Top 5 Mistakes Contractors Make When Buying Used Excavator Parts

How to Avoid Costly Errors and Keep Your Excavator Running Smoothly

Buying used excavator parts can save a ton of money — if you do it right.

But in South Africa, many contractors make mistakes that turn “savings” into unnecessary downtime, wasted cash, and headaches.

Let’s break down the top 5 mistakes contractors make when buying used parts — and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Not Verifying Part Compatibility

This is the most common mistake.

Every excavator model has parts with slightly different specifications, even within the same brand. For example:

• Volvo PC200-7 vs PC200-8 final drives

• CAT 320D vs 320E hydraulic pumps

• Komatsu PC210 series cylinders

Why it matters

Using the wrong part can lead to:

• Reduced performance

• Premature wear

• Hydraulic system imbalance

• Total failure

How to avoid it:

• Always check the model number, serial number, and production year.

• Confirm with a reputable supplier (like Vikfin) before purchase.

Mistake #2: Focusing Only on Price

Everyone loves a bargain. But if a used part is cheap for a reason, that “saving” can cost you ten times more in downtime.

Common pitfalls:

• Parts from unknown suppliers

• Components that weren’t tested

• Aftermarket parts sold as OEM

The smarter approach:

• Compare tested OEM used parts vs new parts vs aftermarket.

• Consider downtime cost, not just the part price.

• Choose reliability over a small upfront saving.

Example:Buying a R15,000 hydraulic pump that fails in a week can cost R80,000+ in lost work. A properly tested OEM used pump avoids that.

Mistake #3: Ignoring the Condition of the Part

Used doesn’t mean bad — but you must inspect it properly.

Key checks:

• Hydraulic pumps: Look for leaks, metal shavings, cavitation signs

• Final drives: Check for bearing wear, gear teeth damage, oil contamination

• Cylinders: Inspect rods for scoring, rust, bent shafts, worn seals

Pro tip: Ask your supplier for pressure/flow test results and internal inspection reports.

Buying blindly is gambling — and in SA construction, losing the gamble costs money.

Mistake #4: Not Considering the Supplier’s Reputation

Your supplier is just as important as the part.

Red flags:

• No proof of OEM or part history

• No testing or inspection documentation

• Slow delivery

• Poor communication

• Lack of warranty

What a reliable supplier offers:

• Verified OEM parts

• Inspection and testing documentation

• Warranties for peace of mind

• Knowledgeable advice for your machine

Vikfin advantage: Every part is tested, documented, and ready for SA contractors. You know exactly what you’re buying.

Mistake #5: Neglecting Total Cost of Ownership

Many contractors only look at the purchase price.

What to include in your calculation:

• Installation labour

• Downtime cost

• Potential damage to other components

• Delivery delays

Example:Buying a cheap final drive without testing may save R10,000 upfront, but if it fails and shuts down the machine for 3 days, you could lose R100,000+ in revenue.

Always calculate the total cost of ownership, not just the sticker price.

Bonus Tip: How to Avoid All These Mistakes

1. Work with a trusted supplier — one that specializes in excavator parts, tests every component, and knows South African conditions.

2. Ask questions — hours, serial numbers, testing reports.

3. Don’t compromise on OEM quality — even used OEM parts outperform aftermarket alternatives in reliability.

4. Factor downtime into your decision — speed and reliability can save more than the part costs.

In short: Think like a contractor, not a gambler.

Why Vikfin is the Best Choice for SA Contractors

Vikfin has been working with South African contractors for years. Here’s why we’re different:

• Tested OEM used parts: Hydraulic pumps, final drives, cylinders, engines, and more

• Fast availability: Minimise downtime

• Technical expertise: We know your machine inside out

• Nationwide delivery: Your part, ready when you need it

• Transparent documentation: Know exactly what you’re buying

Contractors who choose Vikfin avoid these 5 common mistakes — saving time, money, and headaches.

Conclusion

Buying used excavator parts doesn’t have to be risky.

Avoid these mistakes:

1. Not verifying part compatibility

2. Focusing only on price

3. Ignoring the part’s condition

4. Not considering supplier reputation

5. Neglecting total cost of ownership

Use these tips, choose a trusted supplier like Vikfin, and keep your excavator running at peak performance without unnecessary downtime or hidden costs.

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