Used Excavator Buying Guide: How to Evaluate the Condition of a Machine?

In the current construction and heavy machinery market, more and more companies and individuals choose to buy used excavators to reduce costs while meeting short-term or long-term equipment needs. However, buying a used excavator is not as simple as buying new equipment. It is crucial to evaluate the condition of the machine. Wrong decisions can lead to high subsequent repair costs and even affect the progress of the project. Therefore, knowing how to professionally evaluate the condition of a used excavator will help you make a smarter purchase choice.

1.Appearance inspection: The importance of first impression
The appearance is the most direct part when we evaluate a used excavator. Although the appearance cannot fully reflect the internal condition of the machine, it can provide some key clues. Check the exterior of the machine for significant wear, cracks or rust, especially on the digging arm, bucket and chassis. Appearance damage may be a sign that the equipment has been overloaded or has not been maintained in time.

2.Working hours and maintenance records: understand the history of the equipment
Every excavator will have a “time sheet” that records its usage time. Most used excavators have a working time between 1,000 and 10,000 hours. The fewer working hours, the longer the service life of the equipment. In addition to the working time, it is also key to understand the maintenance record of the equipment. Regular maintenance can effectively extend the service life of the excavator, while machines without maintenance records often have more potential risks.

3.Engine and hydraulic system: evaluate core components
The engine and hydraulic system are the core of the excavator, which directly determines its performance and long-term stability. When checking the engine, start the machine and observe whether it is easy to start, whether there are abnormal noises or abnormal emissions. For the hydraulic system, check for oil stains, the condition of the oil pipes and oil seals, and the oil quality and oil level of the hydraulic oil. If the hydraulic system leaks or the oil quality deteriorates, it may mean that there is a problem with the hydraulic system and additional repairs or replacements are required.

4.Tracks and chassis: pay attention to the wear of key components
The inspection of the tracks and chassis is also crucial. Check whether the tracks are evenly worn and whether there are signs of breakage or severe wear. The health of the tracks directly affects the traction and work efficiency of the excavator. The chassis part needs to be checked for looseness or cracks, especially the connection parts and important load-bearing parts. Chassis damage will directly affect the stability and service life of the machine.

5.Test drive experience: the most intuitive evaluation method
Test driving is an indispensable part of evaluating second-hand excavators. By operating the machine, you can intuitively feel whether the hydraulic action is smooth, whether the steering system is flexible, whether the digging arm has abnormal noise and other problems. The operating experience during the test drive can help you understand the working status of the machine more clearly and discover potential problems in time.

6.Choose a reliable supplier: the advantages of Shanghai Lizhihang Machinery
When choosing a second-hand excavator, it is crucial to choose a reliable supplier. As a professional second-hand excavator supplier, Lizhihang is committed to providing high-quality second-hand equipment to customers around the world. The second-hand excavators we sell are strictly inspected and maintained to ensure that each machine is in the best working condition. Whether it is the equipment history or the machine’s operation test, we provide detailed reports and transparent information to help you make a more informed purchase decision.

Buying a second-hand excavator requires not only a full evaluation of the machine itself, but also the selection of a professional supplier. Through visual inspection, working time record, engine and hydraulic system inspection, track and chassis condition assessment, and personal test drive, you can fully understand the health of the equipment. As a professional second-hand excavator supplier, lzhexcavator will continue to provide you with high-quality equipment and professional services, helping you find the most suitable second-hand excavator to ensure the smooth progress of your project.