The John Deere D170 is a popular lawn and garden tractor featuring a 25-horsepower Briggs & Stratton air-cooled V-Twin engine with Extended Life Series (ELS) design, which includes features like cast iron piston sleeves and full pressure lubrication for durability.
It has a 54-inch Edge Cutting System mower deck with adjustable cutting heights from 1 to 4 inches and includes a hydrostatic transmission (Kanzaki TuffTorq K46) with Deere’s two-pedal control system that provides smooth speed adjustments and a cruise control feature.
The John Deere D170 tractor’s price typically ranges from about $1,200 for used models up to roughly $2,800 for new ones.
For example, 2016 and 2017 used models have been listed for around $1,200 to $2,000, while MSRP for new models was about $2,799.

Specifications and features include:

The John Deere D170 features a powerful 25-26 HP Briggs & Stratton air-cooled V-twin engine (44.2 cubic inches / 724 cc) designed for durability with cast iron cylinder sleeves and full pressure lubrication.

It has a hydrostatic transmission (Kanzaki TuffTorq K46) with a two-pedal control system that allows smooth infinite speed control forward and reverse, plus a standard cruise control for operator ease.

This tractor balances power, durability, versatility, and user-friendly features, making it a solid choice for lawn mowing and light to moderate outdoor tasks.

  • Engine: 25 HP Briggs & Stratton V-Twin, air-cooled, with Extended Life Series technology.

  • Transmission: Hydrostatic (Kanzaki TuffTorq K46) with two-pedal system for forward and reverse, plus standard cruise control.

  • Mower Deck: 54-inch three-blade Edge Cutting System, designed for even airflow and cutting; height adjustable from 1-4 inches without leaving the seat.

  • Safety Features: Reverse Implement Option (RIO), which requires a safety button to engage blades in reverse.

  • Mower Deck: 54-inch mid-mount, three-blade Edge Cutting System deck with 13 cutting height positions adjustable from 1 to 4 inches with spring assist, electric blade engagement, and a deck washout port for easy cleaning.
  • Dimensions: Wheelbase 49 inches, length 69.3 inches, height 45 inches, overall width 68.5 inches, weight about 579 lbs (262 kg).

  • Steering: Manual front steer with cast iron axle and greaseable spindle fittings for durability.

  • Tires: Front 16×6.5-8, rear 22×9.5-12.
  • Safety: Reverse Implement Option (RIO) button to engage blades safely in reverse.
  • Operator Comfort: Adjustable high-back seat with lumbar support, ergonomic controls, cupholder, and basic storage compartments.
  • Attachments: Compatible with a 43.25-inch two-stage snowblower, 46-inch front blade, loaders, and other implements for year-round use.

  • Additional: Washout port for deck cleaning, cast iron axle, greaseable zerk fittings on spindles.

Common Problems And Maintenance

Common problems reported by users include engine shutdowns, slow engine running, knocking noises, and transmission failures such as slipping or drive issues, sometimes occurring early in use (like transmission failure at under 100 hours).

Maintenance and troubleshooting resources are important for addressing these issues.

Parts and manuals are readily available, with dealer support and authorized service typically recommended.

The John Deere D170 tractor supports numerous compatible implements including snow cabs, front snow blowers, and a variety of other attachments, enhancing its utility year-round.

For engine maintenance and repair, videos and guides exist to help with engine removal and shaft size measurement, which is useful for part replacements or diagnostics.

John deere d170 parts list

The John Deere D170 parts list includes components covering the engine, mower deck, transmission, electrical system, fuel and air systems, and various maintenance parts. Key parts and their part numbers include:

  • Engine Oil Filter: AM125424

  • Fuel Filter: AM116304

  • Air Filter – Pre Cleaner: MIU11517

  • Air Filter – Cartridge: MIU11515

  • Ignition Switch: GY20074

  • Spark Plug: M78543 (for USA/Canada) or MIU11020 (other regions)

  • Headlight Bulb: AD2062R

  • Battery: TY25878 (dry charged)

  • Traction Drive Belt: GX20006

  • V-Belt: GX21395

  • Fuel Cap: GX22166 or GX23465

  • Gage Wheel: GX10168

  • Mower Deck Leveling Gauge: AM130907

  • Blade Kits (54-inch): GY20684 (side discharge), GY20679 (standard 3-in-1), GY20686 (mulch)

  • Grease: Multi-Purpose SD Polyurea Grease TY6341

  • Throttle Cable: GY21308

  • Muffler: Various part numbers depending on serial number and region

There are also home maintenance kits available with grouped essential parts like air and fuel filters, oil filters, and spark plugs.

This parts list is supported by a full service and repair manual for the John Deere D170, which covers specifications, repair procedures, electrical diagrams, and parts breakdowns for engine, transmission, steering, brakes, attachments, and more. These manuals and parts guides are available from Deere dealers and online resources.

Conclusion

In summary, the John Deere D170 offers a reliable 25 HP garden tractor solution with solid engine specifications, user-friendly transmission, and a versatile 54-inch deck, generally priced between $1,200 and $2,800 depending on condition and year.

Users should be aware of some common mechanical issues, particularly with the transmission and engine, but dealer and community support are available for parts and servicing.