Used Excavator Inspection Checklist: 12 Things to Check Before Buying

Excavators are among the largest investments that a contractor can make, and a used excavator can actually be a cost-saving decision. However, if it requires a big repair in month two for this low price, it doesn’t sound like a good deal. This used excavator buying guide is all about the things that more experienced buyers consider, and you should too when you are ready to make a transaction to purchase a used excavator before any money changes hands.

Why Contractors Buy Used Excavators Instead of New

On job sites throughout the U.S: Used machines are common, and buyers include:

• Excavation workers and site preparation workers
• Utility and trenching crews
• Landscapers and small construction firms
• Demolition and land-clearing operators
• Farms, ranches and municipal departments
• Rental fleets adding units

It’s primarily because of cost. However, the used machine is cheaper than the new machine, and the difference is caused by the age, brand, size and excavator operating hours. A buyer of a used unit does not have to deal with much of that drop since most depreciation occurs in the first few years of a machine’s life. But the used machines can also typically be obtained immediately, and the new orders may entail waiting. When operating a small crew, on a limited budget, that difference matters.

Before making your decision, look at dealer and auction prices for your specific Model. The price changes depending on how old it’s how much people want it.

Why You Should Inspect a Used Excavator Before Buying

Parts can get worn out in a machine. It can still look clean. A solid used excavator inspection checklist can help you check the excavators real condition figure out how much it will cost to fix and talk about a good price. The following 12 points give a place to start when inspecting a used excavator before you buy it.

12 Things to Check Before Buying a Used Excavator

1. Model, Serial Number and Configuration

Use the serial number of the machine to match with the paperwork. Check the integrity of the model, year and setup (stick length, quick coupler, thumb, bucket). If there is a mismatch, it’s worth discussing.

2. Excavator Operating Hours and Hour-Meter Consistency

The hours denote what work the machine has performed; however, they should correspond with the wear that is visible. A “low hour” unit with worn pedals, a pretty seat and loose joysticks doesn’t add up. Many OEM telematics systems can aid with confirming hours.

3. Excavator Service History and Maintenance Records

Request for used excavator maintenance records — oil changes, filter changes, greasing and major repairs should be included and dated. Oil analysis reports are helpful, as well. There are times when gaps in the documentation are not deal breakers; however, they are times to investigate more closely regarding the machine.

4. Engine Condition and Cold-Start Inspection

If possible, begin with a cold start. Any problems that include hard starting, long cranking, heavy smoke, or odd knocking should be noted. Look for leaks of oil, coolant and milky oil. If you have a newer model, inquire about the emissions system problems and codes.

5. Hydraulic System Leaks, Pumps and Cylinders

Check hoses, fittings, and cylinder rods for wet or scorched manufacturing or dents on them. Pump or valve problems can be indicated by slow or weak action. It is very easy to detect hydraulic system leak problems on a dry, clean machine.

6. Excavator Undercarriage Wear: Track Chains, Rollers, Idlers and Sprockets

The floor of the undercarriage receives constant use and can be an expensive replacement. Check against pointed sprocket teeth, leaking rollers, worn idlers and loose or stiff track links. Ask, “How many days are left?” Along with the manufacturer’s specifications, the wear can be measured by a dealer or technician.

7. Inspect the Boom, Stick and Structural Welds

The welds around the boom foot, boom nose, stick tip and cylinder mounts should be checked. Boom and stick cracks can be covered up by new paint or grinding marks and new welds. If you’re looking further, then you might want to feel first whether there’s any structural damage.

8. Check Pins, Bushings and Linkage Play

Check for play or clunking in each joint as the bucket and stick are moved. Loose, sloppy movement is evidence of pins and bushings wear. If the joints have fresh grease in them, then that’s a good indication.

9. Swing Bearing Condition and Swing Motor

Turn the top part 360 degrees. Pay attention to whether the wheels are rattling or grinding. Check for movement between the turntable and undercarriage. The safety and digging accuracy are impacted by the swing bearing condition.

10. Final Drive Inspection and Travel Motors

Push and pull the machine. The line should be straight and run evenly on both sides of the film. If seals are discovered to be leaking, grinding, or whining noises during a final drive inspection require follow-up.

11. Cab, Controls, Electronics and Safety Equipment

Try out joysticks, switches, gauges, lights, camera, A/C, heater and monitor. Examine any fault codes stored. Ensure the presence of seat belts, mirrors, guards and emergency exits.

12. Test Machine Operation and Confirm Included Attachments

Perform a full excavator operational test using warm hydraulics. Ensure boom, stick, bucket, swing, and travel work together. Attempt to drain, to expire or to lose power when moving both parts; check for drift alongside overheating or loss. Then run a statement to see which attachments are included, and make a note of all the repairs still required.

Used Excavator Warning Signs That Can Make Ownership Expensive

Keep an eye out for these used excavator warning signs:

• A seller who won’t allow a cold start or an outside inspection
• A freshly pressure-washed machine with no explanation
• Hours that don’t match the wear
• Missing records on a high-use unit
• Fresh welds on structural parts
• Mismatched or mixed-quality replacement parts
• Title or serial number problems

None of these automatically rules out a machine. They do mean it’s time to ask more questions and budget for repairs.

Questions to Ask Before Buying a Used Excavator

A few questions to ask before buying a used excavator can also tell a lot:

• Who used this machine and what were they using it for?
• Are service records and oil analysis reports available?
• Has it been subjected to significant repair or welding?
• Do you see any fault codes or emission problems?
• What is the life remaining for the undercarriage?
• Are there any liens attached to the title?
• May I have it inspected before buying?

Find the Right Used Excavator for Your Work

With some knowledge of the factors involved, a used excavator may be a shrewd investment. Use the checklist, pose simple questions and compare used excavator condition with price before making a final decision. Since 2008, Mico Equipment has been providing construction equipment to buyers in the United States and all machines are sold as received and described in good condition. Take a look at the used track excavators available and get a team a call with your questions.

FAQs

How many hours are too many on a used excavator?

You cannot find a fixed date cutoff. It is possible that an older machine with hours might last longer than a newer machine, with fewer hours if the newer machine is not properly maintained. Compare the hours with the service history, brand, size and wear.

What should I check when inspecting a used excavator?

First check the serial number, the hours and the records. Next, inspect the engine, the hydraulics, the undercarriage, the structure, the pins, the swing, the final drives and the controls; finally, test the engine for function.

How do I check undercarriage wear on an excavator?

Look at the sprockets the rollers, the idlers, the track links and the shoes. If you need numbers, ask a technician to use the manufacturer’s counts to measure.

Should I hire a professional to inspect a used excavator?

For a purchase this size, many buyers do. An independent technician may be able to identify issues you might not have noticed and they are able to take oil samples. When a buyer requests, Mico Equipment can make arrangements to inspect the equipment.

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