Purchasing a secondhand excavator, whether a $25,000 excavator or a $250,000 33-tonner, is a huge capital investment in anyone’s books and certainly not a choice to be made lightly. Earthmoving rookies may be intimidated by the intricacy of these machines, and even seasoned owners may go into a purchase with their eyes closed, failing to do their homework before purchasing their ideal machine.
Here is a closer look at some things to consider when considering amphibious excavators for sale.
Ask About Service History
An accurate and complete service history is critical since it determines if the machine has been maintained appropriately. If no history is provided, assume that the machine was not maintained according to the manufacturer’s specifications. The experts at Wilco Manufacturing, LLC know that maintenance is key to extending the life of any machine.
Confirm Machine Hours
Does the machine seem and function in accordance with the reported hours or what the mechanical meter may be displaying? Is it possible to obtain equipment hours, alarms, and other information to validate the hours when looking at amphibious excavators for sale? This is when having a complete service history comes in handy. If the machine’s condition doesn’t appear right based on the hours, it’s usually not.
Look at Safety Compliance
Is the excavator safe for use on your site? Check for a model identification-stamped certification plate installed within the cabin to indicate that the cab is rollover protection structure approved. Flashing lights, reverse alarms, E-stops, and a fire extinguisher may all be required, so make sure they’re installed and operational. Ensure you have a copy of the operator’s manual in the cab.
