Start with identity, not paint
Ask for one continuous walk-around that begins at the full machine, moves to the model and serial plate, and finishes at the hour meter. This makes it easier to connect the documents, meter, and visible machine to the same unit.
Fresh paint can improve presentation, but it does not prove the condition of the rotary drive, mast, main winch, crowd system, or crawler components.
- Readable model and serial plate
- Cold-start video with the machine in one continuous shot
- Hour meter shown together with the cab and machine exterior
Check the expensive systems under load
Request mast raising, rotary-head movement, main-winch operation, crawler travel, and steering. Watch for uneven motion, abnormal noise, hydraulic leakage, warning lights, and excessive play at pins and guides.
- Rotary head forward and reverse operation
- Main winch and crowd system under controlled load
- Crawler travel, steering, brakes, and track condition
- Hydraulic oil temperature and visible leaks after operation
Compare complete delivered scope
Two machines with the same model can have different drill rods, Kelly bars, tools, service history, transport dimensions, and export preparation. Compare the complete supplied package rather than the machine alone.