Inspection of Undercarriage of Used Excavator: A Purchasing Guide
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A used excavator may start well and dig smoothly while still needing substantial undercarriage work. For contractors, equipment dealers, and rental fleets, that work can change the value of a quotation.
Therefore, compare the tracks and their supporting components alongside the engine and hydraulics. Ask for evidence that identifies what is worn, what remains serviceable, and what preparation is included.
Hefei Longmai Construction Machinery Trading Co., Ltd. supplies used construction machinery for international buyers. Its crawler excavator listings give procurement teams several models to assess against project and maintenance requirements.
Identify the Installed Undercarriage First
Begin with the machine serial number, exact model version, and current photographs. Then confirm the installed track arrangement and any known replacement history.
Longmai’s used CAT 320D2 excavator page distinguishes standard and long-undercarriage configurations. This illustrates why a model name alone may not identify the parts required.
Record track shoe width, relevant part numbers, and configuration details before requesting replacement prices. Also ask whether the supplied manuals match the offered machine.
This creates a sound basis for inspection and helps prevent ordering parts for a different version.
Review the Main Components Separately
“Good tracks” is too broad for a commercial purchase. A useful inspection report separates the major areas.
| Component group | Evidence to request |
| Track shoes and hardware | Wear, damage, loose or missing hardware, and fitted width |
| Track chains, pins, and bushings | Condition observations and applicable wear measurements |
| Lower and carrier rollers | Wear measurements, visible leaks, damage, and mounting condition |
| Idlers and tensioning system | Condition, adjustment findings, and visible damage |
| Sprockets | Tooth wear, cracking, damage, and compatibility findings |
| Track frames and guards | Structural condition, repairs, and missing components |
Ask the inspector to distinguish observations from measured results. Photographs should support the report, while measurements should identify the location and method used.
Request Measurements Behind Wear Percentages
A statement such as “70% undercarriage” leaves several questions unanswered. Does it mean remaining life, wear used, or a visual estimate? Does it describe the chains only or the entire assembly?
Request a component-level report that includes:
- Inspection date and machine identification
- Left- and right-side findings
- Measured dimensions and units
- Applicable manufacturer reference dimensions or service limits
- The basis for any stated wear percentage
- Photographs and recommended action
Manufacturer inspection services use wear measurements to support maintenance decisions. However, a percentage should not be treated as a guaranteed number of future working hours.
Remaining service depends on the component, application, ground conditions, operation, and maintenance.
Match Shoe Width and Track Adjustment to the Job
A wider shoe is not automatically the better choice. Caterpillar advises matching shoe width to underfoot conditions. Komatsu also stresses correct adjustment and regular cleaning as part of undercarriage care.
Tell the supplier whether the machine will work in soft soil, abrasive material, mud, or mixed ground. Include expected travel, turning, and slope conditions.
Then have a qualified technician assess suitability against the specific machine’s instructions. Track adjustment must follow the relevant operation and maintenance manual.
Avoid accepting a generic track-tension measurement that belongs to another model or configuration.
Include an Operational Review
Static photographs provide only part of the condition picture.
Arrange a controlled travel inspection by a qualified operator and inspector using the manufacturer’s procedures. Request observations on travel response, unusual noise, visible tracking problems, and leakage before and after operation.
Any concern should lead to further diagnosis. A travel problem does not, by itself, establish which component needs replacement.
Also retain the complete machine inspection. Undercarriage findings should be considered alongside engine, hydraulic, structural, swing, and final-drive condition.
Longmai lists a used Komatsu PC200 crawler excavator as another sourcing option. Apply the same evidence requirements to each offered unit.
Turn Inspection Findings Into a Repair Scope
Next, ask a qualified service provider to translate the findings into a proposed work list.
Separate work required before acceptance from serviceable wear that can be monitored. Request part numbers, quantities, parts source, labor, freight, and estimated completion time.
Have the technician assess component compatibility before approving isolated replacements. The lowest parts quotation may omit related work needed for a satisfactory repair.
If the seller completes preparation, list it in the purchase agreement. Require completion records and reinspection of the affected areas before release.
Compare Machines on a Consistent Cost Basis
For shortlisting, compare:
Purchase price + agreed preparation + identified near-term repairs + delivery costs
Use the same scope for every candidate. Otherwise, one offer may include repairs that another leaves to the buyer.
For example, compare a unit offered as inspected with a unit offered after specified repairs. Record the difference explicitly instead of treating both descriptions as equivalent.
Longmai’s used SANY SY215C excavator can be included where its configuration suits the project. Obtain machine-specific findings and costs rather than relying on brand reputation alone.
Agree on Inspection and Handover Support
Longmai describes support covering quality inspections, export documentation, international shipping, spare parts, and remote maintenance guidance.
Confirm the available scope for your order. Ask whether an independent undercarriage inspection can be arranged and who pays for any additional measurements.
The handover package should identify the machine, inspection findings, accepted wear, completed work, included parts, and available manuals. For several excavators, maintain a separate file for each serial number.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a low hour-meter reading prove low undercarriage wear?
No. Assess the reading alongside available history, measurements, and the machine’s observed condition.
Do new track shoes mean the whole undercarriage is new?
No. Request separate records for the chains, rollers, idlers, sprockets, and other components.
Should every worn component be replaced before shipment?
The inspection findings, service limits, intended work, and agreed acceptance standard should determine the scope.
Request a Machine-Specific Excavator Quotation
Send Longmai your preferred model, quantity, application, destination port, and condition requirements.
Request current photographs, inspection options, undercarriage evidence, preparation details, and an itemized offer through the relevant product inquiry form.
