Vermeer 252 stump grinder

[Fatcord]

Looking at a 2004 vermeer stump grinder. It has about 400 hrs on it and is great shape and runs good. I have been watching them on ebay and the good ones are selling around $4000. This one is not on ebay but a private auction. What are the opinions on the 252 and what is a decent price?

 

[ontheropes]

We have an 06 252 with green teeth and a kohler 27hp gas engine with about the same hours.We keep up maintenance and grease the machine every 2-3 days.we've ground come fairly large oak and maple stumps 3-5ft. range with out a peep.It's not as efficient as our 752 but if I had to chose one it would be the 252.As far as price I feel it's reasonable.Would be nice if it came with a trailer.

 

[tnttree]

my first stumper was a 252, I thought it was good, WTF did I know, replaced it with a Rayco Jr 1625 much better machine, replaced that one with the Carlton 4012 (27Hp) kicked butt on the previous 2. Vermeer weighs ~ 800#s Ray 1200#s the carlton biggest and heaviest wheel total weight 1500#s.
the bigger massive Wheel is the ticket

4K ain't to bad though with 400hrs, probably will need a rebuil 1000 to 1500 hours

we subbed out anything over/around 12" 25hp just to slow

 

[PUClimber]

It all depends on how you're running and how big you're getting. If you're starting small and can steal the thing at the private auction I would say go for it. Yes the machine may not be as effecient as larger machines but if you're running a small crew or it's just you then you're saving a fair amount of money versus a larger grinder. Just make sure that you've got sharp teeth on it and you'll be fine.