Used Combine Harvesters For Sale in MD, DE, & PA

Buying a Used Combine Harvester

A combine is one of the largest pieces of equipment farmers make use of, and one of the most expensive! They’re well worth it, as these hulking machines take up the lion’s share of work when it’s time to harvest, leaving operators time to focus on yields rather than spending their hours toiling in the field! Because of their importance, owners keep their combines in good repair, which generally leads to longer lifespans and translates to a good selection of used equipment on the market. Your friends at Atlantic Tractor have put together a few tips to keep in mind when on the prowl for a used combine.

Sized for You

Consider the size of your operation to determine how big you need to go for a combine. It’s better to get a smaller combine that produces a steady load you can handle rather than a big machine waiting in the field for pickup. So while you might be eager to reach for the biggest, best used combine out there, try to focus on what you actually need and can handle. Also remember that a combine’s capacity shouldn’t be more than the gathering head can handle, otherwise you risk wasting or damaging the harvest.

 

Hours, Not Acres

The total hours of operation show the length of time the engine has run, while the separator hours indicate the actual hours the machine has spent threshing. High hours aren’t a problem, as long as the unit is in good condition. Without proper care, even low hour machines can have problems. If the engine hours are much higher than the separator, you should be sure to check for drivetrain wear. Beware equipment with operation hours that way undercut the unit condition and always ask for documentation if available.

Combine Condition

Check for obvious signs of damage and wear on the machine and pay special attention to larger belts, chains, and sprockets. Lots of wear and tear could mean lousy maintenance by previous owners or else overworked equipment. Another sign of poor maintenance is chaff collected around bearings or behinds shields that’s been matted down and rained in place. Discolored or burned paint on the header covers or underneath the engine hood could mean the engine has overheated in the past.

Ease of Operation

It’s no joke to consider how comfortable a combine cab is! If you’re going to be operating a combine all day during the hot weather of harvestime, then you’ll want to be as comfortable as you can be. Simply get in a combine to test it out. Get comfy. Try stretching out, rearrange yourself, adjust the seats, and test the controls. Turn the combine on if you can and check for any strange sounds or other clear operational issues.

If you have more questions about buying a used combine, don’t hesitate to call or head into one of the Atlantic Tractor locations throughout Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. Come in today and let us help you find what you’re looking for!