Start with the tires
Loader tires are one of the most expensive wear items on the machine, so check tread depth, sidewall cuts and even wear across all four. A set of worn tires can be a major hidden cost, factor it into your offer.
Drivetrain and articulation
Test the transmission and torque converter through every gear, listening for slipping, harsh shifts or hesitation. Check the axles and differentials for leaks. At the center of the machine, check the articulation joint and steering cylinders for play or wear, which affects steering and is expensive to rebuild.
Bucket, hours and value
Inspect the bucket, cutting edge and linkage pins for wear. Ride control (which cushions the load while traveling) is a desirable feature that adds value. Overall value is driven by hours, tire condition, transmission health, and the coupler and bucket setup. See real-sales values by model on the wheel loader value guide.
Checking a specific loader? Run its serial through MachVerity for identity, a value from real sales, and a due-diligence checklist.
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Frequently asked
How expensive are wheel loader tires?
A full set of large loader tires can be one of the biggest single wear costs on the machine, so worn tires should come straight off your offer price.
What is high hours on a used wheel loader?
Condition and service history matter more than the meter. Test the transmission and check for leaks; a well-maintained higher-hour loader can beat a neglected low-hour one.
What is ride control on a wheel loader?
Ride control cushions the loader arms while traveling, smoothing the ride and reducing spillage. It is a desirable feature that adds resale value.