What to Look for When Buying a Used Hydro Excavator
Hydro excavation trucks—also called hydrovac trucks or vacuum excavators—represent a significant investment. Brand-new units cost well over $500,000 USD, making the used equipment market attractive for many companies.
Why Buy a Used Hydro Excavator?
- Lower upfront cost – Often 30–50% less than a new unit
- Faster ROI – Useful for small and mid-sized contractors expanding their fleet
- Proven reliability – Many hydrovac trucks last thousands of hours if properly maintained
- Availability – Shorter lead times compared to ordering new equipment
Key Factors to Consider When Buying Used Hydrovac Trucks
1. Truck Chassis Condition
The truck foundation requires careful evaluation:
- Mileage and engine hours
- Maintenance history (oil changes, filter replacements, emission system service)
- Signs of rust, cracks, or frame damage
- Transmission health and smooth gear shifting
2. Vacuum System Integrity
The vacuum represents the core system. Inspect:
- Blower or fan system – Look for wear, leaks, or excessive noise
- Hose connections – Ensure seals are tight with no suction loss
- Debris tank seals – A leaking tank reduces efficiency
- Vacuum pump hours – High usage may indicate upcoming repairs
3. High-Pressure Water System
Hydrovacs rely on water pressure to cut soil. Watch for:
- Pump output pressure and GPM (gallons per minute)
- Leaks in hoses, valves, or fittings
- Boiler/heating system (if applicable for frozen ground excavation)
- Corrosion inside the water tank
4. Debris Tank Condition
The debris tank handles heavy loads and abrasive slurry:
- Tank wall thickness and signs of wear
- Hydraulic door seals for leaks
- Dumping mechanism functionality
- Evidence of rust or patchwork repairs
5. Control Systems and Electronics
Modern hydrovacs include digital controls and safety interlocks. Confirm:
- Joysticks, panels, and gauges are responsive
- Electrical wiring is intact and not corroded
- Emergency stop systems function correctly
6. Maintenance Records and Service History
A reputable seller should provide complete documentation:
- Scheduled maintenance logs
- Repair history (especially blower and pump replacements)
- Manufacturer service bulletins and compliance
Incomplete maintenance history represents a major red flag.
7. Hours of Use and Application History
Ask:
- How many hours are on the blower and water pump?
- Was the truck used in oil & gas, municipal, or general construction?
- Has it been exposed to corrosive or contaminated soils?
Heavy oilfield use may mean accelerated wear compared to utility daylighting.
8. Brand, Model, and Parts Availability
Some older or discontinued models may have limited parts support. Choose brands with established dealer networks for easier repairs.
9. Safety Features and Compliance
Confirm the used hydrovac meets local safety standards:
- Backup cameras or alarms
- Fall protection tie-off points
- DOT/transport compliance for hauling
- Certification of tanks and pressure systems
10. Independent Inspection and Testing
Before finalizing a purchase:
- Hire a third-party inspector with hydrovac experience
- Request a full functionality test (digging, suction, dumping)
- Compare condition against the asking price
Red Flags When Buying Used Hydro Excavators
- Excessive blower noise or visible smoke
- Rust-through on debris tank walls
- Oil leaks around engine, blower, or hydraulics
- No verifiable service history
- Seller unwilling to allow inspection
If you encounter these issues, proceed with caution—or walk away.
Final Thoughts
A used hydro excavator can be a smart investment with proper due diligence. "The truck chassis, vacuum system, water pump, and debris tank are the most critical components to inspect." Always request full maintenance records, verify safety compliance, and arrange for professional inspection before purchase to ensure a dependable, cost-effective acquisition.
