If you’re looking for a new wheel loader, know that you don’t have to start looking at the top manufacturers right away. Consider buying second hand heavy machinery from an auction. There are several benefits to buying a used wheel loader including cost and value. Since there are several brands and sizes of wheel loaders, you’ll need to narrow them down to whichever one best meets your needs.
If you’ve found a used wheel loader at any of our upcoming auctions, or maybe even a different auction, it’s important to know how to inspect it to ensure you’re getting quality equipment. These wheel loader inspection tips will help you know it’s in great condition.
Tips on buying second hand heavy machinery
Once you know what job you need a wheel loader for, you can determine the size and functionality you’ll need. The tipping load, operating weight, and types of attachments are all things to consider. You don’t want one too big if you’re planning on using it with jobs in tight spaces, but you don’t want one that’s too small if you want to use it for lifting heavy materials.
Some of the benefits of buying a used wheel loader are that used machines cost less but still have years of use in them. Since equipment costs are lower, insurance costs will be lower as well. If you want to ensure you’re getting high-quality used equipment, many dealers at auctions offer warranties to meet your needs. Once you’ve determined what you need a wheel loader for, and have found one that will work for you, you’ll need to properly inspect the equipment.
What to inspect and how
It’s necessary to inspect each individual part, but also talk to the dealer about the service history and any maintenance it has had. Below are eight tips and tricks to ensuring you’re good to go with your new, but used wheel loader.
1. Maintenance and service history
You’ll be more confident in your purchase if you can see that the previous owner kept up with the required maintenance. A good dealer should have the service history, and be willing to share it with you. They want to sell the equipment just as much as you want to buy it.
2. How was it used
Find out what heavy materials this equipment handled. You can also ask about when the machine was used. Knowing if it was used during the entire week or just parts of the week can help you determine it being reliable.
3. Bucket
Start at the front and work your way to the back. Make sure the bucket works properly, the bucket teeth are in good shape and attached tightly, and examine the bucket lifting arms and cutting edge. You’re looking for cracks and any other types of damage on the side panel or leading edge.
4. Hydraulic system
Here you’re looking for damaged cylinders and hoses. When looking at cylinders, check for dents, scratches, and leaks. When looking at hoses, make sure there are no breaks.
5. Cab and operation
Start by checking the hour meter. After that, take a look at the foot pedals, joysticks, seat, and all other controls to make sure they work well. You can likely even star the machine to check that the gauges are working.
6. Center articulation point
This is located in the middle, under the cab. Make sure is no damage or excessive wear and tear. The pins should not be noticably moving when the machie is working.
7. Frame
The frame may have what’s called a Roll Over Protection Structure or a Falling Object Protective Structure. If so, make sure there is noting outstanding that could put the operator in danger. Ensure each piece is on it properly and that there are no bends.
8. Test drive
After a visual inspection, it might also be necessary to take it out for a spin so you can be very sure it’s what you need and that it functions properly. You can get a fine sense of how it can handle projects and make sure what you saw works as it should.
The next and only step is to get the machine home from the auction. Auctions are a great place to get second hand heavy machinery. If you’re looking for an upcoming auction, either online or in-person, take a look at our site today!
