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10 Common Excavator Repairs That Can Save You Thousands with Used OEM Parts

Writer's picture: RALPH COPERALPH COPE


Excavators are the workhorses of construction, mining, and earthmoving industries, but like all heavy machinery, they are prone to wear and tear. Repairs are inevitable, and when they arise, the cost of replacement parts can quickly add up—especially if you opt for brand-new OEM components.


That’s where Vikfin comes in. By choosing high-quality used OEM parts, you can keep your excavator running efficiently without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll explore 10 of the most common excavator repairs and explain how Vikfin’s cost-effective used parts can save you thousands in repair costs.


1. Hydraulic Cylinder Repairs

Common Issues:

  • Leaking seals

  • Bent rods

  • Internal scoring and wear

  • Loss of hydraulic pressure

Repair or Replace?

Seals and minor damage can often be repaired, but if the rod or barrel is bent or heavily scored, replacing the entire cylinder may be necessary.

Why Choose Used OEM Cylinders from Vikfin?

Instead of paying a premium for a new hydraulic cylinder, Vikfin offers refurbished OEM cylinders that function like new at a fraction of the cost. Our cylinders undergo rigorous testing to ensure performance and longevity.


2. Final Drive Failures

Common Issues:

  • Leaking hub seals

  • Gear wear and pitting

  • Motor failure

  • Contamination of oil with metal shavings

Repair or Replace?

Final drives can be rebuilt if the damage is minimal, but when gears are excessively worn, a replacement is the better option.

Why Choose Used OEM Final Drives from Vikfin?

A brand-new final drive can cost tens of thousands, but Vikfin’s tested and refurbished options provide the same reliability at a fraction of the price. We carry a wide range of final drives for major brands, ensuring compatibility with your machine.


3. Slew Motor and Slew Ring Wear

Common Issues:

  • Unusual noises during rotation

  • Slow or rough movement

  • Metal debris in hydraulic oil

  • Gear wear due to lack of lubrication

Repair or Replace?

Minor issues with the slew motor can sometimes be fixed with seal replacements, but significant gear damage often requires a full replacement.

Why Choose Used OEM Slew Motors from Vikfin?

Instead of spending a small fortune on a brand-new slew motor, you can get a fully tested, OEM refurbished unit from Vikfin, ensuring your excavator stays operational without a financial hit.


4. Engine Problems

Common Issues:

  • Loss of power

  • Overheating

  • Oil leaks

  • Knocking sounds

Repair or Replace?

While minor issues like clogged filters can be repaired, severe engine damage often requires a replacement.

Why Choose Used OEM Engines from Vikfin?

A new excavator engine can cost upwards of R300,000 ($15,000+ USD). Vikfin carries fully functional used OEM engines that have been tested and are guaranteed to perform at a fraction of the cost.


5. Undercarriage Wear (Steel Tracks, Rollers, and Idlers)

Common Issues:

  • Uneven track wear

  • Broken or missing track links

  • Roller failure

  • Excessive vibration due to worn idlers

Repair or Replace?

Undercarriage components take a beating in everyday operations. While some track links can be replaced individually, heavily worn tracks or rollers require full replacements.

Why Choose Used OEM Tracks and Rollers from Vikfin?

Vikfin specializes in high-quality used steel tracks, rollers, and idlers for all major brands. We offer these parts at unbeatable prices compared to new OEM options.


6. Boom and Dipper Arm Damage

Common Issues:

  • Cracks in the boom or arm

  • Bent structural components

  • Loose pin and bushing connections

Repair or Replace?

Minor cracks can sometimes be welded, but structural failures require replacement to prevent catastrophic failure.

Why Choose Used OEM Booms and Arms from Vikfin?

Vikfin stocks strong and durable used booms and arms from major brands, ensuring you get a reliable part without the excessive price tag of a new one.


7. Cab Damage

Common Issues:

  • Broken glass

  • Dented panels

  • Worn-out seats and controls

Repair or Replace?

Superficial damage can be repaired, but a severely damaged cab should be replaced for safety and operational efficiency.

Why Choose Used OEM Cabs from Vikfin?

Vikfin has a large inventory of high-quality used excavator cabs, providing an affordable alternative to expensive new replacements.


8. Battery Box and Electrical Wiring Issues

Common Issues:

  • Corroded battery terminals

  • Short circuits

  • Wiring harness damage

Repair or Replace?

Small electrical issues can be fixed with wire replacements, but a corroded or damaged battery box often requires a full swap.

Why Choose Used OEM Electrical Components from Vikfin?

Instead of buying overpriced new wiring harnesses and battery boxes, Vikfin supplies tested used electrical parts that function like new at a fraction of the cost.


9. Excavator Valve Bank Malfunctions

Common Issues:

  • Hydraulic leaks

  • Faulty relief valves

  • Uneven control response

Repair or Replace?

Minor leaks can be fixed with seal kits, but major failures in the valve bank require a full replacement.

Why Choose Used OEM Valve Banks from Vikfin?

A brand-new valve bank can be an incredibly expensive component, but Vikfin offers tested and certified used OEM valve banks, ensuring smooth operation without the steep price tag.


10. Excavator Hammers and Attachments

Common Issues:

  • Worn-out chisel points

  • Hydraulic leakage

  • Weak impact force

Repair or Replace?

While some attachments can be rebuilt with new seals or wear parts, a heavily used hammer may need a full replacement.

Why Choose Used OEM Attachments from Vikfin?

Instead of spending a fortune on a new hammer or attachment, you can find affordable, high-quality used options at Vikfin that perform just as well at a much lower cost.


Conclusion

Excavator breakdowns are inevitable, but spending a fortune on brand-new parts isn’t. By choosing high-quality used OEM parts from Vikfin, you can save thousands while keeping your machine running at peak performance.


🔧 Why choose Vikfin?✅ Cost-effective, high-quality used OEM parts✅ Rigorous testing for reliability✅ Wide inventory for all major brands✅ Fast delivery to minimize downtime

📢 Need a part? Contact Vikfin today and get your excavator back to work without breaking the bank!


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083 639 1982 (Justin Cope) - Durban

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