Tag: mevas

What to check before starting an excavator or wheel loader?

Free pre-operational checklist for machinery operators

Do you know what to check at the machine before you start working? We have a free checklist for heavy equipment operators. You can use it to make sure, that you do not forget to check important items. You can download it here.

Mevas free daily checklist for machinery operators

What should the operator of an excavator or wheel loader check before he starts machine at begin of his shift?

Before starting an excavator or wheel loader at the beginning of a shift, the operator should perform a pre-operational inspection to ensure the machine’s safety and readiness for work. The following is a general guideline of the items to be checked:

  1. Fuel and oil levels – Check that there is enough fuel and oil to run the machine for the shift and top up if necessary.
  2. Engine performance – Start the engine and check that it runs smoothly, with no unusual sounds or vibrations.
  3. Hydraulic system – Check for any leaks in the hydraulic system and verify that all hydraulic components are functioning properly.
  4. Tires – Check the tire pressure and inspect for any damage or excessive wear.
  5. Lights and alarms – Check the machine’s lights, alarms, and warning signals to ensure that they are functioning properly.
  6. Control systems – Ensure that all control systems are working correctly and that the operator has full control of the machine.
  7. Attachments – Inspect all attachments, such as buckets or hammers, to ensure that they are properly secured and free of any cracks or damage.
  8. Safety features – Check the seatbelt, rollover protection system, and other safety features to ensure that they are working correctly.

By performing a pre-operational inspection, the operator can identify any potential issues with the machine before starting work, which helps to prevent accidents, equipment damage, and costly downtime.

How to measure the undercarriage on used machines?

Is this service included in an Mevas inspection?

Yes, on request and for larger machines this service is included for tracked machines from Caterpillar. We do measure all components. Remaining life values will be calculated with the CAT CTS Undercarriage Handbook. When inspecting machines of other brands, we assess the remaining service life based on our experience. Click here for our video explaining the measurement of the undercarriage step by step.

Since the undercarriage is one of the most expensive components on these machines and can be very expensive to replace, we recommend special attention to inspection here. If you are looking to buy a second hand machine in Europe – get the remaining life of the U/C confirmed by MEVAS.

Meassurement of the carrier rollers on a dozer

Which tools can be used to measure U/C components?

To measure undercarriage components of a track type tractor or an excavator, the following tools can be used:

  1. Track Gauge or meter – It is used to measure the track gauge, or the distance between the tracks, to ensure that it is within the manufacturer’s specifications.
  2. Track Roller Caliper – It is used to measure the diameter of the track rollers and the wear on the bottom of the track roller.
  3. Idler Pin Gauge – It is used to measure the idler’s diameter and the wear on the idler’s bearing surfaces.
  4. Ultrasonic Gauge – It is used to measure the thickness of the track links and the wear on the bushings.
  5. Chain Wear Gauge – It is used to measure the wear on the track chain and to determine if the chain needs to be replaced.
  6. Shoe Height Gauge – It is used to measure the wear on the track shoe and to determine if the shoe needs to be replaced.

By using these tools, it is possible to accurately measure the wear on the undercarriage components and determine when they need to be replaced or repaired, which helps to extend the life of the track type tractor and reduce maintenance costs.

Who can inspect used heavy construction machinery?

Where can I find a professional inspector?

We would like to introduce ourselves briefly: Mevas has been testing the condition of heavy used machinery for over 16 years. The idea came about because the owner of the company, in his previous job, had to realise when buying used machines that the machines sold were often in worse condition than stated by the seller.

So the idea was born to check the machines carefully before purchasing them. We do this for a growing clientele from all over the world. In the same way, we offer this service to sellers to make it easier to sell the machines with an inspection by an independent third party.

Used machines inspected by Mevas

What does an Mevas inspection report contain?

We have structured inspection report for each type of used construction machinery or construction vehicles. First, the inspector notes the equipment of the construction machine or crane. He pays attention, for example, to whether the machine has air conditioning, additional hydraulic lines, if the excavator has a dozer blade, a CE certificate or whether it has a quick coupling. Now the actual inspection begins. The technician checks the condition of the cab, seat, switches, display instruments, air conditioning, windows, mirrors and windscreen wipers. 

Now it is time to inspect the engine. After checking the operating fluids such as coolant and oil condition, the engine is started. The inspector checks if the engine smokes unusually, makes noises or shows other signs of increased wear. 
After checking the engine, an inspection of the machine’s external components is done. This involves checking the frame, boom or lift arm and, of course, all doors, hatches, storage compartments, lighting and paintwork. After this inspection, we focus on the hydraulic system. We inspect the hoses, look for leaks in the cylinders, listen for noises from the hydraulic pump and check for leaks in the pump or valve block. Now the functional test starts. During this, the inspector checks whether there is play in the joints, whether the drive functions properly, whether there are any unusual noises, whether all functions work normally? Depending on the type of machine, of course, different things are checked. The attachments, such as buckets or shovels, are also checked and their data recorded. Then the tyres or undercarriages are checked for wear and analysed. In the last section of our inspection report, any problems that do not fit into the previous sections are noted. Finally, the inspector leaves a comment on the general condition of the machine. At the end, the transport dimensions are usually given.

Which used heavy machines can be inspected?

Mevas inspectors can perform inspections for:

  1. Excavators (track excavators, mobile excavators, min diggers, quarry shovels)
  2. Bulldozers and Tracked Loaders
  3. Loaders (Wheel Loaders, Skid Steer Loaders, Backhoe Loaders)
  4. Graders and Wheel dozers
  5. Dump Trucks
  6. Compactors for Soil and Waste
  7. Rollers (Vibratory Rollers, Pneumatic Rollers, Tandem Rollers)
  8. Scrapers and Bucket Dozers
  9. Off-Highway Trucks and on the Road Trucks
  10. Drilling Rigs, Pile Drivers, Surface Drills, Civil Engineering Machinery
  11. Concrete Mixers, concrete pumps and readymix trucks
  12. Pavers for Asphalt and Concrete
  13. Telehandlers, Telescopic Forklifts
  14. Trenchers, Milling Machines, Reclaimer and Recycler
  15. Reach Stackers and Container Handlers
  16. Agricultural Tractors, Combines, Harvester

This list is not exhaustive, but covers the most commonly used earthmoving and construction machines. The specific machines used for a construction project depends on the type and scope of the work, as well as the local conditions and regulations.

Truck and concrete equipment inspections

When is a pre-delivery inspection recommended?

Beside our core business of used machine inspections for earthmoving machinery we have qualified within the last years also for inspection of used mixer trucks, tractor heads and concrete pumps.
The service can help buyers to find the right equipment in good quality for a fair price.

Concrete equipment is constantly in use and subject to high wear. If you want to buy a mixer or a concrete pump in used condition, it is therefore recommended to check the visual condition and the functioning carefully. Because you do not want to have a machine on the construction site, which doesn’t work. With a pre-delivery technical inspection you can plan possible repairs and check if the purchase price is ok. If you want, we can do that for you. We have been inspecting and evaluating used heavy machinery throughout Europe since 2006.

What kind of used equipment do we inspect?

  • Concrete pumps
  • Ready mix trucks
  • Used (tipper) trucks and tractor heads

MEVAS is performing inspections on used concrete pumps and mixer trucks of various brands. So far we have done pre-delivery inspections on machines of Schwing, Stetter, Liebherr, Sanny, Putzmeister and some others, mounted on Mercedes, Scania and MAN trucks. Depending on the machine, we have a detailed checklist on which all components are listed. In the case of a mixer, we look at the mixer drum and whether it contains hard concrete residues or whether the drum has holes. When inspecting a concrete pump, we carry out a water test and, of course, also check whether the remote control works. Our service is to helped our customers to select the best equipment.

Renault Kerax chassis with concrete pump during Mevas inspection

What advantages do I have when I order this service from Mevas?

We are well connected with technicians all over Europe, which means we are quickly on site. You will receive an all-round inspection in which everything is documented in pictures and a report. Even if you are not familiar with the technology, you can use our documentation to understand any weak points. For mixers and concrete pumps, we also create a video. An inspection costs you less than you can lose. Either you get confirmation that the machine is in good condition or the actual condition shows that buying it is not a good idea.

Where are Mevas Truck Inspectors available?

The service for inspection of used trucks is available in all countries in Europe. Additionally we have inspectors in the U.A.E., the USA, in some countries in Africa and in Turkey.

How to inspect used equipment before buying?

Who can inspect used machinery?

Looking for reliable used equipment can be tricky. Therefore, you should take a close look at the condition of the used machine before buying it. If you do not know the seller, be especially careful.

Here are 7 things to look out for:

  1. Check the seller if you don’t know him. You can read more about this in the section below.
  2. Check the working hours of the machine. Does the general condition of the machine match with those hours (and the year of manufacture)? Can you get information about the machine’s history from the seller?
  3. Check the machine for signs of wear. Are the ROPS, the chassis, the boom/stick in good condition? Or are there signs of dents/bents, re-welded areas or small cracks? You don’t want to purchase something that will cause you costly and time-consuming problems later.
  4. What about the hydraulics? Are the hydraulic oil levels within the normal range? Or even too high? In this case, it makes sense to check for leaks.
  5. The tyres or the undercarriage are a big cost factor. Therefore, check the tyres or the drive components for remaining service life.
  6. Once you have checked all these points, the next step is the function test/test drive. Start the machine and check how it performs. Also listen for unusual noises and the exhaust fumes.
  7. If attachments are sold, also do a careful visual check.

Check used equipment carefully

Another important note

We want to remind you to be carefully when negotiating heavy equipment which is offered on the Internet. A few of those sites have just been created for fraud.

Be attentive if: 

  1. Machine price is far lower than for comparable units
  2. The seller makes pressure to decide very quickly: He pretends other people are interested in the same machine.
  3. The seller has just a mobile phone number and no landline.
  4. The seller requests a down-payment to reserve the machine.

We are Mevas – die Heavy Equipment Inspectors

Hopefully our list has been helpful to you. If you are unsure about any of the points, just get in touch with us. This is our WhatsApp. We inspect machines like excavators, wheel loaders, dumpers, graders, rollers, material handlers and dozers every day and know these machines very well.

Is it a good idea to buy used machinery at auctions?

Who can inspect equipment at EuroAuctions Dormagen?

It can make sense to buy machines at auctions. However, to avoid problems, we recommend that you inspect the machine you are interested in before bidding.

Mevas has technicans available who can inspect the lots you are interested in at this auction. We offer quick inspections where we focus on the most important points and full inspections. You discuss with us what scope is required and what is important to you.

Of course, we can also be found at most upcoming auctions. Par example at the rb auction in France. We offer used machinery inspections in more than 25 countries with an international team of technicians. MEVAS provides inbiased pre-delivery inspections and appraisals for second-hand machines since 2006.

Inspection at an auction

How to order the inspection?

You can order this inspection online at our shop. But it is more easier if you contact us via our contact form and we will reply with an price offer. You can also contact us if you have any further questions. Our technicians analyse the condition of many different makes, such as Caterpillar, Komatsu, Hitachi, Cummins, Volvo and Liebherr.

Functional test for heavy equipment

How to perform the stall test on a CAT 777D?

Warm up the engine and the transmission, drive the machine to a flat area and engage the Service brake with all efforts. Activate the parking brake and put the transmission into Reverse. Rev up the engine and check the rpm gauge – this will be the stall speed. Compare the values with the factory specs.

Who can inspect used heavy equipment?

If you don’t have reference values or the possibility to look at a machine before buying, please contact us. We have experts who will do it for you. Not only in Europe, also in many other countries worldwide.

CAT 777
Caterpillar CAT 777D quarry truck – inspected by Mevas

Mevas Screen Plant Inspections

Who can offer inspections for used screen plant in Europe?

Mevas is known as a inspection service for used construction machinery. Did you know we also inspect screening and processing equipment? Mobile Crushing & Screening Equipment is often in bad condition when it hits the used-market. Screening plant, especially when used in recycling aggregate applications have in many cases worn screen boxes. Tough job to exchange.

What to look for when buying used screen equipment?

Conveyors have damaged belts and seized rollers. Often, we see cracks in frames and leaks on hydraulics. Of course this is just the special part of inspection. All other components of a used screen are of course inspected as well. Our inspectors use a detailed screen plant inspection checklist. We can offer inspections in all areas of the Europe.

We hope our article was helpful for you. Feel free to comment below the post about your experiences looking for used screening equipment.

Terex Finlay Supertrack

Buying used machines in South Africa

How can I check if a used machine is in good condition?

South Africa is a gigantic market for the mining and construction industry. Manufacturers from Caterpillar to Liebherr and Bell are present with branches and sales. Mining and construction companies have a great need for machines. As a result, used machines keep coming onto and from the market.

Export to other African areas

Due to the short transport routes, the machines are of interest to many construction companies and mines in other parts of Africa. So what could be closer to buying machines there? Of course, it would be good to know whether the machines are in reasonable condition.

Which company can inspect machines in South Africa?

Mevas has local inspectors available in South Africa which can help with the inspection of used construction equipment and civil engineering. Qualified engineers inspect the machines, create a report, take various photos and can also create a video of the machine in operation. Our team knows about excavators, wheel loaders, motor graders, backhoe loaders, quarry trucks, and bulldozers. We check a single machine as well as fleets of machinery.

CAT 745 dump truck