John Deere 317

18 years ago

You guys must get this type of question all the time......

I've done a lot of research here and elsewhere on Deere lawn and garden tractors. I'm torn between an older classic and just getting a new one and letting the warranty run.

BUT, that's not my question. I can't figure out how to upload a picture, but it appears to be in good shape, with 48" mow deck, front blade and rear tiller, the seller is asking $2695. It's described as running well, the attachments work, including the 'newer' 48" mowing deck. My questions:

1. Good deal? If not, what might be a fair price assuming everything works/no major problems?

2. I know from my research that 317's with the original Kohler motor have oil problems and are to be avoided, the Series II supposedly fixed the problem. The seller doesn't know which motor it has - can anyone tell me, via serial number reference or what how to tell which motor it has?

3. Did the oil problem in fact get fixed with the Series II?

4. Anything else to look for with regard to the 317 or its attachments when I get to check it out next week? How to check for a bad hydro, bad steering, etc?

I don't really need the blade and tiller, but they'd be nice to have and I'm sure I'd find a use for them over time.

Right now I'm considering this 317 versus a new X300. More background: We have only 1/4 acre of lawn, but we have 9 acres of ground that we've been hand-mowing a walking path on, which is why I don't want a box-store quality Deere, but on the other hand a garden tractor is probably overkill.

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Comments (8)

bill7
18 years ago
I have a JD gx345 (20HP Kawasaki). I have about 2 acres to mow, but 7 total. I mow a walking path in a field as well. I just mow with the deck in the raised position. Seems to work O.K. Personally, I'd go with the attachments :) From what I understand, the X300 is a nice mower, with some additional capabilities. Not sure where the 317 falls, but a GT would not be overkill, in my opinion.

Good luck.
sergeant
18 years ago
These guys of at weekend freedom machines should be able to help you with the ser# question

Here is a link that might be useful: WFM
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sergeant
18 years ago
Well I see you posted your question over at WFM. The oil problems did get fixed with the series 2 and I would imagine if it's still running that he has the series 2 engine in it.
jdd332d
18 years ago
If it were me, I would look for a 318. You should be able to find a decent one for that price less the tiller. The 318 is more highly regarded plus you get power steering.
canguy
18 years ago
That seems pretty stiff for a 317, it is getting long in the tooth and the KT17 engine is no longer available.
engine_tech
18 years ago
As long as you don't have very steep slopes or ditches, the Series I is actually OK. I do suspect it probably is a Series II though.

Try to get it all for $2000.
alienbogey
Original Author
18 years ago
Thanks for the replies.

I'm going to pass on it and keep looking. If he lists it again with a lower price I may go look, make sure it's a Series II, and try to talk him down some more.
vanzant415
11 years ago
Well I'm new at the 317 but I'm NOT NEW at restoration and I'm doing 2 317 which I'm also fabricating front end loaders for both as well as cabs for them and I'll post pictures as to my work,.I disassemble all my (projects) front to back and document it all. Pictures soon.(: