Bulldozers are commonly used in construction, mining, forestry, and farming. Like many other ground preparation machines, used bulldozers are especially used in residential construction, demolition, or offer general construction services, where standard equipment is used and you don’t need the latest technology. In addition, due to the high cost, many businesses choose to purchase used bulldozers. There is a variety of high-quality used bulldozers for sale at a fraction of the price of new machines.
Bulldozers are mainly used in moving soil, clearing debris and other loose materials, and grading. These machines are made with a wide rolling track that grips the ground and offers a lot of stability and traction.
Factors to consider when selecting a used bulldozer
To ensure you get the right product and value for your money, there are factors to consider when buying one. Below are factors on your inspection checklist that you need to look at when buying a used bulldozer;
- Check for plate lines or welding. When sampling used bulldozers for purchase, it is good to inspect the dozer’s blades. Look for any lines as a plate line could mean the blade has been refaced in order to cover up excessive wear. In addition, lookout for signs of welding as this could be a sign that the machine has undergone repairs.
- Inspect for excessive wear. Check for signs of wear and damage at the top of the blade, the spill guard, and the cutting edge. Check the blade push arms, making sure to inspect the trunnion pins and caps. One sign of excessive wear is a loose trunnion cap.
- Thoroughly inspect the undercarriage. Have enough time to inspect the bulldozer’s repairs to the undercarriage are very expensive in addition to the fact that the undercarriage accounts for around 20% of the dozer’s total cost. Uneven wear on the undercarriage can happen when operators favor steering in one direction over another or when the dozer has been repeatedly run on a hillside.
- Check out for any attachments and tech upgrades. There are rear attachments that are sometimes incorporated into the machine, some of which make it more valuable. These include single-shank, multi-shank ripper, and auxiliary hydraulics. Carry out a thorough inspection to find out if they are in good condition. Also inquire about any productivity and safety features that can add value to a machine, such as a mounted camera system, GPS, or inclination monitor.
- Examine the hydraulic system and engine. Before reaching a buying decision, take time, and thoroughly inspect fluids and check any damages to the tanks. Look out for any signs of leakage and check for loose belts and dirty filters.
- Check the slew ring for damage. Slew rings are some of the most expensive pieces to repair and replace. It is therefore important that they are working well before buying a used machine.
How Much Does a Used Bulldozer Cost?
As the case with new bulldozers, prices of used ones also vary widely. The total cost is an aggregate determined by a number of factors including the condition of the machine, age, hours of use, and the brand name and model.
In general, used bulldozers range between $10,000 to more than $200,000.On the lower side are small bulldozers with the lowest prices. These are mainly used for residential use with some noticeable wear and tear. On the upper side, there is a large full-sized machine that has not been used so much.
| Age (years) | Hours clocked | Price range ($) |
| 3 | Less than 1,000 | $125,000 to $175,000 |
| 5 | 1,000 to 2,000 | $45,000 to $75,000 |
| 10 to 15 | 4,000 to 6,000 | $20,000 to $40,000 |
Disclaimer: These prices may differ depending on brand and model, and region. In addition, the prices quoted do not factor in the shipping cost and any other auxiliary fees.
