{ "type": "article-standard", "settings": {}, "author": "Simon Blackburn", "blog_id": "", "body_html": "", "created_at": "17.05.2021", "content": "<p>It’s widely believed that an excavator can do a job that’s equivalent to twenty people manually taking on the same work load. It’s undoubtedly one of the most useful pieces of equipment on a construction site, but when it comes to buying an excavator, you need to do plenty of research. Buying one is an investment that shouldn’t be taken lightly.</p> <p>The first decision is whether to buy new or used. New excavators are expensive, but generally they will have better fuel efficiency and a longer warranty. A used excavator will be more affordable and if checked thoroughly will provide you with the same level of functionality and durability.</p> <h4 class="hr-2">Scope and functionality</h4> <p>Excavators have moved on from the traditional crawler type with one large book and tracks. Spider excavators are perfect if you’re working on sloping sites. Long reach excavators have an expansive outreach while still digging deep into the ground. For tight spaces, a zero-swing excavator allows for 360 degree manoeuvrability and has a fixed footprint on the ground. Make sure you’re buying the right excavator for your chosen work.</p> <h4>Take it for a test drive</h4> <p>Just like a used car, you’ll want to test drive it. If it’s a used excavator climb into the excavator machine and check how it performs under load. Listen carefully for any unfamiliar noises. Check the stick, boom and bucket and that no bushings or pins are loose.</p> <p>Don’t forget to look at the undercarriage as well, taking a close inspection of the chains, sprockets and rollers. The condition of the tracks should come under scrutiny as well as wheels and tyres.</p> <p>If there’s an enclosed cab, ensure that the door shuts firm, and the latches are in order. Are there any chips or cracks on the glass screens and do the wipers work?</p> <h4>Inspect the engine and hydraulics</h4> <p>Pay careful attention to the engine because it’s the lifeblood of your machine. Does it look fairly clean or is it dirty and grubby? Examine the fluid levels and ensure there are no oil leaks.</p> <p>Inspect your cylinders, hoses and lines. A hydraulic leak could signal a major problem or could just mean a seal needs replacing. Investigate the hydraulic pump and look for signs that could be spark trouble.</p> <p>The hydraulic pump can be expensive to replace and when it starts to wear debris can get into the system affecting its performance. Check that it’s not emitting too much heat or that the cylinders are running slow or erratically.</p> <h4>Check the external bodywork</h4> <p>Excavators take a great deal of pounding, so check for cracks especially on the weld joints and don’t be afraid to ask about any dents. Severe bodywork damage may indicate the structural integrity is compromised. Scuffs and scratches are to be expected and should be viewed as just cosmetic damage.</p> <p>Himac Attachments is West Australian’s leading specialist in quality machinery attachments. We have more than 600 products, all Australian made which are proven to have twice the longevity of the industry average. For all your excavator attachments, why not give us a call today and find out why we’re the company of choice for the construction, farming and earth moving industry.</p>", "excerpt": "It’s one of the most useful pieces of construction equipment, but when it comes to buying an excavator, you need to do plenty of research.", "excerpt_or_content": "It’s one of the most useful pieces of construction equipment, but when it comes to buying an excavator, you need to do plenty of research.", "handle": "the-himac-herald/things-to-look-for-when-buying-an-excavator", "id": "556441436342", "image": { "alt": "Things to Look For When Buying an Excavator", "src": "//himac.com.au/cdn/shop/articles/himac-attachments-blog-things-to-look-for-when-buying-an-excavator_1x1.jpg?v=1621825470" }, "published_at": "17.05.2021", "summary_html": "", "tags": [ "construction equipment", "excavator", "purchasing equipment" ], "template_suffix": "", "title": "Things to Look For When Buying an Excavator", "updated_at": "2022-10-25 09:42:13 +0800", "user_id": "", "next_article": "", "previous_article": "" }