Cub Cadet 7200 Burns Oil/Smokes

[lobstafari]

Hi, anyone have any suggestions/experiences with tractors burning excessive oil? My father was the original owner, he said the smoke started after sitting, and it was all of a sudden. He was never much to let things warm up before operation. I have got it to come out of it once a few years ago, going with the neighbors suggestion of running it under a load (bushhogging) for a few hours to let it really heat up, but hasnt helped since. Its obnoxious enough to be sure the wind is blowing the right direction, and burns about 1/2 qt per hour. Its dripping right out the exhaust at a drip every 4 sec or so. I have also heard head gaskets can cause funny problems like this. The engine has not been apart. It has 800 hrs on it.

 

[art]

I would let a dealer crank it down on a dyno or you work the S&&& out of it under full load and then some or pull the engne apart and hone the cylinders to remove the glaze.

I'd also be sure the thermostat is working so it is running at the proper temp. which if not would also do what you have.

 

[lobstafari]

Thanks Art,
I was putting off bringing it to the dealer to save money short term, but in the long run, I think that might be the best option for me. Good point about the thermostat. The gauge looks ok but that doesn't mean its right. Ill check it out with my point n' shoot thermometer too!