The constantly increasing average price of brand new heavy equipment as well as the knowledge that quality and better value refurbished vehicles are available at auctions have caused many purchasers to consider heavy equipment auctions as a viable option. Actually acquiring equipment that is functional and flawless can appear to be more easily said than done. How can such a desire be fulfilled? Consider having a checklist on what needs to be considered could help make the process a little bit easier.

Research

Prior to the preview day typically offered at auction sales, be sure go online and research the reasonable market value of any prospective items. By comparing what is in the brochure and what is listed on the web, a customer can have an idea as to the highest amount that should be bid for a particular item. This also allows for a thorough evaluation of the model, type, make and year of the vehicle as well as a visual web inspection of those pieces that are being consider for purchase.

Inspect the Exterior

Below are some things that need to be included when examining the exterior of any heavy duty equipment.

• Daylight - Make sure to do all the examining during daytime and good, clear weather.
• Body - Look for nicks, scratches, ripples, poorly fitted panels, waves, worn paint and mismatched colors.
• Overall - Survey the outside of the truck from a distance to check its front, back and sides. Stand back at least 15 feet to see if the vehicle is level.
• Door and Fenders - Examine the bottom of doors and fenders for dents or rust. Be sure to look for any welding spots as these could be signs of repair due to accidents.
• Tires - Scan the tires for cracks, uneven wear and signs of brake fluid leakage.
• Vehicle Undercarriage - Get down under the truck and look for any oil, transmission, shock absorber or power steering fluid leakage. Check also for rust and bends.
• Under Hood - Open the hood and look at all hoses and belts for any cracks or excessive wear.
• Coolant - Check the radiator coolant as it should be clean and clear whatever the original color.
• Oil - Pull out the dipstick; it should not smell burnt or have a gummy, grayish color. Automatic transmission fluid needs to be reddish and clear. Be sure all fluids are at each one's correct level.

Inspect the Interior

Be sure to make a thorough evaluation of what is inside the cab.

• Note Mileage - Carefully take note of the mileage and compare the mileage to the odometer reading on the service stickers that are usually located under the hood or on the driver's door jamb.
• Upholstery and Belts - Ensure that the seats, carpeting and belts are all in a good functional condition.
• Windows - Operate the windows to see if properly opening and closing smoothly.
• Brakes and Clutch - Press the accelerator, brake and clutch; all should work smoothly with no strange noises.
• Exterior Lights - Turn on the exterior lights and flashers and be sure they are properly working.
• Interior Gauges - Start the engine and be sure the warning lights as well as the gauges are operational.
• Check A/C and Heat - Turn on the air conditioning and heat to be certain both work.

By creating a comprehensive checklist and then completing all necessary preliminary research, actually attending heavy equipment auctions may not be quite so monstrous to consider. It can indeed be a different, more pleasant experience, one that will allow for the discovery of the flawless products that are available for purchase!