Looking into a new (used) Auto press. I need your thoughts!

[im_mcguire]

OK, so my business is growing like crazy.  The last 3 years we have doubled our previous years sales, and this year I have hit my max production with the equipment I currently own. 

We have a OOOLLLDDD American Rototex 6/8 Auto.  It works great, prints fine, but I am currently running a discharge underbase, with a spot color on top at its fastest speed and we are only hitting 150 shirts per hour.  I have a 6,200 qty job now and it is killing me only getting 1,000 shirts a day...

What I need help with is this:

I currently am looking at investing 20-25K on a used press.  What are some things I should know when I am looking for a newer press?  What should I stay away from (makes, years).  What models are a no briner.  M&R diamondback or Gauntlet is what Ive had my eyes on, but I just need to find the right one...

Your thoughts / suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

[Inkworks]

I won't play the name game, but I will say go for as big as you can fit and servo heads. Two things I never regretted after buying my used press.

[jsheridan]

  M&R diamondback or Gauntlet is what Ive had my eyes on, but I just need to find the right one...

Keep that eye out and wait for one, it's worth it.

The abundance of parts and service for the used blues are the no brainer in the used market, it's why the good one's don't last to long out in the open.

[jvieira]

We got a used Diamondback last year ($13.000) and couldn't be happier with it!

If you buy it used, make sure you have an M&R technician look at the press before you make the deal, that would be the most important thing imo. I got ours installed and checked out by M&R. Only paid the seller after having it inspected