Things to Consider Before Buying a Bulldozer

Bulldozers are heavy equipment and purchasing one means an equally massive investment. Like any other huge investment, there are a lot of things that should be considered before making the final call. Unfortunately, most people are not aware of what to look for when buying a bulldozer and end up basing all their decisions on only one factor - the price. 

While the cost involved is a huge factor which must be considered, there is a lot more to purchasing a bulldozer than just haggling with the dealer to get a great deal. Below are a few things that you must consider before buying a bulldozer. 

The Undercarriage

Depending on the terrain and the environment you are planning to use your bulldozer in, you must never forget to check the undercarriage of the bulldozer you have chosen to purchase. Undercarriages mostly include Standard and Heavy duty. If you want a bulldozer for landscaping, construction, and other such works, you should get a standard undercarriage. However, the oil-seals of such an undercarriage would need improvements for it to last longer and be more durable. A heavy duty, on the other hand, has similar features as a standard undercarriage, but its components are enhanced such as steel plating for incredible strength. A heavy duty undercarriage is what you should get if you would be using your bulldozer in rough terrain and rocky environment. Hence, you must know the type of terrain you would be using your bulldozer on before purchasing one. 

The Hydraulics and the Attachments

Before you buy a bulldozer, you must make sure that the hydraulics and the attachments are functioning smoothly and correctly. You must also find it easier to manage the controls. On the other hand, the hydraulics and the attachments must be fast enough and respond quickly. Do not forget to check whether the rippers and the blades are working properly. Replacing the tracks of a bulldozer is an expensive endeavor. Hence, ensure that the tracks are in a good position as well.

Spare Parts

Repair and maintenance are inevitable. You will be needed to have easy access to spare parts to keep your bulldozer running and in proper working condition. Hence, assessing the ease of availability of spare parts for the specific bulldozer of your choice is a very significant thing to consider. Make sure that the dealer you have chosen to transact with has all the essential spare parts that would go into the bulldozer during maintenance and repairs. Besides, your dealer must offer you necessary services like maintenance, support, and warranties. We highly recommend you invest in a bulldozer only from a trusted vendor and ensure that the terms and conditions of the warranty are clearly outlined. Fixing problems with bulldozers can be a hefty task. Hence, it's better to make sure that you have someone trustworthy on your side when it comes to repair and maintenance of the bulldozer. 

The Size of the Bulldozer

You must know the size of the bulldozer you need for your business. Be clear about whether you need a small bulldozer or a big one. And to decide on the correct size of the bulldozer, you must know exactly what you need from your bulldozer and what you intend to do with it. While smaller bulldozers are easier to transport, you must ensure that the new equipment is big enough to do the needful. However, keep in mind that the size of your bulldozer is also dependent on the ground conditions and vice versa. Rough terrain requires a larger, harder bulldozer. But, in turn, larger bulldozers cannot be used on softer, more delicate terrain. 

The Hours on the Bulldozer

This is especially important for those people who are looking to buy a used bulldozer. Before you seal the deal, you must check the number of hours that are left on the clock of the bulldozer. A bulldozer with about 5,000 hours left can have a useful life span. However, for that to happen, you must check whether the engine and the undercarriage have been replaced before buying it. As long as the bulldozer has been well maintained, buying used equipment can be a good option. However, refrain from dealing with less reputable providers who have been known to alter the clocks on older models. 

Safety

Safety is a major thing to consider while buying a bulldozer, especially if you are intending to use the equipment for construction purposes. While buying a new bulldozer, make sure that the attachments conform to the latest standards. You must also ensure the availability of proper guidelines on how to operate such heavy equipment, especially if you have never used one before. If you are buying a used bulldozer, make sure that there are no off-book mods that could compromise the safety or usability of the machine. It's always recommended to ask the previous owner about the specific way he/she used to operate the equipment. Also, ensure that the safety features of the bulldozer have not been damaged or compromised. 

The Cost

Last but not least, you must ensure that you get your money's worth, regardless of whether you are buying a new bulldozer or a used one. While used bulldozers will certainly cost less, you must be certain that a vendor is a trustworthy person and that the machine is in good condition. If you are looking to buy a brand new bulldozer, it can be a hefty investment. But, if you properly maintain your equipment, it can turn out to be a very fruitful asset. Do not hesitate to look around and compare the prices offered by different vendors. The more you understand pricing, the better you will be able to judge the true condition of a machine. 

These were some of the very important things that must be considered while buying a bulldozer. Follow these tips by heart and find yourself investing in a great machine at a reasonable price through PlantAndEquipment.com.