Are you ready to purchase a used crawler dozer? Well, BTM Machinery has a few things for you to think about while you are making this important decision.
NEW OR USED?
Your most important decision is whether to buy a new or used machine. If you choose to get a used bulldozer, make sure to examine the condition of the undercarriage, the attachments and the hydraulics.
THE UNDERCARRIAGE
Be sure the undercarriage is correct for the environment that the machine will be working in. There are two basic types of undercarriage: standard and heavy duty. A standard is used for basic construction and landscaping work. A heavy duty undercarriage is used in rough terrains. Replacing an undercarriage that does not meet your needs or is in poor condition will cost thousands of dollars.
HYDRAULICS AND ATTACHMENTS
Observe the machine while it is working. Make sure the attachments and hydraulics are working properly. Put the machine through its paces, moving it in all directions and in circles. Move the blade and make sure the ripper works if it has one. Make sure all the controls are operable.
PARTS AVAILABILITY
Check that parts are available. Find multiple sources for the important parts on the machine and get the part numbers for the main pump, hydraulic cylinders and final drives. Be sure that the attachments are not outdated and that unauthorized modifications have not been made.
CHECK THE HOURS
Always check the hours on
the meter. Even though a machine has 8,000
hours it can still be a workhorse; however, make certain to inspect the engine
and the undercarriage to be sure they are not overly worn. If possible find out about the machine’s work and
maintenance history.
COMPARE PRICES
Compare prices on the internet to see what a comparable model with similar hours and age is selling for. Most importantly, buy from an experienced dealer like BTM Machinery. BTM has been selling heavy construction equipment around the world for 20 years for a variety of industries. For more information about buying used dozers, call Blake Thornton at 843-364-7109 to find the machine that is right for your job.