Excavators are the lifeline of earthmoving operations, whether you're working in construction, mining, or scrap metal. When a machine starts to show signs of wear and tear, quick action is critical to avoid costly downtime. Fleet managers and operators need to be vigilant, as failing to replace worn parts can turn small issues into catastrophic failures, grinding your projects to a halt.
At Vikfin, we understand that every hour your excavator is down, money is being lost. That's why we provide high-quality used and refurbished OEM excavator parts to keep your machines running efficiently. Let’s take a look at the top 7 signs your excavator needs replacement parts ASAP — and how acting quickly can save you both time and money.
1. Uneven or Excessive Wear on Steel Tracks
Steel tracks are among the hardest-working components of your excavator, enduring constant movement over rough terrain. Signs of failing tracks include:
Uneven wear on track shoes
Links and bushings becoming loose or stretched
The tracks frequently derailing or slipping
When these issues start cropping up, your excavator's stability and efficiency suffer. Continuing to operate with damaged tracks will wear down other components like rollers and sprockets, leading to far higher repair costs.
Why It Matters:
Uneven tracks reduce traction and increase stress on the machine’s undercarriage, potentially shortening its lifespan.
The Vikfin Solution:
We stock high-quality used steel tracks for 20, 30, and 40-ton excavators at unbeatable prices. Replacing your tracks now can save you from spending ZAR 30,000 – ZAR 50,000 or more on undercarriage repairs down the line.
2. Sluggish Hydraulic System Performance
Hydraulic systems are the heart of any excavator, powering its boom, arm, and bucket movements. When hydraulics fail, productivity grinds to a halt. Watch for these warning signs:
Slow or jerky movement of the boom, arm, or bucket
A noticeable drop in hydraulic pressure
Strange noises, such as hissing or squealing
These issues typically point to failing hydraulic pumps, cylinders, or hoses. Operating underperforming hydraulics can lead to catastrophic breakdowns.
Why It Matters:
A failing hydraulic pump can severely delay projects, and replacing it after total failure can cost upwards of ZAR 80,000.
The Vikfin Solution:
Vikfin offers refurbished hydraulic cylinders, pumps, and hoses at a fraction of the cost of new OEM parts. Don’t wait until complete system failure; act fast to keep your excavator running smoothly.
3. Excessive Wear on Bucket Teeth and Cutting Edges
The bucket teeth and cutting edges endure direct contact with heavy materials like rocks and concrete. Over time, signs of wear include:
Blunted or broken bucket teeth
Excessive gaps between teeth
Worn-down cutting edges
Damaged bucket components reduce digging efficiency, requiring more time and fuel to move the same amount of material.
Why It Matters:
A worn bucket compromises productivity and increases fuel consumption, costing you an extra ZAR 5,000 to ZAR 10,000 per month in operational expenses.
The Vikfin Solution:
We provide durable, used OEM buckets and bucket teeth for all major excavator brands. Replacing these parts promptly can significantly boost your machine's performance.
4. Undercarriage Rollers Making Unusual Noises
The undercarriage of your excavator works harder than any other part. If you hear clunking, grinding, or squeaking noises from the rollers, it’s a red flag. Common signs of failing rollers include:
Uneven wear patterns
Rollers leaking oil
Seized or broken rollers
Why It Matters:
Failing rollers cause your tracks to wear out faster, leading to repairs that could easily cost ZAR 50,000+.
The Vikfin Solution:
At Vikfin, we stock used and refurbished undercarriage rollers for all major OEMs, ensuring smooth operation and extending the life of your tracks.
5. Strange Engine Noises or Decreased Power
The engine is the lifeblood of your excavator. Any unusual noises or drops in power should be addressed immediately. Common symptoms include:
Knocking or rattling sounds from the engine
Excessive black smoke or emissions
Frequent stalling or loss of power
These issues could stem from failing engine components such as fuel injectors, pistons, or the turbocharger.
Why It Matters:
Ignoring engine issues can lead to complete failure, resulting in replacement costs upwards of ZAR 150,000.
The Vikfin Solution:
We offer a wide range of refurbished OEM engines and engine components, including turbochargers, injectors, and cylinder heads. By replacing faulty parts early, you can avoid costly overhauls.
6. Slew Motor Struggling to Rotate the Excavator
The slew motor allows the cab of your excavator to rotate. If you notice any of the following issues, it’s time to investigate:
Slow or jerky rotation of the cab
Excessive noise coming from the slew area
The cab failing to rotate completely
Why It Matters:
A failing slew motor compromises maneuverability, making precise digging impossible. Replacing a failed slew motor can cost ZAR 70,000+.
The Vikfin Solution:
Vikfin supplies high-quality, refurbished OEM slew motors that will restore your excavator’s performance without breaking the bank.
7. Excessive Play in Pins and Bushings
Pins and bushings hold critical components like the boom, stick, and bucket in place. Over time, wear causes excessive play, resulting in:
Loose or wobbly components
Increased noise during operation
Reduced accuracy and digging efficiency
Why It Matters:
Neglecting worn pins and bushings can cause damage to other critical components, such as hydraulic cylinders or the frame.
The Vikfin Solution:
We stock durable, used OEM pins and bushings for all major excavator brands, ensuring tight and efficient operation.
The Vikfin Advantage: Quality Parts, Unbeatable Prices
At Vikfin, we specialize in high-quality used and refurbished OEM parts for excavators, helping fleet managers and operators minimize downtime and reduce repair costs. Our parts are rigorously tested to ensure they meet the highest quality standards.
Why Choose Vikfin?
Cost Savings: Save up to 70% compared to new OEM parts.
Wide Range: We stock parts for all major brands, including Caterpillar, Komatsu, Hitachi, Volvo, Doosan, and more.
Expert Advice: Our experienced team can help you find the exact parts you need, fast.
Fast Delivery: Time is money, and we make sure your parts arrive as quickly as possible.
By choosing Vikfin, you get the reliability of OEM parts without the hefty price tag. Whether you need replacement tracks, hydraulic components, engines, or undercarriage parts, we have you covered.
Act Now to Prevent Costly Downtime
Excavators are a significant investment, and keeping them in top condition is essential for maximizing their lifespan and ROI. The key to avoiding costly repairs is identifying failing parts early and replacing them before they cause further damage.
At Vikfin, we pride ourselves on offering the best value for excavator parts in South Africa. From undercarriage components to hydraulic cylinders, we guarantee quality and affordability. If your excavator is showing any of the 7 signs mentioned above, don’t wait until it’s too late.
Contact Vikfin Today
Ready to get your excavator back to full performance? Reach out to Vikfin for fast, reliable, and affordable solutions.
Call Us: 071 351 9750
Visit Us: Durban & Johannesburg
Email: admin@vikfin.co.za
Website: www.vikfin.co.za
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Final Thoughts
Recognizing the signs of failing excavator parts and taking swift action can save your business thousands of rands. With Vikfin’s high-quality, affordable replacement parts, you can keep your fleet operating efficiently and minimize costly downtime. Don’t let worn-out components derail your projects — trust Vikfin to deliver the solutions you need, when you need them most.
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