Things to consider when buying a second-hand tractor
A new tractor comes with the comfort of being manufactured at the right specifications and quality parameters. A large part of the trust lies in the warranty that accompanies a new tractor. It has all documentation such as invoice and is also eligible for loans. However, when it comes to buying a used tractor, the buyer must be extra cautious and diligent to ensure that a reliable machine is being purchased which will not cause problems after the transaction. Some tips to buying a used tractor are below.
Essential points to be kept in mind:
The following are some of the basic things that one should not ignore in any circumstances, before buying a used tractor:
It is very important to choose a popular brand which has a good reputation amongst the buyers. Brands like Mahindra, Swaraj, Massey Ferguson, Eicher, John Deere are reliable since these have been tried and tested by many customers over decades and serious problems are unlikely to occur. Another benefit of buying a popular brand is that it will maintain its resale value better than less popular brands.
Who owned it previously? This will give an idea if the tractor was well maintained and if it sustained any heavy abuse. If it was owned by a farmer you know, it is likely that the tractor was a loved member of his household. However, if the previous owner is a commercial operator, it is possible that the tractor was heavily used by multiple operators in construction applications.
It is not enough to only ask about the usage of the tractor. It is important to verify whether the tractor is in good condition. The first thing to do is to verify the number of hours run. Is it in line with normal usage? If the average hours per year are more than 900-1000, then the tractor is used above normal hours and may require higher maintenance in the future.
The condition of the tires must be examined since these are expensive to replace. Look for any cuts, cracks, or bubbles. Also, check whether the tire is remolded or original. A remolded tire will have a lower life than original tires. Note any uneven wear which may indicate serious problems in the tractor frame.
Just like when buying a car, the buyer must drive and operate the tractor under consideration. One must especially check for abnormal smoke from the engine and any abnormal gear noises in transmission. Also, hydraulics should be tested since any repairs here are generally very expensive. All electricals should be tested, and any leaks should be inspected. If the buyer is not an expert, he should utilize the service of a trusted technician to inspect the used tractor.
A used tractor should come with the original invoice, registration certificate, Insurance-proof, and proof of taxes paid (if commercial). If these documents are missing or not in order, it will be very difficult to transfer the ownership of the tractor. Also, financiers will not sanction a loan if any of these documents indicate anomalies. A used tractor dealer can assist in verifying the originality of these documents.
All tractors require dealer support for parts and service. Similarly, any used tractor purchased will have to be serviced by a nearby dealer. Verify that the tractor model being purchased can be serviced at a competent dealer nearby. Check if the dealer has the required trained technicians, special tools, and parts availability.
Buying a used tractor is a good decision which can save a lot of money. However, it is prone to risks as well. If the above tips are followed, the buyers can minimize the risks and enjoy their used tractor for many years to come.
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