Challenger 31000 Lift

[bfr57]

I can buy an old, but American made, Challenger 31000 9K lift that's been sitting outside (AZ) for awhile probably for $500-700.
I'm concerned all seals, cables, chain, etc. will need to be replaced jacking my investment up.
I really like the American made on the data plate.....
Anything else to consider or anyone have experience with one of these?

 

[racecougar]

I would share the same concerns, along with parts availability.

 

[jpaw]

The lift guys at work said that there were a lot of issues with the older Challenger lifts and that the newer ones are much more reliable.

 

[kd3pc]

if your labor is free and you can still get parts, I would go for it. Shop the big parts and see what that gets, before you purchase - to get an idea of what you might have to invest.

 

[Bucko]

The only time I feel comfortable buying something used is when I know how it should operate when new. Its a pain working out the bugs on an item when you are not sure if you got it right or not.

If its still all hooked up and you can see it in action actually working under a load (lifting a car), and you can confirm the availability of replacement parts are still made then $500 is not a terrible gamble.

I hate when I see ads on Facebook for a cheap lift and its laying in pieces in some guys back yard. You always get the "well it ran when parked 20 years ago".

 

[bfr57]

Called Challenger directly and tech said run, not walk, away from it! No support and old with no history. So continuing the search