Cub Cadet makes trustworthy machines for all, from the most experienced rural homeowner to the first-time gardener.
Proof of this quality is that despite some users complaining about Cub Cadet RZT 50 problems, most are concerned with only one component of the lawn tractor.
Nonetheless, it’s worth looking at these issues and seeing how serious they are and what you can do to fix them, possibly from home, so that you can spare a few bucks.
Let’s start!
The most common problems with Cub Cadet Rzt 50
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You’re investing in half a century of experience when you buy a Cub Cadet lawn mower. This isn’t just a saying because the Cub Cadet company has been in the business for over 60 years.
They were also the first to introduce the zero turn mower as proof of their innovative soul.
For 60 years, Cub Cadet provided high-quality outdoor lawn and garden equipment, putting the user in the first place.
This is evident in the longevity of their mowers, which nonetheless are not without flaws.
The main problem with the Cub Cadet RZT 50 seems to be the starting process.
Since this is no one-cause issue, we’re going to analyze each possibility, from the most obvious to the rarest one.
There are also a couple of other issues with this Cub Cadet mower, and we will dive into those.
1. Fuel issues
Your Cub Cadet tractor may be out of fuel.
Too obvious? And yet you would be surprised how many users who complain about problems with their yard machine forget to check the simplest things.
Make sure to fill the tank with fresh gasoline. The perfect fluid should have no more than 10% ethanol and an octane rating of 87-grade or higher.
Why fresh gasoline? Because another common issue with this lawn mower is stale fuel.
Gas tends to deteriorate in the long run, so you should change the fuel at least once every 30 days. Make sure to get it from a busy station so you know they don’t have fuel sitting there for long.
2. Fuel system issues
This Cub Cadet lawn mower may present several issues with the fuel system that prevent the engine from starting.
Here’s a short but detailed guide about all Cub Cadet RZT 50 problems related to the fuel system:
- Fuel cap: When the fuel cap’s vent gets clogged, the tank creates a vacuum that prevents the mower from drawing gas out of the tank. Remove the cap and start your mower to check if this is the issue. If it starts, reinstall and remove the lid a few times to see if the mower starts without it but dies with the cap on. If that’s the case, replace the fuel cap.
- Fuel pump: pressure is essential to the fuel pump because that’s what it needs to help move the gas to the carburetor. However, old fuel could deteriorate the pump. Inspect it; if you see cracks in it or fuel leaking out, you should replace it.
- Fuel filter: This prevents debris and dirt from entering your engine, so the fuel must run in and out of it. If the fuel stops at the filter, you can try to clean it or install a new one.
3. Spark plug issues
When you have a loose spark plug or one gapped incorrectly, you may experience engine misfire, failure to start completely, and even running problems.
Inspect the spark plug and look for signs of carbon buildup or cracks in the insulator.
Replace the plug if necessary and ensure it’s gapped following the manufacturer’s specifications.
4. Air filter issues
Your engine may be starving for air. This happens when the air filter is clogged. As a consequence, the lawn mower won’t start.
When you clean the air filter, ensure you’re not dropping any dirt on it. Please do not use an air compressor; tap it against a hard surface to remove excess dirt.
Finally, hold it to the light and check if you can see through the paper. If you can’t, it’s time to replace the filter.
5. Carburetor issues
The carburetor regulates the combustion between gas and air, but if it’s too dirty, it won’t work.
This can happen when using old fuel that contains too much ethanol.
Unfortunately, cleaning a carburetor is not for everyone, so if you don’t have mechanical experience, you should bring your lawn mower to a professional or Cub Cadet dealer.
6. Battery issues
Loose wires or corroded terminals can compromise the functionality of your Cub Cadet tractor battery.
You can use a multimeter to test the battery. If the multimeter reads below 12.7 volts, you must charge your battery.
However, if your lawn mower doesn’t hold the charge, it’s time to replace the battery.
7. Transmission issues
This is a pretty rare issue. Some users reported that the transmission on the left side of the mower stops working while the tractor is running.
This problem is probably due to the loss of hydraulic pressure when the hydraulic fluid gets too hot.
The hydraulic system dissipates heat through the reservoir, so ensure it is filled to the correct level.
8. Lawn mower solenoid issues
A solenoid is an electromagnetic switch needed to engage the starter motor that turns the engine over.
When you hear a clicking/humming sound while trying to start the engine, this is the sign of a bad solenoid.
You can test your mower solenoid by following this guide. If it’s faulty, replace it right away.
9. Mowing deck issues
Some users of the Cub Cadet RZT 50 have complained about uneven cutting when working fields and gardens.
You first want to move your lawn mower to a leveled surface like a garage and ensure the mowing deck is aligned on both parts.
If the problem persists, ensure that all tires have the same pressure and check if the blades have lost sharpness or need replacing.
10. PTO switch issues
The PTO switch may present two main issues: either the switch itself is faulty, or there’s a problem with the wiring.
Loose wires or faulty connections of the PTO switch cause blade malfunctions.
In this case, it’s better to replace the faulty switch immediately. You might want to check with a professional before proceeding.
Cub Cadet Rzt 50 problems: are they a deal-breaker?
Cub Cadet has provided innovative and performative machines since 1960, so you can’t go wrong when you buy one of their lawn mowers.
The Cub Cadet RZT 50 has a few issues when starting, but many of these are related to periodic vehicle maintenance.
Keeping a lawn mower in good shape requires attentiveness and patience to fix minor issues that can happen to any compact tractor model.
As long as you prioritize the maintenance of your tractor, you can be sure to prevent most issues and preserve its longevity.
Marvin is an expert in farming equipment with a strong background in agricultural engineering. He graduated from Kansas State College of Agriculture, where he received a degree in Agricultural Engineering and specialized in farm equipment design and maintenance.
