JOHN DEERE 108 Value?

[CrystalRiver1]

Hey Studs!

A friend of mine sent me a pic and story of a JOHN DEERE 108, looks decent, and the classic "Ran the last Time It ran yrs ago!"
My dilemma is that I'm lost as a goose in high wind on these mowers!

The price is $400 AS IS.

Any idea what to look for, take a chance, are they hard to rebuild...is it even worth it?
Almost a 40 yr old mower correct?

HELP!!!

 

[Steve]

Is it worth it? My opinion, hell no. Quick Google shows auction sales of running serviceable units in awesome condition sell under $175. I see several posts on random forums of others paying under $50 for a 108 in the same condition as your friends.

It has an 8hp Briggs engine with a single blade 30" deck. If you have a use for a very small rider it may be a fun project but keep in mind parts can get pricy with green paint on them.

 

[CrystalRiver1]

Is it worth it? My opinion, hell no. Quick Google shows auction sales of running serviceable units in awesome condition sell under $175. I see several posts on random forums of others paying under $50 for a 108 in the same condition as your friends.

It has an 8hp Briggs engine with a single blade 30" deck. If you have a use for a very small rider it may be a fun project but keep in mind parts can get pricy with green paint on them.

Steve: Much Obliged brother!
I thought I saw some crazy low prices...YIKES!

 

[LAWN BOY]

It is not worth $400 as is. It is worth $350 in running/mowing condition. I wouldn’t give more than $100 for it as is. I sold a John Deere 111 that ran/mowed/drove but didn’t have brakes for $300 after negotiating, I might’ve gotten more if I held onto it a little longer. Be sure to check the engine oil, brakes, and transmission drive belt upon inspection. I have had bad experience with the brakes on several older John Deeres. Those mowers are easy enough to find for dirt cheap. I buy all my projects for under $100, and I’ve had dozens. Those motors aren’t hard to rebuild from what little I’ve heard, but I just replace the motors if need be cuz motors alone that run pop up for sale near me for like $50.