New Holland LX885: Pros and Cons of This Skid Steer Loader

[MikePhua]

The New Holland LX885 is a versatile skid steer loader that has found its place in various industries due to its performance, reliability, and design. It’s part of the larger New Holland skid steer series, known for their ease of operation and efficient work. As with any piece of heavy machinery, the LX885 comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. This article will dive into the key pros and cons of the New Holland LX885 skid steer loader, providing a detailed overview of its features, usability, and areas that may need attention.
History and Development of the New Holland LX885
New Holland Agriculture, a brand under CNH Industrial, has been a well-known name in the construction and agricultural machinery industry. They have been producing skid steer loaders for decades, and the LX885 model is one of the standout models from their LX series.
The LX885 is a robust machine, typically found in construction, landscaping, and agriculture settings. It was designed to meet the growing demand for high-performance, easy-to-use skid steers. New Holland's focus on durability and operator comfort shines through in this model. The LX885 is known for its powerful hydraulics, compact design, and overall efficiency in a variety of tasks.
Key Pros of the New Holland LX885
The LX885 has earned its place in many fleets for several reasons. Below are some of the standout features that make this machine a favorite among operators:
1. High Lifting Capacity
The New Holland LX885 is designed to handle heavy-duty tasks with ease. It has a lifting capacity of over 1,600 pounds, making it suitable for a variety of jobs like lifting construction materials, moving dirt, and handling heavy attachments. This robust lifting capacity provides operators with the confidence to tackle challenging projects.
2. Superior Hydraulic System
One of the standout features of the LX885 is its impressive hydraulic system. With excellent lifting force and rapid cycle times, it allows operators to move materials faster and more efficiently. The system is also designed to provide consistent performance, even in demanding environments.
3. Operator Comfort
The LX885 is built with the operator in mind. It features a spacious cab, ergonomic controls, and a suspension seat designed to reduce fatigue during long work hours. The visibility from the cabin is also excellent, which is crucial for operators when working in tight spaces or dealing with complex tasks.
4. Compact and Maneuverable
In tight spaces, the LX885 shines with its compact design and impressive maneuverability. Its small footprint allows it to work in areas that larger machines simply can’t access. Whether it’s working in a yard full of materials or navigating a construction site, the LX885 can squeeze into tight spaces, enhancing productivity.
5. Versatile Attachment Compatibility
Skid steer loaders are highly regarded for their attachment versatility, and the New Holland LX885 is no exception. It is compatible with a wide range of attachments, such as buckets, forks, augers, and grapples. This flexibility makes the LX885 useful for various applications, from lifting to digging and material handling.
6. Reliability and Durability
The LX885 has a reputation for being durable and reliable, even under challenging work conditions. The robust design and quality components ensure that the machine can handle heavy use over extended periods. For operators who rely on their skid steer for day-to-day tasks, the durability of the LX885 is a significant plus.
Key Cons of the New Holland LX885
While the New Holland LX885 offers many benefits, it’s not without its drawbacks. Understanding these cons can help prospective buyers make an informed decision.
1. High Maintenance Costs
One of the most common complaints about the New Holland LX885 is its relatively high maintenance cost. The hydraulic system and drivetrain components require regular attention, and replacing parts can be expensive. For operators who are using the machine regularly, maintenance costs can add up over time, especially if the machine is not properly maintained.
2. Fuel Consumption
While the LX885 is a strong performer, it can be less fuel-efficient compared to some newer models from other brands. The fuel consumption can be significant, especially when working with heavy attachments or in demanding tasks. This is something to consider, especially for businesses where fuel costs play a crucial role in the overall cost of operation.
3. Limited Operator Visibility
Although the LX885 provides good visibility, there are certain situations where the operator’s line of sight can be obstructed, especially when operating at higher lift heights or working with certain attachments. While this is common with many skid steers, it’s something operators should be mindful of to ensure safety when maneuvering in confined spaces.
4. Aging Technology
The New Holland LX885, though reliable, is considered somewhat outdated when compared to newer models with advanced technology. Modern skid steers are equipped with features like telematics, electronic joystick controls, and enhanced diagnostic systems. While the LX885 performs well, it lacks some of these modern enhancements that improve efficiency and ease of operation.
5. Limited Lifting Height
While the LX885 has a solid lifting capacity, its lifting height may not be sufficient for certain tasks, especially when working with larger materials or containers. Compared to some of the newer models in the market, its vertical reach can be a limiting factor for certain industries or jobs that require taller reach for lifting and loading.
6. Cold Weather Starting
Some operators have reported that the LX885 can be a bit tricky to start in cold weather conditions, especially if the machine has been left idle for a period of time. Cold-start issues are not uncommon in older models, and while this problem may not be a deal-breaker, it is something to be aware of, particularly for those working in colder climates.
Conclusion
The New Holland LX885 remains a reliable and powerful skid steer loader that is well-suited for a variety of tasks in construction, landscaping, and agriculture. With its impressive lifting capacity, versatile attachment compatibility, and comfortable operator cabin, it’s easy to see why the LX885 has earned a loyal following among operators.
However, like any machine, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a purchasing decision. While the LX885 offers many benefits in terms of performance and durability, it also comes with higher maintenance costs and a lack of modern technology features found in newer models. For those who prioritize reliability and versatility over fuel efficiency and advanced technology, the LX885 is an excellent choice. For others, newer models with improved fuel efficiency and advanced features may be a better fit for long-term productivity and cost savings.
Ultimately, the decision to purchase a New Holland LX885 should be based on the specific needs of the operator and the job at hand.