Is it a Bargain?

Buying used Woodworking Machinery?
6 check areas before you sign for that ‘bargain’ kit

1. Got everything you need?
   • Is the machine complete? Especially if the machine you are buying is second hand you may find vital parts and legally required safety features such as guards are missing.
2. Good condition?
   • Check to see if tooling meets new regulations.
   • Are the bearings in good order?
   • Check condition of motors, electrical control equipment and wiring
   • Are the operating speeds suitable for modern tooling
3. Is it safe?
   • Check guards and safety devices
   • Do the guards meet current requirements?
   • Does the braking system stop the machine in 10 seconds or less?
   • Are electrical interlocks necessary for access doors, panels and guards?
   • Is DC injection braking necessary? If it’s not present have you looked at the cost of installing it?
4. Is it obsolete?
   • Does the original manufacturer still exist? If not, where is the supply source for spare parts? Is the manufacturer’s handbook with the machine or available?
5. Has it been maintained?
   • When was the machine last operated?
   • When was it last serviced?
6. One careful owner?
   • How many previous owners has the machinery had?
   • What sort of work is it likely to have done?
   • Has the machine been reconditioned
   • Who carried out any reconditioning work?

WMSA says – “ Pre-owned machinery can offer some bargain opportunities but take time and care to be sure that you machine is safe, legal and does the job.”