BEGINNER TIPS ON BUYING A USED MINI EXCAVATOR FOR SALE
A Few Tips For Beginners To Help Choose A Quality Used Mini Excavator At The Right Price
Mini excavators are popular because they are simply a versatile earth digging machine. These small machines are easy to transport while also holding a large amount of power in their small frames and can be used on almost any type of application. Some of us have a lower budget and seeking a good deal buying a used mini excavator for sale. A quick search of equipment dealers, you can easily find used mini excavators for sale at an affordable price. It is important to know what to look for when buying a used mini excavator so that you get the most value for your money. Mini Excavator For Sale has put together a few tips for beginners to help you choose a quality used mini excavator at the right price.
Understand A Lifespan of a Mini Excavator
If you speak with equipment companies that are offering brand new mini excavators for sale, they will tell you that most models have a max lifespan of 8000 -10,000 hours. When considering a used model, it is important to note how well the machine has been maintained and how many hours it has been used. For those that will be using equipment finance, most lenders will stipulate that the model needs to be manufactured within the last three to five years. If you are buying your used mini excavator outright, you should follow that same rule. Try to find a machine that has been properly maintained and has been used for 2,000 hours or less. This will ensure that you still get plenty of use for the remaining life of the machine.
Used Mini Excavator Inspection
Buying from a private seller or from equipment dealers when looking for a used mini excavator for sale will help you save money, but inspection is critical. Make a visual inspection of the mini excavator to ascertain its level of maintenance and to spot any glaring problems. Look along the body and the boom of the machine for leaks, cracks, bends, and serious dents. If there are any present, they could be a sign that the structure of the mini excavator has been compromised. Also, check the stress points for repair welds and take a closer look at new paint that may be hiding serious damage.
Inspect Mini Excavator Bucket
The mini excavator bucket attachment is one of the great tips people pay close attention to when purchasing a used mini excavator. Check the bucket to see if there is scalloping between the teeth. This can cause a reduction in the cutting force if present. It is also important to look underneath the bucket for bent metal. If there is bending, it means the mini excavator for sale was used for off-brand projects over its capacity. This can signal that the mini excavator machine is damaged or will not function efficiently.
External Mini Excavator Parts Checklist
Even if you are seeking equipment financing to purchase your next mini excavator, it is important that you choose a quality machine. The tracks or treads on the mini excavator should have 40% wear or less. Replacements tracks can cost as much as $3,000, which is rather expensive if you are looking to save money by buying a pre-owned model. Check the final drive seals for leaks and check the sprockets to ensure they have flat teeth, not pointed ends. Rust is dangerous for any type of metal equipment so ensure that you check the undercarriage and other vital areas for signs of decay. Worn belts and cracked lines in the engine will mean the machine has not been properly maintained which can end up being a costly headache once you complete your purchase.
Used Mini Excavator Operational Demo
Most people will take a car for a test drive before making a purchase, and the same is true for when looking for a mini excavator for sale. After checking the machine over, turn it on, and cycle through a few digging routines. This includes opening and closing the bucket, moving the boom, and extending the stick. Keep an eye out for any inaccuracy or looseness in the joints. Lift the machine by anchoring it with the bucket and run the tracks. Check for cuts, dry rot, and missing chunks. Following our handy tips will help you select a solid machine that will help you with your excavation projects for years to come.