About the Author

Todd R. Moir is the owner and principal broker of Equip4Sale and has been in the equipment industry since 1975.

Starting with Hertz Equipment in Portland, Oregon, as a yardman, he worked his way up to Regional Manager with US Rentals. After the merger, he spent over 30 years in management with United Rentals.

Preface

Who Is This Book For?

This book is for anyone looking to buy or sell equipment in today's online marketplace. If you're seeking value in an equipment transaction, this guide will answer your questions.

If you can't find an answer, contact information is provided to reach me or my staff directly.

What Is the Best Way to Buy and Sell Equipment?

Buying equipment online offers the best deals and widest variety of models. However, there are important concerns when making "blind" purchases.

Finding a reliable source eliminates much of this concern. You need someone who knows what to look for before you buy—your very own equipment detective.

This person should understand not only what you want but also what you don't want from your purchase.

Key Steps

1. Find a broker, dealer, or mechanic you trust
2. Inform them about the machine you want and your guidelines
3. Follow the inspection guidelines in this book

What Equipment Do I Need?

This may sound simple, but many buyers discover that what they thought they needed differs from what they actually require.

With numerous models, brands, and applications available, research is essential. Equipment represents a major investment, so know exactly what you need today and consider future applications.

Consider Your Environment

Example: If you're using a machine in your facility but expect to expand, will that 15' lift height be sufficient for a larger warehouse?

Ask yourself: What will we use this unit for? If you need a warehouse forklift that will also work in your yard on unpaved surfaces, consider pneumatic tires instead of hard tires.

Give real consideration to your environment, both current and potential.

Consult Your Operators

Talk to the people who will operate the equipment. They know exactly what's needed to accomplish their goals.

They may not know specific brand names or models, but they can describe what's required to get the job done.

Check Certification Requirements

Ensure operators have necessary licenses or certifications. Requirements vary by application and unit size.

How to Find the Right Equipment

Several options exist for finding equipment. Let's examine the pros and cons of each.

Equipment Dealers

Pros

• Widest inventory selection
• Good maintenance from larger dealers
• Multiple models from major manufacturers

Cons

• Most expensive option
• Premium pricing for service and overhead
• Limited to one or two brand specializations

Rental Houses

Pros

• Various equipment types available
• Companies know optimal selling times

Cons

• Limited units of each model
• Inconsistent maintenance quality
• Many no longer service purchased equipment
• Second most costly option

Private Party Sales

Pros

• Usually cheaper than dealers or rental houses

Cons

• High risk without knowing the seller
• Potential for equipment defects
• Seller may lack authorization
• Pricing disputes possible

Auctions (Online and Offline)

Pros

• Wide equipment selection
• Online auctions may include inspection reports

Cons

• No responsibility for equipment information
• Limited safety or operation inspections
• Buyer's premium fees
• Seller's premium and transport costs
• Competitive bidding can inflate prices
• "Phantom" bids or unclear online sales

Brokers

A broker's most important assets are reputation and contacts.

What to Look For

• Listens to your needs and concerns
• Solid reputation
• Ample years of experience
• Contacts to find what you need, not just what they have

Benefits

• Reliable shipping arrangements at discounted prices
• Direct manufacturer purchases from large lease packages
• Industry knowledge and connections
• Help selling underutilized equipment
• Fair market value expertise

How to Get the Best Value

Getting the best value requires knowing what you want, having a price you're willing to pay, and finding the right resource.

However, when opportunity knocks, be flexible enough to take advantage.

Value Determination Factors

• Acquisition cost: Initial purchase price
• Expenses: Transport, buyer's fees
• Maintenance: Rule of thumb: 10% of purchase price per year
• Comparable value: Model year, hours, condition, location, environmental history

Additional Considerations

• Special operating permits
• Environmental requirements
• Pollution or noise restrictions

Equipment Inspection Guides

The following sections provide detailed inspection guidelines for different types of equipment. These guides will help you identify quality equipment and avoid costly mistakes.

Series #1: Industrial Forklifts

The most common question: "How do I know if I'm getting a quality piece of equipment?"

This inspection focuses on a standard 5,000 lbs capacity industrial straight mast forklift. These principles apply to any standard straight mast machine.

Engine Inspection

Oil Check

1. Check oil level
2. Run oil through your fingers
3. Feel for dirt or grit particles
4. Check color (milky or watery = cooling problems)
5. Assess thickness (has it lost viscosity?)
6. Smell it (burnt smell = problems)

This isn't as thorough as an oil sample, but as a quick inspection, it tells you if the machine has been serviced lately.

Mast Inspection

Visual Check

• Look inside the channel where stages ride up and down
• Check for shiny or worn spots
• Look for metal shavings

Operational Check

• Start the machine
• Does mast move smoothly or bind?
• Does it chatter on the way down?
• Binding could mean bent mast or carriage

Hoses and Cylinders

• Check for excessive wear, cracks, or leaks
• Inspect lift and tilt cylinders
• Look for pitting, scrapes, or missing chrome
• Check for obvious leaks
• If equipped with side shift, check that cylinder too

Mast Connection

• Check where mast connects to forklift
• Should be free of cracks
• Should look well lubricated
• Inspect pins and bushings

Carriage and Forks

Carriage

• Is it bent?
• Does it have a backrest?
• Are fasteners tight?
• Check fork attachment areas

Forks

• Are they straight?
• Check for holes cut in them
• Holes may weaken metal temper

Structural Inspection

• Inspect ROPs (rollover protection)
• Check for impact damage or side rollover
• Examine steer axle and steer cylinder
• Check for leaks
• Look for play in steering assembly

Operational Testing

Safety First

• Ensure seat belt is in good condition
• USE IT!

Transmission

• Test forward and reverse
• Should move smoothly without delays
• No transmission slippage
• Check inching pedal operation

Controls

• Test brakes
• Check steering (smooth, minimal play)
• No high-pitched whining noises

Hydraulic Functions

• Test lift up and down
• Test tilt forward and back
• Test side shift (if equipped)
• Some hydraulic sounds normal
• Should not growl or scream

If these terms are unfamiliar, bring your mechanic or contact Equip4Sale for assistance.

Series #2: Boom Lifts

Aerial lift equipment inspections are extremely important. With high insurance costs and difficulty finding quality employees, the last thing you want is an injury due to overlooked safety inspection.

Safety is an ongoing responsibility for everyone involved in operating aerial equipment.

Why Safety Matters

Inspections should occur at purchase AND before each use. Preferably, the operator should perform the pre-shift inspection.

Aerial lift equipment is very dangerous if not used properly. Anytime you put a worker in the air, accident potential is compounded.

Engine Inspection

For gas or diesel engines:

Oil Check

• Check oil level
• Check color (clean or dirty?)
• Check thickness
• Feel for grit or dirt particles
• Smell for burnt oil
• Milky/watery appearance = cooling problem

Wiring

• Check condition of wiring
• Look for different colored wires (repairs)
• Check for replaced sections

Engine Functions

• Start the engine
• Check high speed function
• Check choke solenoid (if equipped)
• Verify operation from lower controls
• Verify operation from upper controls
• All functions should work in both locations
• Note: Drive function only works in upper controls

Hydraulic System

• Check hydraulic pump and valve body
• Look for leaks
• Some fluid in manifold is normal
• Should not be obvious leaks or dripping
• Check hose fittings and hoses
• Look for kinks, cracks, leakage
• Listen for unusual noises when testing

Structural Inspection

Aerial lifts are susceptible to cracking at pivot points due to heavy loads.

Critical Areas

• Where boom arms come together
• Pin and bushing locations
• High-stress areas
• Check for cracks or abnormal wear
• Inspect wear pads along boom arm

Basket Assembly

• Check rails (not cracked, broken, or badly bent)
• Inspect weldment where boom and basket connect
• Check for cracks
• Look for missing bolts
• Verify secure connection

Turret Assembly

• Raise basket off ground 1-2 feet
• Gently move basket side to side
• Check play in turret gear/slew ring
• Should be 6-10 inches of movement
• Consult manufacturer's service manual

Wheels

• Check lug nuts appear tight
• Verify proper wheel alignment
• Wheels should not look misaligned

Safety Systems

Limit Switch

• Located on boom arm
• Keeps drive function in slow mode
• Activates when boom above horizontal

Function Testing

• Test all equipment functions
• Verify smooth and safe operation
• Check operator's manual for other safety items
• Perform checks before purchase AND before each shift

Contact Equip4Sale with any questions.

Series #3: Loader Backhoe

Loader backhoes may not be as dangerous as boom lifts if they malfunction, but operated incorrectly or around gas or electrical power lines (above or below ground), the results can be just as disastrous.

Engine Inspection

By the nature of the machine (it works in dirt), extra care is needed during engine evaluation.

If possible, have an oil sample taken and analyzed. Service companies can measure heavy metals in the oil to alert you to potential engine problems. The few hundred dollars invested might save thousands.

Visual Checks

• Check oil level and condition (if no oil sample done)
• Inspect for leaks
• Check fan belts condition
• Inspect injectors for leaks
• Examine wiring (frayed, broken, or replaced wires)

Cooling System

• Open radiator cap if possible
• Check for rust inside
• Verify antifreeze presence
• Inspect cooling fins (cleanliness indicates care)

Air Filter

• Ensure properly mounted and tight
• Open airbox if possible
• Check for dirt that leaked through
• Nothing ruins an engine faster than dirt

Frame Inspection

Boom Arm

• Check structure for cracks
• Inspect pins connecting boom to machine
• Verify good lubrication
• Check pins down the arm to bucket

Hydraulic Components

• Check all hydraulic rams for leaks
• Inspect chrome on rods (no pits, scratches, rust)
• Check all hydraulic hoses for cracks
• Look for dry, brittle hose casings

Special Considerations

• Check if auxiliary hydraulics present
• Ask if breaker assembly was ever mounted
• Breakers add additional wear to boom arm

Structural Damage

• Look for welds or repairs on boom arm
• Broken arms may break again
• Check stabilizer cylinders and rods carefully
• Inspect stabilizer pads and pivot points

Rollover Check

• Inspect sides and ROPs for damage
• Look for signs of rollover
• Check for bent ROPs, fenders, sheet metal

Cab Inspection

• Check seat rotation (must rotate fully for backhoe operation)
• Test all controls for tight fit
• Verify free movement

Tires

• Check tire wear
• Inspect sidewalls for cuts on all four tires

Front Bucket

• Check bucket for wear
• Look for cracks and warping
• Inspect cutting blade (should extend 1.5" to 2")
• Check loader arms for repairs or non-factory welds

Operational Testing

Initial Checks

• Put on seat belt
• Verify brakes work properly

Drive Test

• Test all gears forward
• Test all gears in reverse
• Check transmission responsiveness
• Verify tight feel

Loader Bucket Test

• Apply parking brake
• Test bucket action (should be quick and smooth)
• Raise bucket and listen for slop
• Lower bucket to ground
• Raise front end a few inches
• Listen for metal "clunk" sounds

Backhoe Operation

• Spin seat to face backhoe controls
• Lower stabilizers (smooth operation, no excess movement)
• Gently lift back of machine a few inches
• Operate boom arm right to left (quick and smooth)
• Check arm extension operation
• Test bucket movement
• Listen for metal "clunk" (should be none)
• Look for smooth, responsive, tight action

Dig Alert System

Before using your loader backhoe, many states require notifying Underground Service Alert (USA).

Eight Quick Points Before Digging

1. Delineate the site
2. Dial before you dig (it's the law)
3. Call at least two working days before excavating
4. You are responsible for damage
5. One call is all it takes
6. The call costs nothing
7. Everyone should call (not just professionals)
8. Your permit is not valid without a Dig Alert number

In Southern California: 1-800-227-2600

For other areas, check with your local city or county building permit department.

Series #4: Forward Reach Forklift

One of the most popular and versatile machines on a job site. New developments and attachments make this equipment essential for today's demanding construction sites.

Engine Inspection

Forward reach forklifts work primarily in dirt, so close attention should be paid to the engine and engine compartment.

Recommendation: Do an oil sample if at all possible. This measures heavy metals and checks for foreign matter that could spell trouble.

Oil Check (if sample unavailable)

• Check oil level
• Feel oil between thumb and index finger
• Check for grit, dirt, or metal particles
• Smell for burnt oil
• Look for watery or milky appearance (cooling problem)

Engine Compartment

• Check condition of belts, hoses, and wiring
• Look for splices in wiring harness
• Check for signs of less-than-thorough repairs

Radiator

• Remove radiator cap if possible
• Check coolant condition
• Look for reddish color (rust)
• Verify presence of fresh antifreeze
• Check for leaks in water hoses and oil lines

Radiator Mounting

• Inspect for damage to cooling fins and brackets
• This component is susceptible to vibration
• Ensure radiator is well secured
• Check that radiator frame is not cracked
• Cleanliness of fins indicates care level

Air Filter

• Locate and open air box
• Check for dust that passed through cleaner
• Dirt is unhealthy for hard-working engines
• Faulty filter causes real wear issues

Frame Inspection

Wheel Ends

• Check for leaking wheel ends
• Oil leaks on tires = expensive repair ahead

Wheels and Axles

• Check all lug nuts and bolts
• Inspect tie rods and axle assemblies
• Verify no damage
• Ensure properly fitted and tight

Cylinders

Check all of these for leaks, pitted chrome, scratched rods, or weeping seals:

• Lift cylinders
• Slave cylinders
• Frame tilt cylinders
• Carriage tilt cylinders
• Steer cylinders
• Side shift cylinders
• Outrigger cylinders (if equipped)

Carriage Inspection

• Check for properly mounted backrest
• Verify straight forks
• Check straight fork support bars
• Look for holes burnt in forks (makes them brittle)

Damage Assessment

• Complete walk-around for damage signs
• Scratched or bent ROPs = possible rollover
• Scraped risers where boom connects = possible rollover

Hydraulics

• Check for frayed hoses
• Look for brittle casings
• Check for splices
• Not necessarily expensive, but messy if broken

Cab Safety

• Carefully climb into cab (watch your head)
• Fasten seat belt
• If no working belt, don't start the machine
• These machines can tip over
• If tipping: STAY WITH THE MACHINE
• You can't move out of the way fast enough

Operational Testing

Initial Setup

• Verify parking brake engaged
• Lower outriggers (if equipped)
• Run boom up at 45-degree angle

Boom Testing

• Listen for chatter or binding as boom extends
• Run boom to full extension
• Watch for excess play
• Retract boom assembly
• Listen again for chatter or binding
• Could indicate adjustment needs or bent boom
• Check wear pads or roller bearings
• Verify no excessive play

Function Tests

With boom at halfway, roughly 45 degrees, check:

• Carriage tilt
• Carriage swing (if equipped)
• Frame leveling operations

Drive Test

• Return boom to horizontal (or angle with good visibility)
• Release parking brake
• Test forward and reverse travel
• Check all gears forward and reverse
• Pay attention to foot brake feel (firm and tight?)
• Verify it holds machine under slight throttle

Throttle and Smoke Check

• Check throttle responsiveness
• Rev up engine slightly
• Look for excess blue or white smoke
• With warm engine, only slight black puff is normal
• All diesels smoke (amount correlates to age, hours, condition)

Control Check

• Verify all controls are tight
• Check responsiveness when actuated
• If not electronic, check for hydraulic leaks at controls

Load Testing

Difficult to do properly in the field without measured weight blocks.

Practical test: Use a small scissor lift with fork lifting pockets. A small 26' electric scissor weighs up to 5,000 lbs and tests ability to pick a load in the first load chart area.

Series #5: Scissor Lifts

This labor-saving device is as popular as any machine offered. Even the smallest rental operation has a few units.

Used properly, the scissor lift is the safe and productive way to accomplish your project.

Initial Safety Check

• Look for overhead obstructions or power wires
• Check for hazards that might interfere when driving

Walk-Around Inspection

Always start with a walk-around (it's good exercise!).

• Check for bent rails
• Look for missing guard rail pins
• Check loose wheel lug nuts
• Look for any leaks

Note: For internal combustion units, use engine inspection rules from previous articles.

Hydraulic System

• Locate hydraulic manifold compartment
• Inspect hoses and fittings for wear or leaks

Battery Check (Electric Units)

• Open battery tray if equipped
• Inspect battery condition
• Using gloves, open battery plugs
• Verify adequate water levels

Structure Inspection

Most common lifts are true scissor lifts (vs. Z-arm lifts): a platform on a scissor stack attached to a motorized base.

The force of lifting causes pins, bushings, and scissor arm ends to wear out or crack. This area requires careful attention.

Lowered Position Check

• Inspect arms on the stack
• Check all pivot points
• Look for cracks or rust around pins and bushings
• Check metal surrounding welds at pin/bushing mounts
• Look for abnormal wear (metal shavings, elongated pins/bushings)
• Tolerances must be tight
• Should be no unusual gapping

Lower Controls Test

• Use lower controls to raise platform a few feet
• Engage scissor stack locking device (refer to manual)
• Check where stack rides in frame
• Determine if using rollers or sliders
• Check scissor stack to platform connection
• Verify tightly fastened, no cracks or damage
• Look for even spacing on both sides
• Check inside pins and bushings for cracks, rust, metal fatigue

Safety Devices

Pothole Protection

Many new scissors have this feature (like training wheels).

• Prevents deck/stack from rising without protection bar deploying
• Keeps machine from accidentally driving into holes
• Prevents overturning
• Verify feature works properly

Emergency Lowering

• Remove scissor stack locking device
• Locate emergency lowering device (usually on base)
• Confirm proper operation by lowering scissor lift
• Refer to manual for location of other safety features
• Check limit switches and other features

Upper Control Functions

• Mount the lift
• Check steering (left, right, back to center)
• On level surface, raise the machine
• Listen for hydraulic groaning or whining
• Drive unit forward and backwards
• Should cut from high to low drive after raising a few feet
• When coming down, check for binding or creaking from stack

Post-Inspection Care

• Always plug in the machine to receive proper charge
• Most new chargers are automatic
• Idiot light indicates proper charging

Series #6: Skid Steer Loaders

Most equipment today is manufactured with multiple purposes in mind. The skid steer loader has become even more versatile with attachments and accessories.

Available tools include backhoe attachments, brooms, grapple buckets, augers, and more. If there's a need, someone has probably designed a tool for skid steers.

Engine Compartment

This inspection covers a standard size rubber tire machine (basic principles apply to tracked versions).

Back Panel Inspection

• Open engine compartment door
• Inspect fan belts, hoses, oil/hydraulic lines
• Check for obvious wear or leaks

Oil Check

• Check oil level
• Look for water in oil
• Check for viscosity breakdown
• Fluid should be clean and free of grit or dirt

Air Filter

• Check filter housing is tight
• Open canister
• Verify no dirt inside filter housing
• These are small, hard-working engines
• Dirt inside causes major damage

Radiator

• Check fluid level
• Look for rust inside
• Verify antifreeze present

Oil Filter

• Check if changed recently
• Look for "Next Service Date" marked with Sharpie
• Verify within service range

Note: These machines work in rough environments (dirt, dust, etc.). Regular maintenance is extremely important.

Exhaust System

• Examine exhaust stack
• Look for leaks, cracks
• Check for loose fittings

Hydraulic Filter

• Locate hydraulic filter
• Check for leaks
• Verify recent change
• Check hydraulic sight glass for fluid level
• Verify fluid is clean and fresh
• All functions are hydraulically driven

Structural Walk-Around

Boom Arms

• Check if boom arms are bent
• Verify all hydraulic cylinders free of leaks
• Check chrome on rams (no pits, scratches, rust)
• Damaged chrome will leak eventually

Bushings

• Check bushings between boom arms and body
• Look for obvious wear or large uneven gaps
• Check for grease around zirk fittings
• Usually indicates recent service

Tires and Wheels

• Check tire condition
• Look for remaining life (shoot for 60-80% rubber)
• Check rim condition
• Easy to lose bead if rim is damaged
• Inspect lug nuts (good shape, not stripped)
• Verify lug nut holes not worn out
• Loose wheels ruin both lug bolt and rim

Weld Inspection

• Check weld condition, especially at load points
• Inspect pivot arm linkage and boom arms
• Look for cracking or rust in welds

Bucket Inspection

• Check bucket condition
• Verify cutting blade present
• Blade should extend at least 1" over bucket edge
• Check for cracks in stress areas
• Inspect areas around pins where bucket mounts
• Check for hydraulic leaks in front linkage

Cab Operation

Entry

• Watch your head
• Use hand rails
• Pull safety bar down
• Fasten seat belt (if equipped)

Engine Start

• Start machine
• Check for excessive smoke on start-up
• Listen to engine sound

Control Testing

• Operate all controls
• Raise and lower bucket
• Listen for hydraulic noise or squealing
• Check arms and linkage move smoothly
• Listen for metallic clunks

Drive Test

• Drive machine forward and back
• Should move smoothly
• Wheels should be in sync
• With both sticks forward/reverse, should move straight
• Raise and lower throttle to check response

Final Tests

• Drop bucket down
• Gently lift front end
• Move sticks in opposite directions with bucket on ground
• Check for excessive play in boom arms
• Bring front end down
• Shut machine off

Cosmetic Assessment

How does the machine look cosmetically? Is it a machine you'd be proud to own?

This may or may not be a factor in your search for a skid steer.

Final Thoughts

For questions or comments, visit Equip4Sale. We're always here to help!