John deere 345

[CG1957]

I'm new to the forums and indeed some input. I have chance to buy a 2001 John Deere 345 that has 1270 hours on it. Kawi liquid cooled power steering hydro lift 48" deck new hood. Tractor looks nice and seems to run good but doesn't have any history with it. The engine surges at idle,but runs good under load. The guy who is selling it also has a spare parts, engine, frame and 2 mower decks without spindles or blades included all for 1700 I would only use for 1 acre lot and 150 ft driveway to snowblowe or plow. Is this a decent deal and what issues with the tractor should I look for. Thanks

 

[cobracnvt]

I have a 1997 345 with about 450 hours on it and have had great luck with it. Have had it for almost 10 years. Its a great lawn mower and is great at snow blowing. I have the 42" snow thrower. I perform the recommended maintenances and have changed the battery once.

 

[Retired Iron Peddler]

I have a 1999 JD 345 with a 54" mower with 656 hours on the hourmeter that I purchased new. It replaced a Cub Cadet 782 since my wife wanted power steering and the more convenient to operate foot controls. .I have replaced one belt on the mower deck and done all the recommended service using JD filters and fluids as listed in the Owner's Manual. It's been back to the JD dealer a couple of times for replacement of the circuit board and to replace an idler on the drive system, but no major or expensive problems with it. It is still using the original factory mower drive belt and drive system belts. The bearing in the PTO clutch is making a little noise and has been for the past 2-3 years. I'll follow my dealer's advice and replace it when it finally fails or I tire of listening to the noise when the mower isn't running. I still use the 345 regularly even though I purchased a JD 655 z-turn mower last year. It's been a good dependable lawn tractor.

Bill