Whether you are buying an excavator, a wheel loader, a dozer or a backhoe, the inspection follows the same logic: work through each major system methodically, cold, and let what you find set the price. This checklist works for any used heavy machine. Print it, take it to the inspection, and do not skip a section because you are in a hurry — the sections you skip are exactly where the expensive surprises hide.
Always inspect cold
Insist on seeing the machine started from cold — engine off and unheated. The first thirty seconds of a cold start reveal more than an hour of driving a warm machine. A seller who insists the machine is "already warmed up" may be hiding a hard-start or smoking problem.
1. Engine
- Cold-start and watch the exhaust — heavy blue or black smoke, or excessive blow-by, signals a tired engine.
- Check for oil, coolant and fuel leaks.
- Inspect belts, hoses, the radiator and cooling system.
- Listen for knocking, ticking or irregular running.