Used Skid Steer Loaders

There are thousands of used skid steer loaders available so how do you know which one is right for you and your particular needs?

Here's some things to keep in mind before you hand over your money:

(1)  Gas or Diesel

While most new models are diesel you can find a lot of older used skid steers that are gas engines.  While there is nothing inherently wrong with using a gas powered skid steer I would advise you to avoid them.

They simply lack the power and lifting capacity that you'll find in a similar sized diesel model and it all comes down to power.  There is a reason almost every piece of heavy machinery today runs on diesel and that is power.

I've known guys who bought used gas powered skid steers and, while they can eventually get the job done, they longed for a diesel power skid steer.

Know ahead of time that you'll pay more for a diesel model but you'll ultimately be happier with it's performance and the amount of time you can save over a gas model.

(2)  Particular Brand

Well, here's where things can get a bit sticky.  Just like automobiles a lot of guys are absolutely sold on a particular model and will warn you to stay away from anything else.

I take a little different tact because I know enough guys who've used different models that I've kind of dismissed the 'one model is best' ideal for the 'find the skid steer that is right for you no matter what the name says'.

However, there are some good things about sticking with a particular name brand.  Here's a couple.

• Will it be easier to get parts or have work done?  Think about it.  Most towns I know have a John Deere dealership.  So getting parts or getting work done or getting problems worked out becomes a lot, lot easier.  But, some skid steers, while good outfits, have their corporate headquarters a thousand miles away and you have to go through them to get any kinks worked out.
• Resale value in your area.  While it's not something a lot of guys think about someday you may want to trade in your skid steer or sell it outright and there are particular 'pockets' all across the country that have premiums placed on certain brands.

For example, in my area, Bobcat Skid Steers are held in high esteem.  That probably has a lot to do with the fact that Bobcat was one of the first skid steers on the scene and gained an immediate foothold.  John Deere is also looked upon highly.  But, that probably is due to the fact that so many people around here have used their tractors for so long they are very comfortable with the name.

While Gehl, New Holland, Cat and ASV skid steers (among others) are all good units, they aren't held in as high of a regard as other areas of the country might hold them.

(3) Operation Style

I've always operated skid steers that have the bucket rise and tilt operated with the foot pedals.  But more and more skid steer manufacturers are moving to and all in one model where the operator can not only steer with the hand operated joysticks but they can also operate the bucket with them.

There's nothing inherently wrong with this it is just a familiarity thing.  For me, the all in one would be uncomfortable at first but I'm sure I'd get used to it.  Guys who I've talked to who had the all in one loved them.  But then I've talked to others who've only operated the combination type skid steer and had to run an all in one and couldn't get any dirt in the bucket because the operation style was completely foreign to them.

(4)  How Will You Use It?

Of course, this probably goes without saying but a lot of people will look into buying a skid steer and then realize it is either too wimpy for their needs or maybe too wide or a hundred other things.

Look at what you'll realistically be doing with the machine BEFORE you buy.

For example, will it be used to clean stalls or corrals?  Maybe you need a thinner model.  Will you be using it to break up concrete in tight spaces?  Maybe go for a lower-slung model.  How about landscaping work?  You'll probably be lifting heavy rocks and pallets so you'll need power in addition to 'tracks' so you aren't making ruts in the clients lawns.

The one thing I think is universal is get more lifting power than you think you'll need.  At least that has been my experience.  It always seems like I need more than what I have.  Or maybe that's just the Tim the Tool Man Taylor coming out in me?