Forum Thermomix

Questions Doubts and Requests => Questions? Technical Issues? The Survival Guide => Topic started by: Jamberie on February 11, 2015, 06:17:57 am

Title: What to ask when buying a 2nd hand TM31
Post by: Jamberie on February 11, 2015, 06:17:57 am

Hi everyone,
A friend of mine is interested in buying a second hand TM31.
I really want her to get a good machine- and I'm sure most are, but you can never be too careful! So I thought I'd pose the question here:
What questions would you ask the seller of a TM31 before buying?

Title: Re: What to ask when buying a 2nd hand TM31
Post by: Cornish Cream on February 11, 2015, 07:18:27 am

I would ask if the TM has any problems besides normal wear and tear.eg new lid seal,MC, spatula.If possible see it in action.As an experienced TM user Jamberie maybe you could accompany your friend to see it.
Can the warranty be transferred to a third party in Australia?

Title: Re:
Post by: Jamberie on February 11, 2015, 08:07:59 am

Thanks for your thoughts CC, I don't think the warranty can be transferred but I'm not 100% sure, hopefully someone else can clarify. 
I think I would be too stressed to accompany her but she is coming over tomorrow to test mine (boil water,  knead something and mill something), in the hope that she can do those things before she decides to buy.
Good idea to see the spatula too, that may (or may not) give an indication of use.

Title: Re: What to ask when buying a 2nd hand TM31
Post by: Kimmyh on February 11, 2015, 08:46:16 am

Pretty sure warranty can't be transferred but I would be asking the seller if they would help out with any warranty issues in the future.  Also a test drive, checking scales and heating.

Title: Re:
Post by: Jamberie on February 11, 2015, 08:49:31 am

Ah scales! Of course!! Thanks Kimmy :)

Title: Re: What to ask when buying a 2nd hand TM31
Post by: Katiej on February 11, 2015, 08:50:47 am

I'd ask if it is one of the machines that need the green seal.
I'd check the bowl for dings or other signs of it being dropped.
I'd also ask what "extras" it comes with - second bowl, Thermoservers, EDC and/or other cookbooks.

Title: Re:
Post by: Jamberie on February 11, 2015, 08:57:22 am

Good points Katie, thanks :) I forgot about thermoservers too!

Title: Re: What to ask when buying a 2nd hand TM31
Post by: cookie1 on February 11, 2015, 11:33:09 am

Perhaps see how long your machine takes to heat to 100 degrees and then do the same for the test one. Check all over the machine to see if it has been well cared for. Eg is there gunk on the weighing legs, under the machine, down the back of the machine and under the bowl.
Try to listen to the machine to see if it is running smoothly. Grind something to see how sharp the blades are.

You are right Kimmy warranty can't be transferred. Make sure the lid fits and clicks on smoothly.


Also, why are they selling?

Title: Re: What to ask when buying a 2nd hand TM31
Post by: Decadent Dot on February 12, 2015, 08:03:15 am

My very first question would be. Where has it been used in it's history. You do not want to be buying from a restaurant/cafe owner. It would not have received the care that a householder would give it. Also ask that a demonstration is included in the sale.

Title: Re: What to ask when buying a 2nd hand TM31
Post by: Jamberie on February 12, 2015, 09:54:48 am

Thanks DD, good suggestion. Even for a ridiculous price I don't think I'd risk a commercially used one.