A short inspection can save you thousands. Bring a flashlight and take your time.
Engine and fluids
Start it cold. Look for heavy smoke, listen for knocking, and check oil and coolant for contamination.
Transmission, PTO and hydraulics
Shift through every gear, engage the PTO, and run the hydraulics through full travel. Look for leaks at hoses and cylinders.
Tires, pins and bushings
Uneven tire wear, slack steering and loose loader pins all point to a hard life.
Records and serial number
Ask for service history and make sure the serial number matches the paperwork.