Value of 1996 314-8

[timmy b 10]

I'd appreciate your opinions. I'm considering purchasing a 1996 314-8 with about 900 hrs. The unit is in fair to good condition leaning to fair. The engine runs well and seems strong, the mower deck is in good shape but needs refurbished to include new blades and such, paint is rough, seat cracks, hood and some other parts not "tight", kinda sloppy and shaky when running compared to a C-120 that I use. This unit needs TLC but appears to be "ok". I'm trying to establish an overall and reasonable value and purchasing price. I would appreciate your input and opinions. I live in western PA.

Thank you

Tim

[varosd 1,185]

$200-300 1996 is not that old so consider seller perhaps not doing proper maintenance or just using it hard. depending how good or bad it is. we all have our standards and a spray painted hood might turn me off but you are more interested in the electric lift...it's all up to what you want vs need vs can afford

:wwp:

[Challenger 27]

Earlier this year I sold a 1100 hour, well maintained but tired looking, 314-8 in similar condition to the one you are considering. Mine had a 48" deck and a single stage snowblower and weights and chains. I asked and got $1300. At the time I thought my price was a little low.

A year ago I sold a 43 hour 315-8 with 48" deck in near showroom condition. I asked and got $2600 if I recall correctly. I should have asked for more.

[hbrooks49 12]

There are two currently on the Rochester NY CL - one is a very clean 1996 with 49 SD deck, plow frame, chains/weights with 950 hours for $1400. Second is an average or better with 49 SD deck, 48 plow blade, rebuilt older snowthrower, chains/weights and 423 hours for $1750.

That said, condition and accessories make a huge difference in price. I think the $200-300 figure above would be a fair figure based on the condition you noted. Earlier in the year there was either a 314-8 or 312-8 in similar condition to what you described but which stated that the deck was good listed at $450 and then dropped to $375/obo after a month.

Hope that helps.

[jaydeer 14]

I have watched selling prices in western PA closely and based on the year, condition description, and also the fact that prime mowing season is over, 400.00 sounds like a reasonable price. Less than that and you are doing well, more than that and you probably could not sell it again until next spring and recoup your money. Ultimately you need to decide what it is worth to you. I have overpaid for a few I really wanted and passed on many a good deal because it wasnt something that I really wanted. Factor in distance too. Gas and ultimately your time are the other big factors.

[varosd 1,185]

as above, a wide range of prices and it really does boil down to what you are willing to pay, keep in mind that there a alot more 1996 units out there compared to your C-120 based on age and perhaps number of units manufactored (I'm sure someone has that number)

[timmy b 10]

I appreciate you guys taking the time and effort to help me make this decision. This site is an invaluable resource but the members are what makes it that way!