Used Wood Chipper: Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

The safety-device tests here are the difference between a working machine and a deadly one. Ticks save on this device; print it for the inspection.

The safety devices that must work (test these first)

Feed-control bar STOPS the feed rollers at the center position and REVERSES them toward the discharge, test it running; a defeated or zip-tied bar is a walk-away
The feed-hopper and discharge guards are present and intact (ingoing nip points, rotating drum/disc, flying chips)
Access covers / hood cannot be opened until the drum or disc comes to a complete stop
The machine can be locked out for knife changes (disconnect present and lockable)

Wear components

Knives / chipper blades: condition, and ask when they were last replaced or sharpened
Feed rollers: teeth condition and hydraulic feed function
Drum / disc bearings: listen and feel for play or noise
Clutch or hydraulic drive: engages smoothly, no slip

Engine & economics

Check the hour meter (units in the field range from a few hundred to 10,000+ hours)
On a Tier 4 Final diesel, confirm the regen / DPF system works and is maintained
Compare the ask to the model’s observed used range and known failure points

A working checklist, not legal or professional advice. See the full guide for the reasoning behind each step, and the model records for prices and known failures.