Dale M, I recall when gas prices were " out of the ball park" just over a year ago, I wondered to myself as I was fueling up my truck at the service station, "Who would ever spend that crazy cost for hi-test gasoline"?
During that time, I used the regular, 87 octane ethanol gasoline in all my IH Cub Cadets. I too, having been around this forum for a spell, read and realized an important need for the gasoline additive Marvel Mystery Oil when added to the gasoline in my tractor.
As of the past ( of late ), and present, hi-test (93 octane or better) gasoline is well with in my price range. And, as I mentioned earlier below, what the IH Operator's Manual calls for, and that for myself, try to do things by the book, was never ment to be in disagreement with you. We all understand that a higher grade of gasoline such as "hi-test" serves a better performance, and quality grade of gasoline. Fair enough?
With our 2012 Cub Cadet 1054, and my 1450, gasoline really does not have a near chance of sitting around thirty days. Even in a pinch, I used chain saw gasoline in my 1450 and my tractor drank it down like whisky! So, I'm aware our cubbys can tolerate extreme ends of fuel, and to trust my IH Operator's Manual for my Quiet Line.
Well, on another note, gas prices in my parts are now at 1.69 per gallon.