Used Equipment
By Seth Skydel
Hidden Problems
chemical plants since these conditions accelerate corrosion beyond what age and hours might indicate.
Hydraulic System Deficiencies: Leaking seals, worn hoses, contaminated fluid or failing pumps in crane hydraulic systems may not be evident until the machine is operated under load. Some used crane sellers provide basic fluid level checks, but dealers generally recommend a full hydraulic pressure test and a hydraulic fluid contamination analysis.
Electrical System Issues: Wiring insulation breakdown, faulty sensors, broken connectors and worn circuit boards, which may not be evident in a simple visual inspection, can lead to intermittent control issues or complete operational failure. Testing electrical systems under load and inspecting wiring harnesses for wear is essential.
What Buyers Overlook
Identifying hidden problems in used cranes helps avoid costly surprises
For crane rental companies, contractors and construction firms, used cranes can be a compelling option. Working to stretch capital budgets without sacrificing lifting capacity, on paper a high quality well maintained used crane can be a cost-effective way to add capabilities at a fraction of the price of new equipment.
But like all complex heavy machinery, hidden problems in used cranes can translate into higher repair costs and downtime, and heightened safety risks. For used crane dealers and inspection services providers one thing is clear— before signing on the dotted line any used crane purchase must be grounded in rigorous evaluation. Their recommendations provide a practical checklist buyers can use to evaluate potential purchases:
Structural Fatigue: Boom, jib, frame and outriggers can endure extreme stresses throughout their operational lifecycles. Over time, cyclic loading can cause microscopic cracking and metal fatigue. In a superficial inspection, that structural damage can often be easy to miss. Cracks in welded joints or load-bearing areas may be invisible without detailed inspection tools, such as ultrasonic equipment or dye-penetrant tests.
Environmental Wear and Corrosion: Exposure to dust, salt air, extreme temperatures or abrasive environments accelerates wear. Corrosion often starts internally around bolted connections, inside hydraulic lines or under protective paint. Special attention should be paid to cranes used near ports, coastal construction zones, mines or
Other Considerations
Safety and control system obsolescence in older models may make used cranes non-compliant with current industry and regulatory standards. Older cranes may also have faulty or out of calibration systems that can compromise safe operation, increasing the risk of operator error and accidents. Dealers often highlight the importance of confirming that safety and control systems are fully functional and verified against current standards before purchase.
Even if a used crane is structurally and mechanically sound, obtaining replacement parts can be difficult and expensive. This is especially true for older electronic components, hydraulic fittings or control modules. Dealers advise buyers to verify that parts are still available through manufacturer networks, third-party suppliers or parts marketplaces.
Dealers also advise buyers of used cranes to verify maintenance histories through service records that detail inspections, routine maintenance, part replacements and repairs. Machines offered without these records or with gaps in their service history should be treated as high-risk purchases.
Buying a used crane can be a cost-effective strategy, but only if a diligent approach to inspecting for hidden problems helps avoid expensive surprises. That process not only protects your investment, but also protects operators and crews, and promotes productivity on jobsites.
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February 2026 • www. cranehotline. com