Known for their mobility and speed, wheel loaders are extremely versatile machines, capable of efficiently moving sand, rocks, dirt, and other materials. Wheel loaders also have an articulating body that makes it easy to handle different applications and terrain. Are you looking to buy a used wheel loader soon? Check out this guide on buying a used wheel loader.

Different Types of Wheel Loaders

Wheel loaders are listed based on their capacity, weight and horsepower, as well as what kind of terrain and projects they are equipped to handle.

Generally, these fall into three categories:

Small loaders: Also called mini or compact loaders, they have a smaller footprint and are suited for lighter loads. They’re common in agriculture and landscaping fields.

Medium-sized machines: Sometimes called standard size, they have more power than their smaller counterparts but are more compact than industrial rigs. You’ll find them at many construction and forestry sites that require general earth and material moving.

Large wheel loaders: These are considered industrial-sized and have powerful engines equipped for heavy loads and tough terrains, such as mining sites.

How can I make sure I’m buying a good used wheel loader?

A personal inspection of the wheel loader before buying gives even more confidence. Before starting to inspect a wheel loader, the essential thing to consider is:

The conditions the machine will work in (e.g., loading screening material, digging out of a hard bank, etc.)

The materials that the machine will carry (e.g., abrasive material, such as rock, or a topsoil material, which is less abusive to the machine?)

When inspecting a used loader, consider starting with the following:

1. A quick visual inspection

Inspection should always start with a short walk around the wheel loader. The overall appearance always says a lot about how the machine was previously used.

Starting at the front of the machine: Look at the attachments, bucket, front tire, articulating joint, rear tires, engine, rear attachments, etc.

As you move around, check for any signs of abuse, such as dents, welds, cracks, rust, broken glass, or fish plate welding that could indicate past repairs or structural issues.

Arriving at the back, pay specific attention to the radiator grill and air intake for damage.

2. Underneath the machine

Examine the machine’s undercarriage (transmission drive shaft and axles) for leaks or other damage. If possible, try out the loader to ensure the transmission shifts smoothly without delay, vibrations or unusual noises.

3. The tires

Inspect all four tires separately and look for sidewall damage or rock cuts. Note if there are any retreads. Also, note if there are specialty tires and pay attention to whether all the tires are of the same brand or model.

4. Bucket and attachments

Bucket: Examine the cutting edge of the teeth and the overall condition of the bucket for any bends, cracks, or excessive wear.

Bucket linkage and loader arms: Look closely for any signs of welding on fish plates. Then, look at all pin areas at the front (the boom tilt cylinder, tilt rod end, and boom cylinder), paying specific attention to the grease points. To ensure the loader has been greased recently, wipe your hands down the cylinder chrome to see if it is wet or dry. Finally, don’t forget to check for corrosion in this area.

5. Steering linkage and center pivot

The steering linkage is highly susceptible to cracks. Start with checking the articulating joint for cracks, welds, any obvious play or leaks in the steering cylinders, or any leaks at the back of the transmission.

6. Inside the cab

Is it a ROPS (roll-over protective structures) unit? Ensure there is no structural damage. Is it a cab unit? Check the condition of the door, windows, and sheet metal around the cab for structural damage or rust.

Ensure that the seat is not ripped and that it moves easily. Also, confirm that all switches, gears, and controls work well. Work all buttons, levers, lights and flashers, heat and air conditioners. Finally, check for additional systems such as:

Ride control

Load measuring system

Rearview camera

Final tip: Remember to take a photo of the hour meter and vin plate.

How to Buy a Used Wheel Loader?

Shopping used equipment can be very beneficial for your bottom line. While you save on the initial purchase price, you can also generally expect lower insurance costs and a slower depreciation rate than with a new model.

You have two options when purchasing a used wheel loader: private sellers and used equipment providers. Private sellers are typically individuals selling their own machines, while used dealerships carry an inventory of various equipment, parts and attachments.

Shopping with a used equipment provider is the safest option, as it comes with a level of quality assurance you can’t get buying from an individual. Dealerships may offer warranties and specials, and you’re not limited to one machine’s specs.

Buy Your Used Wheel Loader With Confidence at XIANGJUE EXCAVATION MACHINERY 

XIANGJUE has a large inventory of second-hand construction machinery, including used wheel loaders, used excavators, etc. at competitive prices. All of our equipment listings include detailed specifications of the machine along with pictures and videos.