Buying used equipment, what should I look for?

[Big Money]

I am in the process of starting a part time lawn care business and hope to hit the ground running next spring with 10-15 residential customers.
With this season coming to an end, I'm expecting some used equipment to become available.

My question is what should I look for when purchasing to make sure it is a sound piece of equipment.

Items looking to purchase:
1) Used ZTR (48-52")
2) Used walkbehind (48")
3) Used trimmer and backpack blower

[nismothunder]

Leaking gaskets

Lack of grease

Loose bearings

I think this has been covered before. But good luck in your endever.

[Barrett Landscaping]

if your only doing 10-20 lawns i would not even look at a ztr. just get one or two hydro walkbehinds.

[agrostis]

Mowers that haven't been greased regularly are trouble you don't want.