Trying To Sell Your Crane? Three Things A Crane Appraisal Specialist Looks For And Why
If you have finally decided to retire from the construction business and you want to auction off all of your equipment so that you can liquidate it fast, you will need an appraiser for the equipment. In regards to cranes, you may even need special crane appraisals from a crane appraiser. To make sure your crane appraiser gives you the best possible appraisal (which translates into the most money at auction), here are three things you may want to check and make sure it will pass (or surpass) the appraiser's inspection.
The Engine Is Clean and Fully Functional
Your crane may fire up and run, but is the engine clean? How often did you have engine maintenance performed on the crane (i.e., engine flushes and fluid refills)? The appraiser will not only be looking at functionality in your crane's engine but also at how clean and well-maintained the engine is. If you have never had the engine flushed and refilled with the correct lubricants and fluids, you still have time to get the engine cleaned out and ready for the appraisal. It will not be perfect, but it will be better than a very dirty engine.
The Hydraulics Are Solid and Have No Leaks or Loose Parts
A crane is only as good as the powerful hydraulics behind the boom arm. Checking the hydraulics to make sure they are working, tight, and do not have any loose parts is just part of what an appraiser will look for. He or she will also want to know if there are any leaks in the hydraulic system, which could cause a potentially dangerous failure if not repaired before the crane goes to auction or noted on bill of sale. If you choose not to fix any of these issues, you may only be allowed to sell the crane for salvage or sell it for less "as is" so that the next owner can afford to fix it.
The Crawler Tracks Are Intact and Have No Issues
If the crane(s) you are sending to auction has (have) crawler tracks, the appraiser will check the tracks to make sure they are on the correct wheels and gears and that there are no breaks or problem areas. If you have never had the tracks checked, and you do not know what to look for yourself, then you will need to take the crane(s) to a heavy construction repair technician. The technician can look over the crawler tracks for you and point out any areas that the appraiser might have a problem with. Then you can choose to fix these, or take your chances with the appraiser (who might give you a second chance if you are willing to repair what he/she says you should).
For more information, contact Roden Consulting LLC or a similar company.