When purchasing construction or agricultural equipment, the primary focus is traditionally on the condition of the machine itself—the engine, chassis, cab, and hydraulics. However, it is the attachments that determine the functionality and performance of the equipment in everyday work. Ignoring their condition can result in downtime, injuries on-site, and additional costs. Let’s explore why attachments require just as much attention as the main machine.

What does the attachment include?

Attachments are removable working tools installed on excavators, loaders, tractors, graders, and other specialized equipment. These include:

  • buckets of various types (toothed, planning, rock);
  • hydraulic hammers;
  • rippers and grabs;
  • pallet forks;
  • snow or soil plow;
  • drills and hydraulic shears;
  • mulchers, grapples and other specialized equipment.

It is attached to the base machine via adapters, transition plates, quick releases and can operate in harsh conditions with a high change frequency.

Why is it important to check the condition of the hitch?

1. Functionality and efficiency

Even new equipment won’t perform its intended task if the bucket is deformed, the teeth are worn down, and the grapple doesn’t grip the material. Any deviation from the norm reduces productivity, increases operation time, and leads to excessive fuel consumption.

2. Safety of the operator and others

Cracks in welds, loose joints, and faulty hydraulics can all lead to a suspended assembly failing during operation. On the construction site, this can result in injuries, structural damage, or project delays.

3. Wear of the base machine

Damaged or improperly selected attachments place increased stress on the hydraulic system, boom, and rotating mechanisms. This accelerates wear on the equipment and other components, leading to costly repairs.

4. Compliance with tasks

The attachment must be suitable for the type of work, soil, and climate conditions. For example, a rock bucket is ineffective for soft soil—it’s heavy and consumes more fuel. A standard bucket won’t handle crushed rock or asphalt.

5. Budget savings

Timely diagnostics of attachments helps avoid unplanned expenses. Replacing a bushing, hose, or tooth is cheaper than purchasing a new component or repairing the aftermath of an accident.

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What and how to check

Before purchasing or renting equipment with attachments, it is worth evaluating:

  • wear of the cutting edge, teeth, knives;
  • presence of play, cracks, deformations;
  • tightness of hydraulic lines;
  • correct operation of the cylinders;
  • fixation on quick releases and adapters;
  • availability of documentation and original markings.

Particular attention should be paid to hydraulic attachments, as they require regular diagnostics and proper pressure adjustment.

Used attachments: what to look for

When purchasing used equipment, it is important to understand that the attachment may be:

  • non-original or incompatible;
  • repaired in a handicraft way;
  • with “tired” hydraulic cylinders or damaged eyes;
  • repainted to hide damage.

Therefore, it is advisable to either conduct an independent assessment or select equipment from a trusted supplier who provides an opinion on the condition of the entire system.

How to approach the choice correctly

If you’re choosing equipment for general-purpose tasks, it’s worth choosing models with quick-change attachments. It’s also important to consider spare parts availability, retrofitting options, and the manufacturer’s recommendations for attachment types. Remember: the performance of a machine depends largely not on its age or brand, but on its condition and the correct selection of attachments.

At TAD Group we offer proven used equipment with a full set of working tools. Attachments are diagnosed and tested—you get not just a machine, but a ready-to-use tool. Contact us—we’ll help you choose reliable equipment for your needs and operating conditions.