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Overview of the Model
The John Deere 350 crawler dozer is a compact‑class machine produced in the 1960s and early 1970s. One reference lists the 350 model from 1965 to 1970 with about 42 net hp and an operating weight near 7,900 lb. Later, the 350B succeeded it around 1970‑75, maintaining similar horsepower but refinements in structure and hydraulics. Because the 350 series has been around large before heavier dozers, it occupies a niche for smaller land‑clearing, grading and contractor‑sized jobs.
Strengths and Suitability
A contractor acquired a 350C (the successor to the 350 series) which had been used primarily on a sand quarry. The machine had roughly 8,500 hours on the hourglass but the undercarriage had recently been refreshed, and the engine was rebuilt three years prior. On receipt the contractor noted the machine still had a firm blade lift and smooth controls. Over a year of service on light road‑shoulder work and landfill grading they found the fuel consumption and downtime costs were well below larger dozers, and the compact track width allowed working safely within the project’s constraints. The undercarriage consisted of roughly 65 % life remaining after inspection, giving the contractor peace of mind.
Industry and Trend Context
The John Deere 350 dozer remains a viable choice for contractors who need a compact, reliable crawler for moderate tasks and who are comfortable with older machine maintenance. While it lacks the power and features of modern large dozers, its simplicity, availability of parts and historical strength make it a sensible selection in the right context. With careful inspection, undercarriage attention and realistic expectations of capability, the 350 can deliver dependable service for years to come.
The John Deere 350 crawler dozer is a compact‑class machine produced in the 1960s and early 1970s. One reference lists the 350 model from 1965 to 1970 with about 42 net hp and an operating weight near 7,900 lb. Later, the 350B succeeded it around 1970‑75, maintaining similar horsepower but refinements in structure and hydraulics. Because the 350 series has been around large before heavier dozers, it occupies a niche for smaller land‑clearing, grading and contractor‑sized jobs.
Strengths and Suitability
- The 350’s compact size and lower ground pressure make it useful for sites where large dozers would be overkill or cause damage.
- Its simpler mechanical systems (compared to later heavy models) make it easier to maintain, especially for owners well‑versed in older equipment.
- For tasks such as light grading, brush clearing, small‑site earthmoving or rental use, the 350 provides good value if undercarriage and hydraulics are in decent condition.
- Because many units are still running, parts supply (for basic components like links, shoes, bolts) remains reasonable among vintage crawler markets.
- Being an older design, the 350’s power (42 hp net in many specs) and blade size are limited compared to modern equivalents.
- Undercarriage wear is a common financial burden: many users report that the track frames, rollers, sprockets and pins/bushings need refurbishment. One long‑time user said undercarriage rebuilds on the 350 were among the more tedious jobs.
- Structural issues: earlier 350 units reportedly had crossbar and track‑frame cracking or loose mounting bolts in high‑stress applications.
- Parts for hydraulic systems or later model features may require effort to locate, especially for the earliest models with less common configurations.
- Check hours and usage history: a 350 with well‑maintained undercarriage and known history is far more attractive than one that’s been heavily abused.
- Perform a full undercarriage inspection: look for worn sprocket lips, broken track links, cracked roller mounts, and frame integrity.
- Inspect blade and frame structure: ensure mounting points are straight, not bent, and hydraulic cylinders show no signs of bypass or scoring.
- Consider the availability of upgrades: some owners retrofit modern pumps, rebuilt engines or improved blades to extend service life.
- Understand resale value: while the 350 series has support in the vintage market, heavy repair outlay may exceed value gain unless you have the skills/facilities yourself. One user said: “In the blink of an eye, a guy could rack up 10 K in repairs on a 350.”
A contractor acquired a 350C (the successor to the 350 series) which had been used primarily on a sand quarry. The machine had roughly 8,500 hours on the hourglass but the undercarriage had recently been refreshed, and the engine was rebuilt three years prior. On receipt the contractor noted the machine still had a firm blade lift and smooth controls. Over a year of service on light road‑shoulder work and landfill grading they found the fuel consumption and downtime costs were well below larger dozers, and the compact track width allowed working safely within the project’s constraints. The undercarriage consisted of roughly 65 % life remaining after inspection, giving the contractor peace of mind.
Industry and Trend Context
- Smaller crawler dozers like the 350 remain valuable in what is sometimes called the “mini dozer” class for rental fleets and smaller contractors who don’t need fully heavy‑duty equipment.
- The vintage equipment market continues to support machines like the 350 because many owners prefer simpler hydraulics, mechanical shift transmissions and no complex electronics.
- With rising costs of new machinery, refurbishing a well‑maintained 350 can make economic sense for light work, provided maintenance discipline is strong.
- Undercarriage – The track assembly of a crawler including shoes, links, rollers, idlers and sprockets.
- Net horsepower – The power available at the engine flywheel after deducting losses (air cleaner, alternator, cooling fan).
- Crossbar – Structural member connecting track frames on some crawler designs; integrity is critical to frame rigidity.
- Hydraulic bypass – Condition where hydraulic fluid leaks internally rather than providing full fluid force to the cylinder.
- Refurbishment / rebuild – Restoration of major components (engine, undercarriage, hydraulics) to extend machine life.
The John Deere 350 dozer remains a viable choice for contractors who need a compact, reliable crawler for moderate tasks and who are comfortable with older machine maintenance. While it lacks the power and features of modern large dozers, its simplicity, availability of parts and historical strength make it a sensible selection in the right context. With careful inspection, undercarriage attention and realistic expectations of capability, the 350 can deliver dependable service for years to come.
