Buying a Used Skid Steer: Practical Advice, Brand Comparisons, and Field Lessons

[MikePhua]

Introduction: A Young Operator’s First Investment
For many first-time buyers, choosing a used skid steer is a balancing act between budget, reliability, and long-term utility. At just 22 years old, one operator faced this challenge head-on, evaluating machines from Caterpillar, Bobcat, and Case. His journey reflects the broader realities of the used equipment market—where mechanical condition, brand reputation, and undercarriage type all play pivotal roles.
Terminology Clarification

• Skid Steer: A compact, maneuverable loader with lift arms used for digging, grading, and material handling.
  
• MTL (Multi-Terrain Loader): A tracked skid steer with rubber tracks and a suspension system, optimized for soft ground.
  
• CTL (Compact Track Loader): A more rugged tracked machine with a rigid undercarriage, better suited for rough terrain.
  
• High Flow: A hydraulic system capable of powering demanding attachments like stump grinders and cold planers.
  
• Hydraulic Quick Attach: A system that allows operators to change attachments without manual pin removal.
  

Evaluating the Options: CAT, Bobcat, and Case
The buyer considered several machines:

• 2006 CAT 287B: 1,900 hours, new hydrostatic and tool pumps, new lift cylinder, broken front glass, heat but no AC. Asking price: $21,000.
  
• 2004 Bobcat T250: 5,500 hours, worn tracks, welded bucket, rust, damaged radiator grill. Asking price: $15,300.
  
• 2002 CAT 246 (Wheeled): 1,400 hours, new tires, AC and heat. Asking price: $19,000.
  
• 2001 Bobcat 873: 2,800 hours, high flow, AC and heat, powered by a Deutz 75hp turbo diesel. Asking price: $14,000.
  
• 2007 Case 445: 1,500 hours, new tires, high flow, enclosed cab, hydraulic quick attach. Final purchase.
  

Each machine had trade-offs. The CAT 287B offered low hours and new components but came with the MTL undercarriage, which some operators avoid due to high maintenance costs. The Bobcat T250 had excessive hours and visible wear. The wheeled CAT 246 was clean but lacked the traction of a tracked unit. The Bobcat 873, powered by a Deutz engine, was praised for reliability but required close inspection of the timing belt and head gasket.
Field Anecdote: The Case 445 Decision
Ultimately, the buyer chose the Case 445—a wheeled skid steer with solid features and manageable hours. Though he initially preferred a tracked unit, budget constraints led him to prioritize mechanical condition and versatility. He later added a stump grinder and planned to invest in over-the-tire (OTT) rubber tracks, allowing him to operate on soft ground without damaging driveways.
This decision reflects a common strategy among small contractors: start with a reliable base machine and upgrade attachments or undercarriage as funds allow.
Brand Reputation and Mechanical Considerations

• CAT: Known for durability and resale value. However, MTL undercarriages (like on the 287B) are expensive to maintain and less rugged than CTLs.
  
• Bobcat: Widely available and easy to service. The 873 model, though older, is praised for its Deutz engine and solid build. Timing belt and head gasket are key inspection points.
  
• Case: Offers good value and strong hydraulics. The 445 model is well-regarded for its enclosed cab and quick attach system.
  

Operators emphasized that hours alone don’t tell the full story. Maintenance history, component replacements, and visible wear are equally important. Machines with new pumps, tires, or cylinders may offer better value than lower-hour units with deferred maintenance.
Maintenance Tips and Buyer Strategies

• Inspect Hydraulic Systems: Look for leaks, worn hoses, and sluggish response.
  
• Check Undercarriage Wear: On tracked units, inspect sprockets, rollers, and track tension.
  
• Evaluate Cab Condition: Broken glass, torn seats, and non-functional AC may indicate rough usage.
  
• Test Attachments: If planning to run a stump grinder or other hydraulic tools, verify flow rate compatibility.
  

One operator recommended budgeting for immediate repairs post-purchase—especially on machines with cosmetic damage or missing components. Another suggested using online platforms like Machinery Trader and IronPlanet to compare regional pricing and availability.
Case Study: OTT Tracks as a Budget-Friendly Upgrade
A land-clearing contractor in Pennsylvania shared his experience with over-the-tire tracks. He installed rubber OTTs on a wheeled Case skid steer, transforming its performance in muddy terrain. The tracks allowed him to cross driveways without damage and improved flotation in soft soil. He noted that while steel OTTs offer better traction, rubber tracks are more versatile for residential work.
Conclusion: Smart Choices for Long-Term Success
Buying a used skid steer is more than a transaction—it’s a strategic investment. By weighing mechanical condition, undercarriage type, brand reputation, and attachment compatibility, operators can find machines that serve their needs without breaking the bank. The Case 445 purchase illustrates how flexibility, research, and community advice can guide young contractors toward reliable, cost-effective equipment. Whether tracked or wheeled, the right skid steer is one that works as hard as its owner—and grows with their ambitions.