Buying Advice New old stock - what to watch for

[dgeesaman]

There is a local dealer selling some new old stock equipment. Some of it has been sitting for a few years and barely if ever operated.

I work for a machine building OEM (not compact tractors and ZTR mowers though) and I know how much invisible damage can occur aside from the obvious faded paint and spots of rust.

The equipment comes with a new warranty but I'm concerned with repairs and reliability over the life of the equipment.

 

[Pierrepont]

So, what do we watch or look for in a NOS unit? Be specific please?

Would a 2 year old showroom display model be mechanically better than the same model sitting outside for two years?

This sounds interesting and important.

 

[dgeesaman]

Well I can tell you that categorically, indoor storage is always better than outdoor storage. In addition, avoidance of temperature extremes and humid air makes a huge difference in corrosion. While true, those are perfectly general statements based on the kind of machinery I have experience with, which are not mowers and tractors.

The real question how important this is with mowers and tractors.