Address
304 North Cardinal
St. Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Work Hours
Monday to Friday: 7AM - 7PM
Weekend: 10AM - 5PM
Why Are Used Excavators So Popular? Key Insights for Buyers
1. What Makes Used Excavators More Affordable Than New?
Cost Comparison: New vs. Used
| Factor | New Excavator | Used Excavator (3-5 yrs old) |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | 100,000−100,000−300,000+ | 40,000−40,000−150,000 |
| First-Year Depreciation | 20-30% | 5-10% |
| Insurance Costs | $5,000+/year | 2,000−2,000−3,500/year |
| Financing Rates | 5-7% APR | 6-9% APR |
Why Buyers Choose Used:
✔ Immediate savings of 40-60% off new prices
✔ Slower depreciation (Only ~8% annual loss vs. 25% for new)
✔ Proven reliability (No “first-year” mechanical issues)
2. How Long Do Properly Maintained Excavators Typically Last?
Lifespan by Major Brand
| Brand | Average Hours | Maximum Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Caterpillar | 8,000-10,000 | 12,000+ |
| Komatsu | 7,500-9,500 | 11,000+ |
| Hitachi | 7,000-9,000 | 10,000+ |
| Volvo | 6,500-8,500 | 9,500+ |
Extending Longevity:
- 250-hour fluid/filter changes
- Daily undercarriage cleaning
- Annual hydraulic system flushes
Hourly Use Guide:
- 0-3,000 hrs: Like-new condition
- 3,000-6,000 hrs: Prime working years
- 6,000-8,000 hrs: Needs component rebuilds
- 8,000+ hrs: High maintenance costs
3. What Should You Inspect Before Purchasing?
7-Point Pre-Buy Checklist
- Engine
- Cold start test (should fire within 5 seconds)
- Check for blue/black exhaust smoke
- Hydraulics
- Cycle all functions 10+ times (no jerky movements)
- Inspect cylinders for rod pitting
- Undercarriage
- Measure track chain stretch (3%+ = replacement needed)
- Check for cracked rollers/idlers
- Structure
- Look for weld repairs on boom/arm
- Inspect swing bearing for play
- Electronics
- Test all gauges/warning lights
- Verify AC/heater operation
- Attachments
- Check bucket ears for wear
- Test quick coupler functionality
- Documentation
- Verify hour meter matches service records
- Check for outstanding liens
4. Which Brands Hold Value Best?
2025 Resale Value Rankings
| Rank | Brand | 5-Year Value Retention |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Caterpillar | 65-70% |
| 2 | Komatsu | 60-65% |
| 3 | Kubota | 55-60% |
| 4 | Hitachi | 50-55% |
| 5 | Volvo | 45-50% |
Why Cat/Komatsu Dominate:
- Global parts availability
- Standardized technology across generations
- Strong dealer networks for support
Best Models for Resale:
- Cat 320 (~68% retention)
- Komatsu PC210 (~63%)
- Kubota KX057 (~58%)
Smart Buying Tips
🔧 Best Value: 3-5 year old machines with 2,000-4,000 hours
📉 Avoid: Ex-rental units (typically abused)
🛠️ Priority: Machines with full service histories
Need Expert Help?
📞 Call our certified equipment specialists for personalized advice!
🔍 Browse our pre-inspected inventory of used excavators today!
🚜 More Machine for Your Money – Buy Used! 🚜