Things to look for when buying a used excavator

Investing in a used excavator is no easy task. Factors like service history, wear and tear, and price points should be thoroughly considered when choosing to invest in used excavators. Moreover, even seasoned earthmoving machinery owners might face difficulties in operating an excavator without being informed about the pros and cons of machinery. Thus, you shouldn’t make this decision lightly and without being informed.

7 things to look for when buying a used excavator

➤ Service History

A detailed as well as accurate service history ensures that the used excavator has been maintained to a standard that is acceptable to you. Maintenance plays an essential part in maximizing the life of any machinery. Thus, it is essential that you thoroughly check the service history of a used excavator before you choose to invest in it.

➤ Check Fluids as well as collect oil samples

You should make sure to check all the fluids that run through the machine are in prime condition. They should not emit strange scents and should be clean, whether oils or coolants. You can choose to visually check the fluids. Dirty coolants may indicate a cooling system issue that should be fixed immediately to prevent overheating of machine parts. If the oil is black, grey or watery that may indicate an engine problem after which engine failure may be an absolute surety. Moreover, the oil shouldn’t have a burnt smell. If the oil belongs to a major component, you will have to conduct a laboratory sampling to understand the root cause of the problem.

➤ Machine Hours

You should confirm the operational hours of the machine and make sure that it matches the quotations and mechanical meter. This is why you should ensure that you have access to the full-service history. Alternatively, you can choose to seek help from your local dealer to check the computer hours over the analogue meter. Thus, your main aim should be understanding whether your machine hour matches the data secured from the computer.

➤ Safety Compliance

It is integral before you invest in an excavator that it meets the requirements of your site. Make sure to understand if the excavator is equipped with the current dual locking standards. You can also take note of the compliant handrails and check if they are fitted where it’s necessary. Equipment such as flashing lights, reverse alarms, e-stops and fire extinguishers are necessary equipment that are required for your excavator. Additionally, you should also ensure that there is a copy of the operator’s manuals in the machine.

➤ Performing a ROPS/FOPS inspection

When you are considering investing in an excavator make sure that it should be equipped with adequate ROPS and FOPS fittings. As excavators work in hazardous working environments such as construction sites where falling debris might cause risk to life and the machine, you should make sure to subject your excavator to a ROPS/FOPS inspection.

➤ Undercarriage Inspections

The undercarriage of your excavator is one of the most important parts of your machinery. Any replacements or repairs can cost a fortune. This is why when you are choosing to invest in used excavators you should also create an estimation of the life left in this area. You can choose to thoroughly check the number of adjustments left in the tracks before the idlers, you can also check whether the rollers still have a profile and rotate freely.

➤ Hydraulic Operation

Consider checking your excavator’s hydraulic operation in your working environment and under load. In case that’s not an option for you, you can choose to move the machine through all working scenarios. A modern excavator should be not only smooth but also quiet and efficient regardless of the work environment. You should also take note of any vibrations as well as noises that become more prominent under loads. Thus, with the above-mentioned tips you can easily choose a used excavator. Thoroughly inspecting the machinery as well as the specifications can help you make an informed decision. Additionally, you can also choose to seek help from a dealer to be aware of the machinery you are investing in.