[AT] Re: Off topic but greatreading ---- Somewhat back on topic

[dglass]

I agree Cecil, except about the dealer part.  Dealers of new equipment 
will often take trades that they just want to git rid of.  I even have 
one dealer that calls me when he has what we both refer to as junk.  I 
have bought several good older tractors that the dealer didn't want to 
fool with, but were in good working order(just old or needs paint) and I 
resold making a couple of bucks to support my hobby/addiction.  This 
especially good when the dealer needs cash flow.

>  
>
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>
>
>     I agree with this, Rob, there are a lot of decent used backhoes out
> there in the $3K to $6K range. I've been watching the ads myself and 
> reading
> carefully. Most of them tell you up front "some engine work is needed" or
> "there are several hydraulic cylinders that leak" or something 
> similar. Buying
> a decent used backhoe is just like buying antique tractors for your 
> use or
> collection. The first rule is you don't pay retail for them, you pay only
> what a dealer would pay. That means you have to check them out 
> carefully by
> yourself or with the help of a friend and that you are responsible for 
> any
> mistakes. It also means you stay away from dealer's lots as they are 
> in the
> business of making money buying and selling. Most of these machines 
> are too
> old and too far gone to use in a business but are OK for occasional 
> use on
> your farm.
>
>     I lost a bid last year on a municipal sealed bid sale. They had a
> nice well kept loader/backhoe up for sealed bids. I looked it over 
> carefully,
> ran it, used both the loader and the hoe. It also came with two 
> buckets. Had
> an enclosed cab, lights and good tires. They were selling because they 
> needed
> something newer and quicker. I thought it over and bid $3563 but made 
> a big
> mistake, IMHO. I turned in my bid too early. I think I should have waited
> until the last minute. One of the requirements was a bank check in 
> full had
> to accompany the bid. There were only a couple bids and wouldn't you 
> know it,
> a bid was turned in that beat me by $50. So, I lost. It would have been a
> nice machine to have. I suppose I'll have to wait a long time to find 
> another
> one to match it but you never know. You might find a municipal auction 
> down
> there too if you keep your eyes open.
>
> Cecil
>