This was the first tractor I purchased...
Model Year: 1998
Mitsubishi 20 HP, 3cyl indirect diesel, 4WD, 8 forward, 2 reverse, partially synchronized transmission, "live" 540 RPM rear PTO, turf tires, Cub Cadet loader, 60" Kodiac landscape rake w/ casters. This was the first new tractor that I purchased. I have always favored John Deere, but they could not come close in price to the Cubs. The Cub also had LIVE power, and the gear shift 4100 did not. This was an important feature, as I intended to attach a snow blower to it. The LIVE power allows you to halt the tractor, but keep the auger moving. I used this tractor extensively for landscaping and land clearing for a full year before trading up to the Cub 7260. I found this tractor ideal for general yard chores, but not heavy enough for the use I was going to subject it to. I never had any maintenance issues with it other than a flat rear tire (my fault). I found it to be a very reliable and efficient machine. My only qualm with it, was that the loader did not have a full frame, and I was worried about twisting the tractor's frame. I liked the dual pumps; one for steering, the other, an implement pump. Ironically, when I traded it a year later, with 70+ hours on it, the dealer allowed me my full purchase price toward the 7260.
Pros: Live power, foldable ROPS, tilt wheel, twin hydraulic pumps
Cons: Loaders don't have much of a frame, exerts alot of stress on tracto