Tips for Buying a Used 4-in-1 Bucket
When looking for farming equipment, you are better off spending your money on an attachment that can accomplish more than one task. While few attachments boast of the capability, there is no doubt that a 4-in-1 bucket ranks first. As the name suggests, you can use a 4-in-1 bucket (multipurpose bucket) for four different functions without changing the attachment. Although a brand new multipurpose bucket provides value for money, you can find used models in excellent condition. However, you need to look for specific features when buying a 4-in-1 bucket.
Laser Cut the Ends and Hinges
The ends and hinges of a multipurpose bucket are two of the most critical areas you should inspect before making a purchase decision. The sections are exposed to significant stress when the attachment is in use. While proper maintenance can ensure that the ends and hinges on the bucket last long, the design matters a great deal. For instance, some 4-in-1 buckets feature hinges and ends welded together to form a single unit. Unfortunately, the welded sections can develop cracks over time, weakening the entire bucket. Unless you buy a brand new multipurpose bucket, avoid using an attachment with welded ends and hinges. On the other hand, a used 4-in-1 bucket with laser cut ends and hinges offers maximum strength to the attachment sides. The reason is that laser cutting components directly from a high-grade metal plate eliminate potential weak points. Thus, you can use the attachment for years with minimal maintenance and still achieve maximum efficiency.
Get Ground-Engaging Teeth
As mentioned earlier, multipurpose buckets come in varying models, and your choice depends on your unique farm needs. For instance, if you want to use a 4-in-1 bucket to scoop and load grains to trucks for transportation, then an attachment with only a blade is enough. Since a 4-in-1 bucket is a highly versatile piece of equipment, it can effectively be used in the field. Unfortunately, it exposes the blade to premature wear. Therefore, it is advisable to buy a used multi-purpose bucket with ground-engaging teeth to protect the blade when using the attachment to work the ground.
Opt for a Ribbed Bottom
The bottom part of any multipurpose bucket receives the harshest treatment regardless of the task. For instance, carrying or grabbing boulders and logs during land clearing places the bottom of the bucket under stress. Therefore, a quality 4-in-1 bucket must have a solid bottom to withstand such stressors. A used multipurpose bucket made using a metal plate with a ribbed bottom guarantees maximum strength for carrying or grabbing heavy loads. Besides, you do not have to worry about the bottom section curving because of ferrying loads.