making an offer on a mower

[Anonymous]

I looked at a no4 big today with rubber tires and dolly wheel, the guy said to make an offer. I know he was asking $800 to a stranger but I think I can get a better deal. The last time it was run was about 20 years ago behind his team of belgians then it was parked under a shed roof and sunk into the meadow. It still looks in good shape and the tires still hold air. Any advice on an offer? how much do rebuilt mowers go for? (then I could deduct my labor and parts)

Thanks
Jared

[Donn Hewes]

If it was me I would assume that I was replacing all the cutter parts. This can run about 60 to 70 per foot of bar. (that is parts only) Having said that rebuilt mowers can be hard to find and cost 1K to 2K. depending on how well and how complete the job was. After I inspected all the wear and moving parts; got the bar down, put it in and out of gear; etc I would offer between $300 and 500 , but that is just a guess It might be less if I found anything wrong or missing. But I am not looking buy either. I have a slight preference for the McD and IH over the JD, but that is just me.

[near horse]

Besides the points Donn mentioned, do give those tires a real good look. They can be pretty spendy to replace and may hold air but not have much life left in them – look for sidewall checks/cracks.

[Jay]

I second both comments above- on price and tires. There is both the condition of the mower – worn parts- and then the cost of new guards, etc. and the labor/time to get them right. Just 1 thing not quite right can make all the difference. But when it is right – what a joy it can be to use. Jay

[Author]

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