Rental Excavator Inspection Guide
Renting an excavator is often a much more cost-effective alternative to buying one. These heavy-duty machines come with a hefty price tag, and may not be worth the investment if you only need them on occasion. That said, equipment rental can still be a major expense. And just like buying your own, renting equipment is a multi-step process that should include a thorough maintenance inspection. Reputable lenders like Magnum Power keep their machines in top condition, but performing your own inspection provides peace of mind and ensures you’re getting exactly the equipment you need.
Check out the following inspection guide, then head to Magnum Power when you’re ready to rent an excavator. We welcome customers from all over Clay County at our dealership in Lawson, MO.
Why Inspect?
It’s standard practice to inspect used equipment before purchase, but you may be wondering if it’s really necessary to inspect rental equipment. After all, you’re only using it on a short term basis. But in our view, that’s all the more reason to inspect. When you have a limited window of time, you can’t afford any setbacks, and having to replace faulty rental equipment can seriously disrupt your work schedule. Performing your own maintenance inspection can help you spot red flags that could indicate a potential problem.
Inspecting rental equipment can also protect you from being held liable for any preexisting damage to the equipment. Of course, rental equipment is bound to have a few scratches and scrapes here and there, and these are usually no cause for concern. But even minor surface wear can result in extra charges, so take the time to document any preexisting problems before signing off on a rental agreement. This will be the evidence you need if the lender asks about any damage you didn’t cause.
The folks at Magnum Power want you to have the best possible experience when renting an excavator. That’s why we encourage our customers to inspect!
Frame Inspection
Begin your inspection by checking the frame from top to bottom, noting the amount of surface wear. Some amount of wear and tear is to be expected, but markedly uneven wear could signify a structural issue. Take the time to document any cracks, scratches, and dents, no matter how small.
Hydraulic Arm Inspection
The hydraulic arm of an excavator is its defining feature, so pay special attention to this component during your inspection. Evaluate its structural integrity, check the cylinders, and test the hydraulic system if possible. Sometimes a machine that looks just fine on the outside can have hidden problems that can be revealed in a quick test.
Tire Inspection
The tires play an important role in how well an excavator performs. Ask the lender how old the tires are, check the treads for excessive or uneven wear, and check the sidewalls for cracks and punctures. You also want to determine the recommended psi levels and ensure the tires are properly inflated.
Engine Inspection
The power source of an excavator contains a lot of moving parts, but do you best to look for anything that might be noteworthy. Check the fluid levels and conditions, including the oil and coolant. Check all the filters and check the hoses for leaks. Examine the radiators, watching out for bent fins and other signs of wear.
If your inspection turns up anything suspicious, don’t hesitate to bring it up with the lender. Chances are they will be grateful you caught the issue before it could lead to a more serious problem. Even experienced professionals sometimes overlook sneaky maintenance issues, but a reputable lender will address the problem right away.
Magnum Power is your trusted equipment lender in Clay County. We proudly serve our community in Lawson, MO, along with our neighbors from Kansas City.