jd 318

Anonymous-0 · Feb 15, 2014

We have a jd 318 lawn mower that needs to be replaced because of its age. I was wondering what would be a good replacement? I have read that many of the new mowers are not made very good. I would want one in the 18 to 22 hp. Most look like they are built good but most have a lot of plastic which many say makes them poor quality. Yet a large number of the new tractors also have plastic parts. Anyone have a good recommendation. Thanks!!

JD Seller · Feb 15, 2014

For just straight mowing a JD GX 345 is great. You have a touch peddle hydro controls and power steering. The X540 is the current model but I think they cheapened it up over the GX345.

You should be able to find a good GX 345 with under 200-300 hours for $3500 or less. The X540 is around $6000 new.

IF you use a blade or front blower than the X485 would be good or the brand new X720.

A good X485 can be bought for around that $4500-5000. A new X720 is right at $9K.

wisbaker · Feb 15, 2014

What do you need it to do? If all you're doing is mowing grass I think I'd look at a zero turn or front deck. If you need to do snow and other stuff you'll probably want to stay with Deere OR Kubota OR move to a small utility tractor OR look at a commercial unit like a Toro Groundmaster, Ventrac or others. The heavy duty garden tractor of old is kind of an extinct beast anymore, thank you big box merchandising, price point management and overseas competition.

Nick m · Feb 15, 2014

If all you do is mow grass with it, I highly recommend a 0 turn. We have a jd 737 and love it. It's definitely built to last and it cut our mowing time from 3hrs to 1hr. The biggest plus is the wife likes using it! We've had it 4 years now, bought it with 100a hours on it and only had to do routine maintenance and 1 safety switch on the seat.

Ken Combs · Feb 15, 2014

Great old machine! I'd ask myself why it needs replacing. If it's just engine related, rebuild and use it!

An equivalent quality new machine will be 4 times a really good engine rebuild price.

Mark6005 · Feb 15, 2014

Bought a deere x750 with the diesel last year for mowing and other uses. The zero percent finance sealed the deal and it's the last one I'll ever need to buy. My 1990 318 is still in the machine shed just could not part with it. The x750 is a fine unit, it's sips fuel and cuts great

Traditional Farmer · Feb 16, 2014

You'll spend 6K or 7K to get close to as a quality machine as the 318 for 1/2 that you can make the 318 about like new.

jd 318

Anonymous-0

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JD Seller

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wisbaker

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Nick m

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Ken Combs

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Mark6005

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Traditional Farmer

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