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snowplowdog1288

· Michael
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Discussion starter · #1 ·
Whenever I list one of my machines for sale I try to list everything that I did to it before putting it up for sale. I don’t know that it necessarily adds value but it does make it more appealing to buyers knowing they can just take it home and use it without having to do anything to it.

One that I have for sale right now, I replaced the head gasket because it failed. I noted that in the ad and got questioned about it. More specifically, I was asked why I would replace a head gasket for no reason, because head gaskets don’t “just fail” there must be something else wrong with it

Anyway, I feel like these types of things should be known to the buyer and they can then make the most informed decision on their purchase. Am I wrong? Are some things better left unsaid?
 
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#3 ·
Just tell them that the tractor was a trade-in and the heads gasket was blown when you received it. Also tell them that you have run it for x number of hours since then and it has performed well.
 
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#4 ·
I list the repairs I did in all my listings.
 
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#5 ·
If I sell anything, I will list what I have done to it and list any potential repairs it may need in the near future.

If I sold you either of my trucks, I can print off a spreadsheet of when repairs were done, when oil and filter were changed, when tires were changed and every fuel purchase since I owned it. Then I could give you the receipts for all of the above.
 
#6 ·
snowplowdog1288 said:
One that I have for sale right now, I replaced the head gasket because it failed. I noted that in the ad and got questioned about it. More specifically, I was asked why I would replace a head gasket for no reason, because head gaskets don’t “just fail” there must be something else wrong with it
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Well it wasn't for no reason, and yes they do just fail.. just like anything else that can and does break. Just trying to get it for cheap, or wants it, and wants you to cover for any possible failures in the future. Ya... not the buyer for you!
 
#8 ·
If the head gasket has been replaced and the machine operates as it should, I don't see any reason you should be required to mention it.

If there are known issues, they should be listed.

To help the buyer understand that there is nothing they need to do to the machine, list all the MAINTENANCE items you've done.
 
#9 ·
I agree with the above posts, and how you are listing it! You did the hard work to diagnose it, and make it run right. I like that you're disclosing the repairs that you made to it and are moving it along. Nope, no Warranty, buy it as it is! IMHO!

ETU
 
#10 ·
Sometimes if I’m looking at a vehicle on marketplace, they list A LOT of new parts (ball joints, tie rods, brake lines, sensors, other random stuff). To me, all those new parts coupled with the fact that the vehicle is for sale suggests they’re selling it because it’s nickel and dimming them to death. What else is due to fail or still needs replacement? Not a big deal if I’m looking at a project or parts donor, but a major turn off if I’m looking for a reliable daily driver!
 
#11 ·
snowplowdog1288 said:
Whenever I list one of my machines for sale I try to list everything that I did to it before putting it up for sale. I don’t know that it necessarily adds value but it does make it more appealing to buyers knowing they can just take it home and use it without having to do anything to it.

One that I have for sale right now, I replaced the head gasket because it failed. I noted that in the ad and got questioned about it. More specifically, I was asked why I would replace a head gasket for no reason, because head gaskets don’t “just fail” there must be something else wrong with it

Anyway, I feel like these types of things should be known to the buyer and they can then make the most informed decision on their purchase. Am I wrong? Are some things better left unsaid?
Click to expand...
Two words should be all it take on a head gasket replacement. Carbon removal
 
#12 ·
Dave55 said:
If I sell anything, I will list what I have done to it and list any potential repairs it may need in the near future.

If I sold you either of my trucks, I can print off a spreadsheet of when repairs were done, when oil and filter were changed, when tires were changed and every fuel purchase since I owned it. Then I could give you the receipts for all of the above.
Click to expand...
Oh! Great just more junk sitting around to dispose of at a later date.
 
#13 ·
Maybe a standard check list of items. Then mark off checked passed, doesn't apply or repaired.
Items with a warranty and for how long.
Custom needs nothing else.
They can hear it run, operate it. If they can't make a judgement from that they just might be in the wrong market.
 
#14 ·
Both of my trucks were used for business, so tax records were required.
I am no longer operating my business but after 30 years, it is just habit now.
Plus if my fuel mileages or oil mileage makes a change, I start looking for why.
Without those records recorded in a spread sheet, I would not even know there was a problem.
 
Discussion starter · #15 ·
Dave55 said:
I agree with not the right buyer, and most likely looking for an excuse to low ball your price.

As is, where is and no warranty, do you want it.
If you want a warranty, go buy a new one.
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Funny you mention warranty. He did ask if there was a warranty and I told him there was no way I would be able to do that on a 12 year old machine.

The particular guy seems to have lost interest, I never heard back from him.
 
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Discussion starter · #16 ·
heathiopian said:
If the head gasket has been replaced and the machine operates as it should, I don't see any reason you should be required to mention it.

If there are known issues, they should be listed.

To help the buyer understand that there is nothing they need to do to the machine, list all the MAINTENANCE items you've done.
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I usually try to list everything I've done. Below is an example of one of my ads.

I have Murray lawn tractor for sale. It appears to be about a 1990 model. It has a 12.5HP Briggs & Stratton engine that runs great, a 6 speed transmission that works as it should and 40” mower deck. Battery is a few years old but does hold a charge however it will most likely need to be replaced next season. All tires hold air. No hour meter on this model.

Fully serviced including:

Fresh oil change
New air filter
New fuel filter
New spindle bearings
Blades sharpened and balanced

This tractor is completely ready to use and needs nothing. Would be a nice cheap tractor for up north at the cabin.
First $250 makes it yours. Will consider your old riding lawnmower for trade in, running or not.

It amazes me when I post something like this how many people will contact me with questions clearly answered in the ad.
 
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#19 ·
I’ve given up listing much info in the ad itself. Very few people read the ad. So I list the base info for most listings and then prep a “common questions” write up to send if they ask questions.

Interestingly, not many folks ask questions and the few that do ask one or two, I shoot them the prepared note and they typically thank me and either decline or ask to come see it.

I’ve also stopped describing what I’ve done to a machine. Nobody cares. I list it and nobody asks about an oil change etc.
Make, model, year and price. Their already done reading.
Click to expand...
I’m not sure they get past the pictures and title anymore!
Dave55 said:
Full warranty, til it goes in his truck.
Click to expand...
I have the famous Beef 5/5 warranty. Five seconds or five feet, which ever comes first!
 
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#20 ·
Just who wouldn't be changing the fluids shortly after getting one home these days anyway? Ok, do I read what most of you do when bringing something new home. Not going any farther on that subject.

You know the last person may not have done things correctly even if advertised as such.
Come to think of it maybe the repair and sell is simply a lost cause.

Post as is and I can fix it at $'s. Once the repairs and service comes out of their pocket they will knows what's been done.
 
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