Buying a Used Excavator: Tips & Inspection Guide

Purchasing heavy-duty equipment like mini excavators can be a daunting task, whether brand new from a dealer or used from a reseller or auction. A new excavator might be the best option for some, with used or second hand being the preferred option for others. Continue reading for an in-depth guide to buying used excavators, including a 5 step inspection list to help you decide which used machine is right for you.

You can find more information on our web, so please take a look.

4 Benefits of Buying a Used Excavator

1. Cost Savings

As you're probably aware, the biggest benefit of buying a used or second hand excavator is the lower upfront cost. For most businesses and individuals, the biggest restriction when buying machinery is the cost so purchasing a used excavator can be the best option for a more restricted budget. The lower upfront cost also gives you more options when it comes to purchasing additional buckets and attachments as the money you have saved on purchasing a new excavator can be invested back into the machine to improve your future projects.

2. Depreciation & Resale Value

Similarly to cars, excavators depreciate in value over time, with the biggest drop occurring within the first 1-2 years after purchase. Buying a used excavator avoids this meaning you're not losing large amounts of money. This price reduction means you will be able to invest in an excavator that is relatively new but doesn't have the hefty price tag of a brand new one. After the initial drop in value, an excavator will depreciate more slowly which means it's likely to retain a good proportion of its value if you come to resell it in the future (assuming that it has been maintained during ownership).

3. Proven Performance

You can check the track record of used excavators by researching the make and model and looking into reviews from existing owners. This information can provide insights into the machine's reliability and durability and help you determine whether it's going to be suitable for you. This is often not available for new excavators which can make investing a more dubious event.

4. Machine Variety & Availability

As new machine models are released, the selection and availability of used mini excavators and excavators in the market grows, giving you a larger selection of makes and models to choose from. It's also common for new models to have long delivery times compared to used excavators which are readily available at resellers and auction sites so if you're in urgent need, a used excavator might be the option for you.

3 Things to Consider When Buying a Used Excavator

When you're trying to determine what make and model of excavator you want to purchase, there are 3 main things to consider: Residual Value, Brand Reliability and Running & Maintenance Costs.

1. Residual Value

Residual value is how well the excavator holds its value over time. A machine that is cheap to purchase from new, will likely not hold its value meaning you will lose your money quicker. When purchasing machinery, you should consider the term 'you get what you pay for'. A brand with an initial cheaper price will likely face challenges down the line.

2. Brand Reliability

Brand reliability is how reliable the machine is known to be within the market. Some excavator makes are well known for their excellent performance. For example Kubota and Takeuchi are renowned for their reliability.

3. Running & Maintenance Costs

It's inevitable that at some point you will have to carry out maintenance and repairs on your excavator but how expensive these fixes will be will be determined by your machine make and model. For example the cost and availability of replacement parts can sometimes take longer and be more expensive to source, especially if the excavator is older or from an uncommon manufacturer.

5 Inspection Tips for Buying a Used Excavator

1. Machine Operating History

Year & Model - Make sure to check the important information about the excavator, including the year, make, model and serial number which can usually be located on the data plate. These details ensure that the information provided by the seller is accurate and will help you confirm that the excavator matches the description given.

Operating Hours - A 'good' level of hours can vary depending on the size and operations history of the excavator. A mini excavator that has done 3,000 hours may be considered 'tired', compared to a 20 ton / 40,000 lbs excavator with 3,000 hours depending on the work that the machine has been doing. If you're unsure about whether the hours are of a good level, we would recommend talking to a plant operator or someone with knowledge external to the seller for an unbiased opinion.

Service History - Make sure to ask for a clearly-documented service history, this will show if the excavator has been well maintained and regularly serviced. If the used machine doesn't have a service history readily available, this could imply that there are underlying problems or that it hasn't been thoroughly looked after.

2. Inspecting the External Excavator Condition

General Machine Condition - the overall condition of the excavator will give a general indication of how well the machine has been looked after and its operation history. Check the state of the paintwork, decals, cleanliness, seat and dash condition. A clean and well looked after machine is often a good indication of proper maintenance and care.

Tires, Track & Undercarriage - Signs of dents, holes or oil residue can indicate improper care, misuse or internal damage. On a wheeled excavator, make sure the tires are in good condition, full of air and free of visible damage. Confirm with the seller how long the tyres have been in use to help determine if it's a good level of wear. For tracked excavators, make sure that the tracks have minimal wear or damage, that sprockets and idlers are in good condition and the track tension is firm.

3. Inspecting the Internal Excavator Condition

Battery - Prior to starting up the excavator make sure to check the condition of the battery and the expiration date. Ensure all wires and terminals are free from corrosion, rust or unusual fluids - these could be an indication of a leak.

Oil / Oil Filler Cap - Prior to starting the engine, check the oil level and condition. The excavator engine relies on proper lubrication to function optimally, so low oil levels and a clogged filler cap indicates poor maintenance or leak issues. Relatively clear oil indicates the oil has been recently serviced; black oil indicates it's probably been poorly serviced or maintained; and milky or beige coloured oil indicates there is moisture in the oil which could be an indication of a leaking head gasket.

4. Testing the Excavator Performance

Start-up Condition - When starting up the excavator, make sure to take note of start up speed. If the excavator stalls or excessively turns over there could be an issue. Check for excessive smoke when revved - white, black or blue-grey indicates a potential engine issue. A small puff of black smoke when first started or revved is usually ok.

Hydraulic Checks - Check all hydraulic systems, including the cylinders, pumps, hoses and connectors for signs of wear or damage (cracks, bulges or leaks). A leak can be a sign of damage or degeneration - an expensive and time-consuming issue to fix. Once running, use the joysticks and pedals to move the rams in each direction. Ensure each ram is being used to its full extent and hold it - e.g. pull the dipper arm in as far as it will go and hold it - this will put the hydraulic pump under load. If you hear the engine reduce in revs this could indicate a fuel issue.

Slew Ring - A slew ring mounts between the excavator cab and the undercarriage and enables the cab of the excavator to continuously spin as necessary. To check the functionality of the excavator slew ring, fully rotate the cab in both directions. Slew at full speed, suddenly stop and see how much the machine travels afterwards, the further the cab moves after stopping the more worn the ring.

You will get efficient and thoughtful service from Xiangyao.

Additional Specifications - If you're purchasing an excavator that has additional features like air conditioning, heating or a radio, you should check that these function as required as they will have an influence on excavator value and purchase price.

Buckets, Attachments & Hitches - If the excavator is being sold with buckets, attachments or a quick hitch, ensure that these fit and operate as required. Be sure to check with the seller whether your quick coupler is a mix & match hitch. If it is, the pin dimensions of your buckets and attachments will not match the machine make and model so this will be something you need to bear in mind when purchasing additional equipment. Make sure to also check the wear on your buckets, attachments and hitches to ensure they're not close to failure as this will be an additional cost in the future to replace them.

5. Considerations of the Sale / Seller

Comparison to the Listing - As you carry out your inspection of the excavator make sure to compare it to the information provided on the sales listing. If there are any obvious inaccuracies or large damages or faults missed from the listing, make sure to question the seller as this can help you negotiate a better price or include any presale fixes.

Warranty and support - Ensure all documentation is included with the excavator, including any user manuals and manufacturer warranty information. If you're purchasing from a reseller or dealership, we would recommend asking about any warranty, return policies and after-sale support options in case you face any issues after purchase.

So, now you should know what to look for when buying a used excavator. Always take the time to carefully examine every aspect of the machine, from the interior and exterior condition to the battery, hydraulics and additional features. If you're in any doubt, don't hesitate to ask questions and seek advice from experts to ensure you're making the best decision for yourself or your company.

When searching for the perfect used Volvo excavator, there are many factors to consider ' from size and power to price and condition. But did you know that a pre-owned excavator could be the right choice for your project? With the cost savings and quality assurance of a used Volvo, there's no doubt pre-owned excavators are gaining in popularity. Here we'll explore the benefits of choosing a used Volvo excavator over a new one.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Volvo Excavator

Firstly, it is essential to examine the excavator for any damage or wear and tear that could affect its performance. Check for rust, broken parts, or oil leaks which can indicate deeper mechanical issues.

It is also important to investigate the history of the machine in terms of maintenance records and the number of hours used in service. Additionally, it is wise to inquire about any attachments such as a grapple bucket or hydraulic hammer that might improve productivity.

Furthermore, inspecting the cab for comfortable seating and clear visibility from the operator's side should not be overlooked.

Finally, making sure that you are aware of any applicable warranties or aftersales services available is key when purchasing a used Volvo excavator.

Benefits of Owning a Used Volvo Excavator

The used Volvo excavators are known for their reliability and longevity, often lasting longer than newer models from other manufacturers. They require less maintenance due to their robust design, allowing you to save money in the long run. Additionally, used Volvo excavators provide high levels of versatility thanks to their wide range of attachments such as grapples and hammers. Furthermore, owning your own machine also provides the flexibility to work on job sites that may not have access to rental units, increasing your productivity and reducing overall costs. Finally, with second-hand market prices being much more affordable than buying new machinery, it is even easier to make this worthwhile investment.

Features of the Volvo Excavator that Make it Stand Out from Other Brands

The Volvo excavator stands apart from other brands in many ways. All these features make the Volvo Excavator an ideal choice for any construction project.

Firstly, it is renowned for its superior durability and strength, making it more reliable than other excavators on the market. Its rugged construction also allows for increased productivity with less maintenance compared to competitors' models. Additionally, Volvo's range of excavators comes with a variety of attachments that provide greater versatility and flexibility when working on different job sites. Finally, they are known for their fuel efficiency which translates into lower operating costs.

Tips on Finding the Perfect Used Volvo Excavator

Firstly, always do extensive research and check reviews of previously owned machines to understand what type of quality you can expect. Secondly, make sure to inspect the machine thoroughly in person or with an expert before purchasing. Pay close attention to wear and tear on the arms, tracks, and other components as these parts can be expensive to replace if not in good condition. Additionally, clarify all questions about financing options before proceeding with any purchase. Lastly, find a reputable seller who has experience selling used equipment to ensure peace of mind when making your investment.

Common Problems with Used Excavators

Used Volvo excavators can have their share of problems, so it's important to take the necessary precautions when buying one.

Firstly, check the wear and tear on the tracks, arms, and other components as they are likely to be replaced if they are not up to standard. Secondly, inspect engine components such as oil pumps, coolers, and fuel lines as they may need replacing depending on the age of the machine. Thirdly, check for proper lubrication of all moving parts as dry ones can cause excessive heat build-up during operation. Fourthly, examine electronic devices such as sensors and circuit boards for damage or wear. Finally, request a copy of its maintenance records from the seller to get an overview of how well it was taken care of in the past.

Cost Savings of Purchasing a Used Excavator Compared to New Models

Buying a used Volvo excavator can save money and get a great machine. On average, used models cost around 30-40% less than new ones. On top of that, there are also significant savings in terms of insurance and maintenance costs. Additionally, since the initial cost is lower, you can invest in more features or upgrading performance components with the money you have saved. Taking all these factors into consideration makes purchasing a used Volvo excavator an attractive option for any budget-minded buyer.

Yonggong stocks a wide variety of used Volvo excavators, all in excellent condition and ready to be delivered. Our experienced staff will be able to provide you with expert advice and the best possible deals on pre-owned excavators. Contact us today to find out more about our selection of used Volvo excavators!

Related Used Excavator Video:-

Related Used Excavator Posts:-