Cub Cadet: A Legacy of Outdoor Power Equipment

Cub Cadet is an American company specializing in the production of outdoor power equipment. It offers a wide range of products and services, including utility vehicles, handheld tools, chore equipment, and snow throwers. With its roots dating back to 1960, Cub Cadet has a rich history as a premium brand of small tractors and has evolved over the years. This article explores the history and development of Cub Cadet, from its inception as part of International Harvester to its acquisition by Stanley Black & Decker.

The Origins: IH Cub Cadet

Cub Cadet originated in 1960 as part of International Harvester (IH). It was introduced as a premium line of small tractors designed for heavy-duty tasks, using components from the previous Cub series tractors. During the 1960s, the IH Cub Cadet found its niche market among homeowners with large lawns and private gardens. The brand offered a variety of attachments, both Cub Cadet branded and after-market, including mowers, blades, snow blowers, front loaders, plows, and carts.

Transition to MTD

In 1981, IH faced financial difficulties, leading to the sale of the Cub Cadet division to the Modern Tool and Die Company (MTD). This marked a significant transition as MTD took over production and the use of the Cub Cadet brand name, sans the IH symbol. Under MTD’s management, Cub Cadet products were distributed through lawn equipment dealers, branded as Cub Cadet Corporation tractors in the traditional white and yellow livery, while IH agricultural dealers continued selling them in the red and white livery. However, in 1985, the IH agriculture division was sold to Tenneco.

Stanley Black & Decker’s Involvement

In 2018, Stanley Black & Decker, an industrial power tool maker, acquired a 20% minority stake in MTD Products for $234 million. This strategic investment aimed to strengthen Stanley Black & Decker’s presence in the outdoor garden equipment market. Subsequently, in 2021, Stanley Black & Decker made a significant move by purchasing the remaining 80% of MTD Products for $1.6 billion. This acquisition solidified their position in the outdoor power equipment industry.

The Evolution of Cub Cadet

Cub Cadet’s journey has been marked by a series of innovations and model introductions. It all began in 1960 with the release of the International Cub Cadet Tractor, also known as the Original. In the early 1960s, the Original was powered by a 7 hp and 8 hp Kohler engine. Cub Cadet then introduced the CJR, a hydrostatic version of the Cub Cadet transmission made by Sundstrand Corporation.

Between 1963 and 1971, Cub Cadet produced tougher, narrow frame models. In 1971, they introduced the wide frame series, followed by the Quietline series in 1974 and the 82 series in late 1979. The Cyclops series, featuring a restyled hood, plastic side panels, a plastic hood, and newly designed fenders, also made its debut.

Cub Cadet’s legacy includes ventures such as the Cub Cadet Yanmar project, focusing on four-wheel drive diesel compact tractors, and the acquisition of LESCO, which led to the development of the Cub Cadet Commercial line.

Today, Cub Cadet continues to be a leading brand in the outdoor power equipment industry, offering innovative and reliable products designed to meet the needs of homeowners and professionals alike.