The Top 10 Excavator Parts That Are Smarter to Replace with Used OEM
- RALPH COPE
- Apr 16
- 5 min read
Let’s be honest: owning an excavator is like being in a long-term relationship. It demands attention, care, and—every now and then—a few expensive surprises. The question every savvy equipment owner eventually faces is: How can I reduce costs without compromising performance?
Well, there’s good news: not every breakdown needs a brand-new solution. In fact, some of the smartest decisions you can make involve replacing worn parts with high-quality used OEM components.
At Vikfin, we’ve helped clients across South Africa extend the life of their machines, slash repair bills, and reduce downtime—all by making smart choices about when and how to use used OEM parts.
This blog breaks down the top 10 excavator parts you should seriously consider buying used—without sacrificing safety, reliability, or performance.
Why Choose Used OEM?
Let’s lay the groundwork.
OEM means the part was made by the original manufacturer—Caterpillar, Komatsu, Volvo, Doosan, etc.
Used means it’s been previously installed in a machine but still has considerable life left.
Used OEM parts strike a perfect balance between quality and affordability. Unlike questionable aftermarket parts, these are engineered to fit, tested for performance, and built to last—even in a second (or third) life.
1. Engines
Let’s start with the heart of the machine.
A new excavator engine can cost hundreds of thousands of rand and may require long lead times to import. But if your old engine has finally tapped out—whether from overheating, oil pressure failure, or piston damage—you don’t need to panic.
Why Used OEM?
At Vikfin, we pull complete engines from running machines, not from scrap heaps.
Every engine is compression tested, inspected for wear, and sold as a complete working unit.
You’ll pay 30–50% less than new—and get your machine back to work in days, not weeks.
✅ Perfect for: Machines past their warranty period or where resale value doesn’t justify a new engine.
2. Hydraulic Cylinders (Boom, Dipper, Bucket)
Cylinders are the muscles of your excavator. But seals fail, rods get scored, and housings develop internal leaks.
Why Used OEM?
Most used cylinders at Vikfin are pressure-tested and resealed.
OEM cylinders maintain original tolerances—no nasty surprises with size, stroke, or connection points.
Aftermarket cylinders often require bush adjustments or risk premature seal wear.
✅ Perfect for: Any machine that needs strong, consistent digging power without the hassle of aftermarket guesswork.
3. Final Drives
If your excavator isn’t tracking properly or is losing power under load, your final drive may be on its last legs. New units? Often eye-wateringly expensive.
Why Used OEM?
Used final drives from Vikfin are tested under load, ensuring proper gear engagement and hydraulic function.
We only sell units with good gears, no abnormal noise, and proper case condition.
Swapping to a good used drive restores full travel function without draining your repair budget.
✅ Perfect for: High-hour machines where new final drives aren’t economically viable.
4. Cabs
Operators need safety and comfort. But let’s be real—a smashed cab doesn’t mean the machine is done for.
Why Used OEM?
Used OEM cabs retain structural integrity and correct mounting points.
Vikfin stocks cabs from most major brands—complete with doors, frames, and glass.
Why spend a fortune when a replacement cab can restore usability for a fraction of the cost?
✅ Perfect for: Rollovers, site collisions, or cosmetic upgrades before resale.
5. Slew Motors
That smooth rotation you take for granted? Thank the slew motor. But when they fail, replacement cost can be brutal.
Why Used OEM?
We test slew motors for smooth operation, torque response, and noise before selling.
OEM motors ensure exact fitment and pressure compatibility.
With aftermarket, compatibility issues are common—and failure rates are higher.
✅ Perfect for: Machines that rotate sluggishly or have stopped swinging altogether.
6. Valve Banks
Valve banks direct hydraulic flow across the machine—when one port fails, your productivity drops fast.
Why Used OEM?
Our used valve banks are checked for cracks, wear, and internal bypass issues.
Buying new can take weeks to ship. We have used ones ready to go now.
OEM units guarantee compatibility with your hoses, pressures, and pump output.
✅ Perfect for: Reducing downtime during hydraulic troubleshooting and restoring full machine control.
7. Track Adjusters
That dreaded track slack? Often, it’s your adjuster. Gas leaks, seal failures, and cracked housings are common.
Why Used OEM?
Vikfin stocks fully functional, pressure-tested OEM adjusters.
Replacement is straightforward, and savings over new are substantial.
Aftermarket units? Frequently mismatched in size or pressure specs.
✅ Perfect for: Maintaining proper tension without the expense of full undercarriage replacement.
8. Hoses and Lines
While hoses are consumables, OEM routing and fittings matter—especially in tight compartments.
Why Used OEM?
OEM hoses from stripped machines match length, bend, and connection sizes.
Save time vs. custom fabrication or buying a dozen adapters.
For non-pressurized or low-pressure lines, used OEM options are a no-brainer.
✅ Perfect for: Quick fixes, especially when you need a rare fitting or non-standard routing.
9. Cooling Systems (Radiators & Intercoolers)
Overheating? Don’t always blame the engine—your cooling system may be corroded or clogged.
Why Used OEM?
Our radiators and intercoolers are pressure-tested, flushed, and inspected for cracks.
OEM units are built to match airflow, mounting, and coolant capacity.
Aftermarket replacements can lead to cooling inefficiency and premature engine wear.
✅ Perfect for: Machines running hot or radiators damaged during transport or impact.
10. Panels and Bodywork
Panels might not affect performance, but damaged bodywork can:
Reduce resale value.
Expose internals to the elements.
Impact site safety.
Why Used OEM?
Straight panels make machines look cared for.
We stock engine covers, side panels, access doors—all original fitment.
Replacing with OEM parts means no drilling or custom welding to fit.
✅ Perfect for: Cosmetic restoration or getting plant hire machines looking sharp again.
Bonus: Other Used Parts Worth Considering
While the above 10 are the most common, here are a few honorable mentions:
Swing gears
Track rollers
Travel motors
Wiring harnesses
Control joysticks
Operator seats
At Vikfin, if it bolts onto an excavator—we probably have it, and we’re happy to help you figure out if a used part is the right move.
How to Know If It’s Safe to Buy Used
Used parts aren’t about taking shortcuts. They’re about making calculated, informed decisions. Here are five questions to ask:
✅ Is the part non-structural or non-critical to safety?
✅ Can it be easily tested before installation?
✅ Is it coming from a reputable source (hint: like Vikfin)?
✅ Does it save at least 30–50% off the new price?
✅ Will it fit and function exactly like the original?
If you answered yes to most of those, the used OEM route is probably a smart move.
Why Vikfin?
In a market flooded with cheap imitations and fly-by-night operators, Vikfin is your trusted partner for reliable used OEM parts.
✅ Massive inventory across Caterpillar, Komatsu, Volvo, Doosan, Hitachi, Hyundai, Sumitomo, and more.
✅ Competitive pricing that beats any genuine quote in South Africa.
✅ Technical support—our team knows which parts are compatible across OEMs.
✅ Quick turnaround—we get your part to you fast, anywhere in the country.
Final Thoughts
Not every excavator part needs to be new. In fact, some parts are smarter—and safer—to buy used.
Whether you’re rebuilding, repairing, or just preparing for the next job, used OEM parts offer a powerful way to reduce costs, avoid delays, and keep your machine running strong.
So before you fork out for new—call Vikfin. Let’s see if we’ve got the right part, ready to install, at a fraction of the cost.
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