YM 1700 or YM 2000 experiences?

Jeffro1 · Mar 8, 2005

What about a YM 1700 or YM 2000?
I am brand new to these tractors, but I have found a guy who sells these models which have been reconditioned in Alabama. This is the first guy I have come across who sells any that are supposedly fixed up anywhere other than in Vietnam. I have heard that it is a good idea to stay away from the vietnam tractors.
So what's the scoop on these two models? has anyone had any good or bad experiences with them. What about other models in the same horsepower range. The size and weight of these tractors is appealing to me-just what I am looking for. Just looking for any info. I can get because I like to know what I am looking at buying.
-Thanks!
-Jeffro

Tractors4u · Mar 8, 2005

Both models are great tractors. I would lean towards the YM2000 for a few reasons. The YM2000 is larger than the 1700. You can go with slightly larger implements with the 2000. The 2000 has a water pump where as the 1700 relies of thermo-syphoning to circulate the coolant through the radiator and engine. The YM2000 was sold as the YM240 domestic model Yanmar making parts availability better. There is nothing wrong with the 1700, but between the 2, the 2000 is superior.

California · Mar 9, 2005

Jeffro,

Take a look at the brochure in my sig pictures for a general overview of these.

I think they are top quality, and they also happen to be the lowest cost tractors in this hp range.

As for comparison to other gray market tractors - If you pay more then there are more features available. I didn't see any need for those features.

I think they have the best parts support of any gray market model. YM2000 parts and even its water pump can be used on YM1700 so they are about equal in this.

I don't think the VN reconditioned tractors are a bad deal *IF* there is a good dealer like yours standing behind a good warranty. That's where we have heard of some disappointments - if a problem occurs (unlikely) but the dealer walks away. I hope the dealer told you these were all manufactured 1977 or prior.

I'm beginning to suspect that every Yanmar that arrives with a flawless paint job came through the same VN reconditioning plant. Yours could be one of these but it wasn't emphasized. If it shows 25+ years use in nicks and scratches (similar condition to my photos) then it probably is straight from Japan and didn't need 'reconditioning'.

fig · Mar 9, 2005

Jeffro

I have a 1700 and love it! I did not find out about the viet. reconditions unitl after I purchased this one and found this forum, but knock on wood, I have not had any problems. I am looking at installing a waterpump on her though. It does not run hot, but I would like to have lower operating temps.

I use it for finish mowing about 5 acres and keeping up about 300 feet of gravel drive plus misc. other uses. I am very pleased with it, but I don't think that you would be disappointed with either one.

I would just say that you need to make sure that you are not worried about turning wrenches and put a set of mechanical gauges on it.

Bama35640 · Mar 9, 2005

Who is doing the reconditioning in Alabama? Might help us locals steer you the right way.

Bob

Jeffro1 · Mar 9, 2005

I am still trying to find out who in Alabama does these refurbishments. I'll post again if I can find anything out.

Bama35640 · Mar 9, 2005

Ok but I will add that Fredrick's in Hartselle is a very good dealer and stands behind their tractors with a 6 month warranty. They do not refurbish but they replace all fluids filter and generally do an excellent job of checking them out. I bought my 1500 from them 3 years ago.

Bob

Tractors4u · Mar 9, 2005

To echo what Bama35640 said, Fredricks does a great job on their tractors. The tractors get fresh fluids and filters. The batteries are replaced and in most cases they either recieve a new seat or a reupholstered seat cover. Bearings and seals are replaced as needed and the wheels are repainted. They do not do the Vietnam type refurbishment.

kenmac · Mar 9, 2005

broke my tach cable over the weekend ,I called Fredricks on monday and my cable arrived on tuesday. tractor is approx 1 mo. old. Tom covered the part under my warranty. Great guy,excellent service.