If you are looking to buy a used bulldozer, you'll have a lot of questions that need answers. What make and model is best for you? What is the right price range for the machine you're targeting? What should you be inspecting when looking a used bulldozer over?
Here are some tips to buying a used bulldozer to help you avoid investing in a machine that turns into a costly headache.
Confidence in the Seller
You can find used bulldozers for sale everywhere from auctions to the neighbor next door. The level of confidence you have in the seller will go a long way in determining whether or not you decide to buy.
Although you will likely end up paying more from an established used equipment dealer, in the long run it's probably the smartest move. You may very well save thousands of dollars by purchasing a used dozer from a private seller, but the risk of getting into a money trap is increased. Private sellers won't offer warranties. Even if they did, getting them to stand behind the sale would be a minor miracle.
Fortunately, the internet provides plenty of resources to help you with your search. Websites like Machinery Trader provides customers with valuable information to help them make an informed decision.
When considering a seller, do your research and look for red flags specifically poor seller reviews.
If you decide to go in the direction of a private seller, keep in mind their main goal is to sell the equipment. They're not interested in making sure you have the right machine for the job. They will probably tell you anything to sell the machine. Know ahead of time which make, model, and features will best fit your needs.
A reputable reseller will be more interested in making sure you make an informed purchase so you're satisfied with their business. They want you to come back and buy more equipment, not return fired up about a broken machine they bought from you.
Auctions are a good way to get the best of both worlds; quality equipment for a great price. Larger companies that struggle to sell used construction equipment on their own often look to auctions as a last resort. However, as with a private seller, there’s usually no recourse for buyers who end up with a machine that has hidden problems.
2. The Search
The internet is the first place you should start your search. Companies big and small use the internet to advertise what they're selling. You can often see photos and get detailed information on the machine, right from the comfort of your own home.
You will also be able to research the seller, get reviews, and perhaps even reach out to people with experience dealing with the seller.
3. Right Time to Buy
Be aware of when you are deciding to pull the trigger on a used bulldozer. If you have a project looming and need a dozer, your decision making process may be rushed. If possible, anticipate your need for a used dozer so you can be a disciplined consumer.
Keep checking in with equipment dealers as inventory may suddenly become available. Also, stay on top of industry news, market trends, and anything else that could influence used dozer prices.
4. Dozer Inspection
When you find what you think could be the right used dozer for your needs, the fun really begins.
First, ask the seller for as much information on the machine as possible including hours, maintenance records, and machine history. Ask for photos, especially featuring areas of the machine that needed repairs. Private sellers probably won't have this type of information, but reputable dealers probably will. Machine age isn't as important as hours. In many cases, warranties follow the machine.
The next step is the visual inspection. Look for excessive wear, especially concerning the undercarriage. For instance, sharp sprocket teeth will provide a couple bits of information; first, the machine will need new sprockets and secondly, the machine owner may not have taken care of the machine as well as they should have.
A shoddy undercarriage means you're probably going to need a complete replacement and that will cost thousands of dollars. Also look for cracks, rust, and leaks.
If possible, run the machine and let it idle for at least 15 minutes and then look for leaks again. If the seller won't let you run the machine, that could be a huge red flag.
When operating the machine, listen for strange noises, feel for vibrations, or rough operation when executing certain maneuvers.
Having someone with you that may know more about dozers is a great idea. Don't make a bad decision on buying a used dozer because of your ego.
5. Show Your Dozer TLC
Once you make a decision and buy a used dozer, it's important to take care of the old girl. Preventative maintenance is key.
-Daily visual inspection
-Daily check of fluids
-Daily greasing
-Regular checks of the engine
-Document all maintenance
You should also schedule a complete service inspection once a year.
