We all would like to come across an outstanding deal every once in a blue moon. Even when it pertains to something as uncomplicated as buying a secondhand garden tiller. When I was younger, I was used to thinking that everything I bought only had to be brand-spanking-new. As I aged a piece I came to learn that even secondhand items carried a secret respect. If you're planning to purchase a used garden cultivator in the near future; well, I just reckoned I would offer some hints to help you discover the finest deal and what to be on the watch out for.
At the very minimum, it would not hurt to familiarize yourself with new garden tillers and all the different features that are available. Being knowledgeable of the current price for a new garden tiller wouldn't be much a unfit idea either. If I'm buying a piece of used garden gear, I like to know what kind of dickering room I have. Once I've finalized my alternatives a bit, I like to do some price comparings on ebay or craigslist. Then, when it gets down to the wire, it is time for the inspection procedure.
Inspecting a Used Garden Tiller
- You want the best garden tiller your your income can buy. Check the shape of the engine. Look for leaking oil, buildup of gunk, and most significantly check to make sure it's not smoking while the engine is running.
- Determine the oil level and color of the oil. Does it look likes it's been changed on a regular basis?
- Look out for any worn belts or chains. If you are going to need to replace parts, you want to be for certain to calculate that into the price you will be comfortable paying.
- Check for missing bolts and other obvious missing parts.
- Check the overall condition of the tires on the tiller. Lightly worn tires will usually indicate that the tiller hasn't seen much use. Dryrot can mean having to buy new tires in the near future.
- Smell the gas tank. If it smells like stale gas, there could be a chance that maintenance wasn't performed regularly.
- Is there rust on the muffler? You need to understand that mufflers aren't cheap, even for garden tillers.
- Shift through any gears. Does all of the gear linkage work correctly? When you start it up, be sure to check that all the gears shift as fluid as likely. And make sure the accelerator and choke works.
- Check the tiller tines and make sure none are broken and that they are turning properly when in gear.
- If the owner doesn't object, take the tiller for a test run and verify that it will hold up to your planned gardening tasks.
If everything checks out okay, you should feel assured in buying your used garden tiller. Start bargaining for the best price possible. Be sure to have a assistant ride along to help load up the tiller should you make up your mind to buy or at the very minimum arrive with a utility trailer in tow. Just be sure to keep up with maintenance properly when you get it home and it should give you many years of dependable service.
