Used Rough Terrain Crane Inspection
The checklist below will help you inspect used construction equipment for sale. The checklist is not a substitute for a professional inspection. The checklist highlights items important to this specific type of equipment and is not comprehensive. Never operate equipment without following applicable safety procedures. Do not operate equipment unless you are qualified to do so. We welcome your feedback on our checklist. Feel free to send us a note using the contact page.

- Operator’s Station: The general condition of the operator’s station can give you a clue as to how the rest of the machine has been treated. Turn on the machine and make sure all gauges and instruments are in working order. Honk the horn, check the back-up alarm and turn on the lights. If the roller has dual amplitude or high frequency modes, check to see that all modes work.
- Engine: Check the drum shell thickness on both smooth drum and padfoot units. On smooth drum models, examine the drum for any pitting or scarring that can affect compaction smoothness. On padfoot compactors, note the condition of the feet, and whether a foot replacement is required.
- Tires: Measure the tread depth of both tires with a tire-measurement tool and check it against the guidebook specs for that particular brand of tire. Look for any major cuts or cracks.
- Articulation: Check to see if the articulation joint has been lubricated regularly, and the condition of the pins and bushings. Operate the machine to see if there is any excessive front-and-back flexing, which is a sign of over wear in this area.
- Drum: With both air-cooled and water-cooled engines, look for cracks or oil leaks on the heads or valve covers. Check the fan and fan belt and note their condition. Also check the filters to see if they look like they’ve been changed.