So I have been searching pretty hard for a while now and have it narrowed down to two machines and they are the makers I am going to go with for dealer support etc, so no "well those both suck and you should get a blank". Option 1. 2008 John Deere 325 that came from a large farm outfit that really takes care of their equipment and trades a ton with this particular dealer. It has an open station with side windows and heat, one speed, manual attach and about 680 hours and is in what I would consider pristine shape, the best I have seen over the past while by a long shot. They want 26200 for it. Option 2. 2008 New Holland L180 with about the same hours, open station, two speed, manual attach and I don't know the history as much since the dealer bought a couple of semi loads of misc. equipment from another dealer; the owner has used it at his house for some time and says it is a strong runner etc. (did not expect to hear anything else) and I would say the condition is about 70 percent compared to the other. I think they would take 23000 or very close for this one. I have them both on hold for the day and need to decide by this evening. Thanks
Just kidding, If it were me I'd go with your option 1, sounds like a nicer machine plus you know the history. I bought a machine yrs back that looked okay but the dealer really didn't know much about it.................long story short it cost me a boat load on unseen parts, internal cobb jobing.
Of the two you listed, I'd choose the Deere. More power, better condition and peace of mind. The only disadvantage I see is single speed vs. 2 speed. I've been away from the new market for a while and I'm wondering how close these prices are to a new machine? Most manufacturers have buying incentives that are VERY attractive. I got a card last week from Cat listing interest free financing for 5 years on compact equiment! It might be worth looking in to. I did a quick calculation and if a new machine is $30,000 you're only 15% away from that with the Deere price.
I would agree with that. If you're willing to get in that deep, a little further for new might be much more attractive.
I always maintain that a used machine is typically as good as its last owner. Since you know the history of the Deere, all other things being equal (which obviously they are not), I would go with the Bob.... I mean Deere!! LOL
The price seems high on the Deere, If you could get it priced in the low 20"s it would be more attractive. That machine is 5 years old.
Deere, but beat the price down
Working on it now! I agree it is high, especially after pouring through the adds a little further out.
That was my thought too. If you're not in a rush, keep shopping harder, you should be able to find a decent machine for under $20K. That's why I was looking at new cost.
my thoughts exactly
Went and picked up a 2008 Deere over the weekend that was a one farmer owned and maintained unit with 1050 hours on it in very good shape but not excellent. It needs new tires and I picked up a set of used hulks and wheels in the same area that were in really good shape for 600. I got the Deere for 18,500 and feel relieved to have saved about 8000 over the other deere option. That 8000 more was for a truly pristine unit but now I have some dough for attachments etc and did not have to finance anything, phew. Thanks for the help all.
Good job!! Those hours are still low and that price is much better in today's market
Thanks, I am excited and will spend this weekend changing all the filters, oil etc.