Circle drives, tandem cases, and precision hydraulics make graders complex and expensive to repair. Know exactly what you're buying before you commit.
Motor graders are precision machines with complex drivetrains and hydraulic systems. The circle drive, tandem cases, and articulation joints all wear over time — and repairs are expensive. What looks like a clean machine can be hiding $30,000+ in needed work.
Worn ring gear teeth, pinion damage, and bearing failures. Circle rebuilds run $8,000–$20,000 depending on severity.
Worn chains, bearings, and seals in the tandem drive cases. Rebuilding both sides can cost $15,000–$30,000.
Slipping clutches, worn discs, and shift issues. Transmission rebuilds range from $12,000–$35,000.
Blade lift, circle rotate, and steering cylinders develop leaks. Multiple cylinder repairs add up to $5,000–$15,000.
Worn pins and bushings cause frame slop and poor blade control. Rebuild costs $6,000–$15,000.
Front wheel drive motors, axles, and engagement systems fail. AWD repairs can exceed $20,000.
This is what repairs cost when issues go undetected. Our inspection is just $800.
Motor Grader Inspection Checklist
Our inspectors perform a comprehensive motor grader evaluation — checking the circle and moldboard assembly, tandem drives, transmission, and all hydraulic systems under actual operating conditions.
Your Inspection Report Includes
35-50 high-resolution photos covering circle and moldboard assembly, tandem cases, hydraulic cylinders, tires, engine compartment, cab interior, and any areas of concern.
Written summary with Good/Fair/Poor ratings for each major system, tire measurements, circle gear assessment, and clear identification of any problems found.
Video footage of the motor grader operating — blade movements, circle rotation, articulation, and travel. See and hear exactly how the machine performs.
Simple 3-Step Process
Send us the motor grader details (make, model, serial number) and location. We coordinate directly with the seller to schedule the inspection.
Our inspector performs a thorough evaluation — testing circle drive, tandem cases, and all blade functions while documenting everything with photos and video.
Receive your detailed inspection report via email within 24 hours. Review the findings and make an informed buying decision.
Motor Grader Inspection FAQs
Most motor grader inspections take 3-4 hours due to the complexity of the machine. Graders with AWD, ripper/scarifiers, or GPS systems may take longer.
We inspect all major brands including Caterpillar, John Deere, Komatsu, Volvo, Case, and Champion. Our inspectors are experienced with all common configurations.
Yes. The circle drive is one of the most critical and expensive components on a motor grader. We inspect the ring gear teeth, drive motor/pinion, and check for smooth rotation under load.
We inspect both tandem drive cases for leaks, noise, and proper operation. We check oil condition and look for signs of internal wear.
Yes. If the grader is equipped with AWD, we test engagement, inspect the front wheel motors, and evaluate the entire system for proper operation.
Yes. Precise blade control is essential for a motor grader. We test all blade movements — lift, tilt, side shift, and circle rotation — for smooth, accurate operation.
Yes, we regularly perform pre-auction inspections. Contact us early with the lot details so we can coordinate access.
We can verify that the GPS mounting points and wiring are in good condition. However, calibration and software verification typically require dealer support.
The IronCheck Difference
We work for you, not the seller. Our only job is giving you the truth about the machine's condition.
Our inspectors understand grader-specific systems — circle drives, tandem cases, and the precision components that make these machines expensive to repair.
We inspect motor graders across all 50 states. Wherever the machine is located, we can get there.
Most inspections scheduled within 24-48 hours. Report delivered same day or next business day.
Motor graders are precision machines with expensive components. A hidden circle drive or tandem problem can cost more than the machine is worth. Get the facts first.