Top Factors to Consider When Buying a Used Excavator: An Inspection Guide
Top Factors to Consider When Buying a Used Excavator: An Inspection Guide
Buying construction equipment – new or used – can be a daunting prospect. If you’re considering buying an excavator, balancing your budget while getting high quality excavator, you need to be careful and do some research. If you are thinking of buying a used excavator, then this comprehensive guide will give you the insider tips and tricks you need to make an informed decision.
Buying a used excavator: an overview.
Right off the bat, it’s all about knowing how much you want to spend. With knowledge of your financial resources, you can narrow your options and cut your losses on repair and maintenance costs. Setting realistic budget and sticking to it from the time you buy till you pay it off is vital.
When buying a used excavator, you must do a detailed inspection that cover various aspects of the excavator such as
· Exterior condition of the excavator
· Hydraulics
· Swing radius movement
· Hour meter accuracy
· Buckets and attachments
Tips for Inspecting: Exterior
Looking for Dents, Cracks, or Bends
If a used excavator is what you're looking for, then examining closely at the exterior surface for any evidence of damage. Pay particular attention to dents, cracks and bends, in the boom, stick, bucket and slew ring. Some wear and tear are expected, but serious loss of life could be the result of abuse or neglect.
Look for cracks in the connection point welds between the boom and stick, stick and bucket, and also bends in the stick after it has been placed on the boom. Replacements in these areas can be very expensive preventing this excavator from performing at its best.
Checking for Signs of Misuse and Rental History
Other than visible damage, you want to look at how the excavator has been used and check to see if it has been rented out. Mishandled by amateur users, the machine can suffer accelerated wear and tear. If you see the functionality is reduced or that the excavator was not operated by experts look out.
If it is possible, get maintenance records, to find out how the machine has been used. An excavator, in good condition, is more likely to be in good condition and to have a longer life.
Tips for Inspecting: Hydraulics
Checking for Leaks
Hydraulic system is one of the critical components of an excavator. Search through all cylinders, hoses and lines for signs of leaks. So pay close attention to the hydraulic pump compartment, if you see leaks in that area that can be an indication of problems with the system.
If you see any damage during the inspection, don’t forget to bargain to have the seller fix it before closing the deal. It can also help you avoid unnecessary repairs later on if you get rid of any hydraulic problems first.
Cylinders, Hoses, and Lines Inspection
Along with checking for leaks, inspect the cylinders, hoses, and lines for condition. Health warning signs may include cracks, bulges or other signs of wear or damage. Make sure that all the different components are in working and good shape.
Hydraulics on the excavator must work properly for the machine to operate properly and efficiently. Over time this will save you time and money to invest in a machine that has a well maintained hydraulic system.
Hour Meter Accuracy Validation
Hour Meter Functionality Check
The hour meter reveals how the excavator has been used and how long it will last. The hour meter must be checked that it is working properly. It also proves to verify that it records the machine's operating hours accurately.
When you see anything in relation to the hour meter’s functionality, that needs to be fixed. An hour meter that has a broken or not working can distort the use of the machine and the sale value.
Hour Meter Reading Authentication
Checking the functionality of the hour meter is important but checking the accuracy of the reading is equally important. However, if you have any questions on how reliable the hour meter is at showing operating hours just look for other signs of wear and tear that correlate with the displayed operating hours.
Look at the control pedals and see if they are worn excessively as it may mean that the excavator has run up more hours than the meter tells you. When it comes to a machine with a dubious hour meter reading, be careful because that could really affect the machine’s performance and longevity.
Swing Radius Movement Evaluation
Checking for Play or Abnormal Movement in the Slew Ring
A swing radius movement of a used excavator must be assessed to prevent potential damage and safety hazards. Operation should be tight and smooth when the hydraulic excavator housing rotates. This can cause too much play or abnormal movement in the slew ring and then will require costly repairs or even an accident on the job site.
Rotate the housing to a quarter turn and look for play or movement in the slew ring. If you spot anything unusual, particularly if the machine is damaged or worn, this may mean you’ll need to look into it further or fix it before you buy.
Connection Points for Loose Play
Look at the stick, boom and bucket connection points for any play or movement. The accuracy and performance of the excavator depend on tight pins and bearings. Looseness in these areas can affect the functioning of this machine as a whole.
If you detect any problem regarding connection point, try to negotiate with the seller to repair it before the finalization of purchase. You’ll save time and money in the long run by investing in a well maintained excavator.
Benchmark Bucket and Attachment
Checking for Wear and Tear on Bucket Teeth.
It is important for the excavator to satisfy the condition of bucket teeth. Look at the bucket teeth, and check them for wear and tear, such as scalloping, or heavy wear between teeth. Some wear is normal but significant damage may be a sign of the excavator having been misused or improperly maintained.
Before you buy the machine look at the bucket teeth, if you find any troubles with that then you can get it repaired or replaced. A good bucket keeps your excavator performing at its best and giving you a longer service life.
Researching Parts Availability and Maintenance Support
Before buying used excavator, check parts availability and service support of the particular make and model of the excavator. The long haul will be more efficient if your replacement parts are ready and readily accessible, and if there is adequate support for repairs and maintenance.
Find out from a seller or a trusted mechanic about the availability and support options for the parts on your considered excavator. This information will help you make an informed decision so you don’t have to deal with headaches later.
Tires and Price Comparison
Lest we forget, look at the tires on the excavator as worn or damaged tires can affect the machine’s overall performance and safety. Check that the tires are working, and that they fit the purpose of using the excavator.
Finally, compare prices from other sellers to make sure you’re getting the best deal possible. Compared prices based on research market values and factored in age, hours, and overall condition. It is important to remember though, that negotiating the seller can potentially mean better deals and more concessions such as repairs or part replacements.
Conclusion
Proper inspection is of prime importance when one wishes to buy used excavator. Be very observant with regard to the condition outside but, more importantly, examine the hydraulics and attachments. You could also ask some questions or consult with experts so you could be making the right decision.
Remember, however that each excavator has a different configuration and can only be gauged against other similar brands, age, maintenance, and operating conditions, etc. That an average excavator could live between 7,000 to 10,000 hours under normal working conditions, does not translate the same across the board.