Purchasing a used Huky

[afelli]

Hey there!

I am looking into purchasing a used Huky from eBay, and was hoping to hear from you all about things to 'look out for.'

The questions I've been asking people so far, are:
0.) What's included?
1.) Solid or Perf drum / motor speed?
2.) How many roasts have they run on the Huky
3.) How dark they generally take their roasts
4.) If there have been any problems, and why they are selling it.

As far as I know, all of the parts are replaceable on the Huky - so, worst case, if I do get one and the motor fails, it isn't the end of the world.

I've heard of some of the older J-type models being built in such a way that the drum rubs against the front plate and makes a 'clanking' sound - and I want to avoid accidentally purchasing one of these.

Are there any other questions that you think I should ask a potential seller? And, anything that I should 'look out' for?

Thanks!

[SusanJoM]

I'm surprised you have found enough eBay sales of HUKYs to have had the opportunity to ask those questions.

Are you saying  you don't want a J at all?  Too bad, because there is one in the buy/sell section of HB, and I find it preferable to the T configuration, although it is no longer available new from Mr. Li.

[afelli]

Susan,

I'm not limiting myself to solely eBay - but, I feel like I've seen quite a few on there in the last few months, so that's been my go-to in addition to checking other coffee-related forums that offer a classifieds section.

I'd prefer a T - but, I'm 100% open to a J! I've just heard that the 'drum rubbing against the front plate' problem was solved with the newer T-models - but, if I can find a J that doesn't rub, I'd be happy. I'll reach out to the seller on HB! Thanks for the heads up!

Is there any reason in particular that you prefer the J configuration?

Thanks!

[SusanJoM]

I like the simplicity and functionality of the J. 

The T wasn't an improvement from my perspective.
(Nor was the solid drum an improvement over the perforated, IMHO)

Changes?  Yes
Improvements ?  Not so much

[brew]

Susan,

I'm not limiting myself to solely eBay - but, I feel like I've seen quite a few on there in the last few months, so that's been my go-to in addition to checking other coffee-related forums that offer a classifieds section.

I'd prefer a T - but, I'm 100% open to a J! I've just heard that the 'drum rubbing against the front plate' problem was solved with the newer T-models - but, if I can find a J that doesn't rub, I'd be happy. I'll reach out to the seller on HB! Thanks for the heads up!

Is there any reason in particular that you prefer the J configuration?

Thanks!

The J and T pipe config has nothing to do with rubbing on the front plate that i'm aware.  The difference in the two has nothing to do with the roaster itself.

[afelli]

The J and T pipe config has nothing to do with rubbing on the front plate that i'm aware.  The difference in the two has nothing to do with the roaster itself.

Ah - good to know!

[afelli]

So - it seems as though I'm finally the proud owner of a Huky!

Long story short - This person posted the Huky on eBay for $1,599 'Buy It Now,' or best offer. After talking with them for a bit back and forth, I found out that they had purchased it from crop-to-cup initially, and been using it as a sample roaster for a short period of time (<100 roasts) before upgrading to a better sample roaster.

I offered $1,250 - and, they accepted my offer! It includes:
 - Huky 500T w/ solid drum, 78rpm motor - S/N 658
 - Propane IR stove
 - Exhaust hood
 - 2 electronic thermocouples, analog MET
 - Extra cooling tray
 - Extra fan
 - Extra exhaust hood
 - Extra funnel
 - Base 301 thermometer w/ 2 probes
 - Shipping = $25

I will still have to buy a Variac - but, that's not too bad considering the price I paid!

I've been sticking thermocouples in my Behmor to record roasts in Artisan for the last 6 months, and I'm excited to finally have some control in my roast profiles!

Thanks for your help everyone!

[SusanJoM]

Congratulations ! ! !

- 2 electronic thermocouples, analog MET

I think you will find that you have thermocouples at BT and MET but that you still have an analog thermometer in the ET position. 

If I am correct (I looked at the eBay listing), you will probably want to order one of these from Mr. Li
https://www.hukyforum.com/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view;pic=28

And do a bit of reading here before spending $$$ on a Variac.  You do want some sort of fan control, but there is a $20. controller that will do everything you need done and give you more money to spend on green beans.

[hankua]

Smart to buy used!

[kctremel]

Welcome bud, I got mine used and it came with everything offered! Got a great deal on it, hope you like yours as much as I like mine!!

[trumz]

I got mine used aswell and Had only done a handfull of roasts.  Paid about 1200€.  Over 200 roasts on it in 3 months!