The John Deere 317 is a classic garden tractor from the late 70s and early 80s, remembered for its sturdy build, versatile hydrostatic drive, and hydraulic lift that made it capable of mowing, tilling, and snow removal. While early models were known for engine lubrication issues, many owners upgraded to improved engines that kept these tractors working for decades. Compact yet powerful, the 317 remains popular with collectors and hobbyists who appreciate its simple, rugged design, wide range of attachments, and the vintage John Deere reliability that still earns respect today.
Overview
Model
John Deere 317
Years
1979 – 1983
Manufacturer
John Deere
Factory
Horicon, Wisconsin, USA
Type
Garden tractor
Series
300 Series
Original notes
Early models had lubrication problems with the original Kohler KT17 engine; later models used improved Kohler KT17 Series II or Onan P218G retrofit kits.
Early KT17 engines had oil lubrication issues on slopes; Series II improved lubrication design.
Transmission
Transmission
Sundstrand Series 15 Model 90
Type
Shaft-driven hydrostatic
Gears
Infinite forward and reverse
Forward speed
6.5 mph [10.5 km/h
Mechanical
Drive
Two-wheel drive
Steering
Manual steering
Brakes
Differential mechanical shoe brakes
Operator station
Open with optional front blade, hitch, and attachments
Power Take-off (PTO)
Front PTO
Independent
Clutch
Electric
Hydraulics
Lift
Hydraulic lift for mower decks, blades, and snowblower attachments
Dimensions
Wheelbase
46 inches (116 cm)
Length
69 inches (175 cm)
Width
42.5 inches (107 cm)
Height
44 inches (111 cm)
Weight
700 lbs (317 kg)
Tires
Ag front
4.80×4.00-8
Ag rear
23×10.50-12
Lawn/turf front
16×6.50-8
Lawn/turf rear
23×10.50-12
Attachments
Mower decks
38″ and 46″ mid-mount decks (hydraulic lift, right-discharge, 3-blade)
Tiller
Compatible with model 33 tiller (26-, 34-, or 42-inch) with rear PTO kit (BM15851)
Blade
54″ front-mount blade, hydraulic lift and angle, 30° angling
Snowblower
46″ front-mount, one-stage, hydraulic lift
Loader
Johnson 25 front-end loader (500 lbs lift, 875 lbs breakout)
Serial Numbers
1979
95001
1980
120001
1981
155001
1982
190001
1983
222001
Final
285000
Location
Below the steering column
Electrical
Ground
Negative
Battery volts
12
John Deere 317 overview
The John Deere 317, built from 1979 to 1983, is one of the most talked-about classic garden tractors in the Deere lineup — known as much for its strengths as for the challenges it posed to early owners. Positioned in the popular 300 Series, the 317 was designed to give homeowners and small-acreage users a true heavy-duty garden tractor with the power and versatility to handle mowing, tilling, snow removal, and even light loader work. Its hydrostatic transmission, infinite forward and reverse speeds, and hydraulic lift system were advanced for the time, providing a premium user experience that felt more like a small farm tractor than a typical riding mower.
Powered originally by a 17-horsepower Kohler KT17 twin-cylinder gasoline engine, the 317 had plenty of muscle for its size. However, the early KT17 engines developed a reputation for lubrication failures, particularly when used on uneven terrain — the oil starvation issue could lead to premature wear or catastrophic failure. This problem is perhaps the 317’s most famous flaw. John Deere eventually offered retrofit solutions: owners could either install the improved Kohler KT17 Series II, which added pressurized lubrication to solve the issue, or fit an Onan P218G engine conversion kit, which many enthusiasts still consider a robust upgrade.
Despite that early engine headache, the 317 remains beloved for its strong transmission, rugged frame, and wide range of compatible attachments. It could handle mid-mount mower decks, snowblowers, blades, tillers, and even a small front-end loader, making it extremely versatile for year-round property maintenance. The tractor’s Sundstrand hydrostatic drive is simple, reliable, and gives smooth speed control. Another highlight is its relatively compact design combined with 2-wheel drive and decent weight for traction, which makes it capable in snow and on hills, within reason for a garden tractor.
Owners and collectors praise the 317 for its classic “Deere durability” in areas like its frame, drivetrain, and hydraulics — these parts often outlast the original engine by decades when maintained. On the flip side, its open operator station and manual steering mean it can be tiring to run for extended hours compared to modern machines. Additionally, like many older garden tractors, its electrical system can develop wear issues, but parts remain available thanks to the huge enthusiast community that supports vintage John Deere models.
Today, a well-cared-for 317 with a Series II or Onan swap is seen as a dependable, collectible classic that still works hard. It’s a reminder of an era when garden tractors were built like small farm tractors — heavy steel, simple to fix, and built to handle real chores around the yard or acreage. For hobbyists and loyal Deere fans, the 317 stands as a testament to the brand’s garden tractor legacy — warts and all.
