Excavator Buying Guide
If you are in the market for an excavator, making an informed decision that fits your needs and budget is essential. Excavators are expensive equipment; selecting the wrong one could significantly impact your business operations.
This guide will provide the information you need to make a well-informed decision. We will discuss the different types of excavators available, the features to consider when buying, important buying considerations, and maintenance and operating costs. Whether you are a construction company owner or a contractor, this guide will help you invest wisely in an excavator that will serve you well for years.
What To Look For
Buying an excavator is a significant investment, and choosing the right one that suits your needs and budget is essential. With so many different types and models of excavators available, it can be overwhelming to know what to look for. When buying an excavator, there are several key factors to consider, including:
Size
Excavators come in various sizes, from compact to large, heavy-duty models. Consider the type of work you will be doing and the size of the area you will work in when choosing a size.
Dig depth
The digging depth refers to the maximum depth that the excavator can reach. Consider the depth of the trenches or holes you will be digging when choosing a dig depth.
Reach
The reach refers to the distance the excavator can extend from the machine’s center. This is important to consider when working in tight spaces or reaching over obstacles.
Power
Excavators are powered by either diesel or electric motors. Diesel engines are more powerful, but electric motors are quieter and more environmentally friendly.
Features
Some excavators have additional features such as GPS, cameras, and attachments. Consider what features will be most beneficial for your specific job.
Brand
Some brands are known for their durability and longevity, while others may be less reliable. Research the brand reputation and customer feedback before purchasing.
Price
Excavators can be quite expensive, especially new ones, so be sure to set a budget and compare prices from different sellers and brands.
Maintenance Cost
Owning an excavator also means maintaining it, and it can be costly, so it’s best to factor in the cost of maintenance and repair when deciding on a budget.
Features and Specifications
Excavators are versatile machines with various features and specifications to help you do the job effectively. When purchasing an excavator, consider these features and specifications to ensure that you select the suitable machine for your needs.
Weight And horsepower
The weight and horsepower of an excavator are critical specifications to consider, as they determine the machine's overall power and capabilities. A heavier engine with a higher horsepower is ideal for large construction projects, while a lighter machine is suitable for smaller jobs.
Hydraulic flow/pressure
Excavators use hydraulic systems to power their movements and attachments, making hydraulic flow and pressure crucial specifications to consider. A higher flow and pressure mean the machine can move more quickly and power attachments more efficiently.
Strength and reach
The strength and reach of an excavator refer to its lifting capacity and how far it can go. These specifications are essential to lifting and moving heavy materials or reaching deep into a trench.
Climate Control
Excavators equipped with climate control systems provide a comfortable working environment for the operator, making it easier to work for long hours in hot or cold weather conditions.
Remote Monitoring
Some excavators come equipped with remote monitoring systems that allow you to remotely monitor the machine's performance and maintenance needs. This feature can help you identify issues early on and avoid costly repairs.
Angled Backfill Blades
Angled backfill blades are attachments that help you shape and level the soil, making them ideal for landscaping and construction projects.
Zero Tail Swing
Zero tail swing excavators are ideal for working in tight spaces, as they can rotate 360 degrees without the rear of the machine extending beyond the tracks or tires.
Control Patterns
Excavators come with different control patterns, such as ISO and SAE, which determine the orientation of the machine's controls. Choosing a control pattern you are comfortable with is vital to operate the machine efficiently.
Product Recommendations
Excavators are versatile machines with various features and specifications to help you do the job effectively. When purchasing an excavator, consider these features and specifications to ensure that you select the suitable machine for your needs.
Excavator Attachments
Breaker-Hammer
Used for breaking up concrete or rock surfaces.
Bucket and Thumb
Used for general digging and material handling.
Vibratory Compactor
A quick coupler system allows for rapid attachment changes, increasing efficiency and versatility on job sites.
Coupler
A quick coupler system allows for rapid attachment changes, increasing efficiency and versatility on job sites.
Drum Cutter
Used for precision excavation and cutting in areas where larger equipment could be more practical.
Auger
Used for drilling holes in the ground, typically for fencing, planting trees, or installing poles.
Pile Driver
This is useful for driving pilings into the ground. These attachments can be hydraulic or mechanical and come in different sizes and shapes depending on the piling size and ground conditions.
Magnet
This attachment is used for picking up and removing metal debris on job sites. These can be particularly useful in scrap metal, waste, or debris areas. Magnet attachments come in different sizes and strengths depending on the application.
Excavator Model Types
Long Reach Excavators
These excavators are designed with a longer boom and arm, which allows them to reach further and deeper into excavations. They are commonly used for dredging, demolition, and deep digging projects.
High-Reach Excavators
These excavators are similar to long-reach excavators but are designed to work at greater heights. They are commonly used for building demolition and high-rise construction projects.
Production-Class Excavator
A production-class excavator is a large, versatile machine that can move large amounts of dirt or rock quickly. They are typically over 50 tons in weight and are used in a variety of applications, including construction, mining, and aggregates operations.
Compact excavator
These excavators are designed to excavate soil and debris using a vacuum system. They are commonly used for digging trenches and excavating around buried utilities, where traditional excavation methods could damage underground pipes and cables. The vacuum system allows for more precise excavation and reduces the risk of damage to underground infrastructure.
SHOULD I BUY A NEW OR USED EXCAVATOR FOR SALE?
Buying a new or used excavator depends on your budget, intended use, and other factors. A new excavator will generally come with the latest features and technologies and be more reliable, but it will also be more expensive. A used excavator may be more affordable but require more maintenance and a shorter lifespan. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of each option, assess your needs, and consider the total cost of ownership before deciding whether to buy a new or used excavator.
FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING NEW EXCAVATOR
- EPA Tier 4 Requirements for Excavators
- Excavator Fuel Efficiency
- Operation Experience
- Used Excavators May Still Win Out
FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN INSPECTING A USED EXCAVATOR
- History of the Excavator
- Inspect the Exterior
- Check Out the Slew Ring
- Examine the Connection Points
- Check Hydraulics for Major Leaks
- Look the Bucket for Damage
- Excavator Tires
- Swivel Joint
- Manufacturer Customer Support & Parts Availability
- Inspect the Hour Meter
SUMMARY
Overall, the guide is a helpful tool for those looking to make an informed decision when buying an excavator. It provides information on the different features and specifications to consider when choosing an excavator, such as weight and horsepower, hydraulic flow/pressure, strength and reach, and control patterns. The guide also covers different excavator model types, weight classes, brands, and attachments. It offers recommendations on which excavator to choose based on your specific needs and preferences, and whether to buy a new or used excavator.