4 Things You Should Do When Buying a Used Wheel Loader
Before purchasing a wheel loader, you must inspect all its parts. Important documents, such as the service history of a wheel loader, should be provided by the dealer. It should detail how it was used in the past. Other than that, you should just carefully inspect the major parts and take the vehicle on a test drive.
Here are some tips you could take note of when inspecting a wheel loader:
#1: Check the Maintenance and Service History
Before buying a used wheel loader, the first thing you must do is check the maintenance and service history. It is crucial to ensure that the previous owners followed the recommended maintenance intervals to extend the life of a wheel loader.
A good dealer will keep all information on when the machinery was used and how it was maintained. If a wheel loader has a great record of preventative maintenance and inspections, you can be assured that it’s reliable.
#2 Inspect All of the Major Areas
You’d want to make sure that everything is worth your money. A good dealer will let you conduct your own inspection of the wheel loader. Here are a few areas you can look at when inspecting:
- Bucket: Check the front of the bucket to see if all teeth are attached securely. Look for any damage to the side panels and the leading edge. See if there are also damaged bushings or loose pins. Inspect the lift arms and life arm cylinders for any damage.
- Cad: Make sure that foot pedals, joysticks, seats, and any controls are in good condition. Start the wheel loader, and see if the gauges are working. Check the reading of the hour meter.
- Frames: If your wheel loader comes with a Roll Over Protection Structure, see if there is any damage that could endanger the operator. If it has a Falling Object Protective Structure, inspect the slide screens to ensure they are undamaged and secured to the frame.
- Hydraulic System: See if there are any damaged cylinders and hoses. Make sure that the hose couplings don’t have any scratches or breaks. For cylinders, check for dents, scratches, or leaks.
- Engine: Search for any loose belts of leaks. You can also look at the air filter to see when its last service date was.
- Center Articulation Point: This is located at the midpoint of the underside of the cab, so check for any damage and wear. Top and bottom pins would make up and down movements during operation if they have been severely damaged.
- Tires, Wheels, and Rims: Inspect the metal of the rims for damage, such as cracks, rust, or dents. You can also see if there was any damage or wear to the tire tread.
#3 Know How It Was Used
Being aware of how a wheel loader was used can predict its longevity. Inquire with the dealer about who owned the machine before and if they for extremely rough or heavy materials. Find out how often the machine was used. Its history will tell you of its reliability.
#4: Take the Wheel Loader on a Test Drive
Never forget to take the wheel loader on a test drive before buying it, so you can know how it works and if it works properly. Check if there are any severe issues. You’ll see the low and high RPMs and if there are any irregularities.
Recap
As a buyer, it is important to make sure you get your money’s worth in buying a wheel loader as a buyer. After all, it should last long and give you excellent service for it to be a worthy investment. Checking its important parts, test driving it, and examining its documents are some things you should do.
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