Used Articulated Hauler Checklist
By Marcia Gruver
Make/model:
Year:
Serial number:
Hours:
Previous owner/application:
Does it need to cleaned and/or painted?
Engine
Make/model Serial number How does it start? Hours since overhaul Oil leaks? Oil pressure? Condition of engine oil Overfull on dipstick? Engine power Any unusual noises or misses? Radiator condition Charge air cooler condition Antifreeze condition Blow-by check Fuel system Oil analysis results
Transmission
Leaks? Condition of transmission oil Fluid level Filter condition Condition of hoses and lines Any slippage during operation? Operates easily in all speeds, forward and reverse? High/low dropbox Differential locks, test in all ranges:
• 4-wheel drive, diff locks disengaged
• 4-wheel drive w. transverse diff lock on front axle
• 6-wheel drive and longitudinal diff lock
• 6-wheel drive, longitudinal diff lock and diff lock on front axle.
• 6-wheel drive, all diff locks engaged
Drive line/U joints Torque converter
Brakes
Operational checks:
• Do the breaks hold the truck when you test them by pressing the brake pedal down and trying to drive through the brakes in 3rd and 4th gear?
• Move forward and stop the unit three or four times to check how fast the brake system pressure drops and if it recovers.
• Check emergency brake by applying the brake and trying to drive through 4th gear
Leaks in the master cylinder? Wear on brake shoes or pads Parking brake
Retarder function properly?
Hydraulics
Leaks?
Worn hoses?
Pumps
Tank
Unusual noises from the hydraulic pump or air in the system?
Condition of cylinders
• Hoist
• Steering
Body lift and return cycle time
Final drives/planetaries
Leaks?
Unusual noises?
Articulation hitch
Any cracks or welds?
Pin and bushing wear
Lubricated?
Any rust?
Pivot point nut tight?
Operational checks:
• Drop the body from the raised position and check for movement
• Move the steering cylinders and check for pin and bushing wear
Suspension system
Front suspension, condition of:
• Shock absorbers
• Rubber springs
• Spherical bushings
Rear suspension, condition of:
• Rubber elements
• Bogie beams
• Tie rods
Cab
General condition
Gauges and controls:
• Heater
• AC
• Wipers
• Lights
• Electronic monitoring system
• Back-up alarm
• Horn
Mirrors
Glass
Doors/handles
Seat upholstery
Seat fully adjustable?
Frame/body
Cracks or welds?
Steps and grab bars
Hood/front panels
Any damage or dents in the body?
Body wear
Belly pan condition
Condition of guards
Fuel tank condition
Liner condition (if applicable)
Tailgate condition (if applicable)
Tires
Condition of wheels, hubs and rims
Any retreads?
History/Comments
Comments of previous owner or seller
Detail any recent repairs and rebuilds and who did them
Condition of maintenance records – available electronically?
Note any repairs and estimated costs