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.

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: Modern cabs offer comfort and protection.

Undercarriage: Tracks are often replaced due to wear.

Engine: Usually a diesel-powered unit that supports hydraulic and mechanical systems.

Hydraulic System: Drives the boom, stick, bucket, and other attachments.

Swing Drive: Allows the excavator to rotate 360 degrees.

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.

Promotes sustainability in the construction industry.

Ideal for discontinued or rare models.

Useful when operating multiple machines of the same brand.

Rather than buying new, sourcing used parts from similar machines can extend equipment life.

Popular Excavator Brands and Their Parts

Hitachi Excavator Parts

Hitachi is known for durable and reliable excavators.

Common Hitachi excavator parts include:

Hydraulic pumps and valves

Track chains and rollers

Final drives

Swing motors

Boom and stick cylinders

Plenty of salvage yards and resellers offer used Hitachi excavators volvo excavator parts for parts.

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

Known for innovation, Takeuchi replacement parts support longer operating life.

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

Volvo’s reputation means parts can sometimes be more expensive, but many quality aftermarket suppliers are available.

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

If you’re using Caterpillar machines, ensure you stick with trusted vendors to avoid copyright parts.

Finding the Right Parts Excavator Dealers and Sellers

Whether you’re buying online or locally, follow these tips to get reliable excavator parts.

Tips for buying parts excavator owners need:

Ensure parts are compatible with your exact excavator model.

Ask for warranties or return policies on used parts.

Request photos or inspection reports.

OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts guarantee fit, while aftermarket may be cheaper.

Long-term suppliers often offer better prices and priority access.

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

Maintenance Tips to Extend Excavator Part Life

Proper maintenance can delay or reduce the need for replacement parts.

Best practices:

Perform daily inspections for leaks or wear.

Lubricate all moving joints regularly.

Change filters and fluids according to schedule.

Avoid exposure to extreme weather conditions.

Rough usage often leads to early part failure.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're buying a full excavator for parts or just replacing a bucket or valve, sourcing the right component matters.

Use this guide to understand the parts of excavator systems, explore trusted brands, and learn how to find reliable suppliers.

Invest in quality, plan ahead, and keep your excavators running like new.