How To Inspect A Used Wheel Loader
Buying a used wheel loader may seem like a good deal to many landscapers
, earthmovers, arborists and construction operators with a tight operating budget. However, you must be prepared to thoroughly inspect a used wheel loader to determine if it is still in good working condition and if it is a worthwhile investment. In this article, we give you some guidelines on how to inspect each part of a used wheel loader.
Appearance
Slowly walk around the wheel loader, taking in as much as you can from its over-all appearance. Take note of any damage or repairs you observe. Check for sign of oil leaks, damage to the tin work, doors, glass, tyres, radiator, bucket and loader frame. As you move around the loader, check the fluid in the radiator, transmission and batteries. Also inspect smaller items such as lighting and wiring. Have a good, long look at the loader. You will often know how hard the loader has been working and the degree of its wear and tear by closely looking at its appearance.
Tyres and wheels
When inspecting the tyres, the wheel loader must be on a level surface with all tyres inflated to the same pressure. Check the size of the tyres and inspect whether they have been relugged, recapped or have cuts. Pay close attention to the insides of the tyres because this is where the cuts and damages are usually hidden. Estimate the wear of the tyre. If you purchase the loader, will you still be able to use them or will they need replacing?
When inspecting the wheels, check the rims inside and out for damage. Watch out for loose nuts that have allowed the stud holes to elongate. This causes the wheel to keep going loose and poses a safety risk.
Brakes
If the wheel loader is fitted with outboard discs, inspect the callipers, pads, discs and hydraulic lines. Evaluate if replacement discs are needed as they can be expensive. If the wheel loader is fitted with inboard discs, inspection and testing can be done during the test drive.
Frame
Inspect the structural areas thoroughly. A misalignment or fracture in one area can cause major failure in another. Check for points or areas that have been previously repaired or welded. Also check if the outer and inner frame has been repaired or plated to reduce breakage and failure. Were the repairs done professionally?
Also take a look at the loader frame and check the pins and bushes for signs of deterioration. If you see any welded areas, check for cracks. Since you are looking at a second hand wheel loader, some wear and tear is expected but excessive wear in the loader frame can be very costly to have repaired.
Engine
If the engine starts easily and runs smoothly without any leaks or noises, you can safely say that it is in good condition. As the engine warms up, check if the gauges are working properly. If you observe bubbles or oil in the radiator, coolant in the engine oil, blue exhaust smoke, white exhaust smoke or excessive black exhaust smoke think twice before buying the used loader. These are signs of engine problems that will be expensive to have repaired.
Transmission
Similar to the engine, if the transmission is working smoothly and there are no obvious faults such as leaks or noises, then it is still in good condition. If you are feeling unsure, you may call the wheel loader dealer and ask them to conduct a pressure test in all ranges.
If the loader has hydraulic transmission and you observe a problem with it, you must call the dealer to have its components tested.
Bucket
Inspect the bucket for any sign of wear on its underside and back. Check for excessive wear at the bucket mounting points, particularly its bottom pins and bushes. Also, look for any cracks in all areas of the bucket. Bucket repairs are simple but they will cost you money especially if you need to replace the cutting edge, teeth and adaptor.
Some final words
Buying a second hand wheel loader can often be tricky as the unit and repairs that it will need may cost you more than the price of a new wheel loader. Before making the decision to purchase a used wheel loader, do your research first. Find out how much a new wheel loader will cost and compare it to the cost of a second hand unit plus its repairs. You may be pleasantly surprised to realise that a new wheel loader may cost less. It will also help to consult with a trusted wheel loader supplier as they can give you the best advice on which loader will be a worthwhile investment for you.
by: Tom Jerrat
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