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How to Inspect Tracks and Undercarriage on a Used Excavator
2026-11-11
Undercarriage can eat 40–50% of a used excavator’s remaining value. Buyers who only watch boom speed often miss track and roller wear that shows up as a large bill weeks after landing. Use this short inspection method on photos, video or at the yard.
1. Track pads and pins
Look for cracked or missing pads, stretched pitch (loose tracks), and pins that show daylight. A chain near the end of life will slap and jump on the sprocket during travel.
2. Sprockets, rollers and idlers
Sprocket teeth should still look pointed, not rounded to a thin knife. Carrier and track rollers with deep side wear or oil leaks mean replacements soon. Dry idlers or seized rollers create flat spots and heat.
3. Frame and guards
Check for bent track frames, missing guards and welded cracks near the sprocket housings. Hard rock or demolition work leaves scars that predict future alignment problems.
4. Travel test
Ask for a straight-line travel video in both directions on firm ground, then a gentle turn. Pulling to one side, grinding or smoke from a final drive points to drive or brake issues—not just “soft tracks.”
5. Budget the remaining life
If undercarriage is under 40% remaining, price the machine as if you will replace chains and rollers after arrival. Honest sellers in Shanghai will estimate remaining life; vague answers are a reason to inspect harder or choose another unit.
Send us a model and destination—we can measure and video undercarriage on stock excavators before you reserve.
Looking for a used excavator or wheel loader?
YC Used Machinery / Shanghai Yongcheng Used Machinery
No.68 Qinggao Road, Fengxian District, Shanghai, China
WhatsApp: +86 166 8175 4290 · Email: vangher43@gmail.com
Website: https://selldigger.com
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