Used Forging Press Inspection Checklist
This press inspection checklist covers frame, clutch, hydraulics, electrics, and documentation checks for hot forging presses, knuckle joint presses, and trimming presses. Buy a used forging press without checking these points and you absorb the repair cost. For the complete purchase process, see the step-by-step buyer's guide.
Published: 22 Jun 2026 · Updated: 20 Jul 2026
Frame and Structure
Cracks and welds
Inspect the main frame for cracks at high-stress points: crown, uprights, and bed corners. Weld repairs are acceptable if properly done; unrepaired cracks are a rejection criterion.
Tie rods
Check tie rod condition and pre-tension (if accessible). Elongated or loose tie rods indicate overload history.
Base plate and anchor bolts
Confirm the base plate is flat and anchor bolt positions match the planned foundation.
Visible deformation
Sight along the uprights for bowing. Any permanent distortion in the frame suggests past overloading.
Clutch and Brake System
Lining thickness
Measure remaining lining thickness on clutch and brake pads. Most OEMs specify minimum thickness; worn linings are the most common serviceable defect on used presses.
Clutch engagement
Run the press at low speed and check for smooth, repeatable engagement without slipping or chattering.
Brake stopping angle
Measure the stopping angle at top dead centre. Values beyond OEM tolerance indicate brake wear or adjustment issues.
Air pressure and valves
Verify pneumatic supply pressure is within spec and that control valves respond without delay.
Guiding System and Die Space
Guide clearance
Measure slide-to-guide clearance with feeler gauges. Excessive clearance causes die misalignment and part tolerance issues.
Shut height
Verify actual shut height matches nameplate data. Measure with a depth gauge or tooling block.
Slide parallelism
Check that the slide face is parallel to the bolster within the press manufacturer's tolerance.
Die space dimensions
Confirm bolster dimensions, T-slot pattern, and knockout provisions match your tooling.
Drive System and Flywheel
Main bearings
Listen for knocking or excessive vibration at the main crankshaft bearings during a run. Check lubrication line condition.
Flywheel and belt drive
Inspect flywheel balance, V-belt condition, and belt tension. Uneven belt wear suggests misalignment.
Gearbox (if applicable)
Check oil level, colour, and smell. Metal particles in oil indicate gear or bearing wear.
Lubrication system
Confirm centralised lubrication (if fitted) delivers oil to all points. Dry guides and bearings are a common neglected item.
Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems
Working pressures
Verify hydraulic and pneumatic pressures against nameplate or manual values. Low pressure indicates pump wear or leaks.
Cylinder condition
Inspect cylinder rods for scoring, pitting, or bent condition. Damaged rods cause seal failure quickly.
Seals and hoses
Look for active leaks at cylinder seals, fittings, and hose connections. Budget for seal replacement as a normal maintenance item.
Counterbalance cylinders
Check counterbalance cylinder pressure and verify the slide holds position at top dead centre.
Electrical System and Controls
Control panel
Inspect for damaged wiring, corrosion, missing covers, or non-original modifications. Soviet-era presses often have field modifications that need documentation.
Safety interlocks
Test all two-hand controls, light curtains (if fitted), and guard interlocks before running under power.
Motor and drives
Check motor insulation resistance if possible. Inspect VFD or motor starter condition.
Emergency stop
Test E-stop function and verify it stops the slide within one stroke.
Documentation and Nameplates
Nameplate data
Record manufacturer, model, year, nominal force, shut height, and strokes per minute from the nameplate. Verify against what was offered.
Maintenance records
Ask for service history. Even partial records help identify past repairs and remaining service intervals.
Available manuals
Original technical manuals significantly simplify commissioning. Note which languages are available.
Export documents
For cross-border purchase, confirm the press has a valid export permit and the seller can provide a commercial invoice with HS code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. We arrange on-site inspections at the machine's location in Poland and Central Europe. Photos and video come as standard; we arrange in-person visits by appointment.
Worn clutch linings and brake pads. These are normal wear items. Factor the replacement cost into your offer rather than treating them as a disqualifying defect.
For most machines we can arrange a powered test run at the storage site and, where tooling is available, demonstrate a working stroke.
We offer the machine in its current state, without refurbishment. We describe known defects; inspect before you commit.
Nominal force is stamped on the nameplate. Actual working capacity depends on the condition of the clutch, brake, and frame. A worn clutch reduces effective force even if the nameplate value is high.
Nameplate, available technical manuals, maintenance logs, and export invoice with HS code. CE declaration is not standard on Soviet-era presses manufactured before CE requirements applied.
Yes. Send us your specifications and we will search our network of suppliers across Poland and Eastern Europe.
Looking for a specific machine?
Send us your specifications and we will advise on availability, inspection options and delivery.