Tips for Buying Used Tractors
Tractors are the true workhorses of any agricultural operation that needs to apply some serious power to difficult tasks. They’re reliable, resilient, but they cost a lot of money! Between a new tractor, the accompanying implements, tires, and gadgets, you’ll be looking at quite a hit to your pocketbook. It’s no wonder so many turn to used tractors for a more affordable option. You can save a lot of money, and tractors are generally tough enough to last years and years, regardless of being new or used.
At FMI Equipment, we want our customers to have all the options they need to make a decision to go with a tractor that’s right for the work that needs doing.
In that spirit we’ve put together this short guide with some tips to consider when shopping for a used tractor. Read on for more information, or if you’re ready to look at some used tractors head into our location in Spokane, Washington.
Scrutinize Potential Sellers
The right dealer can make all the difference in the world when it comes to finding the right piece of farm equipment. Your friends at FMI Equipment are here to help you out, but if you choose to shop elsewhere that’s fine too. Just remember that no every dealer or individual seller has the same level of integrity when doing business. Perhaps you’ve found an individual seller with what you’re after, or there’s a cryptic internet listing that promises you the moon and more! Whoever you come across, do your due diligence to review any information available about the seller. This might mean reading some online reviews, and it certainly means avoiding a trip to the backwoods to make a trade for a tractor posted on the internet with no pictures.
For the best result in sellers, start with those known for doing good business in your area. Don’t be shy to ask questions directly from them, and they should be able to provide the information you need, like proof of ownership, maintenance and service records, and a clear title. Avoid dealers who make excuses or tell tall tales. Stick to a dealer who is upfront about their stock!
Vehicle Inspection
No precaution will help you avoid a lemon better than an in-person inspection. Perhaps you’re not a mechanical person and have a hard time noticing anything more than scuffs to the finish. That’s fine! Just make sure to bring along someone who knows what they’re in for. A friend, neighbor, or employee can serve as an advisor to help you inspect potential used tractors. When looking at online inventory, give more weight to listings with an abundance of pictures and details. Whoever you end up buying from, don’t be afraid to ask all the questions you have. If a dealer doesn’t have an answer for an important question, then don’t buy their tractor. It’s not impolite to ask for records or other information you might want to see, so don’t hold back.
There are a few specific components to check out when inspecting a used tractor. Perhaps most important is making sure cab and tire wear matches up with the documented operation hours. Low hours will show little in the way of wear on controls like pedals, carpet, and mats, and the tires should likewise be in a condition suitable for their listed age.
Once you get the chance, pop open the tractor and take a peek at the guts. You’re looking for signs of leaks, damage to or around the battery, and the general state of the engine, including any oil and coolant. You’ll definitely want to hop in and start the tractor up for a test drive. When you do, pay attention to the steering and feel of operation for any inconsistencies that could be signs of other issues.
Background check
After making sure a used tractor is in working condition without any other fuss or worries, it’s time to perform a background check. This is merely another step to avoid any situation where you take home a tractor that’ll fall apart or require so much additional repairs or service that you would have been better off with a new model. Ask the seller if the equipment is owned by them or if it’s under a lien. You can also check ownership against the serial number or VIN. Run those through a private service to find out the equipment’s history and whether it’s been reported stolen. Buying equipment that doesn’t have a clear title or has a lien against it may forfeit ownership to another institution, so it is extremely important to verify ownership!
There’s no big secret when buying a used tractor. Simply treat it like you would when looking for any used vehicle: find the right dealer with the right equipment that you inspect and test yourself. It may be a bit more work in research and checking everything out, but you’ll be rewarded with a quality tractor for a fair price. If you’re ready to check out some great used tractors, head into FMI Equipment in Spokane, Washington. Come in today and let our team of courteous professionals answer all your questions and help you find what you’re looking for. We proudly serve our neighbors in Coeur D’Alene, Idaho.