Quick Navigation:
- Overview
- Riding Comfort
- Engine
- Mower Handling and Performance on Hills/Rough Terrain
- Quality of Cut
- Accessories
- Conclusion
Overview
The Cub Cadet CC30H 30 in. hydrostatic riding mower is a similar model to larger Cub Cadet riding mowers but on a compact frame to fit through areas like gates and in smaller storage doorways. This model has just a couple of minor matters of concern. Let’s get started picking apart the specs!
Riding Comfort
Because of the step-through body design, the CC30H with a rear engine looks more like a golf cart than your typical mower. The driver’s seat is ergonomically made so that it is super comfortable to ride around on. There are even a handful of positions to adjust the seat.
It bears mentioning – this mower’s structure and body mostly looks to be made of plastic. Some people are turned off by that fact. Aside from a few reviewers breaking a plastic seat or the steering wheel over time and with prolonged use, this mower’s design is structurally fine.
If you are shorter or have shorter legs, a few people referenced that it may be somewhat harder to use the pedals. When reaching for the pedals, remember to stay in your seat or the engine will automatically shut off for safety reasons.
Engine
This Cub Cadet model has a 382cc rear engine putting out about 11.5 HP. Some consumers appreciate rear engines simply because you can see what is below you and up front a little easier – less path obstruction.
Many people report having issues performing oil changes on the CC30H. It is a poor set up because if not careful, the oil could easily drain all over the mower.
I would suggest possibly buying a drain tube to help the oil change process be less messy. Several others had a hard time finding the oil drain plug in general.
The image below will highlight where the oil drain plug is on the CC30H.
Here are some general maintenance items:
Click here to read the full warranty
Service Manual
Mower Handling and Performance – Hills/Rough Terrain
WARNING: You should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for mowing hills, usually that means don’t mow a slope over 15 degrees. Try to attack the slope in an up and down manner instead of side to side (if you have to lean halfway off the mower to feel stable you’re probably exceeding recommendations!)
For a smaller Cub Cadet mower, the CC30H 30 inch still rides similarly and mows okay compared to the larger Cub Cadets. It has the ability to maneuver around compact and tight areas because of the smaller size, but the 30 in. single blade mowing deck isn’t going to give you a super fast or wide mow.
This mower weighs in modestly at 340lbs and can handle a half-acre to possibly 2 acres. The fuel tank can only hold 1.3 gallons of gas, which is not a lot at all, but you shouldn’t have an issue if mowing a small yard.
Because it is light weight-wise and the wheels are on the smaller side, some have had issues with traction going up and down a bit steeper grades of hill. As with all riding mowers, I definitely wouldn’t recommend trying it on anything near or over a 15% grade slope. Also, while many people like the turn radius, others made note to take turns slowly for fear of tipping over.
It can also mow in reverse if you follow the owner manual’s instructions correctly. This seems to be a favorite in many reviews, but there are warnings in the manual stating reverse mowing is not recommended.
Quality of Cut
Keep in mind because of the smaller design and 30” narrow 13 gauge deck and cutting width you won’t be cutting large yards in short amounts of time. This Cub Cadet rear engine model excels more when used for cutting smaller more level yards.
If you have a fear of scalping your yard and do find yourself mowing over any fairly uneven spots, it is recommended to mow at a cutting height of 3” or sometimes even 4” with this CC30H riding mower because there are no anti-scalping wheels.
Accessories
This CC30H riding mower does come with some accessories. The deck wash and mulch kit are both included. Many people rave specifically about how well it mulches.
Also, there is a spot on the rear of the CC30H where you are able to add attachments like a spreader. Because of the size of this mower, this built-in hitch is not really for heavy-duty hauling and towing. Keep in mind, this Cub Cadet can carry up to 350-400lbs of weight total.
Accessories and attachments like a spreader are sold separately. Some consumers mentioned that to attach a tow can be a pain due to the underside-mounted bolts. If you decide to add a bagger system, that could widen the mower.
Conclusion
If you have a more or less flat lawn and are looking for a decent mower that fits around obstacles or through something like a gate, this little guy really seems to do the trick. It has pretty good ratings overall and will obviously shorten the time it would take to mow your residential lot with a push mower.
It has plenty power for its size. At the end of the day, I’d say the majority of its shortcomings are easy to get past for most. Consumers are especially pleased with the features and machine’s ease of use. If you have a larger yard to mow or have some steep hills you might want to go with something more like this 46″ Poulan Pro mower.
Affiliate Disclaimer – if you decide to purchase a mower based on my review, I do get a small piece of the sale at no additional cost to you. It helps to keep the lights on around here.
Stephen Frazier - December 31, 2018 @ 22:34
My CC30 replaced a 20 year old Snapper Yardcruiser. Probably will never own another mower I like as much as that one. I love everything about my new Cub Cadet EXCEPT the oil change. What were they thinking?!?!?! I’m going to have to do some re-engineering. This is just a stupid setup but I suppose you can’t get everything perfect.
My CC30 replaced a 20 year old Snapper Yardcruiser. Probably will never own another mower I like as much as that one. I love everything about my new Cub Cadet EXCEPT the oil change. What were they thinking?!?!?! I’m going to have to do some re-
Leo Hejda - May 29, 2019 @ 20:24
My Cub Is very loud have they come up with a better muffler system?
Allan L’Heureux - September 9, 2019 @ 04:06
I would like to know the size of the oil drain hole on the models made in 2018 anyone know..?
Joseph Gregorich - November 4, 2019 @ 22:33
For oil change; I modified a golf/club/bag tube to channel the oil. I used a 3/8 socket wrench extension right through inside the tube to loosen the drain plug. Cut the plastic tube with scissors/ razor to suit. Tube is 4-5 bucks in most golf stores. Well worth it, considering the channel supplied with the mower for this job was messy. park mower so oil drain is tilted down for best results. Might need couple blocks to position drain oil pan. Pay attention! Don’t kick the oil can down the driveway like I did.
For oil change; I modified a golf/club/bag tube to channel the oil. I used a 3/8 socket wrench extension right through inside the tube to loosen the drain plug. Cut the plastic tube with scissors/ razor to suit. Tube is 4-5 bucks in most golf stores.
Bill Dekle - November 26, 2019 @ 00:54
2 big issues:
1) Oil drain procedure. The plastic oil drain trough accessory that came with the mower is totally useless. My drain plug is virtually flush with the engine block so there is NOTHING to clip it to. So naturally I ended up with a big oil spill mess. Furthermore, there is NO ROOM to use a wrench if you want to add an extension. I am going to try to replace the drain plug with a Stens 125-508 Oil Drain Plug and use a shower valve socket to tighten it in place. Wish me luck.
2) I wanted to record the serial number of the engine for my records but couldn’t find it. I called Cub Cadet and was finally connected to an engineer. This snotty-nosed little prick told me to disassemble the engine to get the serial number. It turns out the serial number is on the side of the engine facing the seat and about half the mower would have to be disassembled to see it. There was, however, a small opening in the frame near the serial number tag, so I used a mirror and flashlight and was able to read the backwards numbers to my wife. Good grief.
I like the mower but just because of these 2 issues I would never recommend it to anyone.
2 big issues:
1) Oil drain procedure. The plastic oil drain trough accessory that came with the mower is totally useless. My drain plug is virtually flush with the engine block so there is NOTHING to clip it to. So naturally I ended up with a big oil
Phillip Gregg - December 11, 2019 @ 15:28
love it,, but bad oil drain access
Anthony J Zarb - February 27, 2020 @ 17:09
Does anyone know if the fuel tank is supposed to be loose in the frame of the mower?
jimmy romero - March 7, 2020 @ 15:08
better then my 22 year old snapper
J W - May 3, 2020 @ 02:37
SImple. FIX OR EXTEND THE OIL DRAIN PLUG! What a mess this makes. And am I supposed to be doing wheelies on relatively flat ground? Even with the extra front counterweight. The bagger simply makes me do wheelies. Cool when I was a kid…Not so much when a blade is whirling along. And this thing is unstable on slightly uneven ground. But, for the price…what should I expect. Just kicking myself for not buying a zero turn. 😉
SImple. FIX OR EXTEND THE OIL DRAIN PLUG! What a mess this makes. And am I supposed to be doing wheelies on relatively flat ground? Even with the extra front counterweight. The bagger simply makes me do wheelies. Cool when I was a kid…Not so mu
Bob Puruleski - May 6, 2020 @ 04:24
I was expecting a better overall product from Cub Cadet. Steering wheel has nearly 6” of play in either direction before engaging, very noisy blade drive system, and a squeak when I turn the wheel that my neighbors take notice of. I shouldn’t have to lubricate the rack 4 times a season. You see from previous posts how difficult and messy oil changes are so I won’t go into that. For $300 more I should have gone with front drive. This mower is way too expensive for what you get. I’ll be selling it soon. Learned my lesson. Back to Husqvarna.
I was expecting a better overall product from Cub Cadet. Steering wheel has nearly 6” of play in either direction before engaging, very noisy blade drive system, and a squeak when I turn the wheel that my neighbors take notice of. I shouldn’t hav
Jim R. - July 4, 2020 @ 22:06
I haven’t had the joy of changing the oil yet, as I’ve only got 4.2 hours on it. (I installed a $9 hour meter in it right away… something the manufacturer should have done). The 12v meter hooks up to the light circuit, and starts and stops as soon as the engine runs or is shut off. I’m 6’ 2”, and my long legs don’t align well with the forward/reverse foot controls. By the time I finish my lawn, my right leg really aches. Otherwise, I’m impressed with the quality of workmanship, but I would have hopes for better engineering in future models. I DO recommend this riding lawn mower.
I haven’t had the joy of changing the oil yet, as I’ve only got 4.2 hours on it. (I installed a $9 hour meter in it right away… something the manufacturer should have done). The 12v meter hooks up to the light circuit, and starts and stops
chet elderson - August 7, 2020 @ 22:28
Just bought spring 2020, did about 10 mows already. No problems at all. Ideal for flatter lawns. My unit came with a long oil drain tube. This mower gives a good cut, easy to hose down and clean. Mows in reverse, tight turns, plenty of power and starts right up every time. Getting the bagger for fall leaves.
Just bought spring 2020, did about 10 mows already. No problems at all. Ideal for flatter lawns. My unit came with a long oil drain tube. This mower gives a good cut, easy to hose down and clean. Mows in reverse, tight turns, plenty of power and star
Martin H Gallas - August 14, 2020 @ 22:27
!. Rides like there is no cushioning in seat or anywhere. A real bone-shaker.
2.Cut very unevenly with a uncut strip down the middle; had the dealer take it back and he found a bent bracket toward the front of the deck. Fixed it mostly, but not completely.
3.Had a hard time removing the dip stick the first few times. Now works better.
4. Deck rattles. Plastic body also.
5. Starter on the left, inconvenient for right handers.
6. Figured out the way to put the mower into reverse by turning the key to a certain position’ but it took a while.
7. The 3o inch single blade is way different than my old 2 blade 42 inch YardMan.
8. Loud muffler.
9. Can’t wait to change the oil after all the negative comments.
10. I don’t think I would buy one again.
!. Rides like there is no cushioning in seat or anywhere. A real bone-shaker.
2.Cut very unevenly with a uncut strip down the middle; had the dealer take it back and he found a bent bracket toward the front of the deck. Fixed it mostly, but not compl
skyhawk - February 3, 2021 @ 02:47
Oil change is horrible, took me 2 hours to change oil and filter, most of that time was cleaning up the mess it made in my garage. Somehow it manages to leave a strip when mowing, like a twin blade does. There is a horrible rattle somewhere on the deck. Steering column is supposed to be adjustable, but it isn’t. It is crated mostly assembled, just a few things to connect, which is a big plus. Hydro doesn’t have much power. I tried to back over a 1 1/2 inch lip, on a ramp, and it wouldn’t make it. Not much choice in riding mowers, so, this is about the best. A lot of negatives about this, but it does mow fairly well, if you don’t need a huge tractor for your city lawn.
Oil change is horrible, took me 2 hours to change oil and filter, most of that time was cleaning up the mess it made in my garage. Somehow it manages to leave a strip when mowing, like a twin blade does. There is a horrible rattle somewhere on the
dan - February 19, 2021 @ 22:51
I use a drainz-it hose for oil changes…very easy. Everything else works well, I love the hydrostatic transmission
Russell James - April 1, 2021 @ 23:59
I don’t believe the fuel filter listed in this article is right. This unit does not have a fuel pump so it needs those cheap disk type red fuel filters. I don’t think the fuel will flow through the listed the filter without a fuel pump.
As far as the unit though, I love mine. I did have a John Deere D100 and this is better than that was. I think the motor in the front would be better as it seems tippy because al the weight (Me and the motor) is in the back. Mine is quiet and easily fits in my garage. I went from a 42″ deck to 30″ but because it maneuvers so much easier I can actually get my lawn much faster. I do have some problems on some hills though, it is tippy. I might try a battery one next time but I do like this one.
I don’t believe the fuel filter listed in this article is right. This unit does not have a fuel pump so it needs those cheap disk type red fuel filters. I don’t think the fuel will flow through the listed the filter without a fuel pump.
David H LEEBRICK - April 6, 2021 @ 01:43
Bought my CC30H last fall after I hurt my back and didn’t want to be pushing and pulling my old mower. It has served me well last fall and is off to a good start this spring. It make mowing the yard a breeze.
A couple things to know, though, is how it handles slopes and the fun of oil changes. There’s no problem going up and down slopes larger than what the owner’s manual says. The more dicey situation is going around the hill. A 30″ mower doesn’t have a very wide wheel base, and you sit up fairly high, especially if you are tall like me. So it can feel a little unsteady. I lean to the uphill side when mowing around the hill, and even then a front wheel is off the ground. So use some common sense if you anticipate mowing in this way. The other thing is oil changes. The Kohler oil change plug is easily accessible, but even with the little trough that comes with the mower, you’re going to make a big mess changing oil. I bought a Drainzit Part number 1438 accessory to replace the drain plug with a length of flexible tubing so solve this problem, and it works great. For the $15 or $20 that it costs, Cub Cadet should make this a standard engine component.
Bought my CC30H last fall after I hurt my back and didn’t want to be pushing and pulling my old mower. It has served me well last fall and is off to a good start this spring. It make mowing the yard a breeze.
A couple things to know, though,
Scott Taylor - April 15, 2021 @ 18:27
Best mower I have owned. I live in town, and wanted a mower that would lessen the pressure on my back, and found this model three years old well maintained at $700 – A real steal! The cc30h fits my need perfectly in every regard.
Gary - February 17, 2023 @ 03:41
I like this mower. I have a mid sized yard with trees and it mulches leaves and cuts pretty good. Be mindful of potential scalping and tipping on steep terrain. The (2019) cub cadet engine has been reliable. By the way, I bought two $15 /$20 manual /battery oil pumps from Harbor Freight. Works well for oil change.
I like this mower. I have a mid sized yard with trees and it mulches leaves and cuts pretty good. Be mindful of potential scalping and tipping on steep terrain. The (2019) cub cadet engine has been reliable. By the way, I bought two $15 /$20 manual /