I would not have stated that to be the case if I had not seen it happen (more than once). Again though I believe these are both great machines and personaly I would prefer the 318 but I am a fan of that vintage and style of machine. I liked the looks of them, I am also biased (extremely) twoards JD, I really like them. That said there is starting to be some issues on those vintage of machines for repair items. If priced appropriatly either unit is a good purchase IMAO. You obviously enjoy the looks of that style machine as it states you have a restored 316, also one of my favorite units and I will be jealous of anyone who has a good one. Was not trying to offend anyone who has one, my bad. I should also add that I always thought of their power units where darn good power units and typically if there was substantial issues with the engine then there was issues with the rest of the machine. The engine held up well, if not better than later model units I think.