A tiller is a device used to turn soil in preparation for planting. The tiller will aerate the soil and help remove rocks, roots, and other debris that can interfere with successful planting in that area. Buying a used tiller is a great way to save money on equipment charges, but it is important to do some research into the various types of tillers so you can find the one that is most suitable for your needs. A used tiller will either be powered or unpowered; powered units usually run on gasoline, though some are electric.
Unpowered tillers, sometimes known as hand tillers, feature a long handle and metal tines at the end. You can choose between straight and curved tines, as well as between a straight handle and a T-shaped handle. A used tiller with a T-shaped handle will be good for applying torque to the tool, which is especially useful if the soil is particularly hard packed. Curved tines are great for tearing up the soil in a twisting motion, while straight tines are better for use with a prying motion. Choose a tool that features a solid handle; if that handle is made from wood, check it for splinters, cracks, and play between the handle and the tine blades.
Choosing a powered used tiller is a bit more complicated. Several types of tillers exist in this category: front tine, mid tine, and rear tine models differ in the position of the cutting blades in relation to the wheels of the unit. Front tine models will usually rent for less money, but they can be more difficult to control and press into the ground. Mid tine models are the easiest to maneuver, but they are also the least commonly sold. Rear tine models are most popular because the tines can sink into the soil very easily. When looking for a used tiller, be sure to think, too, about controls such as brakes. Brakes not only help slow or stop the machine, but they can also help steer it more effectively.
Think about whether you want an electric model or a gas-powered model. It will be difficult to tell whether the machine is in good working order just by testing it out before purchase, but you can listen for unusual sounds in a gas-powered tiller, and you can inspect wiring on an electric tiller for damage. The machine should run consistently with no dips in power, regardless of whether it is electric or gas-powered.