Investing in the purchase of heavy equipment, whether for construction, agriculture, or other industrial purposes is a significant decision for any business. While purchasing brand-new machinery has many benefits, it can also be costly for many. That is when other options like purchasing rebuilt or refurbished equipment come into the picture.
A rebuilt heavy equipment offers a compromise between cost-effectiveness and reliability, providing an opportunity to acquire essential machinery at a lower price. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key factors you need to keep in mind when buying rebuilt heavy equipment, empowering you to make informed decisions that align with your business needs and goals. Before digging deep into that, let’s first understand what rebuilt/refurbished equipment is.
Rebuilt / Refurbished equipment
A rebuilt or refurbished equipment refers to machinery that has undergone extensive restoration or renovation to bring it back to operational condition. In other words, it is a piece of machinery that has been disassembled, inspected, cleaned and had any worn or damaged parts replaced.
The rebuilding process typically involves disassembling the equipment, inspecting each component for wear and tear, replacing worn-out parts with new ones, and finally reassembling the machinery to its original specifications. The goal is to restore the equipment to a state where it functions reliably, often resembling its performance when it was new.
Rebuilt equipment may include heavy machinery such as commercial diesel engines, construction equipment, mining equipment, manufacturing equipment, and many more.
By refurbishing existing equipment, businesses can extend the lifespan of their machinery and reduce the need for costly replacements. Additionally, it offers a more affordable alternative for companies operating on tight budgets. However, it’s essential to approach the purchase of rebuilt equipment with caution, as the quality and reliability of the refurbishment can vary depending on several factors. Some of these factors include the expertise of the refurbished, the quality of replacement parts used, and the thoroughness of the restoration process.
Factors to keep in mind while buying rebuilt heavy equipment.
- Quality of rebuild
One of the key factors while purchasing refurbished equipment is assessing the quality of the rebuild. One must look for evidence through thorough inspection and standard of professional workmanship. In addition to this, the quality of replacement of worn-out parts must be taken into consideration. It must be verified that qualified technicians with a track record of excellence have performed the refurbishment. Lastly, it must be ensured that all components are in good working condition and that all structural damages have been properly addressed.
- Maintenance Records
Before purchasing refurbished heavy equipment, request detailed maintenance records, including documentation of past repairs, servicing, and maintenance activities. These records must be reviewed to gain insight into the history of the equipment, including any major repairs performed. A well-maintained machine with a documented service history will likely have fewer problems and a longer lifespan. For example, while purchasing an off-highway diesel engine, review maintenance logs to ensure that regular oil changes, filter replacements, and other preventive tasks have been consistently performed.
- Warranty Coverage
It is of vital importance to have complete clarity on the warranty coverage provided with the rebuilt equipment. A comprehensive warranty can ensure protection against unforeseen issues. The warranty policy should be studied thoroughly and proper note of the terms and conditions must be made. In addition to this, you can consider purchasing an extended warranty coverage for added protection, especially for expensive machinery.
- Source of Parts
Have complete knowledge of the source of replacement parts used during the rebuild process. Opt for equipment that uses genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts. Avoid purchasing equipment that uses substandard or counterfeit parts, as it can have a direct impact on the performance, reliability, and safety of the machinery. For instance, in industrial diesel engines, ensure that only authentic OEM parts are utilized during the rebuild. Usage of genuine OEM parts will ensure you get optimal performance, longevity, and safety of the diesel engine.
- Performance Testing
Ensure that rigorous performance testing is done for the rebuilt equipment, including load tests, hydraulic system tests, and other relevant assessments, especially when considering the demands of using diesel fuel for heavy-duty work in the case of industrial engines. Conduct on-site trial tests if possible to get a better idea of the equipment’s performance before making the purchase. Doing so will give clarity on the equipment’s reliability, efficiency, and suitability for your specific needs. Testing under real-world conditions with the intended fuel type can provide valuable insights into how the equipment will perform in an operational environment.
- Cost and Value
Perhaps the most important consideration while buying refurbished equipment is comparing the cost of the equipment with that of the new equipment. Apart from this, other alternatives such as renting or leasing must also be taken into account. Determine the value proposition of the equipment by examining the total cost of ownership over the equipment’s lifespan, including maintenance, repairs, operating costs, and potential resale value.
- Reputation of refurbisher
Before deciding on the refurbisher, it is essential to research the reputation and credentials of them. One must always choose a refurbisher with a solid reputation for quality workmanship, customer satisfaction, and ethical business practices. Along with this, the refurbisher must be certified or accredited by relevant industry associations or regulatory bodies.
- Future Support and Service
After finalizing the refurbisher, it needs to be taken into account whether after-sale service will be provided or not. This can also include technical assistance, spare parts availability, and maintenance services. A reliable and responsive customer support service is one of the prerequisites to minimize downtime.
Considering the above-mentioned factors, you can make an informed and wise decision when buying rebuilt heavy equipment and minimize risks and uncertainties.
