Buying used equipment is a classic way to stretch your farm's budget, and a well-maintained hydraulic reversible plough can have a second or third life that's just as productive as its first. However, a "bargain" in the yard can quickly turn into a "money pit" in the field if you don't know where the hidden gremlins are.

Before you shake hands on a deal, you need to be part mechanic and part detective. Here is your essential "No-Nonsense" checklist for inspecting a used hydraulic reversible plow.

1. The Frame: Look for the "Battle Scars"

The frame is the skeleton of the machine. While a little bit of chipped paint is normal, structural issues are a deal-breaker.

• Stress Cracks: Look closely at the "V" joints and the areas surrounding the hitch points. Any fine, hair-like lines in the paint could indicate metal fatigue.

• Non-Factory Welds: If you see a messy, "bubbled" weld on a main beam, it means the frame has snapped before. A re-welded frame is never as strong as the original and may be out of alignment.

• Alignment Check: Stand behind the plow and look down the line of the beams. They should be perfectly parallel. If one looks slightly twisted, the plough will never "pull straight," leading to uneven furrows and wasted fuel.

3. The Reversal System: The 180-Degree Test

The mechanism rotation is the most complex part of the machine. If this fails, you just have a very heavy, expensive one-way plow.

• The Pivot Pin: Grab the frame and try to shake it. If there is excessive "play" or "clunking" at the main central pivot, the bearings or the main pin are worn out. This is a labor-intensive repair.

• Cylinder Leaks: Check the hydraulic cylinder rod for scoring or scratches. Even a tiny bit of wet oil on the rod suggests the seals are gone.

• Hose Condition: Look for "cracking" in the outer rubber of the hydraulic hoses. While hoses are replaceable, they are a great bargaining chip to lower the price.

4. Wear Parts: Budgeting for the "Consumables"

Don't expect a used plough to have brand-new blades, but do check how much "meat" is left on the bones.

• The Shares and Points: Are they worn down to the bolts? If the previous owner let the shares wear so thin that the main "leg" (the frog) has started to rub against the soil, you're looking at a much more expensive repair than just a simple blade swap.

• The Moldboards: Run your hand along the curve. It should feel smooth. Deep pitting or "holing" (where the metal has worn completely through) means the scouring ability is gone, and soil will stick to it like glue.

5. The Metallurgy Factor: Identifying High-Quality Steel

Not all steel is created equal. When inspecting a used plough, check the branding on the wear parts. If the plow was originally built with Boron Steel, it's a sign that the manufacturer didn't cut corners. Boron steel is much more resilient to impacts than standard carbon steel, meaning the internal structure of a used Boron-equipped plough is likely in better shape than a cheaper alternative.

6. Spotlight: The Shakti Plus 

If you happen to find a used Shakti Plus on the market, you are looking at one of the most durable "workhorses" in the industry. The Shakti Plus is known for its high-scoring finish and a reinforced headstock that handles high-torque tractors with ease.

When inspecting a used Shakti Plus, pay special attention to the hydraulic block. Because this model is designed for precision, ensure the turnover is smooth and doesn't "slam" at the end of the arc. A well-cared-for Shakti Plus holds its value incredibly well precisely because its frame is built to withstand years of heavy draft forces without warping.

7. The "Secret" Question: Why is it for sale?

Always ask the owner why they are selling.

• "Upgrading to a larger 3-furrow" is a great answer—it means the machine likely worked well but they outgrew it.

• "I just don't use it anymore" is a red flag—it means the machine has been sitting, and the hydraulic seals may have dried out and cracked.

Conclusion: Don't Buy a Lemon

A used hydraulic reversible plow can be a fantastic investment, provided you don't let a fresh coat of paint hide a bent frame or a blown cylinder. Take your time, bring a flashlight, and don't be afraid to get a little grease on your hands during the inspection.