ASPHALT ANSWERS
Enlist the help of a third party to help evaluate a used paver.
bly shot. If you can start the paver, make
sure the screed heats. If you can run the
screed extensions out, grab the end gate
and see if the extension will wobble up
and down. If it does, you will need to
repair it. Now look at the flight screws,
are the threads worn? Are the bearings
loose? If either of these conditions exist
it, will cause the screed to undulate front
and back while paving, causing ripples in
the mat profile. Check the tow arms and
make sure they are straight. Look at the
tow point cylinder and make sure they
are not leaking. Along with that, check
the screed lift cylinders, screed extension
cylinders and hopper cylinders. Inspect
the catwalk.. If it is bent up, you will
want to check the screed frame as the
machine may have backed into a hard
surface.
Now go to the hopper to look at the
floorplate see if the chains have dug
into the floor. Also, the conveyor drive
sprockets should not be sharp. Do the
bars look in good shape? Are the wings
and flashing good? A quick eye test here
can save thousands.
Now that you have completed you in-
spection. Is this the machine you want
to purchase? If not, don’t fret. The used
market is rich with pavers and other equip-
ment, but beware, if the price seems too
goo to be true, it just might be.
Rick Smith is a territory manager at
ST Engineering LeeBoy, Inc.
You can contact him at [email protected].
For More Information On This Advertiser Please Visit www.CallAPE.com/e-inquiry
www.callape.com
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1.800.210.5923