I found a used one on the Facebook marketplace for $400 last month. It was the shorter MS-60 model. No add ons except for the extended toe plate.

So far I’ve used it once, and it’s already been the best $400 I’ve ever spent.

I’d say they’re 100% worth it. I’ve seen the taller MS-66 model in use before. It’s easier to break the load back (something to consider since the motor takes the place of the axel where you’d normally put your foot on a standard dolly to aide in breaking the load), but it’s a really tight fit on stairs with turns or low ceilings. If I had the choice, I’d stick with the smaller MS-60 model.

Things I’ve noticed:

I do need the big wheel attachment. The tiny stock wheels are horrible on anything but the smoothest and flattest of flooring, but I’m not sure if new accessories are compatible with my older escalera.

The escalera by itself is HEAVY. So heavy. If that battery dies while you’re relying on it, you’re hosed.

Thanks. Definitely keep your eyes open for a used one. I find it very hard to justify the price of a new one, and used ones seem to come up every so often.

I chanced upon mine by putting automated alerts on the Facebook marketplace whenever someone listed one.

Larry, while it’s on my mind (and forgive me if this isn’t the proper place to ask) but I recently purchased a used unit built in 2002. The only accessory it came with was the extended toe plate.

Are current accessories compatible with the older units? I’m interested in getting the big wheel attachment and perhaps the wheel brakes for going down steps, as well as any parts for the drive mechanism that may need replacing or servicing due to age.

It almost seems worth it to me to get the step edge detector. I bought my escalera second hand from a guy who bought it new in 2002. He was a jukebox salesperson, so it has seen a LOT of use. I've used it 4 or 5 times already, and going DOWN the stairs has actually become more difficult for me than going up, since it's nearly impossible to see the edge without a spotter. Going up is easy, except on carpeted surfaces. The little nubs on my unit are ancient, and the rubber is getting hard and is losing grip. What I would like to add is the big wheel attachment. I ALWAYS seem to scrape the metal chain belts on the alsphalt or concrete ground when rolling over even the slightest irregularity.

I was thinking of rebuilding the motor unit since it has seen a ton of use, but it seems to work well for me regardless, and if it ain't broke, don't fix it.