Aggregate Equipment Buyer Guide

• Used crushers and screens typically range from $50,000 for older, smaller units to over $500,000 for newer, high-capacity models.
• Operating weights vary widely, from 5-ton portable screens to 200-ton stationary primary crushers.
• Well-maintained aggregate equipment can achieve 15,000 to 25,000 hours of productive life, with some stationary units exceeding 30,000 hours.
• Fuel consumption is significant, with large diesel-powered crushers burning 15-30+ gallons per hour, depending on load and size.
• Common attachments and components include grizzly feeders, magnetic separators, impact plates, and various screen media (mesh, punch plate).
• Primary jobsite uses involve material reduction, sizing, separation, and stockpiling for concrete, asphalt, and foundation projects.
• Electric-powered options are increasingly common for stationary plants, offering lower operating costs and emissions compared to diesel.
• Track-mounted mobile units provide flexibility, while wheeled and stationary plants offer higher production capacities for long-term sites.

• 1Inspect wear liners (jaw plates, cone liners, impact bars) for excessive wear beyond service limits, indicating costly replacements.
• 2Check all conveyors for worn belts, seized rollers, proper tracking, and damage to idlers or frame components.
• 3Examine screen decks for bent frames, torn mesh, or cracked cross members, which can compromise material sizing.
• 4Assess the structural integrity of the main chassis and frame for cracks, especially around high-stress areas like pivot points and crusher mounts.
• 5Listen for abnormal noises from gearboxes, bearings, or hydraulics during operation, signaling potential component failure.
• 6Verify hydraulic cylinders for leaks, pitting on rods, and smooth extension/retraction; check hydraulic pumps for unusual vibrations or noise.
• 7Review service records meticulously for consistent oil changes, routine wear part replacements, and documented major overhauls.
• 8Pay attention to hour meter red flags, such as discrepancies with physical wear or engine hours if separate, suggesting tampering.
• 9If available, analyze telematics data for operational patterns, idle times, fault codes, and historical fuel consumption to gauge true usage.
• 10For track-mounted units, inspect undercarriage components (tracks, rollers, sprockets) for excessive wear; for wheeled units, check tire condition and axle integrity.

Commonly-reported issues from operators and technicians. Every machine varies — always inspect before you buy.