For a contractor, site manager, or bulk hauler, a dump trailer is more than just a trailer. It’s an essential productivity tool. Its ability to independently load, transport, and unload heavy materials makes it a major asset for profitability.
But buying a used dump trailer comes with its own set of challenges. Unlike a flatbed trailer, a dump trailer has complex mechanical and hydraulic systems that have seen a lot of use. A poor choice isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a risk of downtime and costly repairs.
If you’re shopping for a used dump trailer, here are five crucial inspection points that should command your full attention, beyond just the tires and lights.
1. The hydraulic system (the pump and hoses), the heart of the dump trailer
This is the heart of the operation. If it’s faulty, your dump trailer is nothing more than a very heavy metal box.
Carefully examine the hydraulic pump (whether electric or gas-powered). Look for obvious signs of oil leaks around the reservoir and the pump itself. Inspect the hydraulic hoses along their entire length. Look for cracks, areas where the hose appears dry, or points of friction where it may have rubbed against the frame. A hose that bursts under pressure is a major problem on a job site.
2. The Lifting Cylinder: The Muscle of the Dump Trailer
If the pump is the heart, the cylinder is the muscle. It’s what pushes the dump box. Operate the lifting mechanism and lower it several times. The operation should be smooth and seamless.
While it’s raised, inspect the chrome rod of the cylinder (or cylinders, if there are multiple cylinders). Look for rust pits, deep scratches, or dents. A damaged rod will prematurely destroy the seals and cause leaks. A slight oil seepage is one thing, but an active leak is a red flag.
3. The Frame: The Dump Trailer’s Skeleton
This is the skeleton of your trailer. A dump trailer is designed to withstand immense and sometimes unevenly distributed loads.
Go underneath the trailer. Inspect the main beams (the frame) from end to end. Pay particular attention to stress points: where the tongue meets the bed, around the suspension mounts, and especially at the rear pivot point. Look for cracks in the welds or in the metal itself. Reinforcing plates welded on afterward may indicate an overload repair. Make sure this repair was done professionally.
4. The Condition of the Trailer’s Bed (Floor and Walls)
The bed has been hit by rocks, gravel, and dirt. Dents and scratches are normal and purely cosmetic. What you need to watch for is deformation.
Examine the floor of the box. Is it relatively flat, or is it “wavy” (warped) between the support beams? A warped floor indicates repeated overloading and can make unloading sticky materials (like clay) more difficult. Also, check the corners and welds inside the box for signs of tearing.
5. Pivot Points and Tailgate
These are often overlooked, but they are critical to safety and functionality.
At the main pivot point (where the box tips), check for excessive play. A little movement is normal, but excessive play can make tipping unstable, especially on uneven ground.
Finally, operate the tailgate. Does it open like a barn door? Does it swing open from the top? Both? Make sure the hinges aren’t seized by rust and that the locking mechanism operates smoothly and securely. Battling a stuck tailgate wastes valuable time on every trip.
An inspected dump truck is an investment, not a gamble.
Buying a used dump truck is a sound financial decision, provided you know where to look. These five points will help you distinguish a reliable work tool from a future source of trouble.
At Gamache Truck Center, we understand the realities faced by contractors. That’s why our inspection process covers these critical points, ensuring you purchase an asset ready to perform on your job sites.
Making a decision based on the total cost of ownership is a winning business strategy. We invite you to browse our inventory of used trailers to discover how our inspected units can optimize your fleet’s profitability. For a needs analysis or to discuss your options, contact one of our experts directly at Gamache Truck Center.
