Whether you're building roads, digging foundations, or handling heavy materials, excavators play a critical role. 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.
What Are the Parts of an Excavator?
Excavators have multiple systems that work together for performance and efficiency. Here are the core parts of an excavator:
Boom: The arm that extends from the machine’s body to the working area.
Stick (or Dipper Arm): Attached to the boom, it allows for digging and extending deeper into the ground.
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: Powers the entire machine.
Hydraulic System: Drives the boom, stick, bucket, and other attachments.
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.
Benefits of Purchasing Excavators for Parts
When a machine is beyond repair or retired from active use, it can still be valuable as a source of parts.
Benefits of using excavators for parts:
Save money by using salvaged components.
Environmentally friendly by recycling old machinery.
Older excavators may not 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
Using high-quality Hitachi parts ensures optimal performance and longevity.
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
CAT excavators are often the backbone of construction fleets.
Where to Buy Excavator Parts Safely
Buying excavator parts—new or used—requires attention to detail.
Tips for buying parts excavator owners need:
Always verify the model and serial number before buying.
Trusted sellers offer guarantees.
Visual checks can reveal wear or defects.
OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts guarantee fit, while aftermarket may be cheaper.
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 cat excavator parts dealers
Local and international part resellers
Keep Your Excavator Running Longer
Avoid unnecessary wear with good operating practices.
Best practices:
Check hoses, tracks, and cylinders every shift.
This reduces friction and prolongs bushing life.
Hydraulic oil, engine oil, and air filters are essential.
Avoid exposure to extreme weather conditions.
Rough usage often leads to early part failure.
Wrap-Up: Excavator Parts and Maintenance
Every excavator relies on high-quality parts to deliver consistent performance.
If you're in the market for excavator parts, be strategic: compare brands, check compatibility, and maintain your machine regularly.
Choose wisely and keep your construction projects moving without delays.