How Do I Choose the Best New Excavator?

A new excavator may be perfect for accommodating the needs of a construction company or even a farmer or rancher, but it is important to choose the best machine for your purposes. Before going shopping for a new excavator, determine how you are most likely to use the machine on a regular basis. The size and scope of the projects you will do will determine the size of excavator you need as well as the features you should look for before purchasing. Remember to buy a model from a well-known and reputable manufacturer to ensure quality and availability of parts for repairs or upgrades.

Two general types of excavators exist: crawler excavators and wheeled excavators. The majority of new excavator models will be crawler excavators that feature tracks rather than wheels with tires. This adds versatility and stability, but it will also add cost. Tracks will be useful for navigating over varied terrain, while tires may not be able to handle more rigorous landscapes. If you plan on using the new excavator in treacherous conditions, you will be better off purchasing a crawler machine rather than a unit with wheels and tires.

The size of the boom arm and bucket will have a significant impact on how useful the new excavator will be for your purposes. The length of the boom arm will dictate how deep the machine will be able to dig, and the size of the bucket will determine how much material can be moved at once. The machine will be rated for a certain capacity; using the new excavator beyond this capacity can lead to instability, which means it is more likely to tip over. Choose a unit that meets or exceeds your capacity needs, and be sure to choose a boom length that will allow you to dig holes to your desired depth.

Purchasing a new excavator from a well-known manufacturer will ensure you will be able to get replacement parts for repairs and upgrades in the future. Some dealers will even set up a parts contract with you, thereby ensuring you will be able to purchase parts when you need them. This is a great way to avoid potential problems down the road, so whenever possible, ask the dealer about parts agreements as well as warranties and return policies. Maintenance of the unit will usually be the purchaser's responsibility, but some dealers may offer maintenance contracts as well. Be sure to ask about such contracts if you are not prepared to work on your own equipment.