How Long Will Used Heavy Equipment Last?

If you are considering buying used heavy equipment, it’s important to consider its lifespan. How much longer will the model last before it needs to be replaced? It’s a tough question to answer, but the following guide can help.

Keep reading for tips on predicting the lifespan of used construction equipment. For more insight or to explore used heavy equipment for sale, visit Stribling Equipment. We have dealerships throughout Arkansas, Tennessee, and Mississippi.

The Importance of the Used Equipment’s Lifespan

The lifespan of used heavy equipment:

• Plays a role in your ability to get the most value from your purchase.
• Is an important factor in your overall owning and operating costs.
• Influences how long you can go before purchasing its replacement.

In other words, the lifespan of used heavy equipment should be a key part of your purchasing decision.

A Quick Note

When talking about lifespan, we are referring to the cost-effective lifespan. Machines can last for many years if you are able to keep replacing parts or keep undergoing repairs. But there becomes a point where it can cost more to repair the given model than it is worth. Eventually, it becomes more cost-effective to sell the heavy equipment and put that money towards its replacement.

The Factors That Impact the Lifespan of Used Equipment

The Equipment’s Past

If possible, learn about the used construction equipment’s past. This will give you valuable insight into predicting its future longevity.

The Past Work Sites

Various work site factors can affect the lifespan of used equipment.

First, consider the location. Models that are used indoors (such as forklifts) will last longer than ones used outdoors (such as feller bunchers).

Second, consider the terrain. Using construction equipment on difficult terrains and uneven surfaces will speed up wear and tear.

The Storage Situation

When heavy equipment is stored outdoors rather than indoors, it has been repeatedly exposed to the elements.

For example:

• Rain can speed up rusting.
• Continual sunlight can cause paint fading.
• Dust buildup can make its way into the various parts and systems.

The negative impact of prolonged weather exposure can shorten the lifespan of used equipment.

The Replacement Parts Availability

Certain parts will need replacement long before the overall construction equipment needs to be replaced.

For example, a wheel loader in general may be able to last about 12,000 hours. But the tires can need replacing after 4,000 hours, the brakes after 5,000, the bucket after 7,000, and the engine after 8,000.

Some used construction equipment may be obscure enough that it becomes difficult to find replacement parts. The overall model could last for a few more years, but not if you can’t find the needed replacement parts or if those parts are unbearably expensive.

The Type of Heavy Equipment

In general, construction equipment will last for about 10,000. But different types of equipment can have different average lifespans.

For example:

• Excavators: about 10,000 hours.
• Backhoes: about 6,500 hours.
• Crawler loaders: about 20,000.

It’s wise to look up the predicted lifespan for the specific type of equipment. It’s even better if you can find the expected lifespan for the given model!

Want more information? Want to explore used heavy equipment for sale? Whatever you need, the experts at Stribling Equipment are here to help. Contact us today or stop by one of our dealerships. We have locations throughout Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas.