Cynthia Bracker on fri 23 jul 04
Paula,
First of all, a Skutt 183-27, if my information is correct is 18"
wide by 27" deep (interior) Skutt doesn't even make a kiln this size
anymore, but a comparably sized L&L new is $1425 retail (most suppliers
will give a discount. For example, our sale price is $1140) Generally
you can use the "75% rule" Which is:
If the kiln is in excellent condition, pay up to 75% of a new one.
Factors that will affect lowering that "percent of new" price are:
1. Availability of parts (in this case, yes)
2. Brick condition - although bricks are cheap, the time (labor) to
replace them is intensive
3. Age - Deduct about 10% for anything over 5 years old, deduct about
20% if its over 10 years old (kiln design is constantly changing and
improving)
4. Number of firings on the elements. Some kilns use VERY expensive
elements. (In this case, elements are only $31.00 retail) If this
information is not available, beg, borrow or steal an Ohm meter and take
a resistance reading of each element, then call the kiln manufacturer
with those readings to determine use.
5. Power cord condition - melted plastic or corroded-looking prongs is
an indicator of a bigger problem
6. Electrical panel condition - beg borrow or steal a screwdriver and
open up the control box. (MAKE SURE THE KILN IS UNPLUGGED FIRST!) You
don't need to be an electrician, just look around in there. If the
wires are "crispy," or anything looks green & powdery or black & powdery
or otherwise like World War III assume it needs to be replaced. You
might want to call a kiln tech or the mfgr to determine the cost of
replacement before making an offer on the kiln.
7. Voltage & Phase - This is usually a problem with school auction
kilns. Most homes in the US are 240V Single Phase. Schools or
industrial/commercial locations can be either 240V or 208V and Single or
Three Phase. The best thing to do is pass on any kiln that isn't the
same as your electricity. However, if you can talk the person down to a
really low price, (like 25% of new maximum) you might be able to change
the kiln to match your electricity. (This usually involves AT LEAST a
new set of elements and switches) Be sure to contact the mfgr or a
local kiln tech before agreeing to buy under these circumstances
8. Furniture - If shelves are included that's a plus (if this is your
first kiln or a different size than your existing kiln) Generally a
shelf kit can cost anywhere from $100-$250 depending on size. This may
offset some of the deductions on price (I still wouldn't pay more than
75% of the new price no matter how many shelves were included)
9. Exposure - If the kiln has been outside or in an uncontrolled
environment, it will GREATLY reduce the value. You can often tell if
this is the case because the bricks will smell funny (This is mold - and
if this is the case, walk away. The bricks are NOT in good condition
anymore) or you might see mud dauber or bug nests in the control box.
There might also be excessive rust (especially around the hinge & screws).
Of course it goes without saying that if the seller won't let you look
at the kiln or check the elements etc. there's probably a reason for
that. Ask why or just pass altogether. You should feel comfortable
purchasing this particular kiln from this particular person. If
anything gives you a strange feeling, don't buy it. You are welcome to
call and ask for Dave while looking at the kiln or afterwards with
questions, toll-free (888) 822-1982 during our business hours (Tues-Fri
9-5 and Sat 10-3 Central Time)
Good Luck!
Cindy Bracker & Dave Sturm
Bracker's Good Earth Clays, Inc.
Paula Mann wrote:
>Hello All,
>
>A neighbor of mine has a Skutt kiln sitting unused in her garage. It's model 183-27/240, ^8.
>
>The brick looked pretty good but there were two places where small pieces had broken off. Should the brick look brand new? Are the two crumbles indicative of more problems soon to come?
>
>She has no idea what it's worth, and of course I don't either so I told her I'd see what you fine folks think.
>
>Is it worth making an offer to her? Any ideas about prices?
>
>I would really appreciate your help on this one.
>
>Many thanks,
>Paula in cold and rainy (?!) Ft. Collins, CO
>
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