D7 dozer Serial#: 17A3681 - can anybody tell me the year this was made?

That's a D7C, 1956 model. Good machine.
Starter is the easy part, just make sure it comes with RH helical drive (not the LH version). Bolts right up, replaces the pony motor.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-50MT-PONY-MOTOR-REPLACEMENT-STARTER-24VOLT-24V-FITS-CATERPILLAR-D7-D8-D9/401752630830?hash=item5d8a52a62e:g:3AIAAOSwYilcuj7h

That's a D7C, 1956 model. Good machine.
Starter is the easy part, just make sure it comes with RH helical drive (not the LH version). Bolts right up, replaces the pony motor.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-50MT-PONY-MOTOR-REPLACEMENT-STARTER-24VOLT-24V-FITS-CATERPILLAR-D7-D8-D9/401752630830?hash=item5d8a52a62e:g:3AIAAOSwYilcuj7h

[quote="Old Magnet"]That's a D7C, 1956 model. Good machine.
Starter is the easy part, just make sure it comes with RH helical drive (not the LH version). Bolts right up, replaces the pony motor.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-50MT-PONY-MOTOR-REPLACEMENT-STARTER-24VOLT-24V-FITS-CATERPILLAR-D7-D8-D9/401752630830?hash=item5d8a52a62e:g:3AIAAOSwYilcuj7h[/quote]

To be clear.....I remove the entire pony motor? (You are my new hero by the way!)

Also....are there any "how to" videos? Because I'll have to get all the other components/parts like batteries, etc. so looking for that info too.

I thought I saw one on here last February, but can't find it anymore.

Also....I'm trying to become a member....but the "pay site" is not secure....so looking for another way.

THANK YOU!!!

Welcome aboard gwhagedorn. Give ACMOC a call at 309-691-5002, Mary is friendly and will take your membership payment info.
Before you remove that starting engine you should know that the diesel engine will not start in temps below 60F without starting fluid or glow plugs installed. Electric start for the pony is simple; it should already be there, you might just need a battery.
If you keep the pony please do the research and learn the proper operating procedure. Starting engines are often destroyed by operator error, YouTube is full of operators abusing them.
You might try ebay for a Operation and Maintenance Instructions book for your 17A.
The important things: Change the starting engine oil often. Let the pony warm up thoroughly before engaging it with the diesel engine. Stop the pony by turning the fuel valve off not with the switch to prevent the oil being contaminated with gas.
Cable blades were used for years and just take a little getting used to.
Craig

i suggest. you tune up the pony. a well tuned pony is real easy to start and isn't terrible expensive to do. another suggestion try out the cable operated blade and adjust the cable control for smooth operating. i think you might just find that you have a perfectly good dozer that digs just as good and easy as if you spend a fortune on those mods. you can then spend the money you saved on "fishing poles"😛

Welcome aboard gwhagedorn. Give ACMOC a call at 309-691-5002, Mary is friendly and will take your membership payment info.
Before you remove that starting engine you should know that the diesel engine will not start in temps below 60F without starting fluid or glow plugs installed. Electric start for the pony is simple; it should already be there, you might just need a battery.
If you keep the pony please do the research and learn the proper operating procedure. Starting engines are often destroyed by operator error, YouTube is full of operators abusing them.
You might try ebay for a Operation and Maintenance Instructions book for your 17A.
The important things: Change the starting engine oil often. Let the pony warm up thoroughly before engaging it with the diesel engine. Stop the pony by turning the fuel valve off not with the switch to prevent the oil being contaminated with gas.
Cable blades were used for years and just take a little getting used to.
Craig

[quote="seiscat"]Welcome aboard gwhagedorn. Give ACMOC a call at 309-691-5002, Mary is friendly and will take your membership payment info.
Before you remove that starting engine you should know that the diesel engine will not start in temps below 60F without starting fluid or glow plugs installed. Electric start for the pony is simple; it should already be there, you might just need a battery.
If you keep the pony please do the research and learn the proper operating procedure. Starting engines are often destroyed by operator error, YouTube is full of operators abusing them.
You might try ebay for a Operation and Maintenance Instructions book for your 17A.
The important things: Change the starting engine oil often. Let the pony warm up thoroughly before engaging it with the diesel engine. Stop the pony by turning the fuel valve off not with the switch to prevent the oil being contaminated with gas.
Cable blades were used for years and just take a little getting used to.
Craig[/quote]

Thank you so much sir, I just got my membership today! Sound advice....duly noted.... I've been reading BB for 2 days straight....and learned a ton....and the concensus is clearly with what you're saying...and that's what I'm gonna do (electric start the pony motor, I'm simply too old to crank it).

THANK YOU AGAIN !!! Gwh