The Challenger 750 is a robust utility vehicle with a powerful engine and heavy-duty capabilities, but like any hardworking machine, it has its share of common issues. This guide covers the most frequent problems reported by owners, their root causes, and practical solutions to keep your Challenger 750 running reliably.
1. Engine & Starting Problems
1.1. Hard Starting or No Start
Common Causes:
- Dead or weak battery (especially common after storage)
- Corroded battery terminals or loose connections
- Faulty starter relay or solenoid
- Bad ignition switch or key switch
- Fuel delivery issues (pump, filter, or injector problems)
- Safety switch malfunction (brake, gear position, or seat switch)
- ECU/PCM failure (rare but possible)
Solutions:
- Load test the battery; replace if it won’t hold 12.6V+ or fails under load
- Clean battery terminals with wire brush; apply dielectric grease
- Test and replace starter relay, solenoid, or ignition switch as needed
- Check fuel pump operation (should prime when key is turned on)
- Replace fuel filter and inspect fuel lines for blockages
- Test all safety switches; bypass temporarily to isolate faulty switch
- If all else fails, have ECU diagnosed by qualified technician
1.2. Engine Runs Rough, Misfires, or Lacks Power
Common Causes:
- Dirty or clogged fuel injectors
- Contaminated or old fuel
- Faulty throttle position sensor (TPS)
- Clogged air filter
- Bad spark plugs or ignition coils
- Vacuum leaks in intake system
- Carbon buildup in intake/combustion chamber
Solutions:
- Clean fuel injectors with appropriate cleaner or have professionally serviced
- Drain old fuel; use fresh, ethanol-free gasoline when possible
- Replace or clean TPS; check for error codes
- Replace air filter regularly (more often in dusty conditions)
- Replace spark plugs with correct type/gap (typically NGK or equivalent)
- Inspect intake boots and vacuum lines for cracks or loose connections
- Use quality fuel system cleaner or have carbon cleaning service performed
1.3. Engine Overheating
Common Causes:
- Clogged radiator with debris (grass, mud, leaves)
- Low coolant level or coolant leaks
- Faulty thermostat stuck closed
- Radiator fan not working (motor, relay, or sensor failure)
- Bad water pump
- Blocked coolant passages
Solutions:
- Clean radiator thoroughly with compressed air (blow from engine side outward)
- Check coolant level; top off with correct 50/50 mixture
- Replace thermostat if stuck or operating incorrectly
- Test radiator fan operation; replace fan motor, relay, or temperature sensor
- Inspect water pump for leaks or bearing noise; replace if faulty
- Flush cooling system if contaminated or neglected
2. Transmission & Drivetrain Issues
2.1. CVT Belt Problems
Common Symptoms:
- Slipping, squealing, or burning smell
- Loss of power or acceleration
- Belt shredding or breaking
Common Causes:
- Worn or stretched CVT belt
- Dirty or worn clutch components
- Improper belt tension or alignment
- Overheating due to heavy loads or aggressive driving
Solutions:
- Replace CVT belt with OEM or high-quality aftermarket (Gates, Carlisle)
- Clean primary and secondary clutches with compressed air and clutch cleaner
- Check belt deflection and adjust if necessary
- Inspect clutch weights, springs, and bushings; replace worn components
- Avoid excessive engine braking and heavy loads that stress the CVT
2.2. Gear Shifting Problems
Common Causes:
- Misadjusted shift linkage
- Low or contaminated transmission fluid
- Worn shift forks or synchronizers
- Faulty gear position sensor
Solutions:
- Adjust shift linkage according to service manual specifications
- Change transmission fluid using only recommended type (typically Polaris AGL or equivalent)
- Have internal transmission components inspected if basic adjustments fail
- Replace gear position sensor if getting error codes
2.3. 4WD System Not Engaging
Common Causes:
- Faulty 4WD actuator at front differential
- Bad 4WD switch or indicator light
- Corroded or damaged wiring connections
- Worn CV joints or axle shafts
- Front differential problems
Solutions:
- Test 4WD actuator for proper operation; replace if not engaging
- Check 4WD switch continuity; replace if faulty
- Clean and secure all electrical connections at front differential
- Inspect CV joints and boots; replace if worn or damaged
- Have front differential inspected if mechanical engagement issues persist
3. Electrical System Problems
3.1. Charging System Issues
Common Symptoms:
- Battery keeps dying
- Dim lights or electrical issues
- Charging warning light on dash
Common Causes:
- Faulty voltage regulator/rectifier
- Bad stator or alternator
- Corroded main ground connections
- Parasitic electrical draw
Solutions:
- Test charging voltage at battery (should be 13.8-14.5V with engine running)
- Replace voltage regulator if charging voltage is low or erratic
- Test stator resistance and output; replace if out of specification
- Clean and tighten all ground connections, especially engine to frame
- Disconnect accessories to test for parasitic draws; repair as needed
3.2. Dash/Instrument Problems
Common Issues:
- Flickering or dim display
- Inaccurate gauges
- Warning lights staying on
Solutions:
- Check all fuses and replace blown ones
- Clean instrument cluster connections
- Test sending units (fuel, temperature, etc.) and replace if faulty
- Have instrument cluster repaired or replaced if internal failure
4. Fuel System Problems
4.1. Fuel Pump Failure
Symptoms:
- Engine cranks but won’t start
- Engine starts then dies
- Loss of power under load
Common Causes:
- Worn fuel pump (common around 500-800 hours)
- Clogged fuel filter
- Contaminated fuel tank
Solutions:
- Replace fuel pump with OEM or quality aftermarket unit
- Change fuel filter annually or when symptoms appear
- Clean fuel tank if contaminated with water or debris
- Install fuel/water separator if operating in wet conditions
4.2. Fuel System Leaks
Common Causes:
- Cracked or deteriorated fuel lines
- Loose fuel line connections
- Faulty fuel rail or injector seals
- Damaged fuel tank or filler neck
Solutions:
- Replace all cracked or hardened fuel lines with ethanol-compatible hose
- Tighten all fuel line connections and clamps
- Replace fuel injector O-rings and seals
- Repair or replace damaged fuel tank components
5. Suspension & Steering Issues
5.1. Steering Problems
Common Issues:
- Loose or wandering steering
- Hard steering
- Steering wheel vibration
Common Causes:
- Worn tie rod ends or ball joints
- Loose steering rack mounts
- Worn steering column bushings
- Uneven tire pressure or worn tires
Solutions:
- Inspect and replace worn steering components
- Tighten steering rack mounting bolts to specification
- Replace steering column bushings if worn
- Check tire pressure and tread wear; replace tires if needed
- Perform front-end alignment if steering pulls to one side
5.2. Suspension Noise or Poor Ride
Common Causes:
- Worn shock absorbers
- Damaged suspension bushings
- Loose suspension components
Solutions:
- Replace shocks if leaking or providing poor damping
- Inspect and replace worn bushings
- Tighten all suspension mounting bolts
- Lubricate suspension pivot points regularly
6. Brake System Problems
6.1. Brake Performance Issues
Common Symptoms:
- Weak braking power
- Brake pedal feels spongy
- Squealing or grinding noises
Common Causes:
- Worn brake pads or shoes
- Air in brake lines
- Contaminated brake fluid
- Warped brake rotors
Solutions:
- Replace brake pads/shoes when worn to minimum thickness
- Bleed brake system to remove air; use DOT 4 brake fluid
- Flush brake fluid every 2 years or if contaminated
- Machine or replace warped brake rotors
- Check brake calipers for proper operation
7. Body & Miscellaneous Issues
7.1. Dump Bed Problems
Common Issues:
- Bed won’t lift or lower
- Hydraulic cylinder leaks
- Bed tilts unevenly
Solutions:
- Check hydraulic fluid level and top off if low
- Replace hydraulic cylinder seals or entire cylinder if leaking
- Inspect and lubricate bed pivot points
- Check for bent or damaged bed frame components
7.2. Door and Latch Issues
Common Problems:
- Doors won’t stay closed
- Latches stick or bind
- Door alignment problems
Solutions:
- Adjust door strikers and latches
- Lubricate all door hinges and latches
- Replace worn door seals or weatherstripping
- Adjust door alignment if sagging
8. Maintenance Schedule & Prevention
8.1. Regular Maintenance Tasks
Every 25 Hours:
- Check engine oil level
- Inspect air filter
- Grease all lubrication points
- Check tire pressure
Every 50 Hours:
- Change engine oil and filter
- Clean air filter (replace if damaged)
- Check CVT belt condition
- Inspect brake pads/fluid level
Every 100 Hours:
- Replace fuel filter
- Check coolant level and condition
- Inspect suspension components
- Clean CVT clutches
Annually:
- Change transmission fluid
- Flush brake fluid
- Replace spark plugs
- Inspect exhaust system
9. Troubleshooting Quick Reference
| Problem | Quick Check | Most Likely Cause |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t start | Battery voltage, fuses | Dead battery or blown fuse |
| Rough idle | Air filter, spark plugs | Clogged filter or fouled plugs |
| Overheating | Radiator cleanliness | Clogged radiator fins |
| Belt squeal | CVT belt condition | Worn or misaligned belt |
| Hard shifting | Shift linkage | Misadjusted linkage |
| Poor brakes | Brake fluid level | Low fluid or air in lines |
| 4WD not working | Actuator operation | Faulty front diff actuator |
10. When to Seek Professional Help
DIY-Friendly Repairs:
- Battery replacement
- Air filter service
- Basic fluid changes
- Fuse replacement
- Belt replacement
Professional Service Recommended:
- Internal engine work
- Transmission overhaul
- Electrical system diagnosis
- CVT clutch rebuilding
- Frame or suspension welding
11. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does my Challenger 750 lose power going uphill?
A: Most commonly due to a slipping CVT belt, dirty air filter, or fuel delivery issues. Check belt condition first.
Q: How often should I change the CVT belt?
A: Inspect every 100 hours; replace when showing signs of wear, cracking, or fraying. Typical life is 200-400 hours depending on use.
Q: What type of engine oil should I use?
A: Use the oil viscosity specified in your owner’s manual (typically 5W-30 or 10W-30). Always use oil rated for wet clutch applications.
Q: Why does my 4WD indicator light stay on?
A: Usually indicates a faulty 4WD actuator, bad switch, or wiring issue. Have the system diagnosed with a scan tool.
12. Conclusion
The Cub Cadet Challenger 750 is a dependable workhorse when properly maintained, but its complexity means more potential failure points than simpler UTVs. Regular maintenance, quality parts, and attention to early warning signs will keep your Challenger running reliably for years. Don’t ignore small problems—they often become expensive major repairs if left unaddressed
I’m David man behind Lawn Mowerly; I’ve been dealing with lawnmowers and Tractors with my father since I was a kid. I know every make and model and what each one is capable of and love helping people find the perfect lawn mower for their needs.