The 50-Point Used Crane Inspection Checklist: Professional Guide to Av

Why Professional Inspection is Non-Negotiable

In 2024, a construction company in Saudi Arabia saved $180,000 by purchasing a used 100-ton crawler crane instead of buying new. Six months later, a critical hydraulic failure cost them $78,000 in repairs plus $135,000 in project delays—all because they skipped the $3,500 professional inspection to "save money."

This scenario plays out repeatedly across Middle East and Africa markets. According to industry data, buyers who skip professional third-party inspections experience major failures requiring $50,000+ in repairs at 8.5x the rate of those who invest in thorough pre-purchase inspections.

This comprehensive guide provides the exact 50-point inspection checklist used by SGS and other professional inspection companies, with detailed explanations of what to look for, common failure points, and real photos of issues that cost buyers tens of thousands in unexpected repairs.

Whether you're conducting your own preliminary inspection or verifying a third-party report, this guide will help you spot red flags before signing the purchase agreement.

Understanding Inspection Standards

International Standards for Crane Inspection

ISO 9927-1:2022 - Cranes: Inspections
Covers competence requirements, inspection procedures, and documentation requirements for all types of cranes.

ASME B30.5 - Mobile and Locomotive Cranes
American standard widely adopted internationally for mobile crane safety and inspection protocols.

EN 12644 - Cranes: Information for use and testing
European standard for crane inspections, particularly relevant for CE-marked equipment.

Why These Matter for Used Crane Buyers:

Professional inspection companies follow these standards to ensure:

Consistent evaluation criteria
Safety compliance verification
Liability protection for buyers
International acceptance of inspection reports

Types of Inspection Services

1. Visual Inspection ($800-1,500)

What's Included:

Visual examination of major components
Basic functional testing (no-load operation)
Photograph documentation
Summary report

Recommended For:

Preliminary screening
Cranes under $50,000
Low-risk purchases

Limitations:

Cannot detect internal wear
Limited load testing
No laboratory analysis

2. Comprehensive Inspection ($2,500-4,000)

What's Included:

Complete visual examination
Full load testing at multiple configurations
Basic non-destructive testing (NDT)
Fluid sampling and analysis
Detailed written report (40-60 pages)
Repair cost estimates

Recommended For:

All cranes over $100,000
Any crane for critical applications
Buyers without technical expertise

What It Reveals:

Hidden structural damage
Hydraulic system condition
Engine health indicators
Remaining service life estimates

3. Ultra-Detailed Inspection ($5,000-8,000)

What's Included:

Everything in comprehensive inspection
Advanced NDT (ultrasonic, magnetic particle testing)
Full boom disassembly and internal inspection
Metallurgical analysis of critical welds
Complete electrical system diagnostic
Vibration analysis
Thermal imaging

Recommended For:

Cranes over $500,000
Equipment with unknown history
High-consequence applications (offshore, nuclear)

The 50-Point Inspection Checklist

SECTION A: Documentation & History (Points 1-5)

✅ Point 1: Original Purchase Documentation

What to Request:

Original sales invoice
Customs clearance documents (imported units)
Registration certificate
Certificate of origin

Why It Matters:

Verifies legal ownership
Confirms manufacturing date (not always obvious from serial number)
Reveals import history (multiple countries = potential issues)

Red Flags: ❌ Seller cannot provide documentation
❌ Owner name doesn't match seller
❌ Multiple ownership changes in short period
❌ Evidence of tampering with documents

Real-World Example:

A UAE buyer discovered during documentation review that a "2019 crane" was actually manufactured in 2017 but sat in port storage for 18 months before first use—explaining the low operating hours but higher-than-expected wear.

✅ Point 2: Complete Service Records

What to Request:

All maintenance logs (oil changes, inspections, repairs)
Parts replacement history
Load test certificates
Annual inspection reports

Evaluate:

Maintenance frequency (regular intervals = well cared for)
Quality of service (authorized dealer vs. unknown shop)
Major component replacements (what's been replaced?)
Gaps in records (missing periods = red flag)

Ideal Service Record:

✅ Oil changes every 250 hours (engine) / 500 hours (hydraulic)
✅ Annual inspections by certified technician
✅ Documented response to any warning indicators
✅ Manufacturer-specified maintenance intervals followed
✅ Parts replaced with OEM or equivalent quality components

Warning Signs:

❌ Long gaps between service (6+ months with no maintenance)
❌ Oil changes at irregular intervals or very high hours
❌ Generic "serviced" entries without details
❌ Missing documentation for known high-wear periods
❌ Aftermarket or unknown-brand parts installed

✅ Point 3: Accident & Repair History

Critical Questions:

Has the crane been involved in any accidents?
Any structural damage or major repairs?
Any tipping or overload incidents?
Insurance claims filed?

Documentation to Request:

Accident reports
Insurance claim records
Structural repair documentation
NDT reports (if structural work performed)

Why This is Critical:

Even professionally repaired structural damage reduces crane value and safety. A repaired boom may test fine but could have microscopic fatigue cracks that will eventually fail.

Real Consequence:

In 2023, a Nigerian contractor purchased a crane with undisclosed tip-over damage. The repaired outrigger beam failed during operation 8 months later, causing $200,000+ in damages and one serious injury. The seller had professionally repaired the damage but never disclosed the incident.

How to Detect Hidden Repairs:

Look for mismatched paint
Check for welded patches on structural steel
Inspect for straightened/bent components
Review NDT reports on suspect areas

✅ Point 4: Operating Hours Verification

Document:

Total engine hours
Operating hours (under load)
Idle hours
Travel hours (mobile cranes)

Verification Methods:

Electronic Hour Meter:

Primary reading (cannot be easily tampered)
Cross-reference with service records
Check for meter replacement (suspicious if recent)

Engine Control Module (ECM):

Most modern cranes store hours in ECM
Requires diagnostic tool to read
Harder to tamper than dash meter

Service Records Cross-Check:

Last service should be within 250-500 hours of current reading
Historical service records should show linear progression

Red Flags: ❌ Hours significantly lower than expected for age
❌ Recently replaced hour meter
❌ Service records don't align with current hours
❌ Seller provides round number ("about 5,000 hours")
❌ ECM reading differs from dash meter

Industry Benchmarks:

New crane: 0 hours
1 year old: 800-1,500 hours (normal commercial use)
5 years old: 4,000-7,500 hours
10 years old: 8,000-15,000 hours

Anything significantly below these ranges deserves scrutiny.

✅ Point 5: Operator History & Usage Pattern

Questions:

How many operators used this crane?
What type of projects? (urban construction, oil & gas, infrastructure)
Single-owner or rental fleet?
Operating environment? (desert, coastal, tropical, arctic)

Why It Matters:

Best Case: Single-owner, urban construction, climate-controlled storage

Predictable loading cycles
Consistent maintenance
Protected from elements
Known operating parameters

Worst Case: Rental fleet, multiple projects, harsh environment

Variable loading (potential overloading)
Multiple operator skill levels
Exposure to elements 24/7
Maintenance possibly deferred

Real-World Impact:

Two identical 2018 SANY 75-ton cranes:

Crane A (Best Case):

Single owner, Dubai high-rise projects
4,200 hours in 6 years
Stored in climate-controlled facility
Same two trained operators
2024 condition: Excellent, minimal wear

Crane B (Worst Case):

Rental fleet, multiple sites across Middle East
8,800 hours in 6 years
Outdoor storage
15+ different operators
2024 condition: Fair, extensive wear, major component replacement needed

Resale value difference: $95,000 (same model, same year)

SECTION B: Structural Inspection (Points 6-15)

✅ Point 6: Main Boom Sections

Inspection Method:

Visual Examination:

Lay boom on ground in extended position
Inspect each section systematically
Use magnetic particle testing on suspect areas

Look For:

✅ Good Condition:

Uniform paint/coating
No visible cracks or deformations
Smooth, straight sections
Original factory welds intact
Proper alignment marks visible

❌ Warning Signs:

Cracks at corners or welds
Bent or twisted sections
Dents or impact damage
Corrosion pitting (especially at base)
Repaired areas (welded patches)
Misalignment between sections

Critical Areas:

Boom Base (First Section):

Highest stress concentration
Inspect hinge pins for wear
Check base plate for cracks

Mid-Sections:

Look for buckling between stiffeners
Inspect wear pads for excessive grooves
Check telescoping mechanisms

Tip Section:

Lightest construction, most vulnerable to damage
Inspect sheave mounting points
Check tip cap and hook attachment

Measurement Points:

Use a straight edge and feeler gauge to check:

Maximum allowable deviation: 5mm per 10 meters
Twist: <2° over boom length
Section-to-section gap: Within manufacturer specs (typically 2-5mm)

Disqualifying Defects:

Cracks >50mm in length
Permanent deformation >10mm
Corrosion penetration >20% of wall thickness
Evidence of attempted crack repair without full section replacement

✅ Point 7: Jib/Fly Sections (If Equipped)

Additional Considerations:

Jib sections experience even higher stress than main boom due to:

Longer moment arm
Wind loading
Dynamic forces during operation

Specific Checks:

Stowage brackets (frequent stress cycling)
Extension cylinders (if hydraulic jib)
Offset pins and bushings
Backstays and guy wires (lattice jibs)

✅ Point 8: Boom Extension/Retraction System

Hydraulic Telescoping Systems:

Test Procedure:

Extend boom fully (no load)
Retract fully
Stop at intermediate positions
Observe for:
- Smooth, consistent motion
- No jerking or hesitation
- Sections extend/retract evenly
- No leaks at cylinder connections

Inspection Points:

Hydraulic Cylinders:

Cylinder rods: Check for scoring, pitting, or chrome flaking
Seals: No visible leaks when pressurized
Cylinder bodies: No dents or damage

Extension Mechanism:

Wear pads: <20% wear acceptable
Locking pins: No excessive play
Cables (if cable-extend): >80% of rated strength
Pulleys/sheaves: <10% groove wear

Load Test:

With 50% rated load at maximum radius:

Extend to intermediate positions
Check for boom sag (compare to manufacturer specs)
Listen for unusual sounds (grinding, rattling)
Verify load moment indicator accuracy

Red Flags: ❌ Uneven section extension (one section extends faster)
❌ Hydraulic fluid leaks during extension
❌ Excessive boom sag under load
❌ Squealing or grinding noises
❌ Sections bind or stick

Real Failure Case:

A Kenyan contractor discovered excessive wear on boom extension pads only after purchase. Repair required boom disassembly and replacement of all wear pads: Cost: $35,000 + 3 weeks downtime.

The issue was visible during inspection (uneven gaps between sections) but was missed because inspector didn't extend boom under load.

✅ Point 9: Slew Bearing Inspection

Critical Component:

The slew bearing allows the superstructure to rotate. It's one of the most expensive components to replace ($50,000-150,000+ depending on crane size) and failure can be catastrophic.

Inspection Method:

Rotation Test:

Rotate superstructure 360° in both directions
Perform at idle speed and full speed
Load test: Rotate with 50% rated load

Listen For:

Grinding or rumbling (bearing degradation)
Clicking or popping (gear tooth damage)
High-pitched squealing (lack of lubrication)

Visual Inspection:

External:

Inspect seal condition (should be intact, no tears)
Check for grease leaks
Look for rust streaks (indicates moisture intrusion)

Internal (Requires Partial Disassembly):

Bearing race condition
Ball or roller condition
Gear tooth wear

Measurement Tests:

Backlash Test:

Measure play in slew gear
Acceptable: <5mm total
Warning: 5-10mm (monitor closely)
Failure: >10mm (replacement needed)

Wobble Test:

Measure vertical movement of boom base during rotation
Acceptable: <3mm
Warning: 3-6mm
Failure: >6mm (bearing worn out)

Lubrication Inspection:

Sample grease from bearing
Should be: Clean, consistent color, no metal particles
Warning signs: Metallic color, gritty texture, water contamination

Estimated Remaining Life:

Based on bearing condition:

Excellent: 10,000+ hours
Good: 5,000-10,000 hours
Fair: 2,000-5,000 hours (budget for replacement)
Poor: <2,000 hours (immediate replacement needed)

Replacement Cost Impact:

Including labor and downtime:

Small mobile cranes (25-50 ton): $30,000-60,000
Medium cranes (50-100 ton): $60,000-120,000
Large cranes (100+ ton): $120,000-250,000+

This single component can make or break a deal.

✅ Point 10: Outrigger Beams & Jacks

Function:

Outriggers provide stability and increase lifting capacity. Failure leads to crane tip-over—the most serious crane accident type.

Inspection Points:

Outrigger Beams:

Extend all outriggers fully
Check for smooth extension (no binding)
Inspect for cracks at stress points:
- Beam-to-frame connection
- Cylinder mounting points
- Pin holes
Measure beam twist (<2° acceptable)

Vertical Jacks:

Extend with no load (observe for leaks)
Load test: Extend with crane's weight
Check cylinder rods for scoring
Inspect jack pads for cracks

Load Sensors:

Many modern cranes have load cells on outriggers
Test functionality (load indicator should show when extended)
Verify calibration (if possible)

Float Position Test:

Retract outriggers to "float" position
Jacks should move freely when crane is supported
Binding indicates bent beam or damaged cylinder

Critical Failure Signs: ❌ Cracks in beam structure
❌ Bent or twisted beams
❌ Hydraulic leaks under load
❌ Outrigger doesn't extend fully
❌ Jack pad wobbles or is loose
❌ Load sensors non-functional

Safety Consideration:

Never buy a crane with cracked outrigger beams. Even if repaired professionally, the safety risk is too high. Outrigger failure causes tip-overs, which have the highest fatality rate of all crane accidents.

✅ Points 11-15: Additional Structural Elements

Due to length constraints, here's a summary of remaining structural inspection points:

Point 11: Counterweight System

Verify completeness (correct number and weight)
Inspect mounting system for cracks
Check removal/installation mechanism

Point 12: Operator Cabin

Structural mounting integrity
Floor condition (rust/holes)
Window/door seals
ROPS/FOPS compliance (if applicable)

Point 13: Chassis/Carrier Frame

Crack inspection at all stress points
Frame alignment (measure diagonals)
Rust penetration assessment

Point 14: Crawler Tracks (Crawler Cranes)

Track shoe condition (>60% remaining = good)
Sprocket and idler wear
Track tension adjustment function

Point 15: Tires & Suspension (Mobile Cranes)

Tire condition (tread depth, sidewall damage)
Suspension system (springs, shock absorbers)
Axle alignment

SECTION C: Mechanical Systems (Points 16-30)

✅ Point 16: Engine Performance Test

Comprehensive Engine Evaluation:

Cold Start Test:

How many cranks to start?
Excessive smoke on startup?
Rough idle initially?

Warm-Up Observation:

Time to reach operating temperature
Temperature gauge stability
No warning lights

Full Load Test:

Run engine at 75-100% load for 10+ minutes
Monitor temperature
Check for power loss under sustained load

Smoke Analysis:

Smoke Color	Indication	Severity
Clear/Minimal	Normal combustion	✅ Good
Blue	Oil burning (worn rings/valves)	⚠️ Warning
White	Coolant leak (head gasket)	❌ Serious
Black	Incomplete combustion (injectors/air)	⚠️ Moderate

Fluid Analysis:

Engine Oil Sample: Send to laboratory for analysis:

Metal content (bearing wear indicators)
Viscosity (oil breakdown)
Fuel dilution
Coolant contamination

Cost: $150-300 per sample
Value: Can reveal $20,000+ in hidden engine issues

Coolant Analysis:

pH level (acidic = corrosion)
Freeze protection level
Contamination

Compression Test:

Should be within 10% across all cylinders
Low compression = worn rings or valves

Oil Pressure Test:

At idle: Should meet manufacturer spec
At operating RPM: Should increase proportionally
Low pressure = bearing wear

Expected Results (Diesel Engine):

Compression: 350-450 PSI (varies by engine)
Oil pressure (idle): 10-20 PSI
Oil pressure (operating): 40-60 PSI
Operating temperature: 180-220°F

Red Flags: ❌ Hard starting (>5 seconds cranking)
❌ Excessive smoke (any color)
❌ Unusual noises (knocking, rattling)
❌ Oil pressure fluctuations
❌ Overheating
❌ Metal particles in oil

Repair Cost Estimates:

Minor issues (injectors, sensors): $2,000-8,000
Major issues (turbo, head gasket): $10,000-25,000
Complete rebuild: $30,000-60,000
Replacement engine: $50,000-100,000+

✅ Point 17-20: Hydraulic System (Most Critical)

The hydraulic system is the "heart" of the crane. Comprehensive inspection is essential.

Point 17: Hydraulic Fluid Analysis

Sample Collection:

Draw sample from main tank (not drain)
Use clean container
Label with crane ID and date

Laboratory Testing:

Particle count (contamination level)
Viscosity index
Water content
Acid number (oil degradation)

Acceptable Limits:

ISO cleanliness code: 18/16/13 or better
Water content: <0.1%
Viscosity: Within 10% of specification

What Results Mean:

Good (Clean):

Low particle count
No water contamination
Proper viscosity
System likely healthy

Moderate (Contaminated):

High particle count
Some water present
System needs flushing, filter replacement
Cost: $3,000-8,000

Poor (Degraded):

Very high particles
Significant water
Acidic pH
System damage likely, components may need replacement
Cost: $15,000-50,000+

Point 18: Hydraulic Pump Test

Pressure Test:

Install test gauge on pump output
Run pump at full speed
Measure pressure (should reach system max)
Hold pressure for 60 seconds

Flow Test:

Measure flow rate at rated RPM
Should be within 5% of specification

Temperature Rise Test:

Monitor hydraulic temperature during operation
Excessive rise (>20°C above ambient) indicates:
- Internal pump wear
- Contaminated fluid
- Excessive system friction

Noise Assessment:

Normal: Smooth "whirring" sound
Warning: Whining or squealing
Failure: Grinding or knocking

Pump Efficiency: Based on pressure and flow:

New pump: 90-95% efficiency
Good condition: 85-90%
Warning: 75-85% (budget for replacement)
Poor: <75% (immediate replacement)

Replacement Costs:

Main pump: $15,000-40,000
Auxiliary pumps: $5,000-15,000 each
Labor: $3,000-8,000

Point 19: Cylinder Inspection

All Cylinders (Boom, outrigger, slew, etc.):

Visual:

Extend cylinder fully
Inspect rod surface (chrome plating)
Look for:
- Scoring (scratch marks)
- Pitting (small holes)
- Chrome peeling/flaking
- Rust

Leak Test:

Extend cylinder under load
Hold position for 5 minutes
Measure drift (should be <25mm)
Check rod seals for leakage

Rebuild vs. Replace:

Scoring/Pitting:

Minor (can feel with fingernail): Re-chrome rod ($2,000-5,000 per cylinder)
Major (deep grooves): Replace cylinder ($8,000-20,000 per cylinder)

Seal Leakage:

External leak only: Replace seals ($500-1,500 per cylinder)
Internal + external: Likely cylinder damage, rebuild needed

Typical Crane Cylinder Count:

Small mobile crane: 8-12 cylinders
Large all-terrain: 15-25 cylinders

If multiple cylinders need work: Add $20,000-80,000 to budget

Point 20: Hydraulic Valves & Controls

Control Valve Block:

Operates all crane functions
Contains multiple spools and seals

Function Test:

Test each function independently
Observe for:
- Smooth operation (no jerking)
- Consistent speed
- No cross-function (moving wrong component)

Pressure Holding Test:

Activate function (e.g., lift boom)
Release control
System should hold pressure (no drift)

Common Issues:

Internal leakage (spool wear): $5,000-15,000 rebuild
Solenoid failure: $500-2,000 per valve
Contamination damage: $10,000-30,000 replacement

✅ Points 21-30: Additional Mechanical Systems

Point 21: Transmission (Mobile Cranes)

Shift through all gears
Check for slipping or harsh engagement
Fluid condition and level

Point 22: Winches & Drums

Cable condition (Point 31)
Drum surface condition
Brake function test
Level wind mechanism

Point 23: Brakes

Service brakes
Parking brake
Emergency brake (if equipped)
Load-holding brakes

Point 24: Steering System

Front axle steering
Rear steering (if equipped)
Crab steering function (if equipped)
Power steering pump

Point 25: Drive Axles

Differential operation
Gear oil condition
No unusual noises

Point 26: Cooling System

Radiator condition
Coolant level and condition
Hoses and clamps
Fan operation

Point 27: Fuel System

Tank condition (internal rust?)
Fuel filters
Water separator
Lines and connections

Point 28: Air System (If Equipped)

Compressor function
Air dryer
Tank drainage
Brake circuit operation

Point 29: Exhaust System

No leaks
Emissions compliance
Turbocharger condition
DPF/DEF system (modern engines)

Point 30: Grease/Lubrication Points

Verify all points accessible
Check for proper lubrication
No dried/missing grease

SECTION D: Electrical & Control Systems (Points 31-40)

✅ Point 31: Load Moment Indicator (LMI)

Critical Safety System:

The LMI prevents overloading by monitoring:

Boom angle
Boom length
Load weight
Slew position (for asymmetric counterweights)

Functionality Test:

Calibration Verification:

Set up crane in known configuration
Apply test load (certified weight)
Verify LMI reading matches actual load
Acceptable error: ±5%

Warning System Test:

Approach 90% of capacity
LMI should alarm
Approach 100% capacity
LMI should prevent further operation

Shutdown Test:

Attempt to exceed capacity
Crane should automatically stop

Common Issues:

Sensors out of calibration
Angle sensor failure
Display malfunction
Software errors

Replacement Cost:

Sensor replacement: $2,000-5,000
Complete LMI system: $15,000-40,000
Recalibration: $1,500-3,000

Safety Note:

Never operate a crane with non-functional LMI. In most jurisdictions, this is illegal and voids insurance. A working LMI is non-negotiable.

✅ Points 32-40: Additional Electrical/Control Elements

Point 32: Main Electrical Panel

Clean connections
No burnt components
Circuit breaker function

Point 33: Battery System

Voltage test (12.6V+ at rest)
Load test
Cable condition

Point 34: Alternator/Charging

Charging voltage (13.5-14.5V running)
Amperage output test

Point 35: Control System

Joystick/lever operation
Display functions
Control responsiveness

Point 36: Safety Interlocks

Outrigger position sensors
Boom angle limits
Overload shutdown

Point 37: Lighting Systems

Work lights
Indicator lights
Travel lights (road legal)

Point 38: Instruments & Gauges

All gauges functional
Warning lights operational
Display clarity

Point 39: Wiring Harnesses

No chafing or damage
Proper routing
Secured connections

Point 40: Telematics System (If Equipped)

GPS function
Data logging
Remote monitoring capability

SECTION E: Wire Rope & Lifting Components (Points 41-45)

✅ Point 41: Wire Rope Inspection

Critical Safety Component:

Wire rope failure is a leading cause of crane accidents. Thorough inspection is essential.

Inspection Standard: OSHA 1926.1413

Removal Criteria (Any ONE triggers rope replacement):

Broken Wires:
- 6 broken wires in one lay (rope rotation)
- 3 broken wires in one strand in one lay
- Any broken wire at end connections
Diameter Reduction:
- 5% reduction from nominal = Warning
- 10% reduction = Immediate replacement
Corrosion:
- Surface rust: Acceptable
- Pitting: Warning (inspect closely)
- Internal corrosion: Immediate replacement
Kinking or Crushing:
- Any kink = Immediate replacement
- Crushing >1/3 diameter = Immediate replacement
Heat Damage:
- Discoloration from heat = Replacement
- Evidence of arc strikes = Replacement

Inspection Procedure:

Visual:

Run rope slowly through hands (with gloves!)
Feel for broken wires
Look for diameter changes
Check for "bird caging" (strand separation)

Measurement:

Measure diameter at multiple points
Compare to manufacturer specification
Document minimum diameter found

Service Life Estimates:

Based on operating hours and visible condition:

New rope: 0 broken wires, full diameter
Good (80-100% life): <3 broken wires per lay, >98% diameter
Fair (50-80% life): 3-5 broken wires, 95-98% diameter
Replace (0% life): >6 broken wires, <95% diameter

Replacement Costs:

Varies dramatically by size and length:

Small crane (3/4" x 300 ft): $3,000-6,000
Medium crane (1" x 500 ft): $8,000-15,000
Large crane (2" x 800 ft): $25,000-50,000+

Installation labor: $2,000-8,000

Budget Impact:

A crane with 4 ropes near end-of-life could need $60,000-100,000 in immediate replacement costs.

✅ Points 42-45: Additional Lifting Components

Point 42: Hooks & Blocks

Throat opening (not >15% increase)
Surface cracks (none acceptable)
Swivel function
Safety latch operation

Point 43: Sheaves & Pulleys

Groove wear (<10% original depth)
Bearing condition (smooth rotation)
Axle pins (no excessive play)

Point 44: Anti-Two-Block System

Weight function
Alarm test
Automatic shutdown test

Point 45: Boom Limit Switches

High angle limit
Low angle limit
Emergency stop function

SECTION F: Final Evaluation (Points 46-50)

Point 46: Overall Corrosion Assessment

Surface rust: Acceptable if minimal
Scale corrosion: Warning
Pitting/penetration: Serious concern

Point 47: Paint & Appearance

Original paint condition
Signs of repainting (covering damage?)
Decal legibility

Point 48: Missing Components

Operator manuals
Tool kit
Spare parts
Warning labels

Point 49: Aftermarket Modifications

Document any non-factory additions
Verify engineering approval
Check structural integrity

Point 50: Overall Assessment

Excellent: <$5,000 immediate costs
Good: $5,000-20,000 immediate costs
Fair: $20,000-50,000 immediate costs
Poor: >$50,000 or safety concerns

After Inspection: Interpreting Results

Understanding Inspection Reports

Common Terminology:

Term	Meaning	Implication
"Serviceable"	Meets minimum standards	Safe to operate, budget for wear items
"Attention Required"	Issues present but not critical	Plan repairs within 6-12 months
"Immediate Action"	Safety concern	Must repair before operation
"Condemn"	Component must be replaced	Do not operate until replaced

Negotiation Leverage

Use inspection findings to negotiate:

Minor Issues ($5,000-15,000):

Request seller handles repairs
Negotiate 10-20% price reduction

Major Issues ($15,000-50,000):

Request 30-40% price reduction
Consider walking away if hidden issues

Critical Issues (>$50,000 or safety):

Walk away unless price reflects full repair cost
Get multiple quotes for repair work
Factor in downtime costs

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Inspection Investment vs. Risk

Real-World Examples

Case Study 1: The $3,500 That Saved $78,000

Scenario: UAE contractor considering $280,000 used crawler crane

Action: Paid $3,500 for comprehensive SGS inspection

Findings:

Slew bearing excessive play (16mm backlash)
Hydraulic pump efficiency 68%
Multiple cylinders scoring

Estimated Repair: $78,000

Outcome: Negotiated $95,000 price reduction, purchased with known costs

ROI: 2,614% return on inspection investment

Case Study 2: The Skipped Inspection

Scenario: Nigerian company "saved money" by skipping inspection

Purchase: $155,000 (seemed like great deal)

Reality:

Undisclosed tip-over damage (repaired but weakened)
Engine burning oil (worn rings)
Hydraulic contamination throughout

Actual Costs:

Structural reinforcement: $42,000
Engine rebuild: $28,000
Hydraulic system flush & repairs: $33,000
Total: $103,000

Final Cost: $258,000 for equipment worth $200,000

Loss: $58,000 + 4 months downtime

Conclusion: Never Skip Inspection

The data is clear: Professional inspection provides 10:1 to 50:1 ROI through avoided repairs, negotiation leverage, and peace of mind.

Final Checklist:

✅ Hire certified inspector (SGS, Bureau Veritas, TUV, etc.)
✅ Choose comprehensive inspection for equipment >$100,000
✅ Review inspection report thoroughly before purchase
✅ Get repair quotes for any identified issues
✅ Factor repair costs into purchase decision
✅ Verify inspector credentials and insurance
✅ Request detailed photo documentation
✅ Get remaining service life estimates

Red Flags to Walk Away:

❌ Seller refuses third-party inspection
❌ Multiple structural repairs without documentation
❌ Non-functional LMI or safety systems
❌ Undisclosed accident history
❌ Tampered hour meter or documents
❌ Excessive corrosion or wear throughout
❌ Missing critical components

Remember: A $3,500 inspection is cheap compared to a $50,000 surprise repair.

About TrustCraneHub

Every crane in our inventory undergoes professional third-party inspection before sale. We provide:

Complete SGS inspection reports
Detailed photo documentation
Repair cost estimates for any issues
Transparent condition disclosure
6-month warranty on all equipment

Why our customers trust our inspection process:

100% of cranes inspected (no exceptions)
Independent third-party verification (not in-house)
Full disclosure of all findings (even minor issues)
Repair options provided (fix before sale or price adjustment)
Historical performance data (if available)

View our inspection process: Website: www.trustcranehub.com/
Email: info@trustcranehub.com
WhatsApp: +86 159 1591 0934

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