Used Equipment Inspection Checklist: Avoid These Costly Mistakes

Buying used equipment for your farm can be a wise investment if done right. You can earn significant savings compared to new equipment, but skipping a thorough inspection can quickly turn those savings into losses. Hidden repairs, unexpected downtime, and a shorter lifespan are all risks when you buy without checking carefully. To help you make a confident purchase, we’ve put together this used equipment inspection checklist so you can find equipment worth the investment.

The Ultimate Used Equipment Inspection Checklist

Engine and Drivetrain

Getting under the hood will tell you a lot about the condition of the equipment, and examining the engine is the first place to start. Most engines can run well for about 10,000 hours, but it's not uncommon to run into issues sooner.

What to look out for:

• Fluid leaks around the engine
• Excessive smoke on startup or under load
• Unusual knocking or rattling noises
• Oil that looks contaminated or burnt
• Hard or rough starts
• Cracked, frayed, or worn belts and hoses

Transmission

A faulty transmission can sideline your equipment and put you at risk for hazardous operation. Always try to get into the seat to test the clutch shift between gears to ensure it runs smoothly.

What to Look Out For:

• Grinding, hesitation, or delays between shifts
• Slipping or dragging clutch
• Fluid leaks or signs of wear in drive components

Hydraulics

Your hydraulics and PTO components are what deliver power to implements, so any damage here can cause costly downtime. It's a must to test the hydraulic system under load.

What to Look Out For:

• Leaks at fittings, hoses, or cylinders
• Sluggish hydraulic response
• Drift or jerky movement when operating attachments

Electrical System

You don’t want to risk having an idle tractor by not properly inspecting the electrical system. It’s crucial to test the battery and all the electrical components, including the lights, gauges, and controls.

What to Look Out For:

• Dim or flickering lights
• Slow engine cranks or rough starts
• Blown fuses
• Unresponsive switches/controls

Tires and Undercarriage

Tires and undercarriage components bear the weight of your machine and the terrain you work on. Replacing them can be costly, so inspect carefully before purchasing.

What to Look Out For:

• Low tread
• Rim damage
• Excessive wear
• Wheel locks

Reduce Risks with Used John Deere Equipment

Not all used equipment is created equal. The brand and dealer you choose make all the difference in performance, durability, and overall lifespan of your equipment. John Deere Certified Pre-Owned equipment is thoroughly inspected and held to high standards of quality, making it worth the buy. When you purchase through a reputable dealer like Koenig Equipment, you’ll also receive ongoing support along with genuine John Deere parts and trusted service to back up your investment for years to come.

Explore Our Used Equipment Selection Today and find machinery that adds value and peace of mind to your operation.