cpic1 0 #1 Posted January 31, 2017 Can anyone tell me if the 417-8 is a good tractor and what is one worth? thank you Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SPINJIM 1,981 #2 Posted January 31, 2017 The 417-8 is an excellent tractor. I bought one last summer, and it is one of my favorites. I put a snow blower on it, and look forward to using it if we ever get a decent snow. The 417 was made in 1985 and 86. Most of the 86s had an electric lift, which is useful for a plow blade or snowblower. The 86s had a louvered hood, and the 85s did not. The Kohler 17 twins were the Series II, with better oil circulation. It's a good smooth running engine. The price depends on hours on it, and how well it was maintained. I paid $600 for mine with 490 hours on it, but had to put a lot of work and paint, and a little money into it to get it running right. Wiring was a mess, and kill switches missing. Go for it if it's in good shape at a reasonable price. 6 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
bmsgaffer 2,046 #3 Posted January 31, 2017 It is worth whatever you are willing to pay for it... Like Jim said, mechanical shape is everything. Hours? Burn oil? Runs? Paint? The Kohler 17 (Series 2) twin is a real good engine, I have never owned one, but have always wanted one. All I hear are good things. However, being a twin if it needs any engine work it will be twice as expensive as a single cylinder, but they run smoother and have a more constant torque curve. 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SPINJIM 1,981 #4 Posted January 31, 2017 (edited) Hi again, If the 417 is the one on Craigslist, and has been used for 'pulling', I'd be very careful about checking out the transmission. Pulling a sled can be hard on a trans. Run it through all the gears under some stress if possible. Also, ask why he is selling it. As Brandon said, check the engine for smoke (with a cold start, not just after warmed). Price seems a little high, but the 417 is a good tractor. How many hours? CL listing doesn't say. Also, check for any 'play' in the hubs and axles (horizontal and rotational play). Jim Edited January 31, 2017 by SPINJIM additional info 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
cpic1 0 #5 Posted February 1, 2017 Thanks Jim I'll keep all that in mind Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
richmondred01 2,270 #6 Posted February 1, 2017 Kohler 17 (Series 2) is a good engine the series 1 engine had lubrication problems. I have stayed away from the series 1 but have bought the series II. All the best. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
woodchuckfarmer 333 #7 Posted February 2, 2017 My son has a C-175 with a series 1 engine , we run it a little over full on oil and have had no problems with it. Wayne 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
AMC RULES 37,141 #8 Posted February 2, 2017 Absolutely no issues with my first series here either... 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
stevebo-(Moderator) 8,364 #9 Posted February 2, 2017 I had a 417-8 with over 2000 hours and was still running strong and smooth. I installed a forward swept front end with gear reduction from a 520 and that was one of my favorite tractors to drive period. 2 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
WHX?? 49,488 #10 Posted February 2, 2017 Real good checklist Jim @SPINJIM 1 Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
smoreau 658 #11 Posted February 2, 2017 I have 2 417A's and they are my go to tractors! Lots of power with fair fuel usage compared to the Onen. I have a spar rebuilt engine and a parts engine. My V blade tractor has over 2000 hours and runs very strong. Uses oil, but runs way to good to replace. Beware of a non Wheel horse replacement engine when buying. They do not have the thrust bearing for the clutch and it will shorten its life. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites