Cub Cadet 1250 problem

[Lynn Patrick]

Hi Guys! I'm new to this site, usually hang out on the Ford side. I have a CC 1250 that when I last ran it last fall I had to keep increasing the pull on the choke to keep it running as I finished the last few rounds of mowing. I just ran a compression check and it was 60 lbs. It has leaked oil as long as I have owned it (4-5 years), I think from the front seal, but has always run great. Is this good compression for this engine? Any hints what to look for before I tear it down to repair the oil leak?
Thanks,
Lynn
 

[dhermesc]

Measuring compression can be a trick as those, the engine have a compression release valve at low RPMs. However if accurate the 60 PSI reading is low - it should be in the 110 to 120 PSI range.

It sounds like you have a blown headgasket and you'll want to fix that ASAP as the lean condition really heats those engines up causing more damage.

Fixing a head gasket on a 1250 is a PIA compared to a 129 or a 127 due to all the heat sheilds but its doable if you have a torque wrench.
 

[kennell]

Lots of times when you need choke to keep them running its dirt in the carb.Take your carb apart Throw your body in a bucket of carb cleaner for a day or two and thenn blow out all the passages.You should notice a big difference after that. Kent
 

[I Luv Farmalls]

Mine did the same thing last fall, I poured some sea foam in it and two minutes it ran like new.
 

[Ken Ind.]

My 1650 did that also last spring shot some carb cleaner in it while running and cleared up ran good all summer,kenny.