The escalating cost of tractors has been the reason for many farmers to buy used tractors. If you have also decided to buy a used tractor, then we suggest you to go for Oliver tractors. This is because Oliver has been rated as the top manufacturer of tractors and farm equipment recently. You can also find Oliver tractors for sale on many websites.
Now that you have decided to buy a used farm tractor, you need to understand that there are many things that you need to take into account. Besides, you also need to inspect various things while buying a used one.
Here are a few tips to help you find the best secondhand tractor:
Overall Appearance of the Tractors
This is one of the most important things that you need to inspect while buying a used tractor. Check for tires and paints on the body. If the tires are bulging and paint is getting peeled off, then know that the farm vehicle has been kept outside without any cover.
Avoid buying a tractor with damaged tires or dents, as repairing these can cost you too much. You can use a gauge to check tire tread depth. If the depth is very less in comparison to new tires, then don’t make the mistake to buy such tractors.
Engine Compartment and Articulation Point
This is another very important area to inspect. Before buying a tractor, you are advised to check its engine. For this, you first need to start the engine, lift the hood and allow it to run for a few minutes. Now, carefully check if there is any leakage from the engine, hydraulics or hoses. Don’t buy the one with leakage in engine. Besides, you also need to check the horsepower and find out if it meets emission standard.
Next comes the checking of articulation point, both visually and operationally. Make sure that articulation point is well greased and free of metal shards. You can then check the operation by starting up the tractor, and drive it backwards and forwards. Make sure there isn’t any thud sound, as you drive.
Cab and PTO Shaft
To inspect the cab, you need to open the door and find out if there is mud and dirt sitting inside the cab. Then, check for the number of hours is has been run. Despite of being a secondhand vehicle, if well maintained, it will have good operational hours. Furthermore, test for PTO or power take off shaft, and look for its specification ranging from 540 RPM to 1000 RPM.
It’s always a good idea to go for the one with big horsepower. This will save your fuel expenses and also perform faster.
Other things to Inspect
In addition to the above mentioned important elements, you need to check for damages in several other areas of the tractors while buying secondhand ones. This includes:
- Hydraulic power
- Supporting documents
- Maintenance log
- Battery
- Damaged cables
- Swivel hitches and pins
In the end, it is also advisable to find out if the owner has its operational manual. It doesn’t matter if you’re buying a new or an old used tractor, as this manual will help you to use the tractor is the best way possible.
