Used grinder checklist?

[imiloa]

I'll be checking out a used Super Jolly. What should I be checking before I buy? How do I tell if the burrs are still sharp (usable)? Is there anything that is a "deal breaker?"
Thanks

[shadowfax]

I would check the following:

1. How "true" is the burr assembly? Rocks and other hard objects can take the burr carrier out of alignment and make the grind less consistent. You should also check the burrs for notches--this is another good hint that someone let a rock into the burrs.

2. How noisy is it? Definitely do a dry run and listen to the motor. A motor in good condition will be very quiet when run without beans in the hopper.

Cosmetic issues are up to you, of course. I don't consider blade dullness to be a deal breaker, though it is a basis on which you can maybe knock the price down--you will want to buy good, sharp replacement blades for the grinder if they feel dull. Great Infusions has the regular burrs for $40 and the fancy "duranium" burrs for $69.

[cafeIKE]

I'll be checking out a used Super Jolly. What should I be checking before I buy? How do I tell if the burrs are still sharp (useable)? Is there anything that is a "deal breaker?"
Thanks

Burrs are a non issue. Replace them, regardless.

ANY play in the spindle, in any direction, should give you pause.

Check the burr zero and back off about 1/4 turn of the upper carrier. This should be close to espresso grind. Run a pound of cheap, light roast beans though in one go. Power off and quickly turn the grinder on it's side. There should be no smell of hot oil, electrical stress, etc.

[mhoy]

Make sure it can adjust the grind. Turn it from coarse to fine while grinding. Not a necessarily a deal breaker but you might be in for a lot of cleaning to get the burr carrier to move. I'm still prying the goo out of a Cimbal Cadet, but it was inexpensive (not time wise, but $$ wise).

Mark