Used Skid Steers for Sale

When looking at used skid steers for sale, it is important to have a basic understanding of the different skid steer classifications.

Horsepower & weight are two of the biggest factors to consider when deciding which skid steer loader will work for you. The following are the different skid steer classifications as determined by the Associated Equipment Manufacturers:

Small skid steers: Small skid steers generally have a lift capacity of 1,750 pounds or less & less than 50 horsepower. They are ideal for hard-to-navigate areas and easy towing.

Medium skid steers: Medium skid steers have a lift capacity of 1,750 to 2,200 pounds and between 50 and 70 horsepower. These machines are suitable for projects that need a little more power than a small machine without sacrificing easy maneuverability and towing.

Large skid steers: If your project calls for a powerful, hardworking machine, a large loader might be a good fit. Large skid steers possess 70 or higher horsepower and a carrying capacity of 2,200+ pounds.

Several other factors contribute to whether a certain used skid steer for sale is suitable for your needs, including:

Features: In addition to skid steer attachments, you will need to choose between optional features and amenities that can make your machine easier or safer to use. Some examples include air conditioning, a radio, heated seats and rearview cameras.

Lift type: Skid steers are available in two lift variations — radial or vertical. In radial lift machines, the skid steer’s arms move outward and then upward, which provides more forward reach for digging or similar actions. A vertical lift skid steer moves its arms directly up or down, which makes it useful for loading or hauling.

Operating capacity: Sometimes referred to as “lift,” the rated operating capacity is how much weight a machine can safely carry while remaining stable, level and functional.

To reduce the risk associated with purchasing a used skid steer fir sale or piece of used equipment, it is important to do an inspection of the machine before making a purchase.

The degree of the inspection largely depends upon the age of the used skid steer for sale and the reputation of the seller. For newer machines, a routine/basic inspection should be sufficient, including: the condition of tires, belts and hoses, looking for leaks, signs of damage or unusual wear and tear.

For older used skid steers for sale with higher hours, oil and hydraulic fluid samples should be taken to check for any contaminants or system problems.

The thoroughness of the inspection should also be adjusted based on the weather and geographical conditions the machine has been exposed to. The more severe the environment, the more thorough the inspection needs to be.

The major components that will require the most attention are the engine, transmission, hydraulic pump, hydraulic cylinders and attachment pins/bushings.

Maintenance and service records can tell a contractor a lot about the history of a machine, but at some point equipment may simply be too old to run safely and efficiently.

With older used skid steers for sale, buyers should find out if the manufacturer even supports that particular model anymore. It might end up costing an owner more to replace parts if the manufacturer no longer supports it, not to mention the additional time it’ll take to hunt down the needed parts.

Scrapes and scuffs, chipping paint and rust are other red flags to look out for. The tell-tail signs of wear on a pre-owned skid steer or piece of equipment would be indicated by the condition of the bucket and frame pin/bushing, as well as checking the condition of the tires, tire pressure and tightness of the wheel nuts.

The steering assembly, the brake functions and the function of all the safety devices should also be investigated. Up-to-date maintenance records will give a good indication of the condition of the equipment.

Larger contractors and auction houses should have service records, but if these records are unavailable — which may be the case when purchasing from a smaller distributor — the internet is a great resource for owner’s manuals and consumer reports.

Check that all fluids levels are at recommended levels and that proper maintenance intervals have been followed by the operation and maintenance manual. Low fluid levels, leaks, un-greased pins and dirty air filters may indicate the machine has an issue or has not been properly maintained over its life.

If you’re looking for a good piece of used equipment, like say a used skid steer for sale—the search can be difficult. But every cloud has its silver lining and in today’s volatile economy; finding treasure might actually turn out to be easier than expected.

There are many ways to find used skid steers for sale, but it will take more than just browsing for a few listings and finding some financing. In order to determine the right time to invest in new or old pieces of machinery there’s only one thing that matters: acquisition cost versus utilization rate analysis.

If you’re considering whether to purchase a used piece of equipment rather than new, there are some important questions that should be answered.

Is this device going allow me do my current jobs more quickly and efficiently?

Will having the newer model help with specialties or tasks which would otherwise take too much time on older models?

Will you be able to do jobs that your competitors can’t do? These considerations will help guide your decision as well.

It’s also important to consider both the brand and dealer selling used skid steers. “A used machine will require service and parts at some time in the future,” says Kevin Coleman, senior marketing engineer for Caterpillar. 

“When it comes to servicing the machine, you want to know that there will be quick parts availability and the dealer is qualified to service the machine. Many dealers selling their own brand of used equipment [i.e. Cat dealers selling used Cat] will offer certified used programs for machines that meet certain specifications. Often, these machines will include detailed inspections, a detailed maintenance history and a limited warranty.”