10-15-2025, 12:03 PM
Doosan’s Rise in the Excavator Market
Doosan Infracore, a South Korean heavy equipment manufacturer, entered the global excavator market aggressively in the early 2000s after acquiring Daewoo Heavy Industries. The DX series, launched in 2007, marked a significant leap in design, performance, and operator comfort. The DX235LCR, introduced as a reduced tail swing model, was tailored for urban and confined job sites where maneuverability and stability are critical. With an operating weight around 24 metric tons and a 166-horsepower engine, the DX235LCR balances power and compactness. By 2020, Doosan had sold over 200,000 excavators worldwide, with the DX235LCR becoming a popular mid-size option in North America and Europe.
Assessing the Machine’s Condition
A 2016 DX235LCR with 2,200 operating hours and a listed price of $105,000 presents a potentially solid value—if the condition aligns with expectations. The engine hours suggest moderate use, averaging fewer than 400 hours per year, which is typical for a machine in a mid-sized contractor’s fleet. However, the undercarriage condition is a critical factor. In this case, multiple track links were reported as frozen, indicating seized pins or bushings. This can result from prolonged inactivity, poor lubrication, or exposure to corrosive environments.
Undercarriage Wear and Frozen Links
The undercarriage accounts for up to 50% of an excavator’s lifetime maintenance cost. Frozen links can lead to uneven track tension, increased wear on sprockets and rollers, and reduced fuel efficiency due to drag. A visual inspection should include:
Blade Damage and Structural Integrity
The machine’s blade was described as having taken a beating. This could mean bent cutting edges, cracked welds, or worn pivot points. A damaged blade affects grading accuracy and may indicate prior misuse. It’s essential to:
Market Value and Negotiation Strategy
The asking price of $105,000 is within the typical range for a 2016 DX235LCR in fair condition. However, given the undercarriage and blade concerns, a buyer could reasonably negotiate a $10,000–$15,000 reduction or request that the seller perform repairs prior to sale. Comparable machines with similar hours and clean undercarriages often list between $95,000 and $110,000 depending on region and attachments.
Final Recommendations
Before finalizing the purchase:
The Doosan DX235LCR is a capable and efficient machine, especially suited for tight job sites. A used unit with moderate hours can be a smart investment, but only if structural and undercarriage issues are addressed. With proper due diligence and negotiation, a buyer can secure a reliable excavator that delivers strong performance for years to come.
Doosan Infracore, a South Korean heavy equipment manufacturer, entered the global excavator market aggressively in the early 2000s after acquiring Daewoo Heavy Industries. The DX series, launched in 2007, marked a significant leap in design, performance, and operator comfort. The DX235LCR, introduced as a reduced tail swing model, was tailored for urban and confined job sites where maneuverability and stability are critical. With an operating weight around 24 metric tons and a 166-horsepower engine, the DX235LCR balances power and compactness. By 2020, Doosan had sold over 200,000 excavators worldwide, with the DX235LCR becoming a popular mid-size option in North America and Europe.
Assessing the Machine’s Condition
A 2016 DX235LCR with 2,200 operating hours and a listed price of $105,000 presents a potentially solid value—if the condition aligns with expectations. The engine hours suggest moderate use, averaging fewer than 400 hours per year, which is typical for a machine in a mid-sized contractor’s fleet. However, the undercarriage condition is a critical factor. In this case, multiple track links were reported as frozen, indicating seized pins or bushings. This can result from prolonged inactivity, poor lubrication, or exposure to corrosive environments.
Undercarriage Wear and Frozen Links
The undercarriage accounts for up to 50% of an excavator’s lifetime maintenance cost. Frozen links can lead to uneven track tension, increased wear on sprockets and rollers, and reduced fuel efficiency due to drag. A visual inspection should include:
- Checking for seized or immobile links by rotating the track manually
- Measuring pin-to-bushing wear using a pitch gauge
- Inspecting carrier rollers and idlers for flat spots or oil leaks
- Verifying track tension and alignment
Blade Damage and Structural Integrity
The machine’s blade was described as having taken a beating. This could mean bent cutting edges, cracked welds, or worn pivot points. A damaged blade affects grading accuracy and may indicate prior misuse. It’s essential to:
- Inspect the blade arms and cylinder mounts for cracks or weld repairs
- Check for excessive play in the blade pivot bushings
- Evaluate hydraulic cylinder seals for leaks or scoring
Market Value and Negotiation Strategy
The asking price of $105,000 is within the typical range for a 2016 DX235LCR in fair condition. However, given the undercarriage and blade concerns, a buyer could reasonably negotiate a $10,000–$15,000 reduction or request that the seller perform repairs prior to sale. Comparable machines with similar hours and clean undercarriages often list between $95,000 and $110,000 depending on region and attachments.
Final Recommendations
Before finalizing the purchase:
- Request a full service history and oil analysis reports
- Conduct a hydraulic performance test, including swing, boom, and travel functions
- Inspect the swing bearing for play or noise
- Verify that all electronics, including the monitor and sensors, are functional
- Consider a third-party inspection for an unbiased assessment
The Doosan DX235LCR is a capable and efficient machine, especially suited for tight job sites. A used unit with moderate hours can be a smart investment, but only if structural and undercarriage issues are addressed. With proper due diligence and negotiation, a buyer can secure a reliable excavator that delivers strong performance for years to come.
