Buying a Used Side Tipper: 3 Things to Check
If you need to move large loads in a quick and efficient manner, a side tipper can be a fantastic piece of kit. However, they can also be quite expensive to buy when brand new. If you are looking to invest in a side tipper for your work site, you may be considering investing in a used side tipper. However, even if you are buying secondhand, you will want to make sure you get the best equipment that you can. Below is a guide to 3 things you should inspect before you purchase a side tipper.
The Chassis and Truck Frame
The chassis and the truck frame form the backbone of the side tipper and provide the load-bearing strength which keeps the body of the truck upright during tipping operations. When looking to purchase a side tipper, you should check that the chassis and the truck frame are in good condition and do not have any signs of rust or corrosion. You should also check that there are no signs that that chassis or truck frame has become distorted. If a side tipper is overloaded, the weight of the load can sometimes stress the chassis or truck frame to the point that it becomes visibly misshapen.
The Dump Box
The dump box is the part of the machine which holds the load and then pivots to unload it at a chosen location. Because this is the 'business end' of the tipper, it is subject to high levels of wear and tear. For this reason, it pays to take your time to carry out a careful inspection of this area. It is normal for the dump box to have some scrapes and dents. However, if you see signs of extensive damage or patches of metal where the dump box has been repaired, this is a potential warning sign that the side tipper has seen a lot of use and may be coming to the end of its life.
The Lifting Cylinders
The lifting cylinders are positioned directly under the dump box. The cylinders move and provide the mechanical force needed in order to pivot the dump box so that it dumps it's load. You should carefully inspect the cylinders for signs of leaking hydraulic fluid, rust or broken seals.
If you would like further advice about buying a used tipper truck, you should contact an automotive and machinery office which has side tippers for sale.
