Bowling centers considering equipment upgrades or renovations may encounter both used and refurbished bowling equipment. Although these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they can describe different levels of preparation and servicing.
Understanding the distinction is important when evaluating equipment condition, expected maintenance, installation requirements, and overall project costs. Used Bowling Alley Equipment can range from equipment sold largely as-is to systems that have received varying degrees of inspection and repair.
What Is Used Bowling Alley Equipment?
Used bowling equipment generally refers to equipment that has previously been installed and operated at another facility. Its condition can vary considerably depending on its age, operating history, maintenance, and storage conditions.
Some used equipment may be ready for installation after inspection, while other systems may require replacement parts or repairs before they can be placed into regular commercial service.
What Is Refurbished Bowling Equipment?
Refurbished equipment has typically undergone some form of inspection, cleaning, repair, replacement, or testing before being offered for another installation.
However, refurbishment does not have one universal definition. The extent of the work can range from basic cleaning and component replacement to a more comprehensive rebuilding process.
Buyers should therefore ask exactly what work was performed rather than assuming that every refurbished system has received the same level of servicing.
Differences in Equipment Condition
Condition is one of the main differences to consider. Used equipment may retain more of its previous wear, while refurbished equipment may have had selected worn or damaged components replaced.
This does not automatically mean refurbished equipment has no remaining wear. Buyers should still request inspection details and documentation describing the refurbishment work.
Maintenance History Matters
Whether equipment is used or refurbished, maintenance history remains important. A well-maintained used system may have a clear service record and predictable component condition.
For refurbished equipment, ask whether the previous maintenance history is available and which parts were replaced during refurbishment.
Ask What Was Refurbished
When evaluating refurbished equipment, request a detailed list of work performed. This may include:
- Replacement of worn mechanical parts
- Cleaning and inspection
- Electrical component testing
- Replacement of damaged wiring
- Sensor replacement
- Motor or bearing servicing
- String or pulley replacement
- Control-system repairs
- Safety component checks
A specific refurbishment record provides more useful information than the general term “refurbished.”
Compare Purchase Costs
Used equipment may have a lower initial purchase price, but the buyer may need to budget for inspection, repairs, replacement parts, transportation, and installation.
Refurbished equipment may have a higher purchase cost because labor and replacement components have already been incorporated into the preparation process.
The most useful comparison is therefore based on the complete project cost rather than the initial equipment price alone.
Consider Installation Requirements
Both used and refurbished equipment can require installation work. Compatibility with the new facility should be checked regardless of the equipment’s condition.
Review lane dimensions, mounting requirements, electrical connections, scoring systems, service clearances, and other installation specifications before purchase.
Examine Replacement Parts
Parts availability can influence the long-term practicality of either option. Older equipment may contain components that are difficult to source.
Ask whether common wear parts and specialized components are still available. For refurbished systems, also determine whether replacement parts used during refurbishment are original, compatible alternatives, or newly manufactured components.
Evaluate Mechanical Components
Mechanical systems should be inspected for wear even when equipment has been refurbished. Bearings, belts, gears, pulleys, rollers, motors, and linkages can all influence operating performance.
For used equipment, establish which components are still original. For refurbished equipment, ask which mechanical parts were inspected or replaced.
Check Electrical and Control Systems
Electrical and control components deserve separate attention because they can affect compatibility and troubleshooting.
Inspect wiring, switches, sensors, control boards, communication components, and power requirements. Older electronic systems may also require additional integration work when connected to newer scoring or management technology.
Review Safety Components
Safety systems should be inspected regardless of whether equipment is sold as used or refurbished.
Check emergency stops, guards, switches, sensors, interlocks, and other protective components. Any damaged or missing safety features should be addressed before commercial operation.
Understand Testing Procedures
Ask how the equipment was tested before being offered for sale. A comprehensive test may provide information about operating cycles, sensors, motors, controls, and other important functions.
For refurbished equipment, ask whether testing was performed after replacement parts were installed and whether any issues were identified during the process.
Consider Equipment Age
Refurbishment can improve the condition of older equipment, but it does not necessarily change the equipment’s original age or design generation.
Ask for the manufacturing or installation date and determine whether the equipment’s technology remains appropriate for the intended facility.
Think About Technical Support
Technical support can become especially important with older bowling equipment. Ask whether installation guidance, service documentation, troubleshooting assistance, and replacement parts are available.
A support arrangement can make ongoing maintenance easier regardless of whether the equipment was purchased used or refurbished.
Look at the Total Cost of Ownership
A useful comparison should consider expenses beyond the purchase price.
These may include:
- Equipment purchase
- Inspection and testing
- Refurbishment or repairs
- Replacement parts
- Transportation
- Installation
- Electrical modifications
- Scoring integration
- Ongoing maintenance
This approach helps buyers understand the financial requirements of each option more accurately.
Request Documentation
Ask for equipment manuals, service records, refurbishment reports, parts lists, wiring diagrams, and installation instructions whenever available.
Documentation can help technicians understand the equipment and make future repairs more efficient.
When Professional Inspection Is Useful
A professional inspection can provide additional information when the equipment’s condition is uncertain. Technicians can identify worn components, electrical concerns, compatibility issues, and potential installation challenges.
This can be particularly useful for higher-value purchases or projects involving multiple used systems.
Conclusion
Used and refurbished bowling equipment can differ significantly in condition, preparation, and expected maintenance requirements. Used equipment may be sold with varying levels of previous wear, while refurbished equipment has generally received some form of inspection or repair.
The key is to look beyond the label. Ask what work was performed, which components were replaced, how the equipment was tested, and what support and documentation are available. Comparing these details alongside installation and long-term maintenance costs can provide a clearer understanding of the equipment’s overall suitability for a bowling facility.
