Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro | How to Change the Oil

Oil Filter Pliers used in the video: amzn.to/3C0L7He
Oil Filter: amzn.to/3QiGn4f
Oil: amzn.to/3BW1MMh
Oil and Filter set: amzn.to/3vXZfxs
In this video I will show you how to change the oil and oil filter on a Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro series lawn tractor. In the video I will demonstrate on my Cab Cadet XT1 LT 46.
My “how to” videos for this mower:
How to Remove the Deck and Put it Back On: • Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro |...
How to Level Your Deck: • How to Level Your Cub ...
How to Change the Blades: • Change Your Riding Law...
Lubrication Points on a Cub Cadet: • Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro -...
Adjust Your Deck Wheels: • Cub Cadet XT1 Enduro -...
2 HACKS to help level your mower deck: • 2 DECK LEVELING HACKS ...
Cleaning Under Deck Belt Covers - Rust Prevention
• Riding Lawn Mower Main...
DISCLAIMER:
This video and description contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support this channel and allows me to continue to make videos like this. Thank you for your support!
Videos produced by Fix It Flip are provided for informational purposes only. All material provided within this video is for informational, educational, & entertainment purposes only. Some of these projects, materials, and techniques may not be appropriate for all ages or skill levels. Please use all safety precautions while following any instructions or concepts provided by this video. Viewers must be aware that by doing projects on their homes they are doing it at their own risk and Fix It Flip cannot be held liable if they cause any damage to their homes. It is the sole responsibility of the viewer to educate themselves on their local codes and regulations before undertaking any sort of project. Always have safety in mind and have fun!

[@MarkMeadows90]

For less mess when it comes to taking off the oil filter, you can use an old Gatorade bottle and cut it out to fit around your oil filter. Keep the cap on so it catches the excess oil coming out of the oil filter location. You can also use an empty oil bottle and cut it out to fit around your oil filter as well. Thanks!

[@fixitFlip]

Good tip. I've made oil drains out of oil bottles before: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqm4n4h-mrt_qJI

[@Magnum_Express]

Removing the hood should've been the first thing I did today. I changed the oil in mine for the first time today (about 6 hour mark) before finding this video and it wasn't easy as I anticipated. The oil ran out extremely slowly, even after running the engine for about a minute beforehand. Probably could've used another minute to warm up. The filter was so stuck on there from the factory, I had to run out and buy pliers similar to the ones you used. Also that dipstick is hard to read. The yellow color is fine if the oil's dirty, but when its fairly clean its a guessing game how much is actually on there. Good idea with the milk jug. I tried to use a flat oil pan, my first mistake. And I forgot to put a rag under the filter, so oil ran all over the frame. I've changed oil in cars, mowers, and such dozens of times, but today I felt like it was the first time again.

[@fixitFlip]

Well, glad you got it figured out now. Better late than never. I've got lots of videos for maintenance on this mower if you want to save the headache in the future, ha ha.

[@kylem5135]

Great video. I think I changed the oil in less than 10 minutes! I have the Briggs and Stratton engine that takes 1 1/2 quarts. Glad I took your advice and checked the Manuel. Thanks for the great video!

[@fixitFlip]

No problem and glad I could help!

[@danili5114]

Not, trying to play the gender card, but I never had to change the oil before because my father normally does it, but he isn't here anymore. This was sooo straight forward and so easy. I literally did the oil change minus the wait time from draining the oil in 10 minutes. (The oil filter was on too tight) Thank you

[@fixitFlip]

I'm sorry for your loss but glad I could help! Comments like these are why I do these videos!

[@chrisw1460]

Thanks for these videos! I just got my CC XT1 46 this afternoon, and you've already been a BIG help.

[@fixitFlip]

No problem, glad I could help. I'm loving the mower. Hope you have the same experience. More videos to come.

[@gbppittpetitt8684]

Me too!

[@internet123ism2]

thanks for showing how the hood comes off.

[@fixitFlip]

No problem! 👍🏻

[@jimmymcfarland4184]

Got the same mower last summer. Used the links you posted. Can’t wait to change the oil! Thanks for the video!

[@fixitFlip]

It's the best time of the year, getting ready to mow! I can't wait to get started. Thanks for using the links.

[@TheNewenglandboys]

Just bought the LT46 yesterday and in the bag with manuals was that clear tube I had no idea what it was for lol. Now I know! Thanks, great video and glad I found this! I subscribed

[@fixitFlip]

I just did a New User's Guide for the mower that may be helpful since you just got it! : kzbin.info/www/bejne/inK5dqall7Zoeq8

[@weekendhomeprojects]

That mower looks beast!! Your wife worried about the neighbor ladies getting a wondering eye?

[@fixitFlip]

If she’s not, she should be! 😂

[@rayalderson67]

@@fixitFlip 😂😂😂 Good one !!!!

[@Watchpot]

Question: i just purchased the same tractor and model,where does it say in the manual to change the oil and filter after the first five hours ? The authorized dealers I took it to them just to check out the function to make sure it was assembled correctly. The service manager told me do oil change after first 20 hours . Love your videos keep them coming.

[@thebluesrockers]

@@Watchpot I'm with this video creator. I believe after 5 to 10 hours you should change the oil. It's new and could have quite a bit of crap in it after being heated for several hours. Not to mention I prefer quality oil. pennzoil 10w30 synthetic, I also use Fram oil filters. I've used Fram filters for years. My last mower lasted 30 years and the motor is still working. So I must have done something right. The Transmission went out after 30 years but the motor still sounds good.

[@philipfarmer3967]

@@Watchpotmost mowers recommend a “break in” oil change at 5 hours to get the initial shavings, etc out of there. It’s in the manual as well.

[@kevinc6763]

Thanks! Just bought mine. Appreciate this vid.

[@fixitFlip]

No problem. I think you'll enjoy it. I've been very pleased with mine.

[@508homes]

Thanks for the easy to follow video

[@fixitFlip]

No problem!

[@TC10394]

What a perfect set up. LOVE IT!

[@fixitFlip]

Thank you!

[@randallbadgett7448]

What a great video. My cub is coming up for a oil change nowI feel more confident. Thanks!

[@fixitFlip]

Thanks and glad I could help!

[@smpotter1]

It looks like we have the same Kohler manual....Mine doesn't say anything about changing it at 5 hrs and it says to change it every 100 miles not every 50....Just personal preference?

[@fixitFlip]

Interesting. I've never seen a mower that didn't recommend a break-in oil change. Probably the most important one in my opinion.

[@EXEON727]

Any real advantage to using Kohler's synthetic-blend engine oil vs using Mobil1's 10W30 full synthetic oil?

[@fixitFlip]

Only advantage to the synthetic-blend is the price! Full synthetic is better but normally more expensive!

[@stevem.9022]

Does the 2 quarts include the filter fill or is it 2 full quarts plus the addition of the filter oil?

[@fixitFlip]

The 2 quarts includes the filter fill!

[@justinallen4903]

This is great, unfortunately, when I bought mine from HD, I didn't get the manual or drain hose. Well, guess I have to run to the hardware store.

[@fixitFlip]

A lot of people say that about buying from HD. I always recommend people buy from their local dealer. They won’t do that kind of stuff.

[@vinceaddison577]

Great step by step video !

[@fixitFlip]

Thank you!

[@chuckpeters1]

Great video.. I've been saving this vid since i bought my enduro 50 last fall. My mower has about 6.5 hrs on it. I really would like to mow before changing the oil. How far past the 5hr mark would be ok? Mowing my yard adds about an hour to the meter.

[@fixitFlip]

It’s probably the most important oil change on the tractor so I wouldn’t wait too long.

[@Coach_Brian_Level_Up]

Thank you!! I could not find this info clearly communicated anywhere else

[@fixitFlip]

No problem, glad I could help!

[@ryanakabomber]

Thanks, bud!

[@fixitFlip]

No problem!

[@Art-jl6pt]

Thank you-I hit starter for a second to get any oil left in crank case out before I add new oil - I put aluminum foil or cardboard under drain plug & filter tape it to frame to keep in place..is there a spark plug that performs better than stock??I use old oil to lubricant underneath deck during winter storage- wipe clean in spring before first mow.check deck for any dirt,etc that would freeze up actuator pulley arm. Thx again

[@fixitFlip]

Good tips on the cardboard and the oil under deck. I haven't had to replace my spark plug yet.

[@thebluesrockers]

I would only use a cheap champion spark plug, as the higher end spark plugs could cause some damage. I also always check the gap on the spark plug before installing, and make sure you snug it up without over tightening. I recommend changing your spark plug every spring with a fresh oil change, and a decent oil filter. I prefer a Fram filter. I also have always used Pennzoil motor oil. My last mower had a Kohler 22hp and lasted 30 years before the transmission went out. Not sure if my maintaining had anything to do with that but I feel it may have. Whatever you choose to do I wish you the best of luck. Having a broken down mower sure sucks. I'm so glad I bought the Cub Cadet. Best cut my yard has ever seen. I've been very impressed. Take good care and good luck to you.

[@lkw5699]

Great video. Just make sure your mower is on level ground before refilling with oil

[@fixitFlip]

Good tip.

[@AimingWanderously]

But if it takes 2L (per the manual) and you add exactly 2L, you're safe even if you did it on an incline.

[@paulinacastaneda50]

It’s a “he” I saw the nuts

[@danielsolis3884]

My mower was delivered with no owners manual or tub to drain the oil any idea what size tube I need? Thank you I’m advance

[@fixitFlip]

Any 1/2 inch hose will work! My neighbor even uses a piece of garden hose on his Cub.

[@javiersanchez2363]

I've got this same mower. Appreciate the video! Any suggestions for an air ride suspension add-on for this one?

[@michaelpaulmcdaniel8870]

How do you keep it SO CLEAN Sir? She looks amazing!

[@fixitFlip]

Ha ha, thank you! I blow it off with the blower after every use and store it in a garage. That helps. I also put it up on my homemade ramps every now and then to scrape under the deck.

[@COddietsch]

You hepled me decide on whether to buy it or the XT2 which I cannot really afford. $1300 more, don't think I need it. Thanks

[@fixitFlip]

Glad I could help!

[@CWB1863]

Can you use Castrol 10-30 synthetic blend? I'll use the Kohler but it's so much more expensive.

[@fixitFlip]

I have heard of people using it before but I have never personally tried it so I can't vouch for it.

[@CWB1863]

@@fixitFlip Fair enough, good answer.

[@MontanaTactical]

Great video!! Thank you sir.

[@fixitFlip]

Thank you and no problem!

[@drkeefer100]

Good video. Thanks!

[@fixitFlip]

Thank you and no problem!

[@AimingWanderously]

I find it interesting how the manual says to change the oil after the first 5hrs and then every 50, yet Kohler's user manual for that exact engine does not say to do it after 5 hrs, but says to do it every 100 hrs (instead of 50). Further, their user manual for this engine states that if you use their Kohler Pro 10w-50 synthetic oil it only needs changed every 300 hrs. Personally I would tend to side with the engine manufacturer vs Cub Cadet's manual, however my last Cub Cadet was a 2007 and as of this year when I finally retired it, it only has 261 hrs on it. I of course couldn't let a single oil change go that long if that's my average run time, but it is interesting what Kohler states.

[@fixitFlip]

That is very interesting. Pretty much every engine I've ever worked with suggests a break-in oil change after 5 hours. And 100 hours seems crazy to me.

[@CWB1863]

@@fixitFlip I'm now changing the oil every 30hrs to be on the safe side. Can't beat clean oil

[@fixitFlip]

Absolutely. Most important maintenance there is! @@CWB1863

[@CWB1863]

@@fixitFlip Agreed!

[@phillipjohnson6772]

Great job man! Simple and clean approach. Quick question does your drive belt have a lot of slack or chatter while in motion?

[@fixitFlip]

Thanks and no it should not. I do have a drive belt video. Different mower but they are pretty similar. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gYWcfotnnseeb5I

[@phillipjohnson6772]

@@fixitFlip I’ll do some investigating. Kinda frustrating since it’s a brand new mower

[@fixitFlip]

Absolutely. @@phillipjohnson6772

[@daveswain7944]

Great video. I've lost the drain tube that came with my mower. Any idea what the inside diameter of the tube is? I'm guessing 3/4" but I can't quite tell.

[@fixitFlip]

Thanks. I'm pretty sure it's 1/2 inch ID plastic tubing.

[@chrismcdowell2752]

1/2"

[@ABackZhu]

My LT46 bought this year (2024) does not have hour meter. The manual says it need oil change for the first 5 hours but change the oil filter every 50 hours. For whatever reason, it also says in step 1 to remove all fuel from tank by running engine until it stops from lack of fuel. I see you still have some gas in tank. Is it necessary to change the oil filter and empty the gas in tank?

[@fixitFlip]

Yes on the oil filter and I have never heard of emptying a gas tank to change the oil?? The oil change after 5 hours is probably the most important oil change. Not having an hour meter I don't understand. It should have one.

[@ABackZhu]

@@fixitFlip They start selling LT46 without hour meter. That's for sure. A lot of people have complained about it. I need to order separately from their company and installed it by myself. Is it possible or still good to change oil without changing the oil filter after 5 hours as manual says?

[@fixitFlip]

@@ABackZhu Wow. What a cheap shortcut to take that off a machine that expensive. That's crazy. It is better than nothing to at least change just the oil, that's for sure. But best to change both.

[@LIGHT7CODE7]

I have thie mower and like it. They make everything so cheap these days with a plastic hood cover.

[@fixitFlip]

Agreed. And this year's model they even removed the hour meter. Cheap.

[@eh5108]

Hi.can you send me description about oil filter wrench Please. Thanks

[@fixitFlip]

Sure, here is the link right here: amzn.to/42Wb6dp

[@pgc6166]

I don't understand the comment about removing the sparkplug for a oil change. Is there any legit reason for doing that?

[@fixitFlip]

I don't do it, but I know of some people that do any time they do any type of maintenance. Just kind of a procedure to make sure there is no accidental start ups. The chances of it happening are very very low unless you are messing with the blades.

[@steelphantom9105]

I have the same mower which I bought last year (2022) but doesn’t have the quick drain release. What should I do?

[@fixitFlip]

You can cut up a bottle like I do in this video, then drain it. Once it's drained, I would put a quick drain release in it or a drainzit hose. Video and items linked below: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqm4n4h-mrt_qJI&pp=ygUcZml4IGl0IGZsaXAgb2lsIGNoYW5nZSB0cmljaw%3D%3D Drainzit hose: amzn.to/3KkSP2n Replacement oil drain valve: amzn.to/43HzkrF

[@timr31908]

Listen to that starter sounds really healthy man if you had a hard start sounds like that starter's going to go to hell

[@fixitFlip]

Yeah definitely a good thing!

[@KeyFobRob]

Thanks!!

[@fixitFlip]

No problem!

[@CWB1863]

Awesome, thank you!

[@fixitFlip]

No problem! 👍🏻

[@xraykadiddlehopper8067]

Pretty shiny mower ya got there. Must be new 5 hrs old. You didn’t get much spill when putting the oil filter back on?

[@fixitFlip]

Yep got it new (scratch and dent) from a dealer. One that had been banged up at Home Depot and sold at auction. But it's in pretty good shape. Gotta be quick with the filter ha ha.

[@katsthoughts8171]

I have this model rider and watched your video, went to change my oil and it's not set up the same as yours?!?! Now I'm not confident to do it. #girlproblems

[@fixitFlip]

Hmmm. What year is your mower? When did u get it?

[@katsthoughts8171]

@@fixitFlip 2018. But good news is a went forward with it and I did it. Thank you! Videos like this literally get me thru everything. I love KZbin and all you people out there that know things and share the videos.

[@fixitFlip]

@@katsthoughts8171 That's great! Yeah that's a little older than mine. Glad my video still helped somewhat hopefully!

[@drc44646]

Do you have any idea what the oil type is that they originally ship the mower with? I cannot find it anywhere and need to top off the oil. Thanks

[@fixitFlip]

I believe it comes with the 10W-30 . But I can't vouch for that 100%

[@thebluesrockers]

If it's a new mower and has 5 hours on it you really need to change the oil. I like to change my oil every year. I have 5 acers to mow. My last mower was a Craftsman GT with a 23hp Kohler. It lasted me 30 years before the transmission went out. I now have the Cub Cadet XT-1 23hp Kohler. The same exact mower as this video. I sure don't expect it to last 30 years but I'm very happy with it. The best cut my yard has ever seen. If you prime your oil filter by pouring oil into it for a few minutes, you should drain out with the funnel back into the bottle before installing the oil filter. this will be a lot less messy. Other than that tip, this video was awesome. I hope we all have a mowing season without any breakdowns. Peace.. Joe

[@fixitFlip]

@@thebluesrockers Amen to that brother. Cheers to no breakdowns or belts popping off. Thanks for stopping by and the input. Always welcome!

[@Mr91495osh]

Did you check the oil level after you ran the engine? What engine do you have?

[@fixitFlip]

I did not check it right after the change, but I do check it from time to time. Mine is the Kohler 7000 series.

[@mikegeremia4918]

is it harmful if I did not change the oil after 5 hrs.....I have 22 on it now it was brand new

[@fixitFlip]

I would change it ASAP. I think the first "break-in" oil change is one of the most important. Clears out metal shavings and particles from break in.

[@Dooblecaine]

I ordered mine from Home Depot and they are clueless. They gave me the manual for an ZT1 and when I mentioned that they returned later in the day with a new document bag for a.. ZT1. Of course no drain tube. What a mess.

[@fixitFlip]

Lol yep ALWAYS but from a dealer if you can! That’s what I did.

[@5730201]

I bought a new cub cadet xt1 enduro lt 50 in. Does he need to replace the coolant and refrigerant? thx

[@fixitFlip]

There is no coolant or refrigerant.

[@psychdoggg]

Fills the oil filter, then dumps half on the ground when installing it 😅. I definitely don't do this on a car, I'm sure as heck not doing it on my mower. Decent video though 👍.

[@fixitFlip]

Ha! Thanks, dog!

[@MrHyde216]

@psychdogg I was wondering if I should pre-fill my oil filter as well ?

[@boozer74]

Do I need to use kohler oil?

[@fixitFlip]

Nope, brand doesn't matter.

[@thebluesrockers]

@@fixitFlip I'd stay away from the recycled oil they sell at Wal-Mart & I would also stay away from Valvoline.

[@fixitFlip]

@@thebluesrockers Good tips.

[@speederz1]

i drain my oil 2xs a season no matter if it needs it or not..and the rear hydrostaic also

[@fixitFlip]

Nothing wrong with that. Not like you can change your oil too much.

[@Mr91495osh]

The manual didn’t say how to remove the hood, thanks

[@fixitFlip]

No problem.

[@thebluesrockers]

Why did you use synthetic oil? Just wondering. I'm not a fan of the synthetic oil. there's a few reasons why I don't like it. I can't seem to find my manual so I'm not sure what it recommends. Does it recommend synthetic oil or is that your personal preference? Great video by the way. I had to sub your channel. I bet you'll have a lot of video's that will be quite helpful for future fixes. Thanks for all your time and effort for making these video's. Peace.. Joe

[@thebluesrockers]

I forgot to mention the reasons I don't like the synthetic oil. many synthetic oils contain esters, which are organic compounds mixed with alcohol. This particular combination can be extremely rough on seals within the engine, which can cause the seals to wear down and begin to leak or burn oil.

[@fixitFlip]

@@thebluesrockers Very interesting tidbits on the oil. I did not know that! I mainly went with it just because that's what was suggested in the manual, and I've never had any issues with it in the past. Which oil do you typically use?

[@thebluesrockers]

@@fixitFlip I use Pennzoil 10-w-30 and I highly recommend the Fram oil filters. There's you tube video's of people testing oil and Pennzoil did amazing. There's also people showing the difference in oil filters. One guy cut open a Harley Davidson oil filter and Fram filter and proved how the Fram filter was far better. I learned about the Fram oil filters back when I was in my early 20's from my boss when I worked changing oil. My Father in-law had told me about Pennzoil motor oil back in my early 20's. He also recommended STP, fuel injection cleaner once a month with a full tank of gas. He said that's just a smart way to keep things clean. He said not to over use it but once a month throw a bottle in the tank with a fill up to keep things from building up. He said it will also help keep my spark plugs clean. he also said spark plugs can mess things up when you get those high dollar split fire spark plugs. he said it's better to use a cheaper costing spark plug and just change them more often. Sorry for the mini book. I just wanted to share all of my info with you. Take what you want from it. I'm glad I subbed your channel and wish you the very best. Peace.. Joe

[@thebluesrockers]

@@fixitFlip I had heard that you can use standard oil in something that says synthetic only, but if you choose to use standard oil not to go back to the synthetic. As that can cause problems. I'm no Johnny wrench so I have no Idea personally, but the Mechanic that told me that had several years of college and went to college to become a Mercedes, mechanic. Very knowledgeable guy.

[@fixitFlip]

@@thebluesrockers Very interesting. I'm going to look into this further!

[@5730201]

How long does it take to change the oil?

[@fixitFlip]

Under an hour, counting getting all your tools out, etc.

[@5730201]

@@fixitFlip When I buy a new lawn mower, how often should I change the oil and antifreeze? Thanks

[@fixitFlip]

@@5730201 The mower needs a "break-in" oil change after the first 5 hours if purchased new, then every 50 hours after that. There is no antifreeze to worry about.

[@5730201]

@@fixitFlip thx🍻🍻🍻🍻🍻🍻

[@mikd1420]

Why do you have to change the oil after only the first 5 hrs?

[@fixitFlip]

During the first 5 hours the oil basically cleans the engine and while it's breaking it in, it gets lots of little metal shavings in it, so it's always recommended to do a change after the first 5 hours. Then once it's broken in you can spread them out.

[@mikd1420]

@Fix it Flip thanks for the reply, I just bought this mower, waiting for it to arrive this week. I've already watched 3 of your videos and look forward to following you until I get the hang of my new tractor!

[@fixitFlip]

@@mikd1420 Also, welcome aboard! I'll have more videos on this tractor coming your way!

[@kvnparker]

Fram Oil Filter PH3614 fits this engine

[@MiBurnout]

Fram is trash now...

[@lkw5699]

Whats a pto?

[@fixitFlip]

“Power take off”. Lever you push down on to engage the blades.

[@timr31908]

You just wait till you have to buy new blades it's going to break the bank

[@fixitFlip]

Don't tell me that. I was just wanting to switch to some gator blades for the fall. That may be out then.

[@fixitFlip]

Just looked it up. $63......wow

[@surgeant]

Is that $63 for a set of 3 Cub Cadet OEM blades, or the Gator set?

[@markrush5013]

42 bucks...worth every penny

[@69boychild]

My cub the dipstick and oil drain is on the opposite side of the filter….? Lol

[@fixitFlip]

Weird. 🤨

[@crazymomwife4]

Funny my exact same one has the dip stick and filter on one side and the where you drain the oil on the other! Bought it 2 years ago

[@thegreener196]

I bought a brand new xt1 lt46 at the end of last summer and put 5 hours on it then put it up for the winter and left the key in the on position accidentally and now the hour meter says 38 hours. blech

[@fixitFlip]

👎🏻👎🏻 stupid

[@Brian420687]

Just buy the Kohler 300 hour kit...

[@fixitFlip]

I actually just bought the Kohler 7000 maintenance kit this past week to make a few more videos with

[@edporter9355]

👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@fixitFlip]

👊🏻👊🏻👊🏻

[@thundermike109]

Yo bro

[@fixitFlip]

Yo.

[@whocares5188]

Lol you get 1 more hp over the xt1 46. I wonder if it really has 1 more hp.

[@fixitFlip]

Who gets 1 more hp? This is an XT1 46.

[@garycox6764]

Never use Synthetic Blend, Full Synthetic or non Synthetic only.

[@moegreenbl]

Never use plyers on an oil filter it only needs to be hand tight.

[@fixitFlip]

?? That's exactly what I did in the video ??

[@christophersmith5116]

He only used pliers to take the Filter off.

[@fixitFlip]

@@christophersmith5116 Correct. Thank you.

[@whocares5188]

You are wasting more buying that kohler crap.

[@fixitFlip]

Wasting more what?