A used asphalt paver can run and drive while still producing a poor mat. The screed, feeder system, augers, hopper and grade-control components deserve as much attention as the engine and undercarriage.
Caterpillar’s paver and screed guidance identifies screed plates as high-wear components and shows how feeder conveyors, augers, heating systems and grade controls work together to place material. For a used buyer, the inspection should focus on both mechanical reliability and the components that directly influence paving quality.
1. Confirm the paver and screed configuration
Record the serial number, indicated hours, tracked or wheeled undercarriage, screed model, paving-width configuration, feeder system and installed grade or slope controls. Confirm which extensions, end gates, sensors and accessories are included.
Ask for service records, screed rebuild history, conveyor and auger replacement, hydraulic work and engine or emissions repairs.
2. Inspect the screed plates and frame
Look for wear, thin areas, distortion and evidence of previous repair on the main screed plates and extensions. Check the screed frame, tow points, extender guides and adjustment mechanisms. Uneven plate wear can show how the machine has been set up and maintained.
3. Check heating and vibration systems
Verify the screed heating system operates across the full width. Inspect wiring, burners or electric elements according to design, and check vibratory or tamper functions where equipped. A cold or unevenly heated section can affect startup and mat quality.
4. Inspect slat conveyors and feeder chains
Look inside the feeder path for worn slats, chains, sprockets, floor plates and bearings. Check chain adjustment and compare wear from side to side. Heavy wear here can become a substantial repair before the machine returns to production.
5. Inspect augers and material-distribution components
Check auger flights, bearings, extensions, drive components and guards. Worn flighting reduces material movement and can contribute to segregation or inconsistent head of material. Verify height and extension adjustments operate correctly.
6. Check hopper, wings and push rollers
Inspect hopper floors, side wings, hinges, cylinders and seals for distortion and leakage. Check front push rollers for damage and free movement. Look for hardened asphalt buildup in areas that should move or seal.
7. Inspect tracks or tires and propel system
On tracked pavers, inspect track pads, chains or belts, rollers, idlers and drive components according to design. On wheeled machines, inspect tire condition and steering components. Test travel and steering response in a safe area.
8. Inspect hydraulics, engine and cooling package
Look for leaking cylinders, hoses and fittings, then bring the paver to operating temperature and cycle feeder, hopper, screed and travel functions. Check the cooling package for asphalt contamination and debris, and review engine fault history.
9. Verify grade and slope controls
Inspect sensors, sonic or mechanical references, wiring, displays and mounting hardware. Confirm what control components and licenses are included in the sale. Replacement of missing grade-control hardware can materially change the purchase cost.
10. Perform a controlled functional test
Heat the screed and operate conveyors, augers, hopper wings, extensions, vibration or tamper systems and travel functions according to manufacturer procedures. If a paving demonstration is practical, evaluate whether the machine responds consistently rather than relying only on a stationary test.
Used asphalt paver scorecard
| Area | Strong | Investigate | Concern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screed plates / frame | □ | □ | □ |
| Heating / vibration | □ | □ | □ |
| Conveyors / feeder chains | □ | □ | □ |
| Augers / distribution | □ | □ | □ |
| Hopper / push rollers | □ | □ | □ |
| Undercarriage / propel | □ | □ | □ |
| Hydraulics / grade controls | □ | □ | □ |
The takeaway
Judge a used asphalt paver by its ability to place material consistently, not just by whether it starts and travels. Screed and feeder wear can directly affect mat quality and should be included in any repair estimate before purchase.
Related BigEquipCo guides: Heavy Equipment Total Cost of Ownership and Heavy Equipment Shipping Guide.
