used skidding winch quality check

[BigJim2185]

I'm going to take a look at a used Farmi tonight and was wondering what I should be looking for to be sure it checks out.  It won't be connected to a tractor, so I can't run it.  I've never used a skidding winch before.  Any tips on how I should go about giving it a good once-over before cutting a check?  Thanks guys.
Jim

[beenthere]

From the many forum posts about Farmi winches here and from those I know who own them, you can't go wrong and they last a long time. Rare to find one for sale.  And the same goes for other brands.

The shape the cable is in should tell most of the story about its past history.  If that needs to be replaced, figure its cost in to what you pay.

[North River Energy]

If you know the model, you should be able to do a search for a parts schematic so you know what you're looking at.  Also a dealer, and the cost of the wear parts, such as the clutch frictions and related. Not that you will need them, but you can factor that possibility into your decision.

Look for cracked welds, broken/sloppy linkages and the like. Look very closely if it has fresh paint.
(Not that fresh paint is a guarantee of hidden problems, but it's an easy way to gloss them over).

Is this the jl306 that has been listed for awhile, with new bearings and cable? 

If so, I'm fairly certain it's still supported.

[thecfarm]

That's a good question. I brought mine back in 93. I have not done a thing to it,as far as replacement parts. It got used hard for 3 years logging,now I just play with my own firewood.

[BigJim2185]

Is this the jl306 that has been listed for awhile, with new bearings and cable? 

It is a 2007 JL501.  It was listed as a "farmer's factory JH501" and showed up if you searched for "logging winch."  The seller must have just been uncertain of the make and model.  Thanks for the tips guys.  I picked it up tonight and as of now I'd say it's in great shape.  Luckily, it turns out he did have it hooked up when I got there, so I got to run some cable out and operate the winch. Cable is good.  Only welds on it are factory, and no fresh paint.  Nice simple, rugged machine.  I'm looking forward to using it. Thanks again.
Jim 

[thecfarm]

There,good for you. I would not want to be without one now.