JD 318 or Deutz-Allis 917 ?

[andyt11]

I'm looking for a used machine for mowing my 1 acre of lawn and blowing snow from the drive. I may also use it to till the veggie garden and aerate the lawn if I had the opportunity to get such attachments.

There are a lot of overpriced 30 year old machines for sale round here. Everything is very expensive, but have got two reasonable machines to go and look at.

The first is a mid 90's Deutz-Allis 917 with a deck, snow blower and tiller. Hydraulic lift, recent tires and deck service and the 17hp twin from Kohler.

The second, for similar money is a 1984 JD318 with deck, blower, and power steering.

For the same money, which way would you guys lean? I know nothing about garden tractors other than I don't want a poor quality machine. I am reasonably handy when it comes to repairs / diagnostics, but I don't want to spend the rest of my life working on a tractor.

Any thoughts appreciated.

 

[Chef Pa]

Andy,

Don't know much about the Deutz, but the 318 is a solid machine. We've had one for years and other than a replacement starter it's been all routine maintenance. Don't know about all engine options but ours has a 19hp Kaw air cooled gas engine and 54" deck. The Kaw is still going but I think an overhaul may be in its future in the next year or two. Still runs fine, just seems a little low on power. Can't really say that's a complaint, just an observation. Has been mowing about 3 acres for a little over 30 years, plus an occasional bush-hogging adventure when Mrs. Pa or Mom get a wild hair (they break 'em and I fix 'em). I don't know much about parts availability, but would think that wouldn't be a problem.

Good luck

Greg