Modern construction sites rely heavily on excavators for productivity and efficiency. Over time, components wear out, making it crucial to replace them with quality parts.
In this guide, we’ll explore the core systems and parts excavator owners need to know, highlight popular brands like Hitachi, Takeuchi, Volvo, and Caterpillar (Cat), and explain how to find the best excavator for parts.
Understanding the Main Parts of an Excavator
Excavators have multiple systems that work together for performance and efficiency. Here are the primary parts of an excavator:
Boom: The arm that extends from the machine’s body to the working area.
Stick (or Dipper Arm): Controls the distance between the machine and the bucket.
Bucket: Used for digging, trenching, and lifting materials.
Cab: Where the operator sits and controls the machine.
Undercarriage: Tracks are often replaced due to wear.
Engine: Usually a diesel-powered unit that supports hydraulic and mechanical systems.
Hydraulic System: Requires regular maintenance to prevent leaks and breakdowns.
Swing Drive: Important for maneuvering on tight sites.
Counterweight: Ensures safety and stability when lifting heavy loads.
Each of these components can wear out or become damaged with time, requiring replacement. That’s when contractors look for excavator for parts options to keep their machines running.
Rebuilding Machines Using Excavators for Parts
An excavator for parts can supply hard-to-find or discontinued components.
Benefits of using excavators for parts:
Cost-effective solution vs. buying new parts.
Environmentally friendly by recycling old machinery.
Older excavators may not volvo excavator parts have parts in production.
Provides multiple components from a single purchase.
Many construction companies buy excavators for parts to maintain their fleet without overspending.
Best-Selling Excavator Parts by Brand
Hitachi Excavator Parts
Hitachi machines are favored for their advanced hydraulics and precision.
Common Hitachi excavator parts include:
Hydraulic pumps and valves
Track chains and rollers
Final drives
Swing motors
Boom and stick cylinders
If you're running a Hitachi machine, make sure to source genuine parts or compatible aftermarket options.
Takeuchi Excavator Parts
Takeuchi specializes in compact excavators and mini diggers.
Popular Takeuchi excavator parts:
Rubber tracks
Drive sprockets
Air filters
Control valves
Swing bearings
Takeuchi machines are popular on urban job sites, so parts need to be compact and precise.
Volvo Excavator Parts
Volvo excavators are renowned for comfort, fuel efficiency, and durability.
Typical Volvo excavator parts:
Engine components
Fuel systems
Cab interiors and operator controls
Hydraulic oil filters
Attachments and buckets
Whether you're using a wheeled or tracked Volvo excavator, matching parts is key to performance.
CAT Excavator Parts / Caterpillar Excavator Parts
Caterpillar, or CAT, is a leader in heavy machinery worldwide.
High-demand Cat excavator parts include:
Undercarriage assemblies
Swing gearboxes
Turbochargers
Pins and bushings
Electrical components
Their global presence makes it easy to find new or used CAT excavators for parts.
How to Source Quality Excavators Parts
Buying excavator parts—new or used—requires attention to detail.
Tips for buying parts excavator owners need:
Ensure parts are compatible with your exact excavator model.
Trusted sellers offer guarantees.
Request photos or inspection reports.
Compare OEM vs. aftermarket options.
Build a relationship with reputable suppliers.
Common platforms to find excavator for parts:
Online marketplaces (eBay, MachineryTrader)
Construction equipment auctions
Heavy machinery salvage yards
Manufacturer-certified dealers
Local and international part resellers
Preventative Maintenance for Excavator Parts
Avoid unnecessary wear with good operating practices.
Best practices:
Perform daily inspections for leaks or wear.
Lubricate all moving joints regularly.
Change filters and fluids according to schedule.
Store equipment properly when not in use.
Train operators to use machines efficiently.
Conclusion
No matter the brand—Hitachi, Takeuchi, Volvo, or Caterpillar—keeping parts in top shape is key.
From swing motors to tracks and buckets, every part counts when maximizing uptime and productivity.
Invest in quality, plan ahead, and keep your excavators running like new.