What should I ask about a grain farm’s combine and seeding equipment age?

Age on its own tells you little. Hours, care and conditions matter more. For the combine and the seeding equipment, ask for the year, the hours on the meter, the service records and a list of parts replaced. Ask where the machine is stored in winter and who does the maintenance.

Ask what major repairs have happened or are coming due. Which parts wear fastest on this machine? Has it had breakdowns at harvest or seeding, and how were they handled? Find out whether it is owned outright, leased or financed, and whether the loan or lease transfers to you. Your lawyer can read the paperwork.

Then ask how the machines match the work. Are the combine and seeder sized for the acres, or does the farm rely on custom help in busy years? Ask what replacement would cost to plan for, and when the seller expected to do it. A guide on equipment valuation and one on equipment financing can help you form questions for a lender. A qualified mechanic can give you a more objective picture than the seller can. Also ask about the last time each machine was calibrated or adjusted, as careful owners usually keep notes on that.

Key takeaways

• Ask for hours, service records and parts replaced, not just the year.
• Find out whether any machine is financed or leased.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the combine and seeder.