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Tips when shopping used equipment

Written by Toromont Cat | Jul 12, 2024 5:53:46 PM

You’re ready to buy used. Great! 

How can you be sure you’re not only getting the deal you want, but also the right machine for the job?

We get this question a lot. That’s why we asked one of our in-house experts, Phil Lacey, to give us tips on shopping used.

 

5 things you should verify when buying used equipment

 

Who is selling the equipment?

Anyone who’s bought a used car or a house knows that not all owners put the same effort into maintenance. 

 

The good news: by buying from a trusted dealer like Toromont, you get complete transparency for sellers AND buyers.

 

How is the general appearance of the machine?

Looks matter! A dented machine that hasn’t been cleaned since the Stone Age could indicate that its previous owner hasn’t taken great care of it.

 

Having high resolution photos, like those on Toromont Equip, can help. So can videos - when possible, we include those, too.

 

Check the main components

  • Look for cracks in the frame, boom, stick, cab, and ROPS.
  • Are there welds and repairs? Both can be a sign of abuse.

 

Verify the anti-pollution system

  • Is it working properly?
  • Has it been tampered with or modified?
  • Having an anti-pollution system that works isn’t just convenient - it’s the law.

Pay particular attention to machines 2017 or newer.

 

Find out what applications the machine was used for

Was it on a jack hammer breaking cement for the last 10,000 hours, experiencing ongoing, significant vibration and wear? Or was it on a farm digging ditches in the summer?

 

Buying used can be a nerve-wracking experience. At Toromont Equip, our mission is to make the experience as painless - and productive - as possible.

 

ToromontEquip.com

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