YM1500 or YM1700? Which one to buy

[BTackett]

I am going to Tullahoma to buy a Yanmar tomorrow and just wanted everyone/anyone's opinion on what you would buy between the two YM models.

Is the YM1700 seating area larger? Is the 3hp worth $500 more ?
I am 6'4" about 230lbs so space is a factor. I have sat on a 1500 and the foot room seems short/cramped.

Where can I find accurate weights on both tractors?
Do Yanmars have glow plugs? I read something about a compression pull to start them when its cold?? Maybe someone can clarify.
Also, is the YM2000 that much of a larger tractor? I know I could probably figure this out tomorrow while I am there but then what would we have to post about? LOL

And lastly, anyone have either of these models and how you feel about them. I just have a small 60 x 90 garden to work and 3.5 acres to disc/re-seed and fix some trouble areas.

The information may also help someone else looking too.

thanks,
Bill

 

[SailorBob]

I have a YM1700 but, I have never seen a YM1500 in person. I believe from what I have read and heard that it has a larger frame than the YM1500. I have also heard that it is pretty much the same tractor as the YM2000 with a smaller engine. The YM1700 does not have a water pump but, I added one to mine after I rebuilt the engine. It has plenty of power and has done everything that i have asked it to do. I use a 4' rotary cutter, a 4' box blade, and a 4' disc. The area that you are describing is a lot less than my 11 acres but, many people have a lot bigger tractors with less. Bottom line I think you will do fine with either.

 

[larso1]

There's this site that gives some basic info on a lot of the models. It looks like the 1700 didn't come in a 2-WD version, only 4-WD?

gray market model specifications

 

[SailorBob]

There's this site that gives some basic info on a lot of the models. It looks like the 1700 didn't come in a 2-WD version, only 4-WD?

gray market model specifications

My YM1700 is a 2 wheel drive. On the grays a 4WD is designated by a suffix of a D. (YM1500D would be 4WD). I am a little leery of some of the info out there.

 

[California]

As I understand it YM1700/YM2000 are the same tractor except YM1700 had smaller bore cylinder sleeves, and then narrower tires to suit its lesser horsepower.

But now replacement cylinder/sleeve sets are only available in the YM2000 size, so your YM1700 would be virtually identical to a YM2000 after an overhaul.

YM1500 (as I've read here) is the next smaller little brother, smaller all around but very similar. I think it is on 22 inch rear wheels instead of 24 inch, for example. And it uses the unique proprietary 'pancake' alternator instead of the generic Hitachi one on its bigger brothers.

Hopefully someone who knows a little more can add (or correct) what I've said here.

 

[tony123]

I'm 6'3", and have a YMG2000D. I find it to be very cramped, and a real factor when doing frequent on / off activities. When just mowing for a couple of hours, it is okay.

 

[reb]

I have a 1500D. My feet are size 12. The foot room is barely adequate, tho I have had no serious problems operating the tractor. I am 6' 2" and on the skinny side, but I don't feel cramped for seating space.

The 1500 is probably big enough to do your job, but you might want to compare the foot room and seating space before you decide.

If you think there is a chance you might want a loader (the most useful implement available, IMO) you might want to consider 4WD.

 

[Inspector507]

The YM1700 that I owned was 2WD. I've also seen the YM1500 in 2WD. I know both 2WD and 4WD are available in both models.
Yes the YM1700 has a compression release lever and also had a thermostart for colder weather. I used the compression release to get the oil pressure up before starting.
I don't "fill up" as much of the operator area that you might, but for for $500, I'd get the YM1700 myself.

 

[BTackett]

Thanks for the replies. I will post pictures on here when I get it home. I have studied pics of both and it looks like the 1700 has more footroom. We will see tomorrow as I am bringing a Yanmar home.

Bill

 

[Rowdius]

I own a 1500D, and I'm 6ft tall, fat, and have size 11 H feet (H is equal to EEEEE in width.. WIDE) I do not have much trouble with the 1500D, but it is not roomy by any means.

As for the tractor, it is a little work horse. Once I fix a few things (two leaks on the front axle at the knuckles, exhaust valve seats) I'm going to sell mine as that I just bought another tractor. I have no idea what it is worth though. If I did not need the cash for other stuff, I'd hold on to it.