Used Digger - Derrick Trucks For Sale
Find used digger derrick trucks matched to torque, sheave height, insulated booms, and corrosion resistant bodies for efficient pole setting.
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About Used Digger - Derrick Trucks
Body floor strength is critical on a pole-setting truck. Look for reinforced rear decks with heavy tread plate over close-spaced crossmembers, integrated pole rollers, and a subframe that spreads outrigger loads into the chassis rails. Compartment floors should support tamper and tool storage without oil canning, and the tailboard should be braced for sustained side loads during pole pull. A stout pedestal and rotation bearing, tight swing gear lash, and rigid outrigger boxes reduce deflection and help the derrick maintain charted capacity across the rotation. If you drag poles across the deck, scuff surfaces and rub rails prevent floor damage and keep the body square over time.
Thermal integrity shows up in two places, the hydraulic system and the insulated boom sections. High duty cycles generate heat, so verify pump flow, relief settings, and the presence of an oil cooler to protect seals and maintain consistent cycle times in summer conditions. In cold climates, a warm-up loop and low temperature fluids keep winches and rotation smooth. For crews working near energized lines, insulated upper booms, fiberglass inserts, bucket-rated liners, and tested dielectric ratings are essential, dielectric integrity depends on resin quality, UV protection, and maintenance. Review recent dielectric test reports and inspect for crazing, contamination, and compromised liners that can track under load.
Corrosion resistance affects resale value and uptime. Steel service bodies with e-coat and epoxy topcoats take abuse but add weight, aluminum or composite bodies shed pounds and resist rust, yet require proper mounting to avoid galvanic reaction. Galvanized or painted subframes, sealed outrigger boxes, stainless hinges and fasteners, and undercoated chassis rails reduce long term rust, especially in salt states. Chassis choice finishes the package, 4x4 or 6x6 improves site access but increases tare, wide spread rear axles help bridge law compliance, and a wheelbase matched to rear mount weight keeps steer axle loads legal. Confirm PTO compatibility, auxiliary tool circuits for tampers and drills, rope and hook line pull, and control options at upper lower stations or radio remote so the truck fits your work style and territory.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much auger torque and sheave height do I need for typical power distribution poles?
For distribution work, many fleets target 10,000 to 20,000 ft lb of digger torque with a two speed drive, lower speed for breakout and rock, higher speed for production in softer soils. Sheave height in the 40 to 50 foot class stands most 30 to 45 foot poles without repositioning, while transmission and substation work may require 55 foot plus. Match line pull and boom chart to your heaviest poles, verify the jib rating if you plan to set with the jib rather than the main hook.
What is the difference between insulated and non insulated digger derricks?
Insulated units have fiberglass sections and tested dielectric isolation between the load line and chassis, they are built to protect crews when working near energized lines. They carry dielectric ratings that must be maintained through regular testing and cleaning. Non insulated models are lighter and less expensive, suitable for telecom, sign work, or civil projects where electrical contact is not a hazard. If you work within minimum approach distances, choose an insulated boom and keep recent dielectric test certificates on file.
How does body and subframe design affect floor strength and stability?
A strong rear deck with heavy tread plate and closely spaced crossmembers resists denting when dragging poles and supports tamper and tool loads. The subframe should distribute turret and outrigger forces into both chassis rails using boxed or reinforced structures and quality fasteners. Rigid outrigger boxes and proper outrigger spread limit frame twist, which protects the rotation bearing and helps the derrick hold charted capacity across swing angles. Inspect for cracked welds, soft deck spots, and loose pedestal bolts on used units.
What should I look for on the hydraulic system to ensure thermal integrity and performance?
Confirm the PTO to pump match, rated flow and pressure, and the presence of an oil cooler if you expect sustained digging or winching in hot weather. Good systems include return line filtration, case drains on high torque drives, and warm up provisions for cold starts. During inspection, run the boom and digger under load and watch for slow or erratic functions as oil heats, check for hose chafing, cylinder creep, and leaks around the rotation motor and digger gearbox.
Which chassis configuration is best for off road pole setting, and how does it impact tare weight and corrosion?
All wheel drive with differential locks, higher ride height, and aggressive tires helps in soft sites, but adds tare weight and raises the center of gravity. Aluminum or composite bodies and aluminum wheels can offset some of that weight. In salt regions, prioritize e coated or galvanized subframes, stainless hardware, and sealed compartments. Balance GVWR with expected payload so you stay legal on axle weights after loading poles, tools, and crew, and verify turning radius and wheelbase work for tight right of ways.