I have an early 2008 17" MBP and ..
There is definitely issues with 10.9 and this computer: freezes on startup, freezes on shutdown , etc.
Here are two things that temporarily address the freezing issues:
1. Reset SMC. This is really important
2. And then do MULTIPLE resets of PRAM in a row. I do three and it seems to do the trick.
If you are unfamiliar with doing them, just use 'the google' and there are a lot of entries.
Let me know if that help you as it has helped me.
P.S. And when it freezes again, you'll need to do the SMC/PRAM reset again. Yes, its a pain in the zzz but it works for while.