Hello, after much researching I've decided to pull the trigger on a new 1042. This will be my first lawn tractor, chosing between all the different brands/models was way more difficult than I could of ever imagined /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif. Our lawn is an average sized residential lot and fairly flat. The 1042 seems like more than enough machine to cut the grass and pick up leaves in the fall. I'm going to the local dealer vs. the box stores (prices are the same). My question/concern is how will I know for sure if I'm getting an '06 vs. a left over '05? Any production dates stamped on the unit, if so where and what is the cut off date for the model years? Thanks for any help. Also, I'd love to hear from some 1042 owners (hopefully HAPPY owners /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif) on how they like their machine so far. Larry
Buying a new 1042
- Thread starter Bowa1
- Start date
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Look at the Serial # underneath the operators seat.
Sample Serial #
1 - Lot/Engineering Level, # changes when theres a change
L - Month A=Jan, B=Feb, C=Mar...etc etc
2 - Used with below
0 - The two are the day of that month
5 - Year manufactured
G - Deck Size
2
0
0
0
0 - These numbers after G are just production #'s
So the manufactured date is Dec 20, 2005. Which is really a 2006 model.
Plus there are changes to the Muffler design due to SnowThrower and Snowblade uses, so a different Bumper is used.
Sample Serial #
1 - Lot/Engineering Level, # changes when theres a change
L - Month A=Jan, B=Feb, C=Mar...etc etc
2 - Used with below
0 - The two are the day of that month
5 - Year manufactured
G - Deck Size
2
0
0
0
0 - These numbers after G are just production #'s
So the manufactured date is Dec 20, 2005. Which is really a 2006 model.
Plus there are changes to the Muffler design due to SnowThrower and Snowblade uses, so a different Bumper is used.
Just a follow up.... I went to the CC dealer today and bought a 1042, sure enough he was going to sell me the '05 unit as an '06! After looking at the front bumper, I told him "that's an '05" he said no, it's an '06. I pointed out what I learned about the difference in the bumper position and he then admitted "oh yeah, it is an '05" /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif He said no other differences between the 2 model years... I said, doesn't the '06 have a 3 year warranty compared to 2 yrs. on the '05?.... he said, "oh yeah". Hopefully when they deliver the unit it'll be an '06 (they had several still in the crates) or it'll be going back /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif. Besides all, that he was very friendly and answered all my questions on maintenance, etc. plus had free delivery. Thanks for the info on the differences. Oh, I even got a free CC hat /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif. The internet really does help you to be an informed shopper!!! Larry
We have had extensive problems with our 1042 brand new machine purchased October 05, we got a new replacement and indeed have now been offered our money back. Do not buy it if you have any incline at all some of our land is about 25 degrees, or intend pulling a trailer - drive is not made for it and warns in manual.
This model was a big mistake - luckily our choice of dealer wasn't.
Jason
This model was a big mistake - luckily our choice of dealer wasn't.
Jason
Most of the '05's of this model will have Kohler's Command engine rather than the Courage for '06, and it has been made evident that the Command is a better longer lasting engine of the two. So dollar for dollar a leftover '05 with the Command would be the one to buy if you want this type of tractor.
I am reading MANY reports from many sources of problems with 2005 and 2006 Cub Cadet 1000's and 1500's with belt driven hydrostatic transaxles having problems with getting torque to their rear wheels on inclines, when pulling carts, or when mowing heavy grass. IMHO a TRACTOR is made for just that, TRACTION, and if those model machines can't deliver an acceptable level of that to do work for the homeowner than their design is terribly flawed.
A lawn or garden tractor that can't move itself and mow up a 25 degree incline, mow RELATIVELY heavy grass slowly, or pull a garden cart with at least 500 lbs of load without its transaxle slipping is useless. Apparently CC better improve its proving ground and test these models a little better before releasing them, because the simple fact is the cheapest of cheap hydrostatic Craftsmans can handle those tasks with ease. It's time to stop buying excuses from these so called, "Premium," manufacturers so they stop the mirages hiding the flimsiness and get back to building things that actually WORK /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif
-Fordlords-
I am reading MANY reports from many sources of problems with 2005 and 2006 Cub Cadet 1000's and 1500's with belt driven hydrostatic transaxles having problems with getting torque to their rear wheels on inclines, when pulling carts, or when mowing heavy grass. IMHO a TRACTOR is made for just that, TRACTION, and if those model machines can't deliver an acceptable level of that to do work for the homeowner than their design is terribly flawed.
A lawn or garden tractor that can't move itself and mow up a 25 degree incline, mow RELATIVELY heavy grass slowly, or pull a garden cart with at least 500 lbs of load without its transaxle slipping is useless. Apparently CC better improve its proving ground and test these models a little better before releasing them, because the simple fact is the cheapest of cheap hydrostatic Craftsmans can handle those tasks with ease. It's time to stop buying excuses from these so called, "Premium," manufacturers so they stop the mirages hiding the flimsiness and get back to building things that actually WORK /forums/images/graemlins/mad.gif
-Fordlords-
turbe
New member
</font><font color="blueclass=small">( I bought the same one from a local dealer. I have about .4 acres and I'm very happy so far. Starts right up, mows. My two requirements. 
I paid $1460 + tax. I dare you to beat that price!
Pappy )</font>
I can beat it.. Today 04/08/2006, I went to Lowes to look at the John Deere Models (after going to my local Cub Dealer) and found a New LT1042 on clearance (other stores have a few left as well)... Clearance was $1439 plus I BS'ed the manager and said I had applied for the Lowers 10% Movers Coupon Online but hadn't received it.. She approved the additional 10% off, my salesman had the price $1295 (with the discount).... /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif
The Kohler Courage engine has a date of June 2005, I will have to look again at the front bumper (I think it does stick out 2 inches or so).. but I'm not sure if this is a 2006 or 2005 model... what else is new/different with the 2006 models over the 2005?
BTW, I'm in Olympia, WA (south of Seattle) if anyone wants to check local Lowes for the Clearance Price and stock...
I think $1295 is a super price, so I may add Lowes 4 Year Protection for $240.. The local repair Shop that Lowes uses(Action) is very good, I have used them in the past for other things....
Are there any pictures of the bumper (2005 and 2006 versions)? I would like to verify which model year I have...
I'm glad I've found this forum.. little concerned about drive belt slippage, but my 1.5 acres is pretty flat....
Thanks in advance..
Shawn
I paid $1460 + tax. I dare you to beat that price!
Pappy )</font>
I can beat it.. Today 04/08/2006, I went to Lowes to look at the John Deere Models (after going to my local Cub Dealer) and found a New LT1042 on clearance (other stores have a few left as well)... Clearance was $1439 plus I BS'ed the manager and said I had applied for the Lowers 10% Movers Coupon Online but hadn't received it.. She approved the additional 10% off, my salesman had the price $1295 (with the discount).... /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif
The Kohler Courage engine has a date of June 2005, I will have to look again at the front bumper (I think it does stick out 2 inches or so).. but I'm not sure if this is a 2006 or 2005 model... what else is new/different with the 2006 models over the 2005?
BTW, I'm in Olympia, WA (south of Seattle) if anyone wants to check local Lowes for the Clearance Price and stock...
I think $1295 is a super price, so I may add Lowes 4 Year Protection for $240.. The local repair Shop that Lowes uses(Action) is very good, I have used them in the past for other things....
Are there any pictures of the bumper (2005 and 2006 versions)? I would like to verify which model year I have...
I'm glad I've found this forum.. little concerned about drive belt slippage, but my 1.5 acres is pretty flat....
Thanks in advance..
Shawn
