Buying a Used Clicker Press: 12-Point Inspection Checklist

The cutting beam must be parallel to the cutting table within 0.1mm. Use a dial indicator across the table surface while the beam is at bottom dead centre. Any deviation greater than 0.2mm will cause inconsistent cuts and accelerated die wear. This is the most critical check — a worn beam is expensive to repair.

Inspect the cutting table (usually nylon or polyurethane) for deep grooves, cuts, and uneven wear. Light surface marks are normal. Deep grooves or a heavily worn surface will affect cut quality and needs replacement. Ask the cost of a new table board for that model.

Run the machine through 20–30 cycles and inspect all hydraulic connections, the cylinder, and the pump for leaks. Any active leak needs to be addressed before purchase. Check the hydraulic fluid level and condition — dark, dirty fluid suggests the system hasn't been maintained.

If the machine has a pressure gauge, watch it through multiple cycles. Pressure should build consistently and hold. Pressure that drops between cycles or takes longer to build suggests pump wear or seal deterioration.

Australian workplace safety regulations require adequate guarding on press machines. Check that all original guards are present and functional. Missing or bypassed guards are a compliance issue — factor in the cost of rectification.

Test the emergency stop button. The machine must stop immediately when activated. If the e-stop is bypassed, non-functional, or slow to respond, don't buy the machine until it's repaired.

Check for an Australian electrical compliance plate or label. Imported machines should have been brought into compliance with AS/NZS 3000 before sale. Check the power cable condition, switchboard connections, and that the machine is correctly earthed.

For swing arm presses: the arm should swing smoothly with no binding or play in the pivot. For beam presses: the head should travel smoothly along the full beam length with no sticking or uneven resistance. Any roughness suggests worn guides or bearings.

Test that the pressure adjustment is functional across its full range. Set to minimum and maximum, make test cuts at each setting. The machine should respond accurately to pressure changes. A stuck or non-functional pressure adjustment limits your ability to work with different materials.

Measure the daylight (distance between beam and table at maximum open position) and compare to the manufacturer's spec. Reduced daylight can indicate a worn or adjusted cylinder. Check the stroke depth adjustment is functional if the machine has this feature.

Make at least 10 test cuts with a steel rule die in the material you'll be cutting. Inspect each cut: clean edges with no tearing, consistent depth across the full die perimeter, no material dragging. Inconsistent cuts indicate beam wear, table wear, or insufficient pressure.

Listen for unusual noises — knocking, grinding, or rattling during operation. Some mechanical noise is normal. Metallic knocking suggests worn bearings or loose components. Excessive vibration can indicate frame damage or mounting issues.