How To Check the Equipment You Purchase From Used Machinery Dealers

Purchasing used equipment is a good way to save money on machinery for your business or personal use. Used machinery dealers should source their inventory from reputable vendors and verify the equipment is in good working condition before selling it to customers.

You can still check your equipment after purchasing it to make sure it meets your standards. Here are some things to check after buying used machinery: 

Engine

Perform a visual inspection of the engine for oil buildup, rust, corrosion, or other damage. After cleaning the visible residue, turn the engine on to determine how well it works. Unusual sounds or smells may signify a mechanical issue that requires professional help.

An unusual exhaust color or volume may also be a sign of engine trouble. If you are experienced with mechanical repairs, you can complete a thorough diagnostic test to determine potential issues. These tests indicate whether the engine is burning fuel efficiently, has trouble starting, or may stall during use. 

Fluids

After purchasing equipment from used machinery dealers, assess the machinery’s fluid levels. This includes the engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and hydraulic oil. Proper levels of these fluids enable efficient machinery operations.

They reduce friction and keep the temperature in a safe range. If any of the fluids are low, explore the user manual or maintenance records to identify the correct refill products and when the last cleanout happened. Replacing engine oil after purchasing equipment gets rid of contaminants or buildup that may have accumulated while the equipment was out of use.

Structure

Inspect the machinery’s core structure to confirm that it will be safe for use. Examine the equipment’s legs, axles, chassis, and other weight-bearing parts for rust, corrosion, or faulty welds that could compromise its structural integrity.

Small structural issues, like loose screws or bolts, could lead to hazardous working conditions over time. Tighten all fasteners to prepare the equipment for safe, heavy-duty performance. 

Moving Parts

Check the moving parts of your used machinery to identify rust or deteriorated belts that could decrease the equipment’s efficiency. If the equipment has been sitting for an extended period or subjected to harsh environments, belts that control the engine timing and other processes may become cracked and damaged.

Blades, wheels, suspension systems, and other aspects may need to be lubricated to restore smooth movement and prevent rust from developing. If you notice extra vibrations or loud, high-pitched sounds while the machinery is on, this may be a sign that a moving part needs to be repaired or replaced.

Equipment Records

Explore the usage and maintenance history of your newly purchased machinery. Comparing this data to similar products on the market gives you an insight into how your equipment matches functionality standards for its age and usage. The equipment records should also detail how the equipment was used and cared for.

Exploring past maintenance records helps you understand which issues to look out for in the future and potential solutions for machinery breakdowns. Machinery that has been regularly serviced may be in better condition than a machine that only had professional care after a major issue.

Understanding the type of work companies or individuals used the machinery for highlights whether it was used occasionally or for multiple hours per workday. Heavily used machinery may need some repairs or services to restore optimal function.

Explore Used Machinery Dealers

Before purchasing used machinery, ask the dealer whether they have performed safety and quality checks. Reputable dealers should be transparent about the equipment’s condition and history. They should also be willing to present you with all the equipment’s documentation and ownership records. Contact a used machinery dealer today to learn more about how they find and check their equipment.