Combines Buyer Guide

• Used combine prices typically range from $75,000 for older, smaller models to over $400,000 for newer, larger units with advanced features.
• Operating weights vary significantly, from 25,000 lbs for smaller models to over 60,000 lbs for Class 9-10 machines.
• A well-maintained combine can provide 5,000-10,000 engine hours of productive life, with some exceeding 12,000 hours.
• Fuel consumption averages 0.5 to 1.5 gallons per acre, heavily dependent on crop type, yield, and machine size.
• Common attachments include grain headers (auger or draper), corn heads, and specialty heads for crops like sunflowers or rice.
• Primary jobsite use is crop harvesting, but some can be adapted for forage or biomass collection.
• Threshing systems are typically rotary (axial-flow) or conventional (tangential-flow), each with specific crop advantages.
• Maintenance costs are substantial, often accounting for 10-15% of annual operating expenses.

• 1**Wear Points in Threshing & Separating:** Inspect concaves, rotors/cylinders, beater bars, and sieves for excessive wear, cracks, or missing elements, indicating high use or neglect.
• 2**Grain Tank & Unloading Auger:** Check for rust, dents, or holes in the grain tank, and inspect the unloading auger flighting for wear, especially at the elbow.
• 3**Hydraulic System Health:** Look for leaks around cylinders, hoses, and pumps, particularly for header lift, reel speed, and steering. Test all hydraulic functions for smooth operation.
• 4**Feeder House & Header Attachment:** Examine the feeder house chain, sprockets, and slip clutch for wear. Ensure header attachment points are sound, not bent or excessively worn.
• 5**Engine & Drive Train:** Listen for abnormal engine noises, check for oil leaks, and inspect belts and pulleys. Test the hydrostatic drive for smooth engagement and full power.
• 6**Tires & Undercarriage (if tracked):** For wheeled machines, inspect tire tread depth and sidewall condition. For tracked combines, assess track condition, idlers, rollers, and drive sprockets for wear.
• 7**Hour Meter Discrepancies:** Compare the hour meter reading with the overall machine condition, cab wear, and service records. Significant disparity can be a red flag.
• 8**Service History & Maintenance Records:** Request comprehensive service records, including engine oil analysis, hydraulic fluid changes, and major component replacements.
• 9**Cab Interior & Electronics:** Check for functionality of all controls, displays, and climate control. Ensure GPS/guidance systems are operational and up-to-date if included.
• 10**Telematics Data:** If available, review telematics reports for operational patterns, fault codes, and fuel efficiency data, offering insight into past usage.

Commonly-reported issues from operators and technicians. Every machine varies — always inspect before you buy.