Should I buy a used Gamma Progression ES-II?

[hardstuckplayer97]

I’ve been in the market for a stringing machine for some time now, looking for a 6-point mount and flexible on crank vs. electric tensioning. There is a used Gamma Progression ES-II for sale near me and I’m debating whether or not to buy it. The seller is asking for 1100 with stand and cover included

GAMMA PROGRESSION ES II OWNER'S MANUAL Pdf Download

View and Download Gamma Progression ES II owner's manual online. Progression ES II stringing machines pdf manual download.

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The machine was manufactured in 2000 (?) and not to be confused with the newer ELS models. I had a few questions.

1. General thoughts/experiences with this model?
2. The tensioner looks bolted on and there aren’t any arms for stick on a WISE or anything. Since this is an older model, what can I do if the tensioner breaks?
3. What about the price? I haven’t seen any recent sales of this machine and I’m inclined to get a 6-point crank machine new for the same price…

 

[Wes]

Hey @hardstuckplayer97,

I sent you a PM (called "Conversations" on here).
Check your inbox.

Cheers, Wes

 

[esgee48]

The price is a little high for something 22-23 years old. $600-$800 would be what I would offer.

I would want to see the machine in operation. Bring a racquet with you and test out the tensioner and clamps etc. May have to upgrade or refurbish the clamps, etc if they don't work properly. IIRC the tensioning unit is bolted on to the base and can be replaced. If it doesn't work, don't buy it.

A used crank with warranty will cost you about $1100 from Tennis Machines.

 

[Standupnfall]

That is a great machine, one of my machines is an X-ES (similar timeframe but the blue aluminum base from the X-Stringer series).
$1100 is rather high though. But if you have enough "business" you would be paying it off with less than 100 racquets labor ($12 x 100= $1200, you may even charge more than $12 but you get the idea) at which time you can sell it for a few hundred and upgrade.

Also, be sure to listen to whatever advice Wes sent you.

 

[hardstuckplayer97]

Spoke with Wes about stringing machines in general and learned a ton!

Thanks for all the folks here giving great advice.

 

[Ryebread]

Way too high

 

[Ronaldo]

Way too high

Sold mine for $500 but don't let that sway you. You only live twice, once when you're born and once when you hand $1100 over.

 

[Steve Huff]

1) I think it's priced too high. 2) I'm not a fan of rotational grippers 3) I'd much prefer a self-centering mounting system, even though that one is sturdy 4) I'd trust Wes in whatever he tells you. He's very knowledgeable, and has experience with lot's of machines.

 

[2ndServe]

Hey @hardstuckplayer97,

I sent you a PM (called "Conversations" on here).
Check your inbox.

Cheers, Wes

Can I get a copy paste of this advice? I see these from time to time on FB

 

[USMC-615]

So what did you end up with @hardstuckplayer97 ?

 

[Ronaldo]

Watched a guy patch a racquet with a dowel and a pin. Using NG.