Buying a Truck Mounted Water Well Drilling Rig: What to Check

If you're looking for a truck mounted water well drilling rig for sale, you're probably comparing prices and trying to figure out what's a good deal. Whether you're buying new or used, there are a few key things you need to check to make sure you're getting a rig that'll last.

What to Check When Buying Used

The Chassis. Look at the truck chassis first. How many miles? Is it rusty? Does it start easily? A new drilling rig on a worn-out chassis is a bad deal. The chassis is the foundation — if it's bad, everything else is wasted.

The Rotary Head. This is the heart of the rig. Check for leaks, unusual noises, and play in the bearings. Run it at full speed for a few minutes and feel the temperature. If it gets too hot to touch, something's wrong.

The Mud Pump. Test the mud pump under pressure. Check the seals for leaks. A worn-out mud pump is expensive to replace, and it's a critical component.

The Mast. Inspect the mast for cracks, especially at the welds. Look at the telescoping sections — do they move smoothly? Is there any excessive play?

What to Expect Price-Wise

A new light-duty water well rig (150-200 meter depth) starts around $80,000 to $120,000. A medium rig (300-400 meter) runs $150,000 to $250,000. Used rigs can be 30-50% cheaper, but only buy used if you know what you're looking at, or bring a mechanic who does.

FAQ

Q: How much does it cost to maintain a water well drilling rig?
A: Budget about 10-15% of the purchase price per year for maintenance. That includes regular oil changes, replacing worn parts, and repairing things that break. It's not a lot, but you can't skip maintenance — a neglected rig will let you down when you need it most.