Good Motor to replace a KT17 SI?

[Brockwaykid]

Just looking for any good motors online that can be replaced for a KT17 SI. Anything reasonably priced, that is new, and would be worth the money. I have a 79 JD 317 and I am not sure if it runs. I have researched info on the SI, and I am just curious to see what would be a good replacement. Thanks, any help is apprectiated!
Jeff
BTW, hopefully within the next few weeks I will get snow so my grandfather will move his plow, and ask him if I can get it runnin!

 

[beenthere]

:welcome:
Tough question.
What have you found out when researching "SI" ?

How about some pics?

 

[dconine]

If I recall correctly the S1 means Series One (No pressure lubrication, splash lubricated). S2 means Series 2 (Full pressure lubrication with filter). What is the Spec # of this engine?

 

[greg_g]

I had a 317 with the splash engine, used it one too many times transversing a hillside. One conn rod separated, but - believe it or not - the sucker kept running. But when I found out the price of a replacement KT17, I sold the now-one cylinder machine for parts. But if money was no object: John Deere 317 Outdoor Power Equipment Repower from Small Engine Warehouse

//greg//

 

[Brockwaykid]

Hey guys, thanks for replying! I talked to my grandfather about the tractor today, and he said it will need an ignition, and a brake, which he has. I can order the ignition still? I guess my father blew up quite a few motors in it. Not sure what is in it now, so when I get it out, I will post pics, and try to get some info! He says it will run, but I dont know about that after its sat for 15+ years.......:laughing: I have to wash it first before I do anything...
I have a few pics, I can send them by email, Brockway760@yahoo.com
Also, where is the tag located? (serial #)?

 

[greg_g]

Two tags; engine has one, tractor itself has one. Can't remember for sure, but try looking on the main frame of the tractor near the left rear wheel.

//greg//
​

 

[Brockwaykid]

Thanks! Its in his garage corner, I could only get a bad view of the right side of the frame. It was too dark to see if there was anything on the motor.
Also, since it hasnt been started in a while, should I buy all the filters, spark plugs, and get some new oil for it? Probably should clean the carb. too. Been looking at some floatations for the back, and maybe new turfs for the front. None of the tires are flat, amazingly! Just a little soft. Its pretty rusty, where you would put your feet. I might just repaint it, and get it to run good, and get some tires.

 

[Brockwaykid]

I will be able to get a good look on Saturday!!

 

[NickTaylor]

The spec number on the kt17 is actually on a stamped plate mounted on and engine shroud near the firewall. I replaced a blown series 1 with a series 2 short block, runs like a champ. Wasn't worth it for the money, but of course that wasn't the point. Check out weekend freedom machines website. Lots of good advice there on overhauling old green garden tractors .

 

[NickTaylor]

I should mention that since the spec number is stamped on the shroud it's possible to have a 317 mower with a Series 2 spec # on the shroud but actually have a Series 1 engine inside. There are whole threads on weekend freedom machines dedicated to help you tell the difference between Ser 1 and 2.

 

[Brockwaykid]

Thanks, I've been on their site a few times during this whole thing. I am not sure if the engine is even a Kohler, because there is no logo on the air filter cover.....

 

[NickTaylor]

Mine is a kohler series 2 and there's no logo on the air filter canister.

 

[Brockwaykid]

Okay, I will take a look over the weekend.

 

[Brockwaykid]

Well, I should be getting it out very soon!!! I will take pics and post them when I get time.

 

[Brockwaykid]

Gt it out today and worked on it a little, I think it needs a coil, needless to say, I am shocked at how much a new coil is!! I will post pics tomorrow.....

 

[greg_g]

Gt it out today and worked on it a little, I think it needs a coil, needless to say, I am shocked at how much a new coil is!! I will post pics tomorrow.....

Been a few years, so my memory is fuzzy. But I thought there were two coils (?)

//greg//

 

[Brockwaykid]

I replied via email, also, how can I drain the gas tank? Is their a drain? I havent really looked. All I did today was take the side panels off, clean it up a bit, test the spark plugs, charge the battery, and it wouldnt turn over, i hooked it up to another battery, and it did the same thing. I guess I'll have to try and get a coil from ebay tomorrow, and then drain everything out of it and put new stuff in....

 

[greg_g]

I think you need to learn more about this engine before you start throwing money at it. The coil(s) for example, have nothing to do with the thing not turning over - they're for boosting ignition voltage (spark). Not turning over is a function of the battery and the starting motor and associated wiring. Seems you've eliminated the battery already, so.......

There's plenty of info on the 'net about troubleshooting the KT17. Fire up your search engines. At least that part's free.

//greg//

 

[Brockwaykid]

Good point, two coils that are cheap end today on ebay, so I dont really know what to do.....

 

[Brockwaykid]

Blew up the tires, they hold air(thank god) and got a battery orded, it will arrive tomorrow. I think my aunt bought a 90$ coil new on ebay, at that should get here monday or tuesday!! I think then, i'll drain everything, and put new fluids in...