John Deere 318 Tractor: Specs, Price, and More
The John Deere 318 tractor is a hardy piece of garden machinery, known for its hefty power and flexibility. Built from 1983 to 1992, this John Deere 300 series model has a loyal fanbase. Why? It’s got dependable Onan motors, smooth transmission, and a host of add-ons. Whether you need one for a big yard or want it for an old-timey revamp, you need to know the 318’s specs, price ranges, and highlights. Here, we dig into these points to aid in your decision-making process.
Key Specifications
- Engine: Onan B43G or P218G, 18 HP, 2-cylinder, air-cooled.
- Transmission: Hydrostatic, infinite forward and reverse speeds.
- Fuel Capacity: 4.5 gallons.
- Hydraulic System: 1.2 gallons capacity.
- Attachments: Various mowers, snow blowers, blades, and more.
Price and Availability: John Deere 318 is not being made anymore, but you can still find it secondhand. Depending on its state, you could pay anywhere between $3,000 and over $10,000. Models that need fixing cost less, while ones in top-notch, renovated shape cost more.
Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | John Deere 318 |
| Years of Production | 1983 – 1992 |
| Engine | Onan B43G (1983-1986), Onan P218G (1987-1992) |
| Engine Type | 2-cylinder, air-cooled, gasoline |
| Horsepower | 18 HP |
| Displacement | 709 cc (B43G), 781 cc (P218G) |
| Fuel Capacity | 4.5 gallons |
| Transmission | Hydrostatic, infinite forward and reverse speeds |
| Top Speed (Forward) | 7.69 mph |
| Top Speed (Reverse) | 3.85 mph |
| Hydraulic System | 1.2 gallons capacity |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 70 x 40 x 43 inches (without attachments) |
| Wheelbase | 46 inches |
| Weight | 780 – 836 lbs |
| Tire Size (Front) | 16×6.50-8, 2 PR |
| Tire Size (Rear) | 23×10.50-12, 2 PR |
| Attachments | – Mower Decks: 38″, 46″, 50″ – Front Blade: 54″ – Snow Blowers: 46″, 47″ – Loader: John Deere 44 – 3-Point Hitch: Optional |
| PTO (Power Take-Off) | Front standard, rear optional |
| Electrical System | 12V, BCI Group 22F battery, 491 CCA at 0°F |
| Common Maintenance | Oil change every 50 hours, air/fuel filter checks, hydraulic system inspection |
| Original MSRP (1989) | Approximately $5,650 |
| Current Market Price | Varies; $3,000 – $10,000+ (used) |
| Parts Availability | Good for most parts, some discontinued parts might be harder to source |
| Community Support | Strong enthusiast community, many forums and parts exchanges |
| Resale Value | High due to durability and demand |
Engine Specifications
| Attribute | Specification for Onan B43G (1983-1986) | Specification for Onan P218G (1987-1992) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | Gasoline, 2-cylinder, air-cooled | Gasoline, 2-cylinder, air-cooled |
| Horsepower | 18 HP | 18 HP |
| Displacement | 709 cc | 781 cc |
| Bore x Stroke | 82.55 mm x 66 mm | 82.55 mm x 73 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 6.5:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel System | Fixed Jet Carburetor | Fixed Jet Carburetor |
| Ignition | Electronic | Electronic |
| Starting System | 12 Volts, Solenoid | 12 Volts, Solenoid |
| Cooling | Air | Air |
| Lubrication | Full Pressure w/Filter | Full Pressure w/Filter |
The John Deere 318’s engine is built to last a long time. Both versions of the engine have plenty of strength for different types of yard work.
Transmission Details
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | Hydrostatic |
| Speeds | Infinite forward and reverse |
| Forward Speed | 0-7.69 mph |
| Reverse Speed | 0-3.85 mph |
| Transmission Fluid | 7.1 L (15 U.S. pt) |
| Oil Cooler | Standard |
| Oil Filter | Standard |
The 318 model has a fluid transmission. It allows for easy, gradual speed changes which improves the way it’s operated and enhances comfort while working.
Dimensions and Capacities
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 46 inches (1200 mm) |
| Length | 70 inches (1780 mm) |
| Width | 40 inches (1016 mm) without attachments |
| Height | 43 inches (1090 mm) |
| Weight | 780 to 836 lbs |
| Tire Size (Front) | 16×6.50-8, 2 PR |
| Tire Size (Rear) | 23×10.50-12, 2 PR |
| Tire Pressure (Front) | 6-16 psi |
| Tire Pressure (Rear) | 5-10 psi |
The size and weight of the John Deere 318 make it good for travel over any kind of ground. It remains stable and easy to handle.
Attachments and Implements
| Attachment Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Mower Decks | 38”, 46”, 50” mid-mount with hydraulic lift |
| Front Blade | 54” with manual or hydraulic angle control |
| Snow Blowers | 46” single-stage, 47” two-stage, both front-mount |
| Loader | John Deere 44 Front-end Loader, lifts up to 400 lbs |
| 3-Point Hitch | Optional, Category 0 |
| PTO (Power Take-Off) | Front standard, rear optional |
A wide range of attachments are compatible with the John Deere 318. This makes it useful year-round for homes and light businesses.
Maintenance and Durability
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Oil Capacity | 1.4 L (1.5 U.S. qt) without filter |
| Oil Type | SAE 30 for temperatures above freezing, SAE 5W-20 for below |
| Air Filter | Dry with pre-cleaner |
| Spark Plugs | NGK BPR5EFS / Champion RS14YC |
| Battery | 12V, BCI Group 22F, 491 CCA at 0°F |
| Hydraulic Fluid | 1.2 gallons (4.5 L) |
Taking good care of your John Deere 318 extends its life. If kept properly, it can work strong for many years, like many seasoned ones still do for dedicated owners.
Market and Ownership Considerations
| Consideration | Information |
|---|---|
| Original Price | Around $5,650 in 1989 |
| Current Used Market | Varies widely based on condition; $3,000 – $10,000+ |
| Parts Availability | Generally good but can be pricey or hard to find for some discontinued parts |
| Community Support | Strong enthusiast community, forums for advice and parts exchange |
| Resale Value | High due to demand and reputation for durability |
People still seek out the John Deere 318. This is due to its successful history. It shows both in its price and in the enthusiasm of the community to keep these machines going.
Conclusion
The John Deere 318 is more than a farming tool; it’s a lasting relic that still helps gardeners and landscapers today, just like it did years back. With its strong motor, effortless transmission, and multitude of add-ons, it can do many tasks. Knowing about its features, its price now, and how to take care of it can help people who want to buy it or fans understand it better. The John Deere 318 shows us a mixture of the old times, usefulness, and superior engineering.
FAQs
1. What years was the John Deere 318 tractor made?
- The John Deere 318 was manufactured from 1983 to 1992.
2. How much horsepower does the John Deere 318 have?
- The John Deere 318 comes with an 18 horsepower engine.
3. What type of engine is in the John Deere 318?
- It features an Onan B43G engine from 1983 to 1986, replaced by the Onan P218G from 1987 onwards, both being 2-cylinder, air-cooled gasoline engines.
4. What kind of transmission does the John Deere 318 have?
- The John Deere 318 uses a hydrostatic transmission, allowing for infinite speed adjustments in both forward and reverse.
5. What attachments can be used with the John Deere 318?
- This model can work with different tools like 38″, 46″, and 50″ mowing decks, blade for moving snow, loaders, and an optional 3-point hitch for extra equipment.
6. How much does a John Deere 318 weigh?
- The weight of the John Deere 318 ranges from 780 to 836 pounds, depending on attachments and configuration.
7. Can you still get parts for the John Deere 318?
- Yes, you can still get many parts. Some might be tough to get because the tractor model is no longer made. Official John Deere parts are usually available. Plus, you can find other parts through different sellers or groups who love these tractors.
8. What’s the fuel capacity of the John Deere 318?
- The fuel tank capacity is 4.5 gallons.
9. Is the John Deere 318 good for snow removal?
- Yes, it’s well-suited for snow removal with attachments like the 46″ single-stage or 47″ two-stage snow blowers.
10. What is the top speed of the John Deere 318?
- The top forward speed is approximately 7.69 mph, with a reverse speed of about 3.85 mph.
11. How do I maintain my John Deere 318?
- Frequent upkeep includes oil changes (suggested every 50 hours), looking at and replacing air and fuel filters, keeping tires inflated properly and the routine check of hydraulics and belts. Look in the operator’s manual to find the best way and schedule to do these tasks.
12. How much is a used John Deere 318 tractor worth?
- The cost for used John Deere 318 tractors will change a lot. It depends on how well it runs, where it is, and what comes with it. But, they usually cost anywhere between $3,000 for models needing repairs to above $10,000 for ones that are either in good shape or fixed up.
13. What are common issues with the John Deere 318?
- Some problems you might see include it not starting, especially if it hasn’t been used for some time. There might be hydraulic leaks or parts that are worn because of the tractor’s age. Regular upkeep can help prevent many of these problems.
14. Is the John Deere 318 noisy?
- The 318 was genuinely quiet in its day, thanks to a good engine design. But just like old machines, taking care of the muffler and engine parts can influence how much noise it makes.