Hello, from BaySide Technical Services. We are an Ebay Power Seller and own and operate the Tuttnauer Autoclave Store here on Ebay. Todays topic is buying a used autoclave. Wow, where do I begin with this one? Buying used autoclaves is a lot like buying a used car you just never know what you are getting yourself into. While there are many good sellers and fine used equipment to be found there are just as many bad. Now, bad doesnt mean that these sellers are looking to put the screws to us consumers. This means that they may not have the knowledge, experience or even proper understanding of the equipment. This is important to the trust and safety of the market place. As a dealer we only offer used equipment that readily has replacement parts available and has been inspected, repaired and calibrated by our experienced staff. We have discarded many autoclaves over the years that we were not comfortable with selling as used. Our reasons ranged from older units that we knew were no longer supported by the manufacturer. To having no second source of parts available.  We feel that it is not fair to the customer to sell  them an autoclave that they would be stuck with when a needed part was not available.

      While we are a Tuttnauer Dealer we have always had a soft spot for the Pelton and Crane OCR and OCM autoclaves. These were great machines that have proved themselves over time. However, a big Red Flag should be going up when you  see one of these units up for sale. These units have not been manufactured since 1989 /1990. So, at a minimum the unit you are looking at is 18 years old. Some of the older models which I commonly see on Ebay are 30+ years old. These machines have some parts that are no longer available. Others have upgrades availbale through after market parts but at a price. A new style thermister and contoll board to replace your original hyrdaulic one could cost upwards of $600. between parts and labor costs.

      We see the same thing with examination chairs and tables on Ebay all the time. Stuff I know for a fact that has little to no support is going for good money.  What a waste!! A wise man once told me that if you make a purchase and buy the best you can afford at the time you'll never have a regret about your decision. (even if you have to wait a bit and save some $$) Buyers remorse can be avoided by doing your home work which brings me to my next point.

     Currently, the available autoclaves on Ebay prove my point. Follow me if you will: Seller A: has a listing for a Tuttnauer 1730 MK (1993 model) autoclave he is asking  $2100.00,  Seller B:) is asking $1350.00 for a Tuttnauer 1730MK Built in 1989/99 and Seller C:) is selling a 1993 1730MK for $1350.00.

     Now, here is where doing your homework pays off. The educated consumer will realize that Tuttnauer has discontinued this model about 5 years ago. While all the parts are still available there is a great twist. ( note the 1730MK  runs on 220V thus, it heats up quick) The Tuttnauer ValueKlave 1730 has taken it's place. The ValueKlave operates on standard 110V and heats up just as quick because it also has the more expensive heaters.  Follow me so far?  Wouldn't it be fair to say that seller A's  unit is over priced since you can buy a Brand New ValuKlave from us on Ebay for $1672.25? Also, would it be fair to mention that buying a 20 year old 1730MK  to save $322 probably is'nt the best idea?

      This case study shows that there is no question that New is the best choice in this case. The New ValuKlave rocks the used 1730MK on price and the fact that the New ValueKlave comes with a Full One Year Parts and Labor Warranty. This should out weigh the $322.00 savings on the 20 year old machine. (of which we have no idea what shape the chamber or heaters are in because they never say!!!!!) This also get you out of buying a machine "AS IS" .

       Hopefully, you will take this blog into concideration before purchasing Used equipment. We are always available to answer any questions.

Respectfully,

Bayside1

EBay Power Seller