If your business lies in small constructions or mining, excavators are inevitable and a must-buy essential. But if you are looking to make the first purchase or aren’t happy with your previous excavator, it’s high time you learn how to inspect this equipment the right way. And although the primary factor is the size, that isn’t it all!
But before you move on with buying one, it is necessary that you are pretty sure about the requirements, like how long you want them to work on-site and what kind of loads you dig. Also, be sure if you must purchase only the equipment or also a trailer along with it. You might also need spare parts like bobcat Brake Switch to maintain your machinery and good news is that these spare parts are easily available online.
Knowing the Types
Excavators have versatile use cases. But if you are looking for one that exclusively matches your realm, you must know the different types available. The most common models are the crawler, suction, skid steer and backhoe diggers. So, for instance, if you want one for construction and ground clearance, draglines that are dismantlable are the best to buy. However, if you need to clear grounds filled with debris and litter, it’s better to go with suction diggers.
Things to Consider While Buying Excavators
Australia has witnessed the most terrible digger falls, and so an inspection does not hurt. And when buying heavy equipment, you cannot risk overlooking a small malfunction or going with products at a discount to save some money. An inspection of the product specs and the features is highly significant and, to make your journey easier, here are some pro tips:
- Check If It’s True to Its Size
Before that, you must know what sizes are available and which one best suits your requirements. So, when it comes to excavators, there are three prime sizes: small, standard and large. Additionally, you have models like compact radius equipment for heavy-duty projects. And, to check if the diggers are accurate in size, you can cross-check with the ton figure.
For instance, the standard ones are between 7- 44 tons in weight. However, the larger ones weigh more than 48 tons. Next, check the undercarriage size and utility; as for more manageable ground clearance and demolishments, you might need wider undercarriages.
- Start by Inspecting the Slew Ring
The slew ring, made out of high-quality materials, is an expensive part of the equipment. A slew-ring bearing failure can cost you so much with a repair, so, first, it is necessary to check if the grease has reached all the parts of the bearing. You can rotate the housing to cross-check loose connections or unwanted movements. Also, watch out for poor quality seals used on the slew ring, which can loosen the bearing over time.
- Take Heed of Leakages
The hydraulic pump is the next part to inspect. So, watch out for any traces of leaks or hoses that have cracks. And a leaking pump indicates that the fluid has bypassed the shaft, and this simply means that the hydraulic pump needs a replacement. Other indications include increased noise during runs, heating of the pump and output failure. So, always verify if the hoses, pumps and cylinders are functioning flawlessly without leaks.
- Probe Further to Figure Out Dents and Cracks
Undoubtedly, a new excavator must be free of cracks or dents on the surface. So if you find any, then it means it is a used piece. Moreover, splits at significant parts can be tricky, and you must watch out for them. For this, first, check the undercarriage and then the bucket, boom and stick. It is known as weld cracking, and dents at these connection points show a clear red sign.