When choosing a used wheel excavator or a used crawler excavator, several factors need to be considered to ensure you are making a sound investment. Each type of machine has its own strengths and weaknesses, and purchasing a used one requires extra attention to detail. This article will compare these two types of excavators to help you make an informed decision：
1. Assessing the Condition of the Excavator
Engine and Hydraulic System:
Wheel Excavator: Check the engine's performance and inspect the hydraulic system. These excavators are often used for lighter work on smoother surfaces, so the engine may experience less strain. Ensure that the hydraulic system is functioning well, as it is crucial for digging and lifting.
Crawler Excavator: Since crawler excavators typically handle more heavy-duty tasks, it's essential to inspect the engine's overall condition and the hydraulic system. Look for signs of leakage, poor pressure, or slow operation, which may indicate internal issues.
Tracks and Tires:
Wheel Excavator: Tires on a used wheel excavator should have even wear. Check for cracks, punctures, or signs of uneven wear, which may suggest poor maintenance or issues during operation.
Crawler Excavator: Examine the tracks carefully for wear, cracks, or signs of stretching. Worn-out tracks can be expensive to replace. Also, check the rollers, sprockets, and undercarriage components for wear.
2. Work Hours and Maintenance History
Wheel Excavator: Investigate the number of hours the machine has been in operation. Wheel excavators generally require less maintenance than crawler excavators, but you should still check for any major repairs or recurring issues. Request maintenance records to understand how well the machine has been cared for.
Crawler Excavator: Crawler excavators tend to have higher wear and tear due to their usage in more demanding conditions. Check the total working hours and ask for a detailed maintenance history to ensure the machine has been properly serviced and repaired as needed.
3. Usage and Work Environment
Wheel Excavator: If the used wheel excavator has primarily been used for light-duty tasks like urban infrastructure work, road repairs, or material handling on hard, flat surfaces, it may have less wear and tear. Ensure that the machine was used appropriately for its intended tasks.
Crawler Excavator: Check whether the used crawler excavator has been used for heavy-duty construction, mining, or earthmoving tasks. Excessive use in tough conditions (e.g., deep digging, loose soil, or rocky terrain) can cause significant wear to critical components, especially the tracks and undercarriage.
4. Test Drive and Performance
Wheel Excavator: When inspecting a used wheel excavator, take it for a test drive if possible. Ensure that it operates smoothly, accelerates properly, and handles well on different surfaces. Pay attention to any unusual noises or vibrations.
Crawler Excavator: For a used crawler excavator, take it for a test run on different terrains. Check its stability, speed, and smoothness of operation. Make sure the boom, bucket, and tracks function without hesitation.
5. Availability of Spare Parts and Service
Wheel Excavator: Ensure that the manufacturer provides easy access to spare parts and service for the specific model you're considering. If parts are hard to find or expensive, maintenance costs can quickly add up.
Crawler Excavator: Crawler excavators typically require more frequent servicing, and replacement parts can be expensive. Confirm the availability and cost of spare parts, especially for critical components like tracks, sprockets, and hydraulics.
When choosing a used wheel or crawler excavator, the decision ultimately depends on your specific needs and project requirements. A wheel excavator is more suited for light, urban tasks, with faster mobility, while a crawler excavator is ideal for heavy-duty work on rugged terrains. Regardless of the type, always perform a detailed inspection of the used excavators machine’s condition, check the maintenance history, and evaluate its performance to ensure you’re getting good value for your investment. Make sure the machine has been well-maintained, is free from major defects, and is suited to your operational needs.