John Deere 312 lawn tractor

John Deere 312

Power

12 hp

Production

1977-1978

Engine

Gasoline, 1-cylinder

Transmission

Sundstrand 15

Weight

760 lbs [344 kg]

Drive

2WD

From the same series:

316

Introduction

John Deere 312 Garden Tractor

The John Deere 312 is a garden tractor manufactured between 1977 and 1978 in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA. Designed for residential landscaping and maintenance, this model represents a specialized segment of John Deere's compact machinery from the late 1970s.

Engine Specifications

The tractor is powered by a Kohler K301AQS single-cylinder, air-cooled gasoline engine. It features a displacement of 476 cc (29.1 ci) and provides a gross power output of 12 hp (8.9 kW). The engine utilizes a horizontal shaft configuration and a dry-type air cleaner, supported by a 12-volt electrical starting system.

Transmission and Drivetrain

Power is transferred via a shaft-driven Sundstrand 15 hydrostatic transmission. This system allows for infinite forward and reverse speed control without the need for traditional gear shifting, enhancing maneuverability during mowing or towing tasks. The tractor operates on a two-wheel drive system.

Dimensions and Chassis

The chassis features a 46-inch (116 cm) wheelbase with an overall length of 69 inches (175 cm) and a width of 42.5 inches (107 cm). The machine has a dry weight of 760 lbs (344 kg). It is equipped with 16x6.50-8 front tires and 23x8.50-12 rear tires, specifically designed for lawn and turf applications to minimize surface damage.

Operational Equipment

Designed for versatility, the tractor supports a 38-inch or 46-inch mower deck. It also includes an optional sleeve hitch, allowing for the attachment of various ground-engaging implements. The operator station is open-style, providing clear visibility and access to the throttle, braking system, and hydrostatic directional controls.

Conclusion

The John Deere 312 is a robust garden tractor suited for landowners requiring a reliable machine for mowing and light-duty utility tasks. Its combination of a hydrostatic drive and a proven Kohler engine makes it a durable choice for collectors and users maintaining medium-sized properties.

Production Information of John Deere, 312

  • Garden tractor
  • Built in Horicon, Wisconsin, USA
ManufacturerJohn Deere

Dimension and Tires Information of John Deere, 312

Wheelbase46 inches [116 cm]
Weight760 lbs [344 kg]
Height44 inches [111 cm]
Length69 inches [175 cm]
Width42.5 inches [107 cm]
Lawn/turf front16x6.50-8
Lawn/turf rear23x8.50-12

Engine Specifications of John Deere, 312

  • Kohler K301AQS
  • Air-cooled horizontal-shaft
  • Gasoline
  • 1-cylinder
Power (gross)12 hp [8.9 kW]
Displacement476 cc [29.1 ci]
Air cleanerDry
Bore/Stroke3.375x3.25 inches [86 x 83 mm]
Starter volts12

Transmission Information of John Deere, 312

Transmission variants 1

TransmissionSundstrand 15
Transmission(optional)JD All-Weather Hydrostatic Fluid
Oil typeJD All-Weather Hydrostatic Fluid
TypeShaft-driven hydrostatic
GearsInfinite forward and reverse

Transmission variants 2

4Parking brake
3Brake
1Throttle
2Forward/Reverse

Mechanical Specs of John Deere, 312

  • Two-wheel drive
  • Open operator station.

Three-Point Hitch of John Deere, 312

Type(optional)Sleeve hitch

Electrical System of John Deere, 312

GroundNegative
Battery volts12

Where it sits

With 12 HP, the John Deere 312 sits just below 314 (14 HP) in John Deere's range. Its power puts it in the 76th percentile of 1970s models in our database (1008 machines).

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the John Deere 312 have?

The John Deere 312 delivers 12 HP.

What years was the John Deere 312 produced?

The John Deere 312 was produced in 1977-1978.

What engine does the John Deere 312 have?

The John Deere 312 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.

What transmission does the John Deere 312 use?

The John Deere 312 uses a Sundstrand 15 transmission.

How much does the John Deere 312 weigh?

The John Deere 312 weighs 760 lbs [344 kg].

Is the John Deere 312 4WD?

The John Deere 312 is available in 2WD.

Compare the John Deere 312 with another model