a safe
place for future and regular reference and for ordering
replacement parts.

2. This machine is a precision piece of power equipment,
not a plaything. Therefore, exercise extreme caution at all
times. Your unit has been designed to perform one job: to
mow grass. Do not use it for any other purpose.

3. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate this
machine. Children 14 years old and over should read and
understand the operation instructions and safety rules in
this manual and should be trained and supervised by a
parent. Only responsible individuals who are familiar with
these rules of safe operation should be allowed to use
this machine.

4. Thoroughly inspect the area where the equipment is to
be used. Remove all stones, sticks, wire, bones, toys and
other foreign objects which could be tripped over or
picked up and thrown by the blade. Thrown objects can
cause serious personal injury. Plan your mowing pattern
to avoid discharge of material toward roads, sidewalks,
bystanders and the like. Also, avoid discharging material
against a wall or obstruction which may cause
discharged material to ricochet back toward the operator.

5. To help avoid blade contact or a thrown object injury,stay
in the operator zone behind the handles and keep
children, bystanders, helpers and pets at least 75 feet
from the mower while it is in operation. Stop machine if
anyone enters the area.

6. Always wear safety glasses or safety goggles during
operation and while performing an adjustment or repair to
protect your eyes. Thrown objects which ricochet can
cause serious injury to the eyes.

7. Wear sturdy, rough-soled work shoes and close-fitting
slacks and shirts. Shirts and pants that cover the arms
and legs and steel-toed shoes are recommended. Never
operate this machine in bare feet, sandals, slippery or
light weight (e.g. canvas) shoes.

8. Do not put hands or feet near rotating parts or under the
cutting deck. Contact with the blade can amputate hands
and feet.

9. A missing or damaged discharge cover can cause blade
contact or thrown object injuries.

10. Many injuries occur as a result of the mower being pulled
over the foot during a fall caused by slipping or tripping.
Do not hold on to the mower if you are falling; release the
handle immediately.

11. Never pull the mower back toward you while you are
walking. If you must back the mower away from a wall or
obstruction first look down and behind to avoid tripping
and then follow these steps:

a. Step back from the mower to fully extend your

arms.
b. Be sure you are well balanced with sure footing.
c. Pull the mower back slowly, no more than half way

toward you.
d. Repeat these steps as needed.

12. Do not operate the mower while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs.

13. Do not engage the self-propelled mechanism on units so
equipped while starting engine.

14. The blade control handle is a safety device. Never
attempt to bypass its operation. Doing so makes the
safety device inoperative and may result in personal
injury through contact with the rotating blade. The blade
control handle must operate easily in both directions and
automatically return to the disengaged position when
released.

15. Never operate the mower in wet grass. Always be sure of
your footing. A slip and fall can cause serious personal
injury. If you feel you are losing your footing, release the
blade control handle immediately and the blade will stop
rotating within three seconds.

16. Mow only in daylight or in good artificial light. Walk, never
run.

17. Stop the blade when crossing gravel drives, walks or
roads.

18. If the equipment should start to vibrate abnormally, stop
the engine and check immediately for the cause.
Vibration is generally a warning of trouble.

19. Shut the engine off and wait until the blade comes to a
complete stop before removing the grass catcher or
unclogging the chute. The cutting blade continues to
rotate for a few seconds after the engine is shut off.
Never place any part of the body in the blade area until
you are sure the blade has stopped rotating.

3

20. Never operate mower without proper trail shield,
discharge cover, grass catcher, blade control handle or
other safety protective devices in place and working.
Never operate mower with damaged safety devices.
Failure to do so, can result in personal injury.

21. Muffler and engine become hot and can cause a burn. Do
not touch.

22. Only use parts and accessories made for this machine by
the manufacturer. Failure to do so, can result in personal
injury.

23. If situations occur which are not covered in this manual,
use care and good judgment. Contact your dealer for
assistance. Telephone [phone] for the name of
your nearest dealer.

Slope Operation

Slopes are a major factor related to slip and fall accidents
which can result in severe injury. Operation on slopes
requires extra caution. If you feel uneasy on a slope, do not
mow it. For your safety, use the slope gauge included as part
of this manual to measure slopes before operating this unit on
a sloped or hilly area. If the slope is greater than 15 degrees,
do not mow it.

Do:

1. Mow across the face of slopes; never up and down.
Exercise extreme caution when changing direction on
slopes.

2. Watch for holes, ruts, rocks, hidden objects, or bumps
which can cause you to slip or trip. Tall grass can hide
obstacles.

3. Always be sure of your footing. A slip and fall can cause
serious personal injury. If you feel you are losing your
balance, release the blade control handle immediately,
and the blade will stop rotating within 3 seconds.

Do Not:

1. Do not mow near drop-offs, ditches or embankments,
you could lose your footing or balance.

2. Do not mow slopes greater than 15 degrees as shown on
the slope gauge.

3. Do not mow on wet grass. Unstable footing could cause
slipping.

Children

Tragic accidents can occur if the operator is not alert to the
presence of children. Children are often attracted to the
mower and the mowing activity. They do not understand the
dangers. Never assume that children will remain where you
last saw them.

1. Keep children out of the mowing area and under the
watchful care of a responsible adult other than the
operator.

2. Be alert and turn mower off if a child enters the area.

3. Before and while moving backwards, look behind and
down for small children.

4. Use extreme care when approaching blind corners,
doorways, shrubs, trees, or other objects that may
obscure your vision of a child who may run into the
mower.

5. Keep children away from hot or running engines. They
can suffer burns from a hot muffler.

6. Never allow children under 14 years old to operate a
power mower. Children 14 years old and over should
read and understand the operation instructions and
safety rules in this manual and should be trained and
supervised by a parent.

Service

Safe Handling Of Gasoline:

1. To avoid personal injury or property damage use extreme
care in handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive. Serious
personal injury can occur when gasoline is spilled on
yourself or your clothes which can ignite.

2. Wash your skin and change clothes immediately.

3. Use only an approved gasoline container.

4. Never fill containers inside a vehicle or on a truck or
trailer bed with a plastic liner. Always place containers on
the ground away from your vehicle before filling.

5. When practical, remove gas-powered equipment from
the truck or trailer and refuel it on the ground. If this is not
possible, then refuel such equipment on a trailer with a
portable container, rather than from a gasoline dispenser
nozzle.

6. Keep the nozzle in contact with the rim of the fuel tank or
container opening at all times until fueling is complete. Do
not use a nozzle lock-open device.

7. Extinguish all cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other sources
of ignition.

8. Never fuel machine indoors because flammable vapors
will accumulate in the area.

9. Never remove gas cap or add fuel while the engine is hot
or running. Allow engine to cool at least two minutes
before refueling.

10. Never over fill fuel tank. Fill tank to no more than ½ inch
below bottom of filler neck to provide space for fuel
expansion.

11. Replace gasoline cap and tighten securely.

12. If gasoline is spilled, wipe it off the engine and
equipment. Move unit to another area. Wait 5 minutes
before starting the engine.

13. Never store the machine or fuel container inside where
there is an open flame, spark or pilot light as on a water
heater, space heater, furnace ,clothes dryer or other gas
appliances.

14. To reduce fire hazard, keep mower free of grass, leaves,
or other debris build-up. Clean up oil or fuel spillage and
remove any fuel soaked debris.

15. Allow a mower to cool at least 5 minutes before storing.

General Service:

1. Never run an engine indoors or in a poorly ventilated
area. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an
odorless and deadly gas.

2. Before cleaning, repairing, or inspecting, make certain
the blade and all moving parts have stopped. Disconnect
the spark plug wire and ground against the engine to
prevent unintended starting.

4

3. Check the blade and engine mounting bolts at frequent
intervals for proper tightness. Also, visually inspect blade
for damage (e.g., bent, cracked, worn) Replace blade
with the original equipment manufacture’s (O.E.M.) blade
only, listed in this manual. “Use of parts which do not
meet the original equipment specifications may lead to
improper performance and compromise safety!”

4. Mower blades are sharp and can cut. Wrap the blade or
wear gloves, and use extra caution when servicing them.

5. Keep all nuts, bolts, and screws tight to be sure the
equipment is in safe working condition.

6. Never tamper with safety devices. Check their proper
operation regularly.

7. After striking a foreign object, stop the engine, disconnect
the spark plug wire and ground against the engine.
Thoroughly inspect the mower for any damage. Repair
the damage before starting and operating the mower.

8. Never attempt to make a wheel or cutting height
adjustment while the engine is running.

9. Grass catcher components, discharge cover, and trail
shield are subject to wear and damage which could
expose moving parts or allow objects to be thrown. For
safety protection, frequently check components and
replace immediately with original equipment
manufacturer’s (O.E.M.) parts only, listed in this manual.
“Use of parts which do not meet the original equipment
specifications may lead to improper performance and
compromise safety!”

10. Do not change the engine governor setting or overspeed
the engine. The governor controls the maximum safe
operating speed of the engine.

11. Maintain or replace safety and instruction labels, as
necessary.

12. Observe proper disposal laws and regulations. Improper
disposal of fluids and materials can harm the
environment.

Your Responsibility

• Restrict the use of this power machine to persons who read, understand and follow the warnings and instructions in
this manual and on the machine.

1299 AC

5

SECTION 2: SLOPE GAUGE

Use this page as a guide to determine slopes where you may not operate the lawn mower safely.

E

P

O

L

S

°

5

1

A

G

N

I

T

N

E

S

E

R

P

E

R

,

E

N

I

L

D

E

T

T

A POWER POLE

O

D

N

O

D

L

O

F

15°

WARNING

A CORNER OF A BUILDING

OR A FENCE POST

USE THIS PAGE AS A GUIDE TO DETERMINE SLOPES WHERE YOU MAY NOT OPERATE SAFELY.

SIGHT AND HOLD THIS LEVEL WITH A VERTICAL TREE

6

Do not mow on inclines with a slope in excess of 15 degrees (a rise of approximately 2-1/2 feet every 10 feet). A

riding mower could overturn and cause serious injury. If operating a walk-behind mower on such a slope, it is

extremely difficult to maintain your footing and you could slip, resulting in serious injury.

Operate RIDING mowers up and down slopes, never across the face of slopes.

Operate WALK-BEHIND mowers across the face of slopes, never up and down slopes.

SECTION 3: UNPACKING

Removing Unit From Carton

• Remove staples, break glue on top flaps, or cut

tape at carton end and peel along top flap to open
carton.

• Remove loose parts if included with unit (i.e.,
operator’s manual, etc.).

• Cut corners and lay carton down flat.

• Remove packing material.

• Roll or slide unit out of carton. Check carton

thoroughly for loose parts.

SECTION 4: ASSEMBLING YOUR LAWN MOWER

IMPORTANT:

GASOLINE or OIL. Be certain to service engine with
gasoline and oil as instructed in the separate engine
manual before operating your mower.

NOTE: Reference to right or left hand side of the mower
is observed from the operating position.

Tools Required

Pair of pliers (not necessary, but helpful)

Assembling Mower

• Remove any packing material which may be
between the upper and lower handles for shipping
purposes.

• Disconnect spark plug wire from the spark plug and
ground it against the engine. On engines with a
rubber boot, attach rubber boot to a bolt on the
engine to ground. See Figure 1.

Spark Plug Wire

With Rubber Boot

Spark Plug

(Engine with Rubber Boot) (Engine without Rubber Boot)

This unit is shipped WITHOUT

"V" Slot
On Engine

Spark

Plug

Wire

Carriage Bolt

NOTE: Your mower is shipped with the handle in the

higher height position. If you wish to lower the height of
the handle, refer to the Handle Height Adjustment
Section on page10.

• Remove the hairpin clips from the outer holes in the
weld pins on the handle mounting brackets.

• Using a pair of pliers, squeeze one leg of the lower
handle against the handle mounting bracket. Insert
the hairpin clip into the inner hole on the weld pin.
See Figure 3. Repeat on other side.

Weld
Pin

Carriage
Bolt

Hand
Knob

Figure 2

Hairpin
Clip in
Inner Hole

Lower

Handle

Figure 1

• Pull up and back on the upper handle to raise the
handle into the operating position. Make certain the
lower handle is seated securely into the handle
mounting brackets. Tighten the hand knobs on
each side of the handle (carriage bolts must be
seated properly on the handle). See Figure 2.

Handle
Mounting
Bracket

Figure 3

7

• Insert post on cable ties into holes provided on the
lower handle. Pull the cable tie tight and trim the
excess. See Figure 4.

Cable Tie

Post

Hole on
Lower
Handle

Figure 4

• The rope guide is attached to the right side of the
upper handle. Loosen the wing nut which secures
the rope guide. For location of the wing nut, see
Figure 5.

Insert starter rope into
rope guide

Wing Nut

• With the spark plug wire disconnected and
grounded, hold the blade control handle against the
upper handle, and pull the starter rope out of the
engine. Release the blade control handle. Slip the
starter rope into the rope guide. Tighten the wing
nut. See Figure 5.

• Make certain all nuts and bolts are tightened
securely.

• Your mower has been shipped as a mulcher. To
convert it to a side-discharge mower, lift the
mulching plug. Slide the two hooks on the side­discharge deflector under the hinge pin on the
mulching plug assembly. Lower the mulching plug.
See Figure 6.

Mulching Plug

Hinge Pin

Deflector

Rope Guide

Figure 5

SECTION 5: KNOW YOUR LAWN MOWER

WARNING: Be familiar with all controls
and their proper operation. Know how to
stop the machine and disengage them
quickly.

Blade Control Handle

WARNING: The blade control handle is a
safety device. Never attempt to bypass its
operations. Doing so, may result in
personal injury through contact with the
rotating blade. The blade rotates
whenever the engine is running.

The blade control handle is located on the upper handle
of the mower. See Figure 7. The blade control handle
must be depressed in order to operate the unit. Release
the blade control handle to stop the engine and blade.

Throttle Control

Your engine is equipped with a constant speed throttle,
which is set at full throttle for best performance.

Hook

Figure 6

8

Recoil Starter

The recoil starter handle is attached to the handle. See
Figure 7. Stand behind the unit in the operating position
to start the unit.

Blade Control Handle

Recoil
Starter
Handle

SECTION 6: OPERATING YOUR LAWN MOWER

Keep hands and feet away from the chute area on the
cutting deck. See safety labels on page 5.

The operation of any lawn mower can result in foreign
objects being thrown into the eyes, which can result in
severe eye damage. Always wear safety glasses or eye
shields.

NOTE: For best results raise the cutting position until it
is determined which height is best for your lawn. See
Cutting Height Adjustment section.

Gas And Oil Fill-Up

Service the engine with gasoline and oil as instructed in
the separate engine manual. Read instructions
carefully.

WARNING: Use extreme care when
handling gasoline. Gasoline is extremely
flammable and the vapors are explosive.
Never fuel machine indoors or while the
engine is hot or running. Extinguish
cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and other
sources of ignition.

Before Starting

WARNING: Read, understand, and follow
all instructions and warnings on the
machine and in this manual before
operating.

• Attach spark plug wire to spark plug. If equipped
with a rubber boot, make certain the metal loop on
the end of the spark plug wire (inside the rubber
boot) is fastened securely over the metal tip on the
spark plug.

To Start Engine And Engage Blade

• Prime engine as instructed in the engine manual.

• Standing behind the unit, depress the blade control

handle and hold it against the upper handle.

• Grasp starter handle and pull rope out slowly until
engine reaches start of compression cycle (rope
will pull slightly harder at this point). Let the rope
rewind slowly.

• Pull rope with a rapid, continuous, full arm stroke.
Keep a firm grip on starter handle. Return it slowly
to the rope guide.

NOTE: If any problems are encountered, refer to the
Trouble Shooting Guide for helpful information.

To Stop Engine And Blade

• Release the blade control handle to stop the engine
and blade.

WARNING: The blade will continue to
rotate for three seconds.

• Disconnect the spark plug wire and ground it
against the engine to prevent accidental starting
while equipment is unattended.

Mulching Plug

Figure 7

Cutting Height

Adjustment Lever

Spark Plug Wire

9

Using Your Rotary Mower

WARNING: Always wear safety glasses or
safety goggles during operation or while
performing an adjustment or repair to
protect your eyes. Thrown objects which
ricochet can cause serious injury to the
eyes.

WARNING: Do not put hands or feet near
rotating parts, in the discharge opening,
or under the cutting deck while the engine
is running. Contact with the rotating blade
can amputate hands and feet.

WARNING: If you strike a foeign object, or
if the mower starts to vibrate excessively,
stop the engine, disconnect the spark
plug and ground it against the engine.
Thoroughly inspect the mower for
damage. Repair the damage before
starting and operating the mower.

• Be sure that lawn is clear of stones, sticks, wire, or
other objects which could damage lawn mower or
engine. Such objects could be accidently thrown by

the mower in any direction and cause serious
personal injury to the operator and others.

• For best results, do not cut wet grass because it
tends to stick to the underside of the mower,
preventing proper discharge of grass clippings, and
could cause you to slip and fall. New grass, thick
grass or wet grass may require a narrower cut.

• When using the side-discharge mower, the best
mowing pattern is one that allows the clippings to
discharge towards the uncut part of the lawn. This
permits recutting of the clippings to further pulverize
them. When cutting high weeds, discharge towards
cut portion, then recut at right angles to first
direction.

• For a healthier lawn, always cut off one-third or less
of the total length of the grass. Lawn should be cut
in the fall as long as there is growth.

WARNING: If you strike a foreign object,
stop the engine. Remove wire from spark
plug, thoroughly inspect the mower for
any damage, and repair the damage before

restarting and operating the mower.
Extensive vibration of the mower during operation
is an indication of damage. The unit should be

SECTION 7: MAKING ADJUSTMENTS

WARNING: Do not at any time make any
adjustment to lawn mower without first
stopping engine and disconnecting spark
plug wire.

Cutting Height Adjustment

Adjustment
Lever

Figure 8

An adjusting plate and thumb lever at each wheel
position provides cutting height adjustment. Each
adjusting plate has nine height positions. Height of cut
will be changed when the thumb lever is moved from
one hole to another. Simply depress the lever towards
wheel and move wheel and lever assembly to desired
position. All wheels must be placed in the same relative
position. See Figure 8.

For rough or uneven lawns, move the height
adjustment handles to positions which will give a higher
cutting height. Both front and rear handles must be
placed in the same relative position.

Handle Height Adjustment

Notch

Lower Handle

Figure 9

Your mower is shipped with the handle in the higher
height position. To lower the handle height, proceed as
follows.

10

• Remove the starter rope from the rope guide.

• Remove the upper handle by removing the hand

knobs and carriage bolts. Lay the upper handle out
of the way, being careful not to bend or kink the
cable.

• Remove the hairpin clips from the weld pins on the
handle brackets. Press inward on the legs of the
lower handle. Remove lower handle from the
mower.

SECTION 8: SERVICE

WARNING: Always stop engine and
disconnect spark plug wire before
cleaning, lubricating or doing any kind of
work on lawn mower.

• Turn the lower handle around so the notch on the
bottom of the lower handle is facing forward as
shown in Figure 9. Reassemble, placing the bottom
holes in the handle over the weld pins in the handle
mounting bracket.

• Reassemble the upper handle.

• Place the hairpin clips in the inner holes in the weld

pins and attach the starter rope as instructed in the
Set-Up Instructions.

Lubrication Chart:

Blade Control

Lubricate the pivot points on the blade control handle
and the brake cable at least once a season with light oil.
See Figure 10. The blade control must operate freely in
both directions.

Wheels

Lubricate the wheel bearings (if so equipped) at least
once a season with light oil (or engine oil). Also, if the
wheels are removed for any reason, lubricate the
surface of the axle bolt and the inner surface of the
wheel with light oil.

Engine

Follow engine manual for lubrication instructions.

SECTION 9: MAINTAINING YOUR LAWN MOWER

WARNING: Be sure to disconnect and
ground the spark plug wire before
performing any repairs or maintenance.

NOTE: When tipping the unit, empty the fuel tank and

keep engine spark plug side up.

Cutting Blade

WARNING: Periodically inspect the blade
adapter for cracks, especially if you strike
a foreign object. Replace when necessary.

Blade
Adapter

Lubricate

Lubricate Bearings

Figure 10

WARNING: When removing the cutting
blade for sharpening or replacement,
protect hands by using heavy gloves or a
rag to grasp the cutting blade.

To remove blade:

• Remove the bolt and blade bell support which hold
the blade and adapter to the engine crankshaft.
See Figure 11. Remove the blade and the adapter
from the crankshaft.

Blade Bell Support

Hex Bolt

Figure 11

• When sharpening the blade, follow the original
angle of grind as a guide. It is extremely important
that each cutting edge receives an equal amount of
grinding to prevent an unbalanced blade. An
unbalanced blade will cause excessive vibration

11

when rotating at high speeds, may cause damage
to the mower and could break, causing personal
injury.

• The blade can be tested by balancing it on a round
shaft screwdriver. Remove metal from the heavy
side until it balances evenly. It is recommended that
the blade always be removed from the adapter for
the best test of balance.

• Before reinstalling the blade and the blade adapter
to the unit, lubricate the engine crankshaft and the
inner surface of the blade adapter with light oil (or
engine oil). Lubricating the bolt holes, bolts and
inner surface of the nuts is also recommended.

To Reinstall Blade:

• Be sure to install the blade with the side of the
blade marked “Bottom” (or with part number) facing
the ground when the mower is in the operating
position.

• Be certain the blade is aligned with and seated onto
the blade adapter flanges.

• Place blade bell support on blade. Make sure the
notches on the blade bell support are aligned with
the small hole in the blade.

• Replace hex bolt.

• Tighten to torque: 450 in. lbs. min., 600 in. lbs. max.

• To ensure safe operation of mower, check all nuts

and bolts periodically for correct torque.

Deck Maintenance

• The underside of the mower deck should be
cleaned after each use to prevent a buildup of
grass clippings, leaves, dirt or other matter. If this
debris is allowed to accumulate, it will invite rust
and corrosion, and may prevent proper mulching.

• The deck may be cleaned by tilting the mower and
scraping clean with a suitable tool (make certain the
spark plug wire is disconnected). Do not use high
pressure cleaners or water.

• We do not recommend the use of pressure
washers or garden hose to clean your unit. They
may cause damage to electric components,
spindles, pulleys, bearings or the engine. The use
of water will result in shortened life and reduce
serviceability.

Engine Maintenance

• Refer to the separate engine manual for all engine
maintenance instructions.

• Maintain ENGINE OIL as instructed in the engine
manual.

• Service AIR CLEANER every 25 hours under
normal conditions. Clean every few hours under
extremely dusty conditions. Poor engine
performance and flooding usually indicates that the
air cleaner should be serviced. To service the air
cleaner, refer to the engine manual.

• The SPARK PLUG should be cleaned and the gap
reset once a season. Spark plug replacement is
recommended at the start of each mowing season;
check engine manual for correct plug type and gap
specifications.

• CLEAN the engine regularly with a cloth or brush.
Keep the cooling system (blower housing area)
cleaned to permit proper air circulation which is
essential to engine performance and life. Be certain
to remove all grass, dirt and combustible debris
from muffler area.

SECTION 10: OFF-SEASON STORAGE

The following steps should be taken to prepare lawn
mower for storage.

• Clean and lubricate mower thoroughly as described
in the lubrication instructions.

• We do not recommend the use of pressure
washers or garden hose to clean your unit. They
may cause damage to electric components,
spindles, pulleys, bearings or the engine. THe use
of water will result in shortened life and reduce
serviceability.

• Refer to engine manual for correct engine storage
instructions.

• Coat mower’s cutting blade with chassis grease to
prevent rusting.

• Store mower in a dry, clean area. Do not store next
to corrosive materials, such as fertilizer.

NOTE: When storing any type of power equipment in
an unventilated or metal storage shed, care should be
taken to rust-proof the equipment. Using a light oil or
silicone, coat the equipment, especially cables and all
moving parts.

12

SECTION 11: TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE

Trouble Possible Cause(s) Corrective Actions

Engine fails to
start

Engine runs
erratic

Engine
overheats

Occasional
skip
(hesitates) at
high speed
Idles poorly 1. Spark plug fouled, faulty or gap

Excessive
vibration

Mower will not
mulch grass

Uneven cut 1. Wheels positioned incorrectly.

1. Control handle disengaged.

2. Spark plug wire disconnected.

3. Dirty air cleaner.

4. Primer button not depressed.

5. Fuel tank empty or stale fuel.

6. Blocked fuel line .

7. Faulty spark plug.

8. Engine flooded.

1. Spark plug wire loose.

2. Blocked fuel line or stale fuel.

3. Carburetor out of adjustment.

1. Engine oil level low.

2. Dirty aircleaner.

3. Air flow restricted.

4. Carburetor not adjusted.

1. Spark plug gap too close.

2. Carburetor idle mixture
adjustment improperly set.

too wide.

2. Carburetor not adjusted.

1. Cutting blade loose or
unbalanced.

2. Bent cutting blade.

1. Wet grass.

2. Excessively high grass.

2. Dull blade.

1. Engage blade control handle.

2. Connect wire to spark plug.

3. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.

4. Refer to the engine manual.

5. Clean fuel line.

6. Clean, adjust gap or replace.

7. Refer to the engine manual.

8. Wait for a while and crank the engine.

1. Connect and tighten spark plug wire. Check spark plug
for fouling.

2. Clean fuel line; fill tank with clean, fresh gasoline.

3. Refer to the engine manual packed with your unit.

1. Fill crankcase with proper oil.

2. Refer to the engine manual.

3. Stop engine and disconnect spark plug wire. Remove
blower housing and clean.

4. Refer to the engine manual.

1. Adjust gap to .030".

2. Refer to the engine manual.

1. Reset gap to .030" or replace spark plug.

2. Refer to the engine manual.

1. Tighten blade and adapter. Balance blade.

2. Replace blade.

1. Wait until later to cut.

2. Mow once at a high cutting height, then mow again at
desired height .

1. Place all four wheels in same height position.

2. Sharpen or replace blade.

13

SECTION 12: PARTS LIST FOR MODEL P418

1

2

3

8

19

14

28

22

7

13

15

4

21

6

26

25

5

17

23

16

15

20

16

18

30

17

14

9

24

12

29

22

19

10

7

Ref.

No.

1 17098 Hinge Clip
2 731-1028 Rear Flap
3 682-3001A Handle Bracket Ass’y LH
4 682-3000A Handle Bracket Ass’y RH
5 736-0356 Bell Washer .39” ID x 1.38”
6 712-0798 Hex Nut 3/8-16 Thd.
7 731-0982A Hub Cap:Beige
8 682-0018B Deck Assembly

9 753-0588 Blade Adapter Kit
10 736-0524A Blade Bell Support
11 710-1044 Hex Bolt 7/16-20 x 1.5”
12 742-0738 18” Mulch Blade
13 738-0213 Axle Bolt

14 736-0105 Bell Washer .400” ID x .88”

15 738-0507B Shoulder Bolt
16 14832P Spring Lever Ass’y w/Knob

Part No. Description

11

Ref.

No.

17 15262B Pivot Bar
18 15261A Height Adj. Plate
19 734-2008 Wheel Assembly
20 14578 Height Adj. Ass’y. Comp. R.F.

21 710-0654A Hex Lock Wash. Hd. Screw 3/8-

22 736-0504 Wave Washer
23 682-7002 Mulching Plug
24 731-1409 Chute Deflector
25 736-0270 Bell Washer
26 710-0599 Hex Wash. Hd. TT Screw 1/4-

28 750-0535 Spacer
29 738-0102 Axle Bolt
30 712-0431 Hex Flange L-Nut 3/8-16 Thd.

Part No. Description

14579 Height Adj. Ass’y. Comp. L.F.

16 x 1.0” Lg.

20 x .5” Lg.

14

Model P418

1

7

6

2

NOTE: For painted parts, please refer to
the list of color codes below. Please add the
applicable color code, wherever needed, to
the part number to order a replacement part.
For instance, if a part, numbered 700-xxxx,
is painted Cub Yellow, the part number to
order would be 700-xxxx-0716.

Cub Yellow: 0716

Cub Beige: 0499

Powder Black: 0637

5

8

11

20

17

9

15

10

10

18

21

11

12

13

Ref. No. Part No. Description

1 647-0004 Control Handle Ass’y.
2 710-1270 Oval C-Sunk Screw
5 712-0324 Hex Lock Nut
6 746-0883 Control Housing
7 720-0295 Foam Grip
8 749-0705 Upper Handle

9 710-1205 Rope Guide
10 720-0314 Hand Knob
11 710-1174 Carriage Bolt
12 726-0240 Cable Tie
13 749-0928 Lower Handle
14 714-0104 Hairpin Clip
15 746-0554 Control Cable 40.5” Lg.

19

14

Ref. No. Part No. Description

17 720-0279 Handle Knob
18 - Engine
19 735-0639 Spark Plug Boot
20 751B095225 Screw #10-32 x 2.3” Lg.
21 751B281857 Engine Shroud

- 710-1268 Muffler Guard Screw (Not
Shown)

- 751B225250 Muffler Guard (Not Shown)

- 777D00543 Hub Cap Label

- 777D003382 Engine Shroud

- 777S30118 Danger Label (Cut Hand)

- 777S30277 Discharge Door

15

MANUFACTURER’S LIMITED WARRANTY FOR:

TWO-YEAR RESIDENTIAL
ONE-YEAR COMMERCIAL

Proper maintenance of your Cub Cadet equipment is the owner’s responsibility. Follow the instructions in your
operator’s manual for correct lubricants and maintenance schedule. Your Cub Cadet dealer carries a
complete line of quality lubricants and filters for your equipment’s engine, transmission, chassis and
attachments.

Riding mowers, lawn tractors, garden tractors, Cub Cadet

attachments and home maintenance products

This limited warranty for residential users, covers any defect in materials or workmanship in your Cub Cadet
equipment for two years from the date of purchase for the first user purchaser. We will replace or repair any
part or parts without charge through your authorized Cub Cadet dealer.

Batteries have a one-year prorated limited warranty with 100% replacement during the first three months.

V-belts for either the traction drive or any attachments are covered for one year only.

Cub Cadet equipment used commercially is warranted for one year only.

(Commercial use is defined as either having hired operators or used for income producing purposes.)

Items not covered

The warranty does not cover routine maintenance items such as lubricants, filters (oil, fuel, air and hydraulic),
cleaning, tune-ups, brake and/or clutch inspection, adjustments made as part of normal maintenance, blade
sharpening, set-up, abuse, accidents and normal wear. It does not cover incidental costs such as transporting
your equipment to and from the dealer, telephone charges or renting a product temporarily to replace a
warranted product.

There is no other express warranty.

How to obtain service

Contact your authorized Cub Cadet servicing dealer who sold you your Cub Cadet equipment. If this dealer is
not available, see the Consumer Yellow Pages under “lawn mowers” for the name of a dealer near you.

If you need further assistance in finding an authorized Cub Cadet servicing dealer, contact:

Cub Cadet Corporation
Post Office Box 368023

Cleveland, Ohio 44136

How does state law apply?

This limited warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state
to state.