Cadet 1180 User Manual (English)

Questions and Answers:

S
Scott MartinAug 19, 2025
What to do if my Cadet Lawn Mower engine will not crank?
- V
  vwarrenSep 12, 2025
  If your Cadet Lawn Mower engine won't crank, ensure the safety switch buttons are fully depressed. The PTO knob must be in the disengaged (OFF) position. Check that the battery is correctly installed with the negative terminal attached to the black ground wire and the positive terminal to the thick red wire. A dead or weak battery or a blown fuse can also cause this issue. Try charging the battery at six amps with a 12-volt automotive-type battery charger for one hour or until fully charged. Replace the fuse with an automotive type fuse of the proper amperage, after checking for loose connections in the fuse holder and correcting the underlying problem. Also check for shorts in the cranking or charging circuit, looking for damaged or pinched wires.
K
kellyolsonAug 21, 2025
How to fix Cadet Lawn Mower engine that fails to start?
- J
  Jonathan ChangAug 21, 2025
  If your Cadet Lawn Mower engine fails to start, make sure the knob lever is in the disengaged (OFF) position and the parking brake is engaged. Also, check that the wire(s) are connected to the spark plug. Ensure the throttle lever is in the FAST position and the CHOKE control is pulled out. Fill the tank with clean, fresh gas (less than 30 days old). Finally, clean the fuel line or replace the fuel filter and clean, adjust the gap, or replace the spark plug. You may also try to crank the engine with the throttle in the FAST position.
K
Kelly GarciaAug 25, 2025
Why does my Cadet Lawn Mower engine crank but will not start?
- J
  Jesus DixonAug 25, 2025
  If your Cadet Lawn Mower engine cranks but doesn't start, the throttle or choke might not be in the correct starting position. Refer to the operation section of the manual for proper positioning. Also, check if the gasoline tank is empty and fill it if needed. A plugged fuel line or in-line fuel filter can also be the culprit; remove and clean the fuel line, and replace the fuel filter if necessary. Ensure the spark plug lead is connected. If there's still no spark, have the engine's magneto serviced by your Cub Cadet dealer. A dirty air cleaner may also prevent the engine from starting.
A
Adam SmithAug 26, 2025
Why is my Cadet Lawn Mower engine smoking?
- E
  Emily BakerAug 26, 2025
  If your Cadet Lawn Mower engine is smoking, it might be due to overfilled engine oil. Check the oil level and correct if necessary. Another cause could be the engine losing crankcase vacuum. Inspect the dipstick to ensure it is correctly seated and not broken; replace if defective. Also, the engine breather might be defective and need replacement.
D
Debra GilmoreAug 28, 2025
How to fix Cadet 1180 uneven cut?
- J
  James HullAug 28, 2025
  If your Cadet Lawn Mower provides an uneven cut, perform a side-to-side deck adjustment. Additionally, sharpen or replace the blade. Also, check the tire pressure in all four tires.
K
Kevin RodriguezAug 30, 2025
How to solve Cadet Lawn Mower idles poorly?
- D
  Dennis DavisAug 30, 2025
  If your Cadet Lawn Mower idles poorly, try replacing the spark plug and setting the plug gap to .030”. You may also need to replace the air cleaner cartridge/element or clean the pre-cleaner, if your mower is equipped with one.
M
Matthew BarnesSep 1, 2025
What to do if Cadet 1180 Lawn Mower engine hesitates at high RPM?
- T
  Theresa MitchellSep 1, 2025
  If your Cadet Lawn Mower engine hesitates at high RPM, remove the spark plug and reset the gap to .030”.
A
anna62Sep 4, 2025
What to do if my Cadet 1180 Lawn Mower has excessive vibration?
- M
  Michael BrandtSep 4, 2025
  If your Cadet Lawn Mower is vibrating excessively, stop the engine immediately. Inspect all pulleys, blade adapters, keys, and bolts for tightness and check for any spindle damage. Tighten or replace any loose or damaged parts. Always replace a damaged blade, using only original equipment blades.
R
Randy AguilarSep 6, 2025
How to fix a Cadet 1180 Lawn Mower that won’t discharge grass or leaves uncut strips?
- M
  Mr. Brent BeckerSep 6, 2025
  If your Cadet Lawn Mower isn't discharging grass properly or leaves uncut strips, ensure the engine throttle is set to full. Reduce your ground speed to improve the cut quality. Also, check if the cutting height is set too low and raise the deck if needed. Dull blades can also cause this issue; sharpen or replace them, especially if you're experiencing uncut strips.
E
Eric GarciaSep 8, 2025
What to do if Cadet 1180 engine runs erratic?
- R
  reedbryanSep 9, 2025
  If your Cadet Lawn Mower engine runs erratically, try pushing the CHOKE control in and ensure the spark plug wire is connected and tightened. Clean the fuel line and refill the tank with clean, fresh gasoline (less than 30 days old). Replace the fuel filter, if equipped. Clear the vent or replace the cap if damaged. You may also need to drain the fuel tank and refill it with clean, fresh gasoline. Consider replacing the air cleaner cartridge/element or cleaning the pre-cleaner, if your mower has one.

Cadet 1180 Specifications

General

Brand	Cadet
Model	1180
Category	Lawn Mower
Language	English

Summary

Finding Your Model Number

Calling Warranty Service

Important Safe Operation Practices

General Operation

Basic rules for safe operation of the lawn mower, including reading the manual and knowing controls.

Slope Operation

Procedures for safely operating the tractor on inclines and slopes, including speed and direction.

Children Safety

Safety precautions to protect children from mower hazards and prevent unauthorized operation.

Service Safety

Guidelines for safe handling of fuel and maintenance procedures, including disposal.

Slope Gauge

Attachments and Accessories

Tractor Set-Up

Attaching the Battery Cables

Proper connection of battery cables to ensure power, noting terminal identification.

Gas and Oil Fill-Up

Instructions for filling fuel and checking oil levels before operation, with safety warnings.

Tractor Controls Overview

Ignition Switch

How to start, stop, and operate lights using the ignition switch, with safety notes.

Throttle Control Lever

Adjusting engine speed and choke control (on some models) for optimal performance.

Choke Control

Manual operation for starting a cold engine by activating the choke plate.

Indicator Monitor / Hour Meter

Understanding dashboard indicator lights and tracking operating hours.

Lift Lever

Electric PTO (Power Take-Off) Knob

Drive Pedal

Brake Pedal

Parking Brake Button

Shift Lever

Cruise Control Button

Seat Adjustment Lever

Cup Holder

Tractor Operation

Safety Interlock Switches

How safety interlocks prevent unsafe operation and potential injury, including bypass warnings.

Setting the Cutting Height

Adjusting the mower deck to the desired grass cutting height for optimal performance.

Starting the Engine

Step-by-step guide for safely starting the tractor engine, including choke and brake use.

Stopping the Engine

Procedures for safely shutting down the tractor engine, including idling and key removal.

Driving the Tractor

How to move the tractor forward and in reverse using the drive and shift levers.

Setting the Cruise Control

Utilizing the cruise control feature for consistent speed in forward motion.

Driving on Slopes

Safety precautions and techniques for operating on inclines, avoiding overturns.

Operating the Headlights

How to turn the tractor's headlights on and off using the ignition switch.

Tractor Adjustments

Leveling the Deck

Adjusting the mower deck for an even cut, covering front-to-rear and side-to-side.

Seat Adjustment

Adjusting the seat forward or backward for operator comfort and proper reach.

Steering Adjustment

Adjusting drag links for proper steering alignment and response.

Carburetor Adjustment

Adjusting the carburetor for optimal engine performance and smooth running.

Brake Adjustment

Adjusting the brake system for proper stopping and parking brake function.

Maintenance Procedures

Engine Maintenance

Oil changes, air filter service, spark plug checks, and general engine upkeep.

Cleaning the Engine and Deck

How to clean the tractor's engine and mower deck to prevent buildup and ensure efficiency.

Cutting Deck Removal

Steps for safely removing the mower deck for maintenance or attachment installation.

Changing the Deck Belts

Procedure for replacing the mower deck drive belts, ensuring proper tension.

Changing the Transmission Drive Belts

Procedure for replacing the transmission drive belts for proper power transfer.

Upper Drive Belt Replacement

Steps to remove and install the upper drive belt, including pulley and bracket adjustments.

Lower Drive Belt Replacement

Steps to remove and install the lower drive belt, requiring component removal.

Drive Pedal Adjustment

Adjusting the drive pedal for proper travel and speed control, related to belt replacement.

Cutting Blades

Removing, sharpening, and replacing mower blades for optimal cutting performance.

Battery Maintenance

Battery care, cleaning terminals, and proper charging procedures with safety warnings.

Tire Pressure and Maintenance

Recommended tire pressures and battery charging precautions.

Lubrication Guide

Engine Lubrication

Engine oil requirements and lubrication points for optimal engine health.

Chassis Lubrication Points

Lubricating pivot points, linkage, steering, wheels, axles, and spindles.

Troubleshooting Guide

Engine Starting Issues

Diagnosing problems like engine not cranking or not starting, checking safety switches and battery.

Performance Issues

Troubleshooting engine smoke, excessive vibration, and poor cutting quality.

Manufacturer's Limited Warranty

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Cadet 1180 User Manual

Table of Contents

Questions and Answers:

Cadet 1180 Specifications

Summary

Finding Your Model Number

Calling Warranty Service

Important Safe Operation Practices

General Operation

Slope Operation

Children Safety

Service Safety

Slope Gauge

Attachments and Accessories

Tractor Set-Up

Attaching the Battery Cables

Gas and Oil Fill-Up

Tractor Controls Overview

Ignition Switch

Throttle Control Lever

Choke Control

Indicator Monitor / Hour Meter

Lift Lever

Electric PTO (Power Take-Off) Knob

Drive Pedal

Brake Pedal

Parking Brake Button

Shift Lever

Cruise Control Button

Seat Adjustment Lever

Cup Holder

Tractor Operation

Safety Interlock Switches

Setting the Cutting Height

Starting the Engine

Stopping the Engine

Driving the Tractor

Setting the Cruise Control

Driving on Slopes

Operating the Headlights

Tractor Adjustments

Leveling the Deck

Seat Adjustment

Steering Adjustment

Carburetor Adjustment

Brake Adjustment

Maintenance Procedures

Engine Maintenance

Cleaning the Engine and Deck

Cutting Deck Removal

Changing the Deck Belts

Changing the Transmission Drive Belts

Upper Drive Belt Replacement

Lower Drive Belt Replacement

Drive Pedal Adjustment

Cutting Blades

Battery Maintenance

Tire Pressure and Maintenance

Lubrication Guide

Engine Lubrication

Chassis Lubrication Points

Troubleshooting Guide

Engine Starting Issues

Performance Issues

Manufacturer's Limited Warranty

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