317 Engine re-power

[Va Mike]

I have a JD 317 (approx 1985) Garden Tractor that is in great working order.
It does smoke, sometimes more than others,,,,,,,.
It has a Kohler 17 HP engine.
I am nervous about the engines ability to continue to run strong.
I was going to take it down this winter and have it professionally rebuilt.
My concern is that the lubrication will still be a splash / oil bath system.
I would prefer to have a pressurized system.

Does anyone know if this machine (317) can be retrofitted with a Kohler Magnum 18. This is a little bigger engine, a little more power, and it has the pressurized oil system with filter.

I assume there will be some modifications necessary, but has anyone done it?
Any issues to watch out for or be aware of??

Any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks
Mike

 

[Ledgemere Farm]

John Deere 317 Outdoor Power Equipment Repower from Small Engine Warehouse

 

[Va Mike]

Thanks for the reply.
I love my 317, however I ain't loving the price of that replacement engine.
I found a Kohler 18 HP, and was hoping it would swap in with minor modifications.
If the 18 won't fit I will probably take the 17 to the machine shop.
Thanks
Mike

 

[Ledgemere Farm]

frankly, as long as the block isnt cracked, thats where id be taking it too. at least after a rebuild, youll know what youve got and should be good for many years to come. Good luck.

 

[Yooper75]

I believe that the 83 317's had the series II Kohler in it which was a pressurized oil system.

 

[IH3444]

Jim's Repair specializes in repowering John Deere Garden Tractors. Clink on link, and scan down. He has a pictured 317 with a Vanguard 20hp twin installed.

Small Engine - Replacement Engines - Engine Kit - Repower

317 repower description

http://www.garden-tractor-info.com/