Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2025-01-28 Origin: Site
CAT excavators are well-known in the engineering field, and second-hand CAT excavators are also very popular. However, you have to be more careful when purchasing. Let's talk about the purchasing guide below.
1. Clarify your own needs
Type of project: If you are doing earthwork excavation, such as digging a big pit, leveling the ground, etc., then the general standard model may be enough. But if it is a mining operation, you have to choose a second-hand CAT excavator designed specifically for mining. This type of excavator has a stronger structure and can withstand greater impact. If you are doing some small construction projects or municipal maintenance in the city, a small CAT excavator has good maneuverability and is convenient for entering and exiting narrow sites.
Operation volume: If the engineering operation volume is particularly large, you must choose a larger and more powerful model, otherwise it will be slow to work and delay the construction period. If the operation volume is not large and you use it occasionally, choose a medium or small one, which can also save costs.
2. Check the appearance of the equipment
Overall condition: Walk around the excavator a few times to see if there are obvious signs of collision and deformation on the body. If there are large dents or deformations, it may mean that the machine has experienced a serious accident and the internal structure may also be damaged.
Paint and rust: The condition of the original paint can reflect the use environment and maintenance level of the machine. If the paint is severely peeling and there are many places that are rusted, the excavator may have worked for a long time in a humid or harsh environment. Be careful whether the parts inside are also corroded. However, it is normal for some parts to have slight rust, after all, you are working on the construction site.
3. Check key components
Engine: Start the engine and listen to the sound. The normal engine sound should be smooth and low. If there are abnormal knocking sounds, roaring sounds or severe shaking, the engine may be faulty. Look at the exhaust color of the engine again. Black smoke may indicate incomplete combustion, and blue smoke may be burning oil.
Hydraulic system: Operate the excavator arm, bucket, etc. to see if the movement is smooth and powerful. If the movement is slow or there is a jam, there may be a leak or failure in the hydraulic pump, cylinder or pipeline. Check the color and level of the hydraulic oil. The oil is too dirty or the level is too low.
4. Understand the usage history
Working hours: Just like the mileage of a car, the working hours of an excavator are very important. Generally speaking, the shorter the working hours, the better. However, some well-maintained machines may be better than those with short working hours and poor maintenance even if they have long working hours.
Maintenance records: Try to ask the seller for maintenance records to see what repairs the excavator has had before. If it is frequently repaired, especially overhauled key parts such as the engine and hydraulic system, then the machine may have problems later.
5. Choose a reliable seller
Formal dealers: It is more reliable to buy from regular CAT used equipment dealers. They generally test and refurbish the equipment, and the after-sales service is also guaranteed.
