John deer 317

Donaldinky · Apr 26, 2015

Just got one running. What's the trick to get the deck down. Just save it from the scrap man. Can't read the sticker on the top. Thanks

Bob · Apr 26, 2015

What are you trying to figure out, how to raise and lower the deck with the hydraulics, or how to set the cutting height?
If hydraulics done seem to work, a PO may have installed a "lockout valve" at the cylinder, or it may be equipped with straps at the lift mechanism at either side that are flipped into position to lock the deck "UP".

The vertical knob in the fender deck ahead of the seat at the left controls how much the mower can drop. Turning it CW allows more drop, CCW holds it up higher.

Set gauge wheels accordingly.

Donaldinky · Apr 26, 2015

Thanks. The linkage was off between the level and the valve. Not bad for $200 with plow and disk. 3 point hitch. Found bad point condenser. And plugs wire. Learn a lot on this thing. Has the KT 17 engine. Stage one.

JD Seller · Apr 26, 2015

Don that engine design bankrupted Kohler and made JD go to the Kawasaki motors in the next mowers JD designed. JD actually had to cover JD 317 motors with a kit to put an Onan motor in the JD 317 under warranty. Kohler ran out of money to cover the warranty claims. There where a few good ones and a whole lot of bad ones it seemed. JD actually harried out a JD 316 with an Onan motor to fill the need for that size of mower.

Mike M · Apr 27, 2015

On the level ground they would last a lot longer. On the side hills though you'd blow them up. No pressure oil to the rods just dippers. IIRC.

John deer 317

Donaldinky

Member

Bob

Well-known Member

Donaldinky

Member

JD Seller

Well-known Member

Mike M

Well-known Member

Similar threads