Are you struggling with your Cub Cadet RZT 50? Let me tell you, I’ve been there too. This zero-turn mower, known for its power and performance, isn’t immune to a few hiccups.
From puzzling starting problems to sudden stops during mowing and even unexpected smoke, it can be quite a challenge.
But fret not! In this article, I’ll walk you through the most common issues that plague the Cub Cadet RZT 50 and offer practical solutions.
So, if you’re eager to get back to maintaining pristine lawns, keep reading to discover how to tackle these problems head-on.
Cub Cadet RZT 50 Problems
- Starting problems
- Safety interlock system
- Starting position
- Fuel problem
- Battery issue
- Transmission issue
- PTO switch issue
- Uneven cutting
- Engine problem
- cub cadet rzt 50 weak left side
- cub cadet rzt 50 blades will not engage
- Cub cadet zero turn mower problems
Although there are many problems Cub Cadet RZT 50 faces, the most prevalent ones include transmission, PTO switch and engine problems.
Also, the mower faces uneven cutting problems, battery issues, fuel problems and starting issues among others.
Problem #1 Cub Cadet Zero-Turn Steering Problems
Cub Cadet steering problem is notorious when it comes to zero turn mowers. You will often encounter difficulties in steering the tractor in a particular direction.
It happens when the steering wheel gets stiff, and thus, moving it left or right becomes difficult. The causes of the problem are many and varied.
However, a few of them include insufficient fluid and damaged steering gear and rack. Too much internal temperature and debris could damage the rack and gear.
While insufficient pressure from the machine’s power steering pump may stiffen the steering. Also, when the inner bashings are damaged, it is difficult to steer the mower.
Solutions
- Lubricate the shafts and check the worn-out parts or brushing.
- Ensure the steering arms and the shaft are connected and there is no obstacle to prevent them from turning.
- Replace worn-out bushing or wheels attached to the axle and steering arms.
- Ensure the wheel is centered, lubricate the steering, and change worn-out parts.
- Check and repair the steering linkage if damaged.
- If the tire pressure is low, inflate.
Problem #2 Safety Interlock System
The work of the safety interlock system is to stop the tractor from starting if in an insecure position. Thus, the tractor will halt if you don’t activate the parking brake.
Solution
- Pull the right and left hand levers into the neutral position to activate the system. Turn off or disengage the PTO and activate the parking brakes.
Problem #3 Starting Problem
The tractor may not start if the gas level is high or old and gummy. An old, dirty spark plug could also prevent the tractor engine from starting. In addition, if your oil is too old, the tractor will not start.
Solutions
- Ensure the fuel level reaches the carburetor even when the tractor is on the slop.
- If the gasoline is 30 days old, remove it and replace it with a new one.
See: Cub Cadet Challenger 750 Challenges
Problem #4 Fuel
An empty gasoline tank or old fuel could make it difficult for your Cub Cadet rzt 50 to start. Even if it has some fuel, it will only start if it can deliver enough fuel to the ignition.
So if the tractor is on a slope and exhibiting the problem, pushing it to a flat area may make it start.
Solutions
- Drain the old fuel.
- Refill the tank.
Problem #5 Battery Issue
Your Cub Cadet RZT 50 will not start if the battery is dead. Similarly, if the battery loses its capacity to hold and maintain the required voltage, the mower will not start.
In some cases, loose battery connection could make it difficult for the mower to start.
Solutions
- Replace the battery
- Check the battery terminals and tighten them
Problem #6 Cub Cadet Rzt 50 Transmission Problems
Cub cadet rzt 50 will often experience transmission problems. This could happen if you use the transmission on the left side of the mower. If the transmission stops working, it is kaput.
Also, it could happen when warming the mower. The fluid boils up, resulting in hydraulic pressure loss and transmission problems.
The mower may experience transmission problems when the pump or engines fail due to galling or misalignment.
Solutions
- Check and ensure the fluid level is ok if not, topping it up may solve the problem.
- Check the transmission filter and air cleaner paper element. If it is clogged, clean and replace it.
- Consider replacing the transmission if none of these interventions work.
Read: Cub Cadet XT3 GSX Challenges
Problem #7 Cub Cadet Rzt 50 PTO Problems
PTO issues are many. However, the most common ones are PTO clutch issues or PTO not engaging problems.
Cub cadet zero turn rzt 50 PTO will not engage -when the PTO stops working; it becomes difficult for the mower deck to engage.
As a result, the blades will not spin. Also, if the PTO is not engaged, or the PTO belt is loose, the blades will not spin.
Cub cadet zero turn has PTO clutched issues, making it difficult for the mower to transfer power from the motor to the blades.
The electric solenoid may be bad, or the clutch could be won out. Also, excessive heat could make the clutch to malfunction.
Solutions
- Turn the PTO switch on
- Replace damaged belt
- Replace the clutch if it is damaged
- Replace the switch if damaged
Problem #8 Uneven Cutting
At some point, the mower may start cutting grass unevenly. This is a serious problem you may want to sort out before it gets out of hand.
An unsharpened blade or inflated tires could cause uneven grass mowing. Also, the problem could be caused by high grass.
Solutions
- Move the side deck and ensure they are on the same level.
- Change or sharpen the blades if they are blunt.
- Inflate the tires to 14 PSI for the front and 10 PSI for the rear tires.
- If the grass is too tall and the mower comes with mulching kit, set the blades to the highest position.
See Also: Cub Cadet Lawn Mowers Troubleshooting
Problem #9 Engine Problem
The cub cadet rzt 50 engine may refuse to start because the choke is inactive or there is debris in the engine’s cooling fins.
It may also refuse to start if the fuel tank is empty or blocked the fuel system and blocked fuel line.
Likewise, if the spark plug is wrong or the throttle lever is not set correctly, the engine may experience starting issues.
Solutions
- Top the fuel tank up if the gas is low. If the existing fuel is over 30 days old, replace the fuel.
- Replace the old spark plug if it is worn out.
- Set the throttle once again and ensure the choke control is in off position.
- Remove debris from engine’s cooling fins.
Problem #10 Cub cadet rzt 50 weak left side
When the hydraulic fluid level drops, the cadet rzt 50 will weaken. A dipstick will tell you whether it needs topping up or not.
Also, you may try to drive forward on an uphill and reverse back. If you fill the effect in both directions, the left hydraulic motor bypass could be open.
Solutions
- Top up the hydraulic fluid.
- Look for the bolt that sticks out in the hydraulic motor and tighten it.
- If this does not solve the problem, then you may see a dealer to check the hydraulic valve, motor, or the hoses.
Related: Cub Cadet Ltx 1050 transmission problems
Problem # 11 Cub Cadet Rzt 50 Blades Will Not Engage
The Power Take Off allows you to disconnect the engine from the blade. When you energize the solenoid, the clutch engages the belt, which rotates the blade mover.
So when the PTO does not get the power because the solenoid is worn-out, the blades will not engage. Unfortunately, you may not be able to repair a defective clutch.
Solutions
- If the switch is faulty or defective and is not supplying power, use a multimeter to test the switch for continuity. If it is faulty, you may need to replace it.
- Replace the clutch.
Cub Cadet Zero Turn Mowers Troubleshooting
Having a functional mower is a great thing if you plan to keep your grass in tip-top condition. The mower keeps your lawn down, making the compound look great.
Thus, troubleshooting your cub cadet zero-turn mowers could help identify problems and look for appropriate solutions. It helps to keep the mower in good shape.
Thus to troubleshoot the machine, do the following:
- Check the oil level and ensure it is complete.
- Clean the fuel system and replace the air filter.
- Clean the spark plug and consider replacing it if it is worn out.
Read: Cub Cadet XT1 lt46 problems
Table Showing Problems, Causes and Solutions
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
| Engine stalling | Dirt Oil | Replace oil |
| Starting difficulty | Dirt or worn-out spark plug | Clean or replace it |
| Steering problem | Damaged gear and rags | Replace the gears and rags |
| Safety Interlock system | Deactivated parking brakes | Pull the right and left hand levers into neutral positions |
| Fuel problem | Insufficient or stale fuel | Drain and refill the tank |
| Battery issue | Battery is dead, poor connection | Buy a new battery or tighten connections |
| Transmission problem | Hydraulic pressure loss or misalignment | Top up the fluid/ replace the transmission system |
| PTO problem | PTO not engaged/ PTO clutch issue | Replace the belts/clutch |
| Uneven cutting | Unsharpened blades/deflated tires | Sharpen the blades/Inflate the tires |
| Weak left side | Drop in hydraulic fluid | Top up hydraulic fluid |
| Blades will not engage | Worn-out solenoid/ worn-out clutch | Replace solenoid/clutch |
Cub Cadet rzt 50 reviews
The Good:
- Powerful Performance: The Cub Cadet RZT 50 has a robust engine and a cutting deck that allows it to handle large mowing tasks efficiently. It can easily handle thick grass and uneven terrains.
- Fast and Maneuverable: This mower offers impressive speed and agility, making it ideal for covering large areas quickly. The zero-turn radius technology enables smooth and precise turns, reducing the need for additional trimming.
- Comfort and Ergonomics: The RZT 50 features a comfortable high-back seat with armrests, providing a pleasant mowing experience even during extended use. The intuitive controls and ergonomic design make operating the mower easy and user-friendly.
- Durable Build: Customers have praised the mower’s sturdy construction and reliable build quality. It can withstand frequent use without significant wear and tear.
- Versatility: Apart from its primary mowing function, the Cub Cadet RZT 50 offers versatility with attachments like baggers, mulchers, and snowblades, extending its usability beyond just mowing.
The Bad:
- Limited Fuel Capacity: Some users have mentioned that the fuel tank capacity is relatively small, requiring frequent refueling during extended mowing sessions.
- Maintenance Challenges: While the mower is generally durable, some owners have reported challenges with maintenance and repairs, particularly when dealing with engine-related issues.
- Noise Level: The noise produced by the mower’s engine has been a concern for a few users who found it louder than expected.
The Cub Cadet RZT 50 is a powerful and efficient zero-turn riding mower that offers excellent performance for both residential and commercial use.
Its impressive speed, maneuverability, and comfortable design make it a popular choice among users with larger lawn areas to maintain. The durability and versatility of the mower add to its appeal.
Cub cadet zero turn problems
- Mower Won’t Start
- Mower Suddenly Stops
- Mower Producing Smoke
- Weak Hydrostatic Transmission
- Mower Won’t Steer Straight or Correctly
- Mower Not Moving
- Mower Vibrating
FAQs
What year did the Cub Cadet RZT 50 come out?
Cub Cadet was established in 1960 to deal in heavy-duty small tractors. In 1981, it made a cub cadet powered by a seven and eight-hp Kohler engine.
The company introduced tougher and narrow frame models in 1971. In 1974 it introduced the quiet line series, while the Cyclops series was introduced in 1982. The company started manufacturing Cub Cadet RTZ 50 in 2006.
How much does a Cub Cadet RZT 50 weigh?
Cub Cadet RZT 50 has a wheelbase of 43.5 inches, with the front tire measuring 13×5.0-6 while the rear tire is 18 x 9.5 -8. The mower weighs 527 lbs or 239 kg.
What transmission does Cub Cadet use?
Cub Cadet uses a hydrostatic transmission system. The system is filled with fluid during manufacturing and sealed. This means that you cannot change the fluid. However, you can change the filters every 100 hours of mowing.
Final Thoughts on Cub Cadet RZT 50 Problems
Maintaining a well-kept lawn adds value to your home. A reliable mowing machine is crucial for achieving that perfectly manicured look.
The Cub Cadet RZT 50 comes with a powerful 50KW Kawasaki engine, promising an enjoyable mowing experience. However, like any machine, it has its share of challenges that need addressing.
The RZT 50 is designed for efficiency, but it’s essential to be aware of the common issues that may arise during its use. Understand and solve problems like starting difficulties, sudden stops, and smoke production to fully harness the mower’s potential.
Don’t let these Cub Cadet RZT 50 problems deter you. With the right knowledge and solutions, effortlessly maintain your lawn and take pride in a beautifully groomed property. Happy mowing!