dfeck - You did everything right. Your concerns are valid but you have no choice on how other people will choose to react.
Some posters say that they will not pay more than 50% of new for used. In my experience as a scavanger, one can find that percentage quite easily, but the condition of the item may not be just like new. Numbers increase the odds. If you look at 3 mowers you may find one that is acceptably priced. If you look at 30 mowers, chances are you will find a better deal.
The used brush hogs that I find where I live tend to be used hard. For some reason folks think that the big heavy brush cutter will consume all in its path, fom weeds to 6ft tall trees. I looked at one machine that had part of a car mirror wrapped around the spindle. I may not hesitate to run over the mole hill in my fine powder clay with one, but I would never advocate using one for auto demolition.
For an item that you will only use a little, you should not pay a lot. No more than 50% of new for a unit that will perform the task it is needed for. Will a 7 year old cutter in a reasonable used condition work for you?
Ebay and Craigs List are very neat things for both sellers and buyers, IF you have the time and patience to "weed out" the silliness. Good luck.
