What To Look For When Buying Used Livestock Equipment
Posted on: 12 March 2019
Whether it is cattle, hogs, or chickens, if you are operating a livestock farm, you will need to buy equipment such as livestock panels, gates, chutes, or feeders in order to safely and effectively run your farm. In many situations, buying used livestock equipment is going to be the least expensive way to get started. When it comes to buying used livestock equipment, there are a few things you need to be aware of. Livestock equipment is a large investment, and even though you are buying used, you still want to have the best livestock equipment you can afford and to get the most out of each piece of equipment. Here are a few of the top things to look for when buying used equipment.
Check the Fluids
Regardless of the type of livestock farm you are operating, you will need some type of mechanical equipment, such as a tractor. When buying machinery, it is important to carefully inspect the entire machine, especially the fluids. If the fluids are low or dirty, it may be a sign that the equipment wasn't taken care of by the previous owner and it may end up causing you problems in the future. Start the machinery up and, if possible, drive it. Take note of how easy the machine starts and how smooth the ride is. Look at the tires, the belts, and any additional equipment, such as tractor buckets. Although the equipment is used, it should be usable or at the very least inexpensive to repair.
Signs of Wear and Tear
When you are buying used livestock equipment, especially specific items like livestock panels, there is bound to be some wear and tear. However, it is important to ensure your livestock will be safe in or around the equipment you intend to use. When buying equipment such as livestock panels, make sure they are suitable panels for the type of livestock and corral for which you will use the panels. Look for signs of wear and tear on the panels, such as hairline cracks, rust, or other types of damage that can't be easily repaired and that may lead to a problem down the road.
If the previous owner has maintenance records for any of the equipment you are interested in, be sure to ask for the receipts at the time of the sale. If the equipment is in use at the time of the sale, such as if you are considering livestock panels that have not been taken apart, ask the seller if you are responsible for disassembly or if the seller will take care of it.
For more information on livestock equipment, contact a company like Big Springs Equipment.
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