How Much Oil Does a Cub Cadet 1440 Lawn Mower Take?

1440 Oil Specs

• The model 1440 garden tractors that use either a 14- or 16-horsepower Vanguard engine will hold 3 ½ pints of standard automotive engine oil. Cub Cadet recommends using its own line of engine oil, called Cub Cadet oil, which meets the API (American Petroleum Institute) service classification of SF or SG. If not using the Cub Cadet line of oil, use only a similar high-quality brand of detergent automotive engine oil in the 1440.

1440 Oil Type

• Automotive engine oils are rated by their viscosity to classify the oil's performance at a given ambient temperature. When engines operate in different ambient temperatures, use a different viscosity oil to improve overall starting and engine performance. Cub Cadet recommends using a SAE 30W oil when operating in temperatures over 40 degrees Fahrenheit and using a SAE 5W30 or 10W30 in temperatures from 40 to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. In below-zero temperatures, switch to SAE 5W20.

Checking Oil Level

• Cub Cadet recommends performing an oil-level check prior to each use of the 1440. This will ensure there is sufficient oil in the crankcase and prevent any damage to the engine. Check the oil level with the lawn tractor parked on level ground, the parking brake on and the engine off. Check the oil level when the engine is cold. Add more oil if the reading is below the "Add" line.

Considerations

• The model 1440 lawn tractor will require an oil change after every 50 operational hours or at least once during the season. Change the oil when the engine has had sufficient time to heat up, as the oil will flow out more freely. Drain the tank completely and change the oil filter during every oil change.