roster
Guest
Sounds like you made a good decision. Haven't been to any auctions this year, season for that here in ND is mostly April. last year saw or heard about eight 2188's at different auctions- average sale price was 65K. Most were in much better condition than what you describe, 95-96 models, over 1000 engine hrs. Best one was a 1997 with AFS, 400 hrs, went for 85K. Still had the plastic on the seat. Worst sale was early in the auction season- an estate that had three 2188's, all were similar to your example in condition and upkeep. These machines had never been inside, dented inside and out, still had previous years crop in the hopper, cabs had mice, etc. Auctioneer had trouble getting bids higher than the mid 50's, and that was from one of the family members. A guy on the phone then starts bidding, family member ended up winning the bid, took two of them for 65K each. The guy on the phone took the third one for 64K. I bet he thought that it was a good deal, based on dealer prices, etc at that time (at least until he saw the combine!) But later auction prices proved that wrong. I bet that if you keep looking you will find one in much better condition for the same price. You might have to put 10K in any combine you buy at auction, but to buy one that has been obviously neglected is making that a sure thing- you might as well give your dealer a blank check.