Buying Used Excavator - 8 Tips You Need to Know Before Making a Decision
Excavators are pricey, but buying a used excavator will help save money on excavator prices.
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When inspecting a potential second hand excavator purchase, these are the key things to look out for.
1. Check for play/movement in the swing radius
A damaged slew ring can be one of the most costly items to repair or replace in a used hydraulic excavator, so make sure to rotate the hydraulic excavator housing to a quarter turn and check for any play or movement in the slew ring. The slew ring bearing has a play limit, so it's good to measure it and check against specs.
2. A no-start engine, or an engine that hardly starts with lots of smoke
This might sound like a no-brainer, but engines that create a lot of smoke are a concern; replacing or repairing an engine that far gone can cost more than buying a new excavator. When you test, chances are you aren't familiar with the kind or model of machine, so take your time, have the seller explain all the controls, and make sure you try every speed and movement. If it’s really cold then expect some smoke.
3. Cracks, bends and dents.
Excavators work in difficult, stressful conditions, therefore the integrity of the equipment is critical. Cracks are never a good sign, especially when they exist in key connection point welds, such as between the boom and stick or stick and bucket.
4. Leaks in the hydraulics
Leaks in the hydraulics can be a sign of misuse or degeneration as well. All cylinders, hoses, and lines for leaks, as well as the hydraulic pump should be thoroughly examined. The hydraulic pump compartment should be examined for any type of leaks, as well as the swing bearing and slew ring. All leaks should be repaired before the machine is considered for purchase. Any leaks will need to be repaired to ensure the safe and continued operation of the hydraulic excavator.
5. Confirm the validity of the hours meter
The hour meter should be checked and authenticated to ensure that the proper number of hours have been logged onto the machine. If it is not working correctly, or if there is any reason to question the validity of the reading, the control pedals can be checked. If there is a high amount of wear on the pedals, this may be a sign that the reading is not correct.
As a safety priority, an excavator’s tracks (or tires if they have them) should be examined very closely. Signs that an excavator’s tracks may require replacement include:
B.The tracks keep losing tension
Tires are an important and expensive part of earth moving equipment. The current condition of the tires should be examined, and if possible, the number of hours on the tires should be determined.
Check between the excavator bucket teeth for signs of scalloping, half-mooned shapes. Scalloping does not necessarily indicate that a bucket needs to be replaced, but it does indicate a reduced cutting force.
Depending on the condition of the machine, the time of use and the accessories sold with it, the price will still vary greatly, but based on experience, a higher percentage is expected for high quality excavators. When you buy a used car, the value of the machine is new.
Don't rush into into a second hand excavator
For all of these reasons, it's important to purchase your used construction machinery from a reputable source.
ECVV.com has 300,000 owners to release real used construction machinery and accessories source. We conduct full performance inspection; provide logistics services to shorten the delivery cycle; and there is no agent, no extra commission, you can get what you want at the best price!
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