Caterpillar 268B vs John Deere 317: Which Is the Better Value?
The Caterpillar 268B averages $20,417 CAD at auction, compared to $14,851 for the John Deere 317. That's a $5,566 difference. Based on 55 verified Canadian auction results tracked by TrackCheck, here's the full breakdown.
The Verdict
The John Deere 317 is the better value buy for most Canadian buyers, averaging $5,566 less than the 268B.
Caterpillar 268B
CTL$20,417 CAD avg
$11,385
Low
$32,807
High
18
Sales
Avg 5,399 hours · 2005–2007 model years
Full price guide →John Deere 317
SSL$14,851 CAD avg
$4,830
Low
$27,032
High
37
Sales
Avg 2,271 hours · 2004–2009 model years
Full price guide →What are the key differences between 268B and 317?
- Price: The 317 is $5,566 cheaper on average (27% savings).
- Track Type: 268B is a compact track loader (CTL) while 317 is a wheeled skid steer (SSL). CTLs have better traction on soft ground; wheeled units are faster and cheaper to maintain.
- Usage: Used 268Bs average 5,399 hours while 317s average 2,271 hours.
Both Caterpillar and John Deere retain value well. See our depreciation guide for brand rankings.
Looking for a 268B or 317? Check current listings with Deal Scores.
Which is the better value: 268B or 317?
Choose the Caterpillar 268B if:
- You work on soft ground, mud, or uneven terrain
- You prefer Caterpillar's dealer network and parts availability
Choose the John Deere 317 if:
- You want lower upfront cost ($5,566 savings)
- You work on pavement, concrete, or hard surfaces
- You prefer John Deere's dealer network and parts availability
How do 268B and 317 prices compare by year?
| Year | Caterpillar 268B | John Deere 317 |
|---|---|---|
| 2009 | — | $9,691 (4) |
| 2008 | — | $19,047 (10) |
| 2007 | $23,982 (4) | $13,695 (7) |
| 2006 | $20,728 (8) | $17,759 (8) |
| 2005 | $17,627 (6) | $11,614 (6) |
| 2004 | — | $6,313 (2) |
Prices in CAD. Numbers in parentheses are sample size. Lower price highlighted.
How do 268B and 317 prices compare by hours?
| Hours | Caterpillar 268B | John Deere 317 |
|---|---|---|
| 0-999 hrs | $11,528 (2) | $19,469 (4) |
| 1,000-1,999 hrs | — | $17,703 (15) |
| 2,000-2,999 hrs | $32,342 (2) | $12,247 (4) |
| 3,000-3,999 hrs | $22,161 (2) | $15,639 (6) |
| 4,000+ hrs | $18,913 (10) | $9,389 (2) |
Hours matter more than age for resale value. See our hours vs age analysis.
Where can I buy a 268B or 317 in Canada?
Caterpillar 268B
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