A skid steer loader is valuable for contractors managing earthmoving, material handling, and other lighter construction jobs. The equipment is available in various frame sizes and can be equipped with radial or vertical lift options.

Before purchasing a skid steer, contractors should scrutinize the machine. Look for appearance issues such as rust, chipped paint, and abrasions. The machine’s history should also be reviewed, as its environment significantly affects wear and tear.

Hydraulic System

The hydraulic system is the heart of a skid steer loader. It propels the machine for travel, raises and lowers the attachment’s arms, and operates gnarly implements like brush cutters and drop hammers. Without a healthy hydraulic operational system, this compact equipment could suffer a power failure when you need it the most.

Regularly check its hydraulic fluid level to keep your skid steer in peak operating condition. Under- or overfilling the fluid can cause the entire system to fail. Clogged hydraulic fluid filters can also be problematic for a skid steer’s performance. To avoid these problems, always use the original lubricant variety specified by your equipment manufacturer.

Another critical step is ensuring all hydraulic fittings along essential tubing are clean and residue-free. This is especially true when changing attachments. Keeping these connections clean ensures the optimal power is transferred between the hydraulic system and the attachment product.

Bucket Size

Whether you’re in the market for a new loader or need to replace an existing one, many options are available to meet your needs. The majority of dealers offering skid steer for sale have a variety of sizes and models. You can find both wheeled and tracked skid steers with many attachments.

These can be used for various tasks, including dozing, grading, digging, lifting, and transporting materials around the job site. Skid steers are also excellent for clearing land and brushing and preparing fireguards. A skid steer’s size depends on its frame, weight, and rated operating capacity (ROC).

The latter refers to how much a machine can lift at maximum height. This varies by manufacturer, but most have a lift height of 10 to 16 feet. Both tracked and wheeled skid steers are available in a variety of frame sizes, but they have distinct differences when it comes to their capabilities and environments.

Wheeled skid steers are better suited for smooth, hard surfaces like asphalt and concrete because their wheels allow zero-radius turning. They can also move quickly over compact terrain. However, this makes them less suitable for muddy or wet conditions. Tracked skid steers, however, are designed to handle rougher conditions.

These machines can easily maneuver over uneven or rocky ground without damage because they are built with powerful tracks that distribute the machine’s weight evenly. They can also drive over snow and mud with ease.

Engine Power

The engine of a skid steer loader delivers power to attachments, driving mechanisms, and the hydraulic system. It’s essential to consider the power specs of a specific model to ensure that it matches the conditions and tasks where you plan to use it.

Rated operating capacities (ROC) indicate how much a skid steer can carry without reaching its tipping point or causing unsafe load malfunctions. ROCs are often cited in conjunction with the unit’s operating weight, which refers to how much the machine weighs with a full tank of gas and an average-sized operator inside.

You also want to consider the terrain where you plan to operate your skid steer. Tracked machines excel on uneven or sloped surfaces as their tracks distribute weight evenly across the undercarriage.

Conversely, wheeled models offer more incredible speed but less traction. It would help if you also determined whether your skid steer will be outfitted with a radial or vertical lift design. Both have their advantages and typically work in tandem with standard attachments.

If you’re performing applications that are mostly below eye level, industry experts recommend opting for a radial loader, while higher-lift-cycle projects call for a vertical unit.

Weight

When purchasing a skid steer loader, a contractor must consider the machine’s overall weight and how that will impact other factors. The loader’s overall weight can affect how it performs and what type of attachments the equipment can use.

It also affects how the skid steer is transported to and from a job site. For example, contractors with only a small pickup and trailer must consider a minor skid steer with a lighter frame when purchasing.

Skid steers come in various sizes and frames, from large to small. Traditionally, the larger the frame, the more horsepower a skid steer has.  Another factor to consider is whether the skid steer has a radial or vertical lift. A radial lift allows the operator to dig in hard-to-reach areas, while a vertical lift lets operators work at eye level on the ground. It’s essential to check the skid steer for signs of a previous owner’s care and maintenance.

When examining the machine, listen for any squeaks indicating the machinery isn’t well maintained or in good condition. In addition, make sure the hydraulic, engine, and other fluids are clean and topped off.