1979 Cub - value

[Tim66]

I know this is open for a lot of opinion...so I'm asking. The situation is this. I went to look at a 1979 International Cub. It was sitting in a corner of a nice barn, concrete floor and heated but it was not in running condition. The individual claims he purchased it three years ago off ebay and had it shipped from Tennessee. The cub stalled on the way to the barn and he has not started it since. Buying it based on a few pictures, he was disappointed with the misrepresentation on the actual condition. He said it stalled because there was dirt in the gas tank. Beyond that it now needs a battery.
The condition is not show room condition but looks original and not abused. The problem is his claim he has not ever started it. It's hard to believe someone could purchase something like this and then put it in a corner to sit.
I understand his disappointement if he was expected something different.
It is definitely a 1979 and I like the additional hp that the engine is suppose to produce. It has a sickle mower mounted that has original stickers on it.
I warned him about priming the oil pump since it has not been started for a while. He has a business that occupies a lot of his time so he has decided to sell the cub. I did look at it once. But it obviously wasn't able to be started.

What's the best way to look this over to ensure I don't find no major surprises? I think I can get it for a lower price if I made an offer the way it sits. Or wait until he gets it started, which doesn't seem to be anytime soon.

I don't mind going through it to ensure a good running cub but I'm just trying to avoid the major surprises.

What's your thoughts?

[Tim66]

In addition, can you give me an idea of the value? Thanks

[Eugene]

Put tractor in 3rd gear, brakes unlocked. Roll tractor forward or backward a bit. Checking for locked up motor.

Current owner said the previous owner misrepresented the tractor and the current owner probably paid for shipping the tractor. Apparently tractor ran for a bit after unloading, if the owner's statement is correct.

My next question, why did the owner not correct what would be a minor problem, debris in the fuel system?

Consider the tractor as a non runner, big unknown. Value the tractor as a parts tractor plus the value of the sickle bar mower. I doubt the current owner would take my offer.

Kick the tires, hands on inspection before making an offer.

[ricky racer]

A non-running tractor can hide a lot. The current owner was told a story and he is now telling you a story. Like Eugene said, seems funny he didn't fix the simple problem and use his new purchase. I personally think there's more to the story......

[Boss Hog]

The fact that it is a 79 in itself has value. $2000.00 as is I would give provided it is a 79 and the tin is good and the castings are good. Makes no difference to me as the the mechanical condition as that can be fixed, would most likely need to be any way.Just my opinion.

[Boss Hog]

They only made a bit over 500 of them The only cub that is more rare is the original red and white 1964 cubs[ 302 made ] Also just my opinion. The value in the end is what it is worth to you. Simple
Boss

[Tim66]

Here's the link. As you can see it certainly looks good. A few years of dust on the hood. I agree with everything that has been said and I appreciate it. I just didn't want to get "Cub Drunk" and make a bad choice. I offered to throw him a lowball price with the way it sat but warned him he probably wouldn't like it.

He insists it only needs the battery and gas tank cleaned.

http://cleveland.craigslist.org/grd/4411198524.html

[staninlowerAL]

I would get permission to try to start it. Bring your own battery and a pony tank to bypass the existing problem of cleaning the tank. You can tell pretty quick if there are other issues. Might make your offer to take it "as is" more reasonable. JMHO

[Don McCombs]

He insists it only needs the battery and gas tank cleaned.

If that is all, in truth, that it needs, he would be wise to take care of those issues at the price he is asking.

[Bob McCarty]

I would get permission to try to start it. Bring your own battery and a pony tank to bypass the existing problem of cleaning the tank. You can tell pretty quick if there are other issues. Might make your offer to take it "as is" more reasonable. JMHO

...and clean the main jet.

Bob

[Barnyard]

I would get permission to try to start it.

That would be a kind gesture to help the seller out, but once it is running the seller might just say thank you and then stand firm on his price.

[Eugene]

Over priced. Suspect the asking price is about what the owner has invested.

I wouldn't start the tractor for the owner.

Question. Hood, grill, dog legs appear to be almost pristine while the rest of the paint appears to be in expected condition. Why?

[Boss Hog]

Do not start the tractor for him, you will end up paying the full price or close to it if you do. I would up the price I gave you to $2400 to $2800, I think it may be worth that, but no more. Just my opinion
Boss

[Bezirk]

The simple way to test for free engine is to put transmission out of gear engage pto and turn pto shaft it should turn the engine over if it is not locked or frozen. I would NOT attempt to start it . I think Boss is right in the ballpark of what I would offer him. JMHO

Berlin

[gitractorman]

I'm with Boss on this. If you want a nice Cub, and you've got that cash, I'd be all over it. Someone has taken care of it just by the cosmetics, as long as the engine is not locked up. DON'T TRY TO START IT!!!, just like the other's said, you would just be helping out the owner. Show up with a trailer, come alongs, straps, and a cash offer. If that engine is not locked up, get it on your trailer!