I can't think of many secrets, but if buying a machine with that many hours, I would plan on having to spend several thousand dollars and factor that into the price. The condition of a machine with those hours is entirely dependant upon how it was treated. It could be almost completely new or completely worn out. I would try to get a service record if it's possible. The best idea is to hire a mechanic who knows axial flow combines and let him look it over for you. At 3000 hours, it's about time for the transition cone, and rotor vane cage to need replacing if they haven't already been. The grates and concaves should have already been replaced once, but might need it again. Impellers and rotor rasp bars need to be examined. The discharge beater blades will be worn out if they haven't been replaced. The front feeder drum needs to be examined, as does the rear sprokets that pull the chain. The clean grain elevator housing and head could very well be worn out. I'm not trying to scare you, but I've seen people buy "clean" older machines and wind up spending more that the machine is worth to get it back in shape. On the other hand, if the machine has been taken care of, and some of the high dollar items have been replaced, it could be a good deal. Hire a mechanic to help you out!