I get calls all the time from contractors looking for Leeboy equipment. Usually it's either a Leeboy grader or a Leeboy asphalt paver. And the first question is almost always the same: "Should I buy new or used?"
The honest answer? There is no single right answer. It depends on your situation—your cash flow, your project pipeline, your maintenance capability. In this guide, I'll walk you through three common scenarios and help you figure out which one fits you. Based on what I've seen coordinating equipment purchases for road construction projects over the last several years, including managing rush orders for a dozen+ emergency paving jobs.
Scenario A: The Cash-Strapped Start-Up (Or the Remote Project Manager)
This is the most common scenario I see. You're either just starting out, or you're managing a project in a remote area where equipment reliability isn't your top concern—you just need something that works today.
My advice: Buy used Leeboy equipment. But do it right.
In March 2024, I helped a contractor source a used Leeboy asphalt paver for a project in rural Montana. The normal turnaround for a new unit was 8-12 weeks. They needed it in 3. We found a 2018 model with 2,800 hours at an auction, paid $28,000 (plus $1,200 in rush shipping), and had it on site inside of 10 days. The client's alternative was a $15,000 penalty for delaying the project start.
What most people don't realize is that 'standard turnaround' for new equipment often includes buffer time for production scheduling. If you're buying used from a reputable auction, you can skip that queue. (Should mention: auction inspections aren't always thorough—budget for a mechanic to look it over.)
For the start-up: Don't buy a Leeboy grader new unless you have a 12-month contract. A used grader with 1,500–2,500 hours will do 90% of the same work. The extra $40,000 you'd spend on new could buy you an engine hoist and a mustang truck for support tasks. That's what I tell guys who call asking about how to use a mini excavator for roadwork—you're better off with a used grader and a mini excavator than a new grader alone.
Scenario B: The Mid-Size Contractor (Or the Precision-Focused Job)
This is the opposite scenario. You've got a consistent pipeline, you're bidding on projects with tight specs, and you need equipment that will deliver every single time. This is where buying new Leeboy equipment makes real sense.
I've got mixed feelings about buying new. On one hand, the cost is brutal—a new Leeboy asphalt paver can run $80,000-$120,000 depending on configuration. On the other hand, I've seen too many jobs go sideways because a used machine had a hidden issue that killed a deadline.
My advice: Buy new if your project spec demands it.
For example, if you're working on a highway project that requires consistent mat thickness to within 1/8 inch, a used asphalt paver with worn screed plates isn't going to cut it. The machine might pass an inspection, but the variability in output will cost you in rework and material waste.
Here's a rule of thumb I use: if the project has a penalty for deviation from spec greater than 10%, buy new. The cost of the machine is cheaper than one failed acceptance test.
When I'm triaging equipment decisions for a client, I always ask: "What's the cost of failure?" If the answer is more than the price of the equipment, buy new. If it's less, buy used.
Scenario C: The Fleet Manager (Or the Long-Term Owner)
This is for people who plan to keep the equipment for 5+ years and run it into the ground. You're not worried about resale value—you're worried about total cost of ownership.
My advice: Buy used, but invest in a full rebuild immediately.
I know this sounds counterintuitive. But here's the math: A used Leeboy grader with 4,000 hours costs maybe $35,000. A full engine and drivetrain rebuild by a certified shop runs $12,000-15,000. Total: $50,000. A new one costs $85,000.
The difference: $35,000. That's your engine hoist budget for the whole fleet (yes, you'll need one), plus a mustang truck for moving material around the yard. And you know the machine is essentially new, with zero surprises.
I should add that this only works if you have an in-house mechanic or a trusted shop. If you're a one-man operation, don't do this—the downtime during the rebuild will kill you.
How do you know which scenario fits?
Here's a simple test:
- Ask yourself: Can I afford 3 days of downtime right now?
- If yes? Go used (Scenario A or C).
- If no? Go new (Scenario B).
- Ask yourself: Is the spec tolerance tighter than ±1/4 inch?
- If yes? Buy new (Scenario B).
- If no? Used (Scenario A or C) is fine.
- Ask yourself: Will I keep this machine for 5+ years?
- If yes? Used + rebuild (Scenario C).
- If no? New (Scenario B) or used (Scenario A).
There's no one-size-fits-all. I've seen guys go bankrupt buying new equipment they didn't need, and I've seen others lose contracts because they bought a used machine that failed on the first day. Know your scenario, know your risk, and buy accordingly.
As of early 2025, per industry reports, the average resale value of a 5-year-old Leeboy asphalt paver is about 55-60% of new MSRP—depending on hours and condition. Check auctions and dealer listings. That's your real data point.
