[z0lt3c]

Hey Guys-
Tore into the new to me 317 today. I don't have a manual, which I am sure would answer some of these questions, but I am hoping you guys wouldn't mind providing some quick feedback. Since I didn't really get any maintenance records with the machine (other then the documentation of when the engine was replaced) I figure I want to do a "full service" so I can track future service intervals properly. Bear in the mind, the tractor runs fine, so this is just preventative. I put together the following list of service parts using the forum sponsor keeping it green;

Paper Air Filter
AM100137 $13.50

Fuel Filter
AM116304 $4.55

Quart 10W30 Turf-Gard uses 1.75 qts
2 Quarts $7.98

Spark Plug Spark Plug Gap 0.025 Champion RV15YC4
AM38027 x2 $5.10

Hydraulic/Transmission Filter
AM39653 $8.75

Quart Low Viscosity Trans/Hydraulic Oil Uses 5 quarts
TY22035 x5 $21.95​

Total is just over $60. Questions...

1. Is their anything I am missing or anything I can skip?
   
2. I didn't see a fuel filter anywhere in my current fuel flow path. Where is this supposed to be located.
   
3. I found what looks to be a brass drain plug pretty much directly under the engine, behind the front axle. Is this, in fact, the oil drain location?

Thanks,

 

[PA318Guy]

Check your hoses for cracking and replace any that are! The brass plug is the oil drain. It is designed so you can slip a hose over the output and direct it to a pan or container. They take awhile to drain through those so don't be in a hurry! The 317 did not come with a fuel filter in line just a fine steel mesh over the fuel shutoff valve on the bottom of the tank.

 

[z0lt3c]

Check your hoses for cracking and replace any that are! The brass plug is the oil drain. It is designed so you can slip a hose over the output and direct it to a pan or container. They take awhile to drain through those so don't be in a hurry! The 317 did not come with a fuel filter in line just a fine steel mesh over the fuel shutoff valve on the bottom of the tank.

As usual... thanks for the info. I guess I will skip the fuel filter, although I didn't find a mesh screen on the shutoff valve either. Any idea the ID/OD of the drain host tubing?

 

[PA318Guy]

I believe it is 1/4" ID/ 3/8" OD but I'm not sure about that!

 

[cadetpwr]

If she still has the Kohler KT17 series 1 in it, do not, repeat do not run it on any side hills, keep it on flat ground when running. Hopefully the old ticking time bomb engine has been replaced in it. Most got replaced under warrenty with either an Onan or a series II KT17 by JD. The series 1 lacked pressurized oil to the main connecting rod journels, instead depending on dripping oil from the cam shaft and splashing oil to lubricate the mains, on a side hill the flow of oil from the camshaft would miss the mains and it would throw a rod in short order. Other than that, the 317 is a great garden tractor, able to have a sleeve hitch on the rear to operate tillers, moldboard plows, back blades ect. Enjoy your new machine!! Mike and Michele T

 

[z0lt3c]

Hopefully the old ticking time bomb engine has been replaced in it.

The original series I engine was replaced with a series II.

I got a new flip cam today, here is my first you tube video. Not the greatest but you get the idea;

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BcYFnc5UzBs

 

[MikeXcr600]

Looks like it will clean up nicely, your flip does a good job, looks better than mine.

 

[PA318Guy]

Actually I'd recommend a fuel filter, but make sure is one that it is a hi-flow filter so that it doesn't impact the mechanical fuel pump trying to draw from the tank.

 

[z0lt3c]

Actually I'd recommend a fuel filter, but make sure is one that it is a hi-flow filter so that it doesn't impact the mechanical fuel pump trying to draw from the tank.

I was recommended "John Deere Fuel Filter - AM116304" -- Is this acceptable?

Thanks.

 

[wfbarto]

I was recommended "John Deere Fuel Filter - AM116304" -- Is this acceptable?

Thanks.

Yeah....that'll do the job. Make you sure you install it with the flow arrow in the correct direction. :fing32:

 

[Sparky55]

I would inspect the drive shaft universal joints. Due to in part to the high angle, and because the old ones could not be greased, it is common for them to wear out which will cause potential engine issues.

 

[PA318Guy]

That filter should do the trick, same one I use on the 318.