MOTHER EARTH NEWS

Used Tractor Factors

This article is available online in audio form at MotherEarthNews.com

Although most of us would prefer to own new equipment, sometimes purchasing used makes sense. This is especially true for beginning homesteaders who are still learning about their properties and the repetitive tasks involved in maintaining land and livestock. If you’re in the market for a used tractor, the following advice will help you assess the value and condition of a machine before you make your final selection.

“Let the buyer beware” when it comes to any purchase of used equipment. Even if you feel you know a tractor’s history of use and repair, it’s always a good idea to conduct a thorough inspection before forking over cash and extending that final handshake.

Inspection Checklist

Begin by taking a good overall look at the tractor, observing its general condition

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