Is the John Deere 724D Any Good? A Brutally Honest Review
Winter brings snow, and with it, the yearly challenge of keeping driveways and walkways clear. For many, a reliable snow blower is not a luxury but a necessity. The John Deere 724D is a machine that frequently appears in discussions about used but powerful snow blowers, leaving many to ask: is the John Deere 724D any good?
This question is crucial for homeowners facing heavy snowfall who need a machine that starts reliably in the cold and has the power to move significant amounts of snow. The problem is that purchasing an older, discontinued model can feel like a gamble. Potential buyers are often weighing the promise of John Deere’s reputable build quality against the risks of age, wear, and parts availability.
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The Core Dilemma: Brand Legacy vs. Real-World Performance
The core issue for anyone considering a 724D is navigating the machine’s history and its practical performance today. While the John Deere name inspires confidence, it’s essential to understand that this model was manufactured for Deere by another well-respected brand, Ariens, from 1991 to 2001. This partnership means the 724D shares its DNA with some very durable Ariens models, which is a significant point in its favor. However, it also means these machines are now decades old, and their condition can vary dramatically.
Potential owners struggle with uncertainty about common failure points, the cost of maintenance, and whether this older model can truly handle the demands of a harsh winter compared to a newer, albeit potentially less robust, machine. This article will dissect the John Deere 724D, offering a clear-eyed view of its strengths, weaknesses, and overall value in today’s market.
Unpacking the John Deere 724D’s Specifications
To properly evaluate the 724D, it’s important to know what it brings to the table. This is a two-stage snow blower, meaning it uses a serrated steel auger to break up snow and an impeller to discharge it through the chute. This design is highly effective for heavy, wet, or compacted snow.
The “724” in its name denotes a 7-horsepower engine and a 24-inch clearing width, a combination that provides a good balance of power and maneuverability for most residential driveways. The Tecumseh engine, common in these units, is known for being a workhorse, though it can be prone to carburetor issues if not maintained properly.
A Deep Dive into Features and Build Quality
One of the most praised aspects of the John Deere 724D is its heavy-duty construction. Built with a significant amount of steel, these machines were designed to last. Unlike many modern snow blowers that incorporate extensive plastic components to save on cost and weight, the 724D feels substantial and planted, which helps it cut through tough snow drifts without being pushed around.
The auger and gearbox are typically robust, designed to withstand the stress of hitting chunks of ice or compacted snow. However, this durability is contingent on proper maintenance. Checking the gear oil in the auger gearbox seasonally is a critical step that is often overlooked.
Key Specifications at a Glance
Understanding the technical details is key to appreciating what the 724D offers. Below is a breakdown of its primary specifications.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 7 HP Tecumseh 4-Cycle |
| Clearing Width | 24 inches |
| Intake Height | Approximately 20-21 inches |
| Drive System | Friction Disc Drive |
| Speeds | Typically 5-6 Forward, 2 Reverse |
| Starting System | Manual Recoil & 120V Electric Start |
| Auger Diameter | 11-12 inches, Steel Serrated |
| Throwing Distance | Up to 40 feet (under ideal conditions) |
The Good: Where the 724D Excels
The enduring popularity of the John Deere 724D isn’t without reason. For many owners, it represents a “they don’t make them like they used to” level of quality. Its performance in deep or heavy snow is often cited as a major strength.
The combination of a powerful engine and a well-designed two-stage system allows it to process and throw snow impressively far, preventing the need to handle the same snow twice. Users frequently report that the 724D can tackle the dense, heavy snow left at the end of the driveway by city plows without bogging down—a common failure point for lesser machines.
Reliability Rooted in Simplicity
Another significant advantage is the 724D’s relatively simple mechanical design. With fewer complex electronics and plastic parts to fail, many common issues can be diagnosed and repaired by a mechanically inclined owner. This simplicity translates to potentially lower long-term ownership costs, especially when compared to modern machines where a single electronic component failure can lead to an expensive shop visit.
For those comfortable with basic engine maintenance, the Tecumseh engine is straightforward to service. Proper care, like using fresh fuel with a stabilizer and performing regular oil changes, is the key to its longevity.
The Bad: Common Problems and Owner Frustrations
No machine is perfect, and the age of the 724D means it comes with a list of potential headaches. The most frequently reported issue revolves around the carburetor. Tecumseh carburetors from this era are notorious for getting gummed up from old fuel, leading to hard starting, surging, or the engine only running on choke.
While cleaning the carburetor is a common fix, some owners opt to replace it with an inexpensive aftermarket part. Another frustration is the drive system. The friction disc, a rubber-rimmed wheel that transfers power to the wheels, is a wearable part that will eventually need replacement. If the machine struggles to move or the drive feels sluggish, a worn or oil-contaminated friction disc is the likely culprit.
Parts and Serviceability Concerns
While the fact that Ariens built the machine is a plus for quality, it can create confusion when sourcing parts. Many components are interchangeable with Ariens models of the same era, but finding the exact cross-reference can sometimes require research. Furthermore, while common maintenance parts like belts, spark plugs, and friction discs are readily available, model-specific cosmetic or structural parts can be difficult to find.
Prospective buyers must be realistic. Owning a 724D means you may need to spend time on forums or parts diagrams to find what you need, rather than simply walking into a dealer. The importance of proper installation cannot be overstated; a seemingly simple repair can go wrong, much like a bad countertop installation can ruin a kitchen renovation.
Is the John Deere 724D the Right Choice For You?
Deciding if the 724D is a good fit depends heavily on your expectations and mechanical aptitude. For the homeowner who wants a powerful, durable machine and isn’t afraid to perform routine maintenance and occasional repairs, a well-kept 724D can be an excellent value.
It is particularly suited for areas with heavy, wet snow where its robust build and powerful engine can be fully utilized. If you find a unit that has been clearly cared for, with minimal rust and signs of regular maintenance, it could serve you reliably for many more winters.
Who Should Avoid It?
Conversely, if you are looking for a maintenance-free, plug-and-play solution, the 724D is likely not for you. Anyone who is uncomfortable with sourcing parts online or performing basic small engine troubleshooting should probably look at a newer model with a warranty and dealer support.
The initial purchase price might be low, but the potential for repair costs and downtime could negate those savings for someone who has to pay shop labor rates for every small issue. Preparing your home for winter often involves many tasks, and ensuring all your equipment is in top shape is crucial, similar to how one might approach air conditioner storm window replacement options cost analysis before the season changes.
Expert Maintenance Tips for Peak Performance
To get the most out of a John Deere 724D, a proactive approach to maintenance is essential. These machines are not forgiving of neglect. Adhering to a simple service schedule will prevent the vast majority of common problems.
The single most important practice is fuel management. Use non-ethanol, high-octane gasoline whenever possible and always add a quality fuel stabilizer. At the end of the season, either run the carburetor dry or drain the tank and bowl completely to prevent varnish buildup.
Pre-Season Maintenance Checklist
- Change Engine Oil: Start every season with fresh oil to ensure proper lubrication.
- Inspect Spark Plug: Clean and check the gap, or simply replace it—it’s an inexpensive part.
- Check Belts: Look for cracks, glazing, or fraying on both the auger and drive belts and replace if necessary.
- Inspect Friction Disc: Check for wear and ensure the rubber is not cracked or hardened.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: Grease the auger shaft and lubricate chute and linkage components.
- Check Tire Pressure: Properly inflated tires provide the best traction.
- Verify Shear Pins: Ensure the auger shear pins are intact and have a few spares on hand.
Having the right tools is essential for any DIY project. Just as using the correct trowel size for 24×48 tile is critical for a good result, using the right wrench and socket sizes will make snow blower maintenance much easier and prevent stripped bolts.
The Final Verdict: A Conditional Thumbs-Up
So, is the John Deere 724D any good? The answer is a resounding yes, but with conditions. It is a powerful, well-built machine that can offer incredible performance and value for the right owner. Its steel construction and Ariens-built heritage mean it has the potential to outlast many newer, more expensive snow blowers on the market today.
However, its age demands respect. A buyer must be prepared to invest time in maintenance and be willing to tackle the occasional repair. For the hands-on homeowner who sees value in older, overbuilt machinery, a well-maintained John Deere 724D is not just “good”—it’s a fantastic piece of winter equipment that can provide many years of reliable service.
