Similarly to buying any piece of new or used equipment, it’s essential to inspect several components to determine if the swather you’re purchasing and transporting is worth its price. One key aspect is its overall size and appearance, and whether its functionality is what you need. Where possible, arrange a test drive of the equipment to ensure the forward and backward momentum and transmission operates as you’d expect. Buying a swather that’s larger than what you need will unnecessarily overcomplicate transport.
If you’re looking at used swathing equipment, take a walk around the unit to check the paintwork and highlight any leaks and damage that may need to be repaired. The overall appearance will dictate how well the swather was looked after by previous owners and help you to determine if it’s a good investment.
Both used and new equipment benefit from a look at the engine’s specifications. If used, the hood should be lifted while the engine is running so you can look for leaks from any hoses, hydraulics, or other components. Check the engine plate and verify the equipment’s specifications, both to see if it meets your requirements and to make sure it meets emission standards.
Swathers can operate with either front or rear attachments, and there may be a variety of options to examine. One crucial component to check is the type of reel that’s compatible. Swather reel types vary, and your machine may be equipped with any of the following: