Good day.
The way I read the start of thread, my assumption is new to tractor/BH? If that is not correct, I apologize in advance….not trying to be disrespectful.
If this is first tractor/piece of equipment, I politely recommend I think best case is take someone along that has experience with a TLB. If that not an option make doubly sure you are sort of going in blind folded to if you have not operated or serviced a machine like that. Be aware if repairs are needed it doesn’t take much to rack up a couple thousand dollar repair at a shop. Even just service can easily be $600-800 +. If the machine needs a service that’s an extra fee. If you buy a used machine I’d plan to get the manual and check and / or replace the fluids and do full service if/when you get it so you know the start point with the machine. So just factor that in, or don’t. You money your machine. Just a recommendation if not sure what / when things happened to it in the past.
As far as some basics, do you ever plan to take the BH off? If so make sure to get all the parts for the 3pt.
As far as the machine (beyond general condition of appearance including tires):
1. I’d want to walk up to it cold, check the all fluids (level and color), check the grease points see if been greased.are their any fresh oil spots where it is sitting? Anything dripping off it? If it’s dripping how much how bad? Is a repair needed? (Gasket between cases or a fluid line?).
2. Watch it start and run enough to get to operating temperature. Is there a puff of smoke? Or fogging the neighborhood? White or black smoke? What do you see smell and hear? Any warning lights on the dash/ controls?
3. If worried about leaks, After up to temp and shut off I’d want it parked on concrete ideal, or take some cardboard and put under it and give 5 minutes or so and see if leaks. Where are leaks? Need a repair? Leaking between cases or a hose or what?
4. Ask seller if they would demonstrate the machine and BH working through its functions. In a very short period of time it can dig a hole and fill it back in. Same thing after done anything leaking on the BH. What do you see and hear? Everything been greased? Hear any non greased joints screeching at you?
5. How old is the battery? When last full service completed? Look at air cleaner and radiator fluid.
Personally I would get a manual and familiarize myself with the service points, dash/instrument cluster and controls. Best case is take a friend with experience along. YMMV.
If you buy it then what? If this is a first machine, Do you have a way to haul and have experience strapping a machine like that down?
Good luck.
