Inspection
Used excavator inspection checklist
Prepare identity, operating and wear questions for a machine-specific inspection and keep the evidence tied to the stock ID.
Content updated:
Start here
Start by confirming which machine is being inspected. Agree the checks and evidence, record known defects and leave unresolved items open until the relevant information is supplied.
In this guide
Establish the unit and the review scope
Ask for the identification plate, stock reference and displayed-hour evidence. Agree whether the review is an onsite visit, remote video or an independent inspection, and what the reviewer will record.
- Confirm the inspection date and the identity of the unit reviewed.
- Ask which systems and operating checks are included.
- Keep a list of checks that were not performed or could not be assessed.
Request evidence of operation
A short clip of movement does not answer every condition question. Ask the reviewer to explain the engine, hydraulic, travel and control checks being performed and to record limitations or observations.
- Request relevant engine and hydraulic observations with supporting images or video.
- Ask for known leaks, abnormal behaviour and unresolved findings to be documented.
- Use an appropriately qualified reviewer; agree safe test conditions and the review scope before operating the machine.
Review wear with close-ups
Caterpillar's maintenance guidance includes tracks, undercarriage wear, cooling-system leaks and attachment damage as inspection topics. For a purchase, request relevant close-ups and written observations for the exact unit.
- Ask for both sides of the undercarriage and the areas the reviewer identifies as worn.
- Request boom, stick, bucket and joint details where condition needs clarification.
Keep findings separate from assumptions
Model specifications describe a design. Exterior photographs show what was photographed. Neither establishes that every inspection item passed. Ask the reviewer to distinguish observed findings, untested items and recommendations.
- Associate the report, photographs and video with the same stock ID and date.
- Ask what disclosed defects or proposed repairs mean for your purchase decision.
- Agree any requested work separately and ask how completion will be documented.
Your enquiry checklist
- Stock ID, identification plate and displayed hours.
- Inspection format, date and agreed scope.
- Operating evidence and recorded limitations.
- Wear close-ups and disclosed defects.
- Untested items and follow-up questions.
References and their scope
These references provide general context. They do not establish the condition of an individual machine or confirm a shipment.
- Caterpillar: excavator maintenance checks ↗
General maintenance inspection topics. This is not a purchase inspection report or evidence about our stock.
Reference checked:
Discuss the next step
Inspection and condition reports ↗
Onsite visits, video inspections, written condition reports and support for third-party inspections are available. Ask to review the exact machine's identification plate, displayed hours, engine, hydraulics and undercarriage, together with photographs and operating video.
Plan the evidence for your selected machine.
Share the stock ID and the checks that matter to your work.