[cnet24]

After spending the season researching reel mowers (this forum had a lot to do with that), and some slight convincing of the wife, I've decided to go after and get a reel mower for next season, preferably a Tru Cut 27 due to my lot size. I've been searching here in Atlanta almost daily and the 27's seem harder to come by than other models. But, I know for my lot it's what I need.

I've found this mower listed on craigslist- shoutout to Redtenchu for his video on backlapping, or I wouldn't probably consider this one.

Thoughts on price, quality, etc are appreciated!

https://atlanta.craigslist.org/sat/grd/d/27-tru-cut-reel-mower/6305766716.html

 

[gatormac2112]

That looks kind of rough to me for $900. Pretty rusty.

 

[Mightyquinn]

It doesn't look too bad to me, granted with all the surface rust it has it looks like it was kept outside but he does have a bucket of backlapping compound which is a plus. If everything else checks out and you can get him down $100-200, may not be a bad deal. I would definitely go look at it and see it in person. Just might need a good washing and knock off some of that rust.

 

[Spammage]

Make sure you check the bedknife for remaining life. That is one thing that doesn't show in the pictures. I also think you could get him down on it with the surface rust and lack of a roller.

 

[cnet24]

It doesn't look too bad to me, granted with all the surface rust it has it looks like it was kept outside but he does have a bucket of backlapping compound which is a plus. If everything else checks out and you can get him down $100-200, may not be a bad deal. I would definitely go look at it and see it in person. Just might need a good washing and knock off some of that rust.

Make sure you check the bedknife for remaining life. That is one thing that doesn't show in the pictures. I also think you could get him down on it with the surface rust and lack of a roller.

Thanks for the feedback, much appreciated. Really helps to get a second opinion on something I don't know too much about.

As far as the bedknife- what are some things to look out for? I assume still sharp, no chips, etc?

 

[Mightyquinn]

Just make sure the reel and bedknife are not gouged or nicked up real bad and look in good shape. I assume since the guy has backlapping compound that he may have taken care of it to a certain extent so see if it will cut paper or not. You also want to make sure you it starts on the first or second pull.

 

[Spammage]

Somewhere on the site is a thread that shows an old worn out bedknife compared to a new one. Those pics would definitely help. I'll see if I can find them.

Here: http://www.thelawnforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=100&hilit=Bedknife+Replacement&start=40#p11312

 

[J_nick]

Somewhere on the site is a thread that shows an old worn out bedknife compared to a new one. Those pics would definitely help. I'll see if I can find them.

Here: http://www.thelawnforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=4&t=100&hilit=Bedknife+Replacement&start=40#p11312

Hmmmm, that looks familiar :mrgreen:

 

[SGrabs33]

Agreed with the above but you may be able to come across a better deal in the coming months when people stop mowing their grass and there is less demand. Atlanta has a pretty robust market on reel mowers so it may pay to wait a bit, even though it is hard to do. Personally, for 900 I would want a roller already installed.
The issue that I have seen the most with older trucuts is a worn clutch. This is something that is not easily noticeable for someone not familiar with TruCuts(even I still dont know of a good way to guage them). That's a $350 expense for a new assembled clutch. That's the main reasons that I would be hesitant to buy one(especially without a $200 roller).

On the positive side the tires are not worn hardly at all. That could indicate it just has not been used much(clutch ok), and has been sitting outside.

Hope that helped, but it probably didnt.

 

[cnet24]

Guys, I can't thank you enough for all of the input. Really helps me understand what I am looking at- I think the only thing making me hesitant now is 1) The price w/o roller (like SGrabs mentioned) and 2)After looking at the blades, they seem to be EXTREMELY rusted. Does the blade rust really matter when it comes to backlapping and sharpening?

 

[Spammage]

There isn't any "red" left on my reel, so I would say the one place I wouldn't be concerned with rust is the reel.

 

[95mmrenegade]

I would offer the guy 650 and run with it. The tires dont show alot of wear so its probably just sat in a shed. Backlap and good cleaning and you will be good.

 

[FATC1TY]

This guy lives down the street from me it appears. I live on the golf course south of him! I'm in newnan.

Want me to check it out ? I can take pics if need be.

I bought a 20 inch here in the same area. Little older I think, but had a front roller and started in first pull and was serviced annually by a GC mechanic.

I think he's atleast 100 too high, but market for reels around here is STRONG. Atlanta doesn't get the discounts due to the demand and desire.

 

[cnet24]

This guy lives down the street from me it appears. I live on the golf course south of him! I'm in newnan.

Want me to check it out ? I can take pics if need be.

I bought a 20 inch here in the same area. Little older I think, but had a front roller and started in first pull and was serviced annually by a GC mechanic.

I think he's atleast 100 too high, but market for reels around here is STRONG. Atlanta doesn't get the discounts due to the demand and desire.

That would be awesome if you don't mind and you are truly that close! I am on the NE side of Atlanta, so a trip to Newnan is a bit far but I'd make the trip for a good mower. No rush at all- I haven't even contacted the seller yet because of the distance. Wanted to get some expert opinions before making an offer. :thumbup:

 

[cnet24]

On another note, here is a C-25 listed for $950, that includes the roller and catcher. I think I can get him down from that price based on his posting, I was a little hesitant at first because he did not include pictures, but he sent them to me today and it looks pretty decent.

Again, I really appreciate everyone's input on this thread!

 

[Spammage]

Not sure what that engine is, but it appears more Predator than Honda. I would be wary. The reel doesn't appear to be in great shape either.

 

[FATC1TY]

If I can find the time I'll go glance at the mower and take some photos if I can. Guy can't be too far from me based on the map.

 

[cnet24]

Alright guys, so quick update: I did not end up picking up either of these mowers. I just didn't feel comfortable with some things that were pointed out (again, much appreciated).

I've still kept my eyes open for options, and to be honest it's been pretty quiet. I've messaged the sellers for the below mowers, and once again I'm here for feedback.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/124678628249094
I really like this one- but not for $1,200. I'd love to see if I could get it for $800.

https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/841098489391914
List price for this one is $540, there has to be a reason it's priced this low, right??

 

[MasterMech]

Are you 100% set on a Tru-Cut or have you considered a greens mower?

 

[Spammage]

The first looks really nice, with the exception of not being able to see the reel. It looks like it hasn't been used much, but if the owner doesn't know what he's doing or maybe hit a rock, then there could still be issues. I agree that you might get it for less, but I doubt he will take $800.

The 2nd is an older unit (obviously, but I don't just mean more used). I would immediately be thinking new spark plug, air filter (unless it's an oil bath style), fuel filter, carb cleaning and maybe chains. It may need grinding and possibly a new bedknife. If it has been used heavily then the reel and clutch both become possibilities too. It looks good in the picture, but those are definitely some things to look at carefully and/or even use in negotiations.