Tuesday, August 23, 2011

When purchasing used construction equipment, it's important to complete a through inspection. If the equipment passes safety checks, conduct the final inspection using these guidelines.

  • Check for minor damage to the cab, frame, attachments, etc.
  • Confirm that moving parts (gears, drums, shafts, belts) and all hot surfaces (exhaust lines, pipes) are guarded.
  • Examine piece-specific devices that have been added for safety. Check the owner's manual to locate them.
  • With the equipment started and in motion, check the error-indicators on the front panel.
  • Confirm that the gauges and displays function properly.
  • Listen for abnormal noises. (This is another reason to bring an experienced operator.)
  • Ensure exhausts and discharges are directed in a way that would not endanger personnel or obstruct the operator's view.


Pedro Negrin is the director of used equipment and Bill Pyles is the vice president of service for Nortrax, a North American dealer for John Deere Construction and Forestry retailers. The company has 52 dealers in the eastern and central portions of the United States and Canada and recently reached six million work hours without a lost-time injury.