The Porter Group was established in 1945 when the late Arthur Porter began building roads and winning civil engineering contracts across New Zealand. Arthur began importing heavy equipment and parts, establishing the Porter name and laying the foundation for the Group’s core business. That long history in heavy machinery has given us a deep understanding of what separates a genuinely reliable machine from one that will cost you in the long run, particularly when it comes to buying secondhand equipment.
Buying used is one of the smartest ways to add an excavator to your fleet without the steep cost of a brand new machine. But not all used machines are created equal, and a bargain price can quickly turn into a costly mistake if the equipment hasn’t been properly maintained. Knowing what to look for is the difference between finding quality used excavators that will serve your business for years and ending up with a machine that spends more time in the workshop than on site.
Start With the Service History
A used excavator’s service history tells you almost everything you need to know about how it has been treated. Ask for documented records of oil changes, filter replacements, hydraulic servicing, and any major repairs. A machine with consistent, well documented servicing has usually been looked after by an owner who understood the value of preventative maintenance. Gaps in the records, or an inability to produce any history at all, should raise questions before you go any further.
Inspect the Undercarriage Closely
The undercarriage is one of the most expensive parts of an excavator to replace, and it wears faster than almost any other component. Look closely at the tracks, rollers, idlers, and sprockets for signs of stretching, uneven wear, or excessive play. A worn undercarriage isn’t necessarily a dealbreaker, but it should be factored into your negotiations, since replacement costs can run into tens of thousands of dollars depending on the size of the machine.
Check the Hydraulic System
Hydraulics power almost every function on an excavator, from the boom and bucket to the swing and travel motors. Look for oil leaks around cylinders, hoses, and fittings. Run the machine through its full range of movement and pay attention to any hesitation, jerking, or unusual noise. Smooth, responsive hydraulics are a strong sign that the machine has been well maintained.
Look at the Engine and Hours
Engine hours give you a general sense of how much use a machine has had, but hours alone don’t tell the whole story. A machine with high hours that has been serviced diligently can be a better buy than a low hour machine that has been neglected. Start the engine cold if possible, listen for unusual noises, check the exhaust smoke, and look for oil or coolant leaks around the engine bay.
Examine the Structure for Cracks and Repairs
Structural cracks in the boom, arm, bucket, or main frame are a serious concern. Welded repairs aren’t always a problem if done professionally, but poor quality welds can indicate a machine that has been pushed beyond its limits or poorly maintained. A close visual inspection, ideally with an experienced technician, can save you from expensive structural issues down the track.
Before you commit to buying, it helps to run through a simple checklist:
- Full documented service and maintenance history
- Condition of the undercarriage, tracks, and rollers
- Hydraulic system performance and any visible leaks
- Engine condition, hours, and starting behaviour
- Structural integrity of the boom, arm, and frame
- Attachment compatibility and included buckets or tools
- Resale reputation of the brand and model
Buy From a Trusted Source
Perhaps the most important step of all is choosing where you buy from. A reputable dealer will have already inspected and serviced the machine, and will be upfront about its history and condition. This is where working with an established supplier makes a real difference.
At The Porter Group, our roots in heavy equipment importation go back to Arthur Porter’s original work in the 1940s, and that experience shapes how we select, inspect, and prepare every machine we sell. When you’re looking for quality used excavators, our team can talk you through the exact condition, history, and suitability of each machine, so you can invest with confidence rather than guesswork.
If you’re considering a used excavator for your next project, get in touch with The Porter Group. We’re happy to help you find a machine that fits your budget and your business for years to come.
