A few years ago, I managed to acquire a John Deere two row, two horse cultivator for 75 dollars. This spring a friend of mine and I retro-fitted it with the new style "S" tines. Models such as this sell upwards of 4000$ around here. I have half a days work and 250$ in materials. I am very pleased with my new "toy" I hope to have it in the corn by early next week, depending upon the weather.
I encourage folks to look at equipment with new eyes. I have a few pieces of homemade stuff that works very well for me. Low inputs helps keep a farm profitable. Think outside the box. Get help where you need it, for me it is with welding. Most of all, be receptive when someone offers to give you some "old junk". A little paint, some new bolts and a little TLC is a wonderful thing