What To Offer On A Delapidated Landis 30?

[dirtbag77]

I recently came up with an opportunity to make an offer on a landis 30 at the boot repair shop i go to that he had buried and neglected. Now, being that it seems to be a pretty simple and bullet proof machine, I'm using neglected in the loosest terms. Sitting for a couple decades, covered in what appears to be the runoff from a leather grinder and with a dull or even bad blade. I know this is a pretty broad question, but I don't want to insult the guy. Then again, he may think he's got the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow sitting there, so I also don't want to waste my time trying to haggle if his number is silly. Thanks for any help.

[bruce johnson]

In good using condition they usually sell for $400-750. The lower end is going to have some cosmetic stuff, the higher end are going to look good.

If it is buried under leather dust, that can be corrosive and will probably be the biggest problem. These will be the reasons to pass altogether or discount what you can pay. Things to check are the blade condition. Pits and chips close to the edge and that sort of thing. Also, how much blade is left. Check the feed roller. If it is rusted up, it may clean up or may need to be remilled. If it is cupped that is a bigger problem. Same with the top roller. The gears are usually bullet proof, but check to make sure it turns smoothly and the teeth are all there.

[dirtbag77]

Thanks, man. I'll give it a more solid going over before putting down an offer.

[dirtbag77]

Well I picked it up today. It's a model D. Turns out it was just extremely heavy dust on it and outside of needing a good sharpening, it's ready to go. Thanks for your help.

[tat2]

In good using condition they usually sell for $400-750. The lower end is going to have some cosmetic stuff, the higher end are going to look good.

If it is buried under leather dust, that can be corrosive and will probably be the biggest problem. These will be the reasons to pass altogether or discount what you can pay. Things to check are the blade condition. Pits and chips close to the edge and that sort of thing. Also, how much blade is left. Check the feed roller. If it is rusted up, it may clean up or may need to be remilled. If it is cupped that is a bigger problem. Same with the top roller. The gears are usually bullet proof, but check to make sure it turns smoothly and the teeth are all there.

I agree what Bruce and hte othere stated, Campbell Randall sell parts for it, check for crack on the knife tray and if all the teeth on the cog wheels are there. Nothing like buying a deal to have actually a lemon!