Would this scare you from buying???

[Buckgnarly]

Walk away, even with an analysis. Who's to say he did not just do a recent change?

If he's dumb enough to even openly admit to that bad of maintenance, imagine how bad it really could be!

 

[vrmnthntr]

For me it wouldn't be worth the 5 hour drive knowing the maintenance on the oil. Like others have said. What about other things like the hst fluid, filter, air/fuel filter, strainer, etc.

 

[RDrancher]

Looking at a bx2230 with 861 hours, still owned by the original owner (he bought it brand new). When I asked how frequently he changed the oil, he stated "once, at 500 hours. Won't need another one until 1000 hours".

I know these engines are pretty tough, but could 500 hours on original oil and filter be a deal breaker? What type of permanent damage could Be done? In forgot to ask about the air filter. I'm assuming the same. Otherwise, the tractor looks like a freshly minted penny in pictures (haven't seen in person yet. 5 hours away).

Thoughts appreciated. Thanks.

I wouldn't worry about it much. Kubota engines are tough enough to run (at least) 500 hrs on oil and filters. Kubota powered Bobcats get run into the ground and the last thing any owner worries about breaking is the engine. 100 hrs between oil changes? There are times with my tractor that changing the oil at 100 hrs would mean that it would have to be done every two weeks. That's never going to happen. I'd say check it out, and if it runs good and its a good price, take it.

 

[MHarryE]

Longer change intervals with larger engines come with larger sump capacities. Dilution is taken into consideration. However the I rest change on my Cat 301.5 mini-excavator, smaller diesel than the tractor in question, is 250 hours and I consider the small Cat engine to be inferior to the small Kubota. I would be more concerned with the visible condition. After all, if you asked a different owner who said he serviced it by the book, would you believe him? Why? People lie, especially people selling used.

 

[unbidden]

It bothers you enough to post the question; that's enough of a reason to walk away in my book.

 

[scaredychicken]

before committing to a 5 hr drive - got to be something closer for used equipment ...
when is the last time it was used (regularly) - if it has been sitting, then all gaskets, seals etc might be more of an issue
if it starts, runs, functions, and doesn't leak - this wouldn't scare me away - step 1) negotiate price all things considered (with major tune-up service after purchase) 2) service machine 3) go to go.

out my way there is a newer Jinma, very low hrs (under 50), and a reduced price - but it has been sitting for a long time holding up a for sale sign. I looked at it 2 yrs ago and carried on because it wasn't big enough for my needs, I was uncertain about brand / distant dealer / parts supplies, could it be serviced etc . newer Jinma, or 20 yr old other, same cost ... hmmm, maybe time for another look.

 

[big bubba]

out my way there is a newer Jinma, very low hrs (under 50), and a reduced price - but it has been sitting for a long time holding up a for sale sign. I looked at it 2 yrs ago and carried on because it wasn't big enough for my needs, I was uncertain about brand / distant dealer / parts supplies, could it be serviced etc . newer Jinma, or 20 yr old other, same cost ... hmmm, maybe time for another look.[/QUOTE]

hmm....jinma sitting over 2 years in favor of the kubota in question? to ease your conscience & for not too much, just have the engine checked out by someone good then decide...my no brainer choice would be K

 

[RickB]

I'd be less concerned about the engine oil than everything else he didn't do. Probably doesn't own a grease gun, or know what one is.

 

[SDT]

I would not touch it.

SDT

 

[sixdogs]

Keep us posted on what you decide.