Have a '96 JD 345 - Two Questions: 1) risk plastic gear failure _ 2) vs new mower

[Topcat14]

What did you end up doing? 345 is a fine machine- but its 20 years old, a 530/540/590 is better than a 345 in almost every conceivable way, Its wider, longer, more HP, better transmission , Bigger tires ,better tires , takes much better attachments – 345 was fine in its day ,500 series is better

 

[cobracnvt]

Is the 345 a zero clearance engine that mashes it's valves when the cam gear breaks?

 

[Richard001]

Is the 345 a zero clearance engine that mashes it's valves when the cam gear breaks?

Is it a overhead valve engine?

 

[bruceatlam]

Is the 345 a zero clearance engine that mashes it's valves when the cam gear breaks?

No -----