I am probably in the minority here, but I happen to like the cyclops years of the Cub tractors. I own an 1862 which is the predecessor of the 1864 and find that it is capable and comfortable tractor that fits my yard.
This generation of tractors has its good and bad points like every generation, but it seems to me that few new model introductions in the history of cub cadet brought as many positive changes to the line of tractors: super steering, power steering in a garden tractor, a thoughtfully redesigned stronger aluminum rear with truely heavy duty internals, a drive shaft with greaseable universals, a full size battery, and an under fender gas tank to name a few.
The plastic hood and panels do crack and wear out but on the whole works fine for years (just don't abuse it). I have read somewhere that either you love it or hate its looks. Getting beyond the esthetics, the hood represents CCC's first design into a more modern sloping hood which allows for a better view of what is ahead. Fortunately, they didn't go too far and the cyclops still looks to me like a tractor and not a pill bug (no offense meant). I think they got it right. I just wish they had chosen better in the way it assembles. This to me was a cost savings short cut that was a bad idea.
The 1863 is powered by the kohler command 18 which is for the most part highly regarded and is now considered a premium engine in modern tractor offerings. I think that some models of 1863 may have a hydro-gear transmission which is not the tried and true sunstrand u-15, but I am sure it is fine especially compared to modern tractors.
I found it didn't take long to get used to a hand control for the transmission. and it is much easier for me to switch forward to reverse than my gear driven Deere. Also, I think that a hydro has the additional benefit of acting as a power buffer, protecting your expensive driveline from being pushed too hard through its built in relief mechanisms. It really is ingenious and why they last forever (if you maintain them).
Power steering is nice, but I don't think its really necessary unless you are planning on doing plowing and snow blowing (and even then, it depends on how much jockying and maneuvering you need to do). Power steering also makes the hydraulics more complicated and it is expensive to repair compared to manual steering. I believe a new power steering valve will cost as much as your 1863.
So, I hope I have provided you with some insights into what owning a 90's era cub is about. I think they are a bargain for someone who needs a good working tractor.
If you would like to know more about cubs, I highly recommend Cub Cadet: The First 45 Years by Oscar H. Will. Its a great book packed with details and history about all the cubs.
Mike
