New vs used tiller

[thefisherman]

I've got a Massey GC1715, 25 hp with just under 20 PTO hp. I'm ready to upgrade from a rear tine walk-behind tiller to a 3 point tiller. Main uses are going to be two small food plots in heavy clay soil and a veggie garden in a more reasonable soil.

I'm looking in the 48-54" range. I've got to keep SWMBO happy so I'm trying to find a solid used unit, but many I'm seeing are priced pretty close to new ones. New 48" units run around $1600+tax at Orscheln/TSC for King Kutter or CountyLine brands.

I found an older LandPride RTA1550 on craigslist that is listed as being in good working condition for $1000 OBO. Seems like a deal, but I really don't know if the savings is worth it. Generally speaking I figure older stuff is heavier duty than new stuff, and I'm not afraid to fix things as long as parts are available. But I know really next to nothing about 3 point tillers and would like some feedback from the experts here. Thanks.

 

[seville009]

I wouldn’t hesitate to buy used, subject obviously to looking it over and seeing it work. There’s no engine or hoses to deal with, so it’s not a complicated piece of equipment at least

Offer low; you have nothing to lose.

When you’re done with using it years from now, you can resell it and get some or all of your money back.

 

[Deere Dude]

Generally half price for a moderately used piece would be about fair.

 

[thefisherman]

Generally half price for a moderately used piece would be about fair.

The replacement model, the RTA1250, sells new for about $2200, and the two used ones on TractorHouse right now are $1500 and $1550 and look to be in rougher shape. I think it's a good deal, but I'm still going to hit him at $850 to see if I can get it even better. Willing to pay asking though. Thanks for the feedback.

 

[Gem99ultra]

I have a LP 5' that's over 14 years old now. Still works perfect. I doubt you'll match the quality of the LP with the KK.

 

[Ford850]

I'd make a couple quick checks...
- A quick once-over of the gear box for leaks.
- Look at the tines for excessive wear.

If both of those check out I'd jump on it. It's a dirt tool that will get banged and bruised by rocks anyway, so new or used won't matter after your first few times out.

 

[cglaser104]

I'd make a couple quick checks...
- A quick once-over of the gear box for leaks.
- Look at the tines for excessive wear.

If both of those check out I'd jump on it. It's a dirt tool that will get banged and bruised by rocks anyway, so new or used won't matter after your first few times out.

I second this

 

[ruffdog]

I have a 5' KK and it has been a good tiller...no complaints. Wow, the prices sure have went up on this stuff! I'm sure glad I bought equipment years ago!

 

[DK35vince]

I have a LP 5' that's over 14 years old now. Still works perfect. I doubt you'll match the quality of the LP with the KK.

And I have a 6' King Kutter that is 12 years old and still works fine.
My dad still has my old 5' KK tiller, probably 20 years old now, still working fine.

 

[MESSMAKER]

And I have a 6' King Kutter that is 12 years old and still works fine.
My dad still has my old 5' KK tiller, probably 20 years old now, still working fine.

I have a 10 year old KK. it has been great.