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When your business depends on safe, efficient digging, equipment failure isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a liability. Buying used is the only financially sound move for many operators.

However, not all used hydro excavation trucks are worth the savings.

From worn-out blowers to mismatched tank sizes and outdated control systems, a bad choice can quickly turn into thousands in repairs and lost contracts. So before you start searching for a used hydro excavation truck for sale, here’s what you need to keep in mind.

1. Vacuum System Performance Comes First

Your blower or vacuum pump is the heart of the operation. If it’s under powered or past its prime, expect slower digging and higher maintenance.

Checklist:

• Confirm CFM and vacuum pressure ratings meet your job requirements
• Look for brands with proven longevity (e.g., Roots, Hibon, Robuschi)
• Ask for service records—rebuilding or replacing blowers can cost $15K–$30K

2. Tank Size and Material Should Match Your Jobs

Don’t assume “bigger is better.” A 2,000-gallon debris tank may sound ideal, but it’s useless if your contracts only require short urban jobs with frequent dumping access.

Quick tips:

• Go for aluminum tanks if weight is a concern
• Steel tanks work better for heavy-duty industrial or oilfield jobs
• Check for interior tank wear and inspect seals and dump doors

3. Hydro System and Water Pump Condition

You need strong PSI for trenching and potholing, and that pressure must be consistent. Weak or fluctuating water pressure wastes time and leaves poor results.

Make sure to:

• Inspect the water pump (look for Giant, CAT, or Pratissoli brands)
• Test the pressure output—2,500 to 3,000 PSI is standard
• Check for corroded lines, damaged nozzles, or signs of leaks

4. Control System: Analog or Digital?

Older units might have toggle switches and dials. Newer trucks may include touchscreen systems. There’s no wrong answer—just compatibility with your crew’s skills.

If the truck’s tech is too advanced (or too outdated), it’ll cost you in downtime.

Ask for a demo. Bring your operator. Make sure it feels familiar and easy to manage.

5. Chassis Condition and Mileage

Even if the hydro components check out, a worn-out chassis can put you out of service.

Look out for:

• Frame rust, suspension wear, and past accident damage
• Odometer vs. engine hours—digging jobs rack up hours, not just miles
• Engine type and parts availability (Cummins, International, and Freightliner tend to be easier to service)

6. Previous Application and Maintenance History

Knowing how a used hydro excavation truck was used before tells you a lot. Was it used in freezing climates? Did it run 24/7 on oilfield projects? Did the previous owner perform scheduled maintenance?

Request:

• Full maintenance logs
• List of past repairs or replacements
• Any recent upgrades or new components

A well-documented used hydro excavation truck is easier to trust—and resell down the line.

7. Parts Availability and Dealer Support

Even if the used hydro excavation truck looks great now, parts availability down the road matters. You don’t want to be stuck waiting weeks for a control module or blower belt.

Check if the truck’s make and model are still supported by the manufacturer. If not, confirm the availability of aftermarket parts or rebuild kits.

Buy a Top-Standard Used Hydro Excavation Truck 

Looking for a high-performing used hydro excavation truck for sale? Big Truck & Equipment Sales has one of the most trusted inventories in the industry. Every truck is inspected, serviced, and ready to work—no guesswork, no surprises. Contact our team today to find the right fit for your fleet and budget.