The 2 Simple Steps That’ll Help You Find the Right Used Skid Steer Loader for Sale
When you’re shopping for a compact loader, the expansive market can make your decision tough. This guide will walk you through adding a skid steer to your fleet, covering everything from deciding if it’s the right machine to selecting and buying a loader.
Step 1: Understanding The Basics of Skid Steer Loaders
Skid steer loaders are compact pieces of equipment that have become a staple on many worksites. If you’re considering a used skid loader, understanding what they are and what they do will help you decide if it’s the right fit.
Loader Undercarriages: Wheels and Tracks
If you’re in the market for a compact loader, you have two undercarriage choices: wheels or tracks. Skid steers are wheeled loaders, and their tracked counterparts are known as compact track loaders. Each design has distinct advantages depending on your terrain, job type, and budget. We’ll focus on skid steer loaders in the remainder of this blog, but here’s a quick look at the differences between the two loaders.
Tracked loaders, usually referred to as compact track loaders, provide excellent traction on wet, muddy, and uneven terrain and slopes. Plus, their lower ground pressure won’t damage delicate surfaces. Despite their superior traction, track loaders are generally more expensive upfront and require more maintenance due to their complicated mechanics. Compact track loaders are also slower and less maneuverable than skid steers.
Consider a compact track loader instead of a skid steer if you’re working primarily on soft and uneven ground or slopes. While more expensive, tracked skid steers are more reliable than wheeled loaders on rough terrain.
Wheeled skid steers are ideal for hard surfaces and offer greater speed than compact track loaders. Their simple mechanics mean they have lower upfront and maintenance costs as compared to tracked equipment. However, they offer less stability on soft, muddy, or snowy terrain, and their higher ground pressure can damage soft earth.
Consider a skid steer if you’re working in urban construction, doing indoor demo work or road maintenance, or if most of your work is done on stable ground. If you don’t need the traction associated with a compact track loader, you’ll likely benefit from the speed and maneuverability of a skid steer.
What is a Skid Steer Loader?
Now that you understand the differences between wheeled and tracked loaders, you can start to decide if a skid steer is right for your fleet- but what exactly is a skid steer? Skid steer loaders are small machines with lift arms that connect to a variety of tools and attachments. Skid steers are unique for their steering system; these loaders maneuver by applying more torque to one side of the vehicle than the other, causing the machine to drag, or skid, as it turns. This means skid steers have a tighter turn radius than other compact machines, making them ideal for precision work in small areas.
What Do Skid Steer Loaders Do?
Skid steers are often referred to as the “Swiss Army Knife” of heavy equipment, and for good reason. Their basic functions include lifting and moving material, but with the right attachment, they can take on a wide range of tasks, including:
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Excavating and trenching
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Grading and levelling
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Lifting and carrying materials
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Snow removal
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Landscaping and clearing brush
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Drilling and boring
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Demolition and debris removal
Where Will You Find a Used Skid Steer Loader?
Skid steers aren’t limited to any one field. Their small footprint, power, and adaptability make them a popular choice in both urban and rural settings. Here are some industries where you might find a skid steer at work:
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Construction
On construction sites, skid steers are used for everything, from site prep and grading to material hauling and debris cleanup. Their compact design makes them ideal for work between buildings and in confined areas.
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Landscaping
Skid steers can be seen grading, distributing soil, moving rocks and mulch, digging holes for trees, and clearing overgrown lots on landscaping projects. Their agility and attachment compatibility make them a go-to for residential and commercial contractors.
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Agriculture
Farmers and ranchers rely on skid steers for moving hay bales, cleaning stalls, digging trenches for irrigation, and handling feed. Attachments like bale spears and manure buckets make skid loaders especially versatile for agricultural work.
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Snow Removal
In cold weather, skid steers double as snow removal machines. Fitted with snow blowers, blades, or buckets, they’re ideal for clearing driveways, parking lots, and sidewalks quickly and efficiently. A skid steer can save you the time, money, and effort that goes into sourcing additional snow-clearing equipment.
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Demolition
Compact but strong, skid steers can be equipped with hydraulic hammers, grapples, or shears for small to mid-size demolition tasks. They’re useful for interior demolition work and tight-access urban areas.
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Utilities and Infrastructure
Utility contractors use skid steers to dig trenches, backfill, move pipes, and manage materials in confined job sites like road shoulders or alleys.
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Mining and Quarries
In mining environments, especially for surface-level work, skid steers are used for cleanup and material transport in small spaces where heavy-duty machines can’t operate.
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Forestry
For forestry projects, used skid loaders are outfitted with brush cutters, mulchers, and stump grinders to handle land clearing and trail maintenance.
Skid Steer Attachments: When and How are They Used?
One of the greatest strengths of a skid steer loader is its compatibility with a wide range of attachments. These attachments can be swapped out in minutes, turning your loader into a multi-functional machine and cutting down on the need for excess equipment.
General Purpose Bucket: The default attachment for most skid steers, buckets are used for digging, grading, and material transport.
Light-Material Bucket: These buckets are engineered to carry large amounts of lightweight materials like snow, woodchips, and mulch.
Multi-Purpose (4-in-1) Bucket: Multi-purpose buckets attach to your skid steer so you can dig, load, carry, and dump materials.
Grapple Buckets: Grapples are used to grab, lift, and transport irregularly shaped or bulky materials like logs, brush, and demolition debris.
Pallet Forks: Great for material handling, pallet forks allow skid steers to lift and move pallets or heavy, stacked materials around jobsites and warehouses.
Augers: Used for drilling holes in the ground, auger attachments are great for fence posts, tree planting, and foundation footings.
Hydraulic Hammers: Hammers are used for breaking concrete, asphalt, and other hard materials. They’re common in demolition and roadwork applications.
Trenchers: Trencher attachments cut narrow, straight trenches into the ground. They’re ideal for laying pipes, cables, or drainage systems with your skid steer.
Brush Cutters: These skid steer attachments are used in forestry and land clearing to cut through brush, tall grass, and small trees.
Stump Grinders: Stump grinders help your skid steer remove tree stumps for land clearing operations.
Soil Conditioners: Used to prepare seedbeds or remove debris, soil conditioners help level and till the ground.
Snow Blowers and Plows: During winter, these attachments turn a skid steer into a reliable snow removal machine, so you can clear roads, driveways, and lots with ease.
Is a Skid Steer Loader a Good Fit for You?
While skid steers are incredibly useful, they aren’t the perfect fit for every job or operator. Here are some key considerations to help you determine whether a skid steer is the right investment.
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Jobsite Conditions
First, consider the spaces you’ll be working in. Skid steers thrive in tight environments and urban jobsites thanks to their compact footprint and zero-radius turning. If you’re working in wide-open terrain or need extended reach, you might want to consider a larger machine like a backhoe or a wheel loader.
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Task Variety
Skid steers are best suited for those who perform a wide range of tasks. If your work involves everything from digging to lifting to grading, a skid steer with a few key attachments could replace multiple machines.
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Frequency of Use
If you’re only using the machine seasonally or occasionally, it might make more sense to rent a skid steer rather than investing in a purchase. However, if you think it’ll become a core part of your operations, owning one can save you time and money in the long run.
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Budget
One of the reasons skid steers are so popular is because they tend to cost less than other heavy equipment. Their small size also means they’re cheaper to transport and store. If you’re looking for maximum return on your investment, a skid steer can be a smart buy.
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Operator Skill Level
Compared to larger, more complex machines, skid steers are relatively easy to learn and operate- making them a great choice for many contractors.
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Attachment Needs
Evaluate how many attachments you’ll need and whether you’ll benefit from the skid steer’s quick-change capability. Investing in a skid steer makes the most sense when you plan to use multiple attachments regularly.
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Transportation and Storage
Due to their compact size, skid steer loaders are easier to transport between jobsites and don’t require as much storage space as larger machines. If you’re working in urban or remote areas where space is limited, a skid steer could be the right fit.
Step 2: Picking the Right Skid Steer (Sizes, Models, and Inspections)
Skid steer loaders are among the most versatile heavy machines; you can find used skid loaders for sale in a range of models, sizes, and conditions, from lightly to heavily used. Buying the right used skid steer loader comes down to understanding which size and model suits your needs and knowing how to properly inspect it- so you end up with a reliable loader on your worksite.
Skid Steer Sizes: Small, Medium, and Large
Skid steers are generally categorized into three size classes based on their operating capacity and machine weight.
Small Skid Steers
Rated Operating Capacity (ROC): Under 1,75 lbs
Best For: Tight access jobs, interior work, landscaping.
Small-frame skid steers are ideal for maneuvering in narrow spaces like alleyways or building interiors. Their lightweight also makes them gentler on turf and more affordable to transport. However, they may not have the hydraulic power or lift capacity needed for demanding tasks or heavy-duty projects.
Medium Skid Steers
Rated Operating Capacity (ROC): 1,750 to 2,200 lbs
Best For: General construction, material handling, light excavation.
Medium frame loaders strike a balance between compactness and capability. They’re the most popular choice for general contractors, landscape professionals, and rental yards because of their performance and compatibility with a wide range of attachments.
Large Skid Steers
Rated Operating Capacity (ROC): Over 2,200 lbs
Best For: Heavy lifting, grading, site prep, demolition.
Large-frame skid steers offer maximum power and productivity. With higher horsepower engines, stronger hydraulics, and a sturdier build, they’re capable of lifting bigger loads and operating heavy-duty attachments. Their large size can limit access in tight areas, but they excel on open job sites.
Popular Skid Steer Models
We’ve compiled a couple of the most popular skid steer models to give you a better idea of what’s on the market- and what you might want to add to your own fleet.
Rated Operating Capacity: 2,150 lbs
Net Power: 74.3 hp
Operating Weight: 7,480 lbs
The Cat 242D3 is a medium-sized skid steer loader that borrows the maneuverability of a small loader and some of the power of a larger loader. Its extended reach design gives it an edge in loading and material handling, making it easier to lift your bucket to a truck bed or handle stacked pallets. The 242D3 is equipped with grade assist and fuel-saving tech in a mid-size frame, making it a great option for operators who need efficiency and strength without sacrificing maneuverability.
Rated Operating Capacity: 2,700 lbs
Net Power: 74.3 hp
Operating Weight: 8,296 lbs
The Cat 262D3 is another medium-sized skid steer loader, but with a bit more strength than the 242D3. With extended reach capabilities and attachment recognition technology, the Cat 262D3 is ideal for operators who want compact size with more room for heavy loads.
Bobcat S70
Rated Operating Capacity: 760 lbs
Net Power: 23.5 hp
Operating Weight: 2,892 lbs
The Bobcat S70 is a small skid steer that gives you ultimate control over your loader. This ultra-maneuverable model is great for tight workspaces and comes with updated features like an enclosed cab and a fuel-efficient engine. It’s the smallest loader in Bobcat’s inventory, making it ideal for small worksites and enclosed spaces.
Which Type of Skid Steer is Right for You?
Having trouble deciding on a model or size for your skid loader? This chart gives you a quick reference if you’re still unsure.
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Job Type |
Recommended Size |
Model Example |
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Residential Landscaping |
Small, Medium |
Cat 242D3 |
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Material Loading and Lifting |
Small, Medium, Large |
Cat 242D3, Cat 262D3, Bobcat S70 |
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Interior Demolition |
Small |
Bobcat S70 |
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Snow Removal |
Medium, Large |
Cat 242D3, Cat 262D3 |
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Utility Work |
Medium |
Cat 242D3, Cat 262D3 |
What to Look for in a Used Skid Steer for Sale: Inspection Tips
Once you find a used skid steer for sale that suits your size and model preferences, it’s time to inspect it. It’s important to vet any used equipment before you buy it to ensure you’re purchasing a reliable machine without any hidden issues. Here’s our guide for inspecting a used skid steer loader for sale, so you can make sure it’s a worthwhile purchase.
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Do a Walkaround Inspection
Start with a visual inspection of the entire machine. Look for signs of wear, damage, or neglect. Focus on:
Tires: Check for wear, cracks, or bald spots. Excessive or uneven wear on one side of the loader can mean worn bushings or alignment issues.
Frame: Check the frame for cracks, welds, or signs of structural damage. Loader arms should be straight, and pins should be tight with no play or excessive grease leaking out. Pay extra attention to the lift cylinder mounts, as they’re stress points that can crack with heavy use.
Bucket and Quick Attach: Look for wear on the cutting edge of the bucket. Engage and disengage the quick-attach system, making sure it locks securely and operates smoothly.
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Check Hydraulic Systems
The hydraulic system powers most of the skid steer’s functions, so making sure it’s in good working order is essential to your inspection.
Hoses and Connections: Look for cracked, brittle, or leaking hoses and check the fittings for any signs of hydraulic fluid leaks. Make sure the hoses are routed properly and not rubbing on anything that could cause damage.
Cylinders: Inspect the lift and tilt cylinders for leaks, dents, or pitting on the rod. Extend and retract the cylinders fully and look for hesitation, jerking, or slow movements.
Hydraulic Fluid: Check the hydraulic fluid level and condition. It should be clean, with no froth or metal particles.
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Inspect the Engine and Cooling System
The engine is the heart of the skid steer. It should start easily, run smoothly, and be free of leaks.
Engine Compartment: Open the engine bay and check for oil leaks, worn belts, and loose connections.
Oil and Coolant: Check the oil level and look for signs of contamination; milky oil can indicate water intrusion. Inspect the coolant level and look for rust or sediment in the reservoir. Ensure there are no oil or coolant leaks around the engine block and radiator.
Battery and Electrical System: Look for corrosion on battery terminals and inspect wiring harnesses for damage or exposed wires. Test the lights, horn, and electronic displays to ensure everything is in working order.
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Test the Controls and Cab Functions
A responsive control system not only boosts productivity but also reflects how well the loader has been maintained.
Cab Interior: Check the seat for wear or damage and ensure adjustable seats and seatbelts work properly. Test the foot pedals, joystick, switches and parking brake.
Instruments and Gauges: Start the engine and make sure all the gauges work. These include the hour meter, fuel gauge, and temperature gauge.
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Perform an Operational Test
The best way to know how a used skid steer performs is to operate it under normal conditions.
Startup: The engine should start cleanly without excessive cranking, smoke, or hesitation. Listen for strange noises like knocking or whining that could indicate mechanical issues with the loader.
Hydraulic Operation: Raise, lower, and curl the bucket and look for jerky motions or unusual sounds from the pumps and cylinders. If possible, connect a new attachment to test the skid steer’s auxiliary hydraulics.
Drive System: Drive the machine forward and in reverse, turn left and right and watch out for sluggishness, grinding, or unusual vibrations.
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Review the Maintenance History
Ask the seller for service records and documentation: a skid steer loader that’s been regularly maintained is far less likely to surprise you with expensive repairs. Look for regular servicing of important components like the engine and hydraulic system, and check for a history of major repairs. Choosing a used skid steer with a good track record will ensure it is reliable for years to come.
Here are some common red flags to look out for when you’re inspecting a used skid steer loader:
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Fresh paint covering structural areas may be hiding cracks or welds.
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Loose pins and bushings can cause excessive play in the arms or the quick-attach system.
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Excessive smoke during startup can signal engine wear or injector problems.
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Overheating during use could indicate coolant issues or engine damage.
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Whining or grinding noises from the hydraulic pump signal mechanical issues.
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Consider a Professional Opinion
If you’re unsure about inspecting a loader yourself, consider bringing along a mechanic or hiring a third-party service to inspect the skid steer instead. This can offer extra peace of mind before you invest in the machine.
Conclusion
The next time you’re in the market for a used skid steer loader, reference this guide and make finding the right machine at the right price easy.
Interested in used skid steer loaders for sale? Fused has a wide selection of skid steers and skid steer attachments for sale and a team of experts who can answer all your heavy equipment questions.