QUICK PLEASE! ???

r0GuE · May 18, 2001

I am going to look at a used G-5200 14hp 3cyl diesel w 42" deck and a snow blade after work. It is approx 15 years old. What should I check for to keep from getting ripped off. it is $2500 dollars. If I don't buy this tomarrow I will finance a BX2200. This is my last attempt to stay at a reasonable budget!! ;^)

Rogue

FarmerBob · May 18, 2001

Rogue...

Use good common sense in making your determination. Closely inspect the tractor paying close attention to rust, leaks or signs of past leaks, number of hours, tire condition, check the mower blades for spindle looseness which would indicate bad bearings, question the owner concerning history, i.e., owned since new, maintenance, etc., check all belts, and most important drive the tractor and determine if it's something you would be happy with. It's always hard to convince yourself that you want something that has belonged to someone else, but sometimes you can luck up and get a real bargain on a well-maintained tractor. Good luck...

FarmerBob

M. Sullivan · May 18, 2001

Great answer from Farmerbob. Would also ask if you could pay to have it inspected by a Kubota dealer (overall, compression check, etc..). If nothing else the sellers response may tell a lot. Best of luck.

frank_f15 · May 18, 2001

ROGUE: farmerbob gives good advice. look the thing over carefully, drive it and get a feel for the owner. remember that cheaper is not always cheaper. i bought used from a dealer, only 3 years old and only 68 hrs. on it. have had no problems. if in doubt PASS!

RMulkey · May 18, 2001

All the advice here is good. I would also check for welds on the castings that indicate a major repair.

Good luck. OBTW: Why be reasonable????
-Roger

RPM · May 19, 2001

Another couple of old tricks ... good advice already given though!

1. Drive it onto a clean(ish) dry(ish) surface and let it run there for a few minutes. Drive off and look for any fluid left behind. If there is any try and identify where it's coming from etc.

2. This is always tough - ask the owner to not warm it up before you get there. When you do inspect it see if the engine was run before getting there (pretty easy to check in the usual warm spots). It may be a bugger to start cold if it's not well maintained and this could well conceal the fact.