The skid steer or compact track loader is a must-have compact machine for any work site. With its flexibility and small size, these machines can handle a wide array of tasks.

However, depending on your budget, it may not be cost-effective to purchase a brand-new skid steer. Buying used compact construction equipment is a great option.

Learn the 10 essential things that you should check on any used skid steer loader or compact track loader below. Many of these points are also useful when inspecting other used equipment before purchasing.

1. Remaining Operating Hours 

The first thing you should check are the available hours left on the machine. The typical skid steer’s lifespan is about 5,000 hours, but this could be higher or lower depending on the brand. Aim to purchase a skid steer with less than 3,500 used operating hours.  

2. Engine Performance

Evaluating a used machine’s condition includes testing all its parts. Begin your inspection with the heart of the machine in the engine.

When you start the engine is it smooth or stalling? Is it making strange noises? Stalling and strange sounds could indicate the engine is not in good condition.

Be sure to check the engine’s exhaust smoke. Black, blue, or gray smoke means something could be wrong with the engine.

3. Hydrostatic Drive

Check the hydrostatic drive motors and pumps to ensure they are functioning properly and not leaking. When checking the transmission, make sure it’s operating properly and is responsive.

4. Leaks and Squeaks 

Leaks are another easy thing to look for during your skid steer assessment. Check for leaks in the engine area and other interior parts of the machine. You also want to look under, behind, in front of, and around the skid steer loader to ensure there is no leaking or dripping. When components break or become worn, leakage is often one of the telltale signs. 

Just like with the engine, you want to listen for any unusual noises when you examine the skid steer. When you raise the boom attachment, does it squeak excessively? This could be a sign of a damaged part.

5. Wear and Tear 

Used equipment almost always displays some signs of wear and tear - and that's often okay. But you don’t want to purchase a machine that is so run down it won’t have anything left to give after you purchase it.

Look for signs of rust, cracks, or damage to the interior and exterior areas of the skid steer. Don’t forget to also examine the quick attach to the boom pins and the bushings.

If there are newly repaired parts or a fresh coat of paint, it’s worth asking about those areas and why they were repaired. You want to verify the new paint job or repair isn’t meant to conceal a hidden defect.

6. Oil and Health of Other Fluids

Think of a vehicle’s fluids as a code that can easily reveal if the machine is not in good shape. Low or contaminated fluids may indicate that someone did not maintain the machine well. Don’t skip checking the fluids. It can save you from making a purchase you’ll be unhappy with.

7. Operator Controls and Safety Features

Inside a skid steer’s cab is the operator area where the basic controls and levers are housed. These features may vary depending on the used skid steer brand, but usually include left and right levers, foot pedals, and of course brakes.

The operator area will also include safety features such as a seatbelt and a lap bar. Test all these features so you know the skid steer can operate safely and efficiently. 

8. Tires or Tracks

Strong wheels can help your skid steer work and travel in tough terrain. Check the tires to ensure they are properly inflated and free of leaks, tears or other damage.

A compact track loader’s tracks are important to inspect. Look for deep cuts in the track and wear where the rollers run on the track. Cracked or chunked out rubber may make the skid steer loader run roughly. 

9. Attachments

Skid steer attachments are a large factor in the types of jobs you can perform with your machine. The most popular by far is the bucket. If a used skid steer already comes with attachments, test drive how they work and examine them for wear and tear.

You should check to see if the skid steer is equipped to work any attachments you want to use in the future. Check to ensure the boom rises quickly and smoothly.

10. Service or Maintenance Records

Last but not least, ask for past service or maintenance records. This will help you gain a comprehensive view of the skid steer’s condition. Preparing for any potential problems or repairs in the future will also be much easier.

Once you purchase the used skid steer, it’s a good idea to continue to keep records of any service work. If you decide to sell the skid steer in the future, you can share the records with the next owner.

Used Skit Steers and Compact Track Loaders for sale at TriGreen

Now you know the essential things to look for when buying a used skid steer or usedcompact track loader. One more thing you'll want to consider is where to buy them. 

Visit a tried and true local TriGreen dealership. We have a wide range of used skid steers that can tackle any task. Our friendly experts can help you examine a skid steer and guide you to the right choice based on your needs and preferences. Visit us in-store, browse online, or contact us for more information about our used skid steers.