Price Check for New Holland L185: Key Considerations and Market Trends

[MikePhua]

When purchasing a used or new piece of heavy machinery, one of the primary concerns for any buyer is cost. This is especially true when it comes to skid steers, such as the New Holland L185, a versatile and powerful machine widely used for landscaping, construction, and material handling tasks. Understanding the pricing landscape, factors that influence pricing, and how to assess whether you're getting good value for money can help you make a more informed purchasing decision.
Overview of the New Holland L185 Skid Steer Loader
The New Holland L185 is a skid steer loader designed for various tasks on construction sites, agricultural fields, and landscaping projects. Known for its strong lifting capacity and maneuverability, the L185 has been a popular choice for contractors and landscapers looking for a compact machine with high performance. It has a rated operating capacity (ROC) of around 1,850 pounds, making it a medium-sized skid steer capable of handling a variety of attachments like buckets, forks, and augers.
Key specifications of the New Holland L185:

1. Rated Operating Capacity: 1,850 lbs
   
2. Engine Power: 60 hp (44.7 kW)
   
3. Lift Height: 118 inches
   
4. Tipping Load: 3,700 lbs
   
5. Bucket Capacity: 0.6 - 1.0 cubic yards (depending on attachment)
   
6. Weight: Around 5,500 lbs (varies with attachments)
   

These figures position the L185 as a solid choice for medium-scale projects, where lifting, digging, and carrying capacity are essential.
Factors Affecting the Price of the New Holland L185
Several factors influence the pricing of the New Holland L185, whether you’re looking at a brand-new unit or a used one. Understanding these factors can help you negotiate better and make a more informed choice when considering a purchase.

1. Condition (New vs. Used)
   • New Units: Brand-new New Holland L185 machines can be quite costly, with prices typically ranging between $30,000 to $40,000 depending on the dealer, attachments, and any additional features included. New skid steers come with a warranty, which adds value, ensuring that any maintenance or breakdowns within the first few years are covered.
     
   • Used Units: A used New Holland L185 will naturally be less expensive. Prices can range from $10,000 to $25,000, depending on the year, usage, condition, and maintenance history. Older models or those with high hours may come at a lower price point, but be sure to account for potential repairs and refurbishments needed to get the machine into working order.
     
2. Age and Hour Usage
   • Low Hours: Machines with fewer hours tend to command higher prices, as they are seen as more reliable and have more useful life left. Skid steers with low hours (under 2,000 hours) are generally more valuable.
     
   • High Hours: Higher hours typically mean more wear and tear on the engine, hydraulics, and drive systems, which can lead to costly repairs. However, a well-maintained high-hour machine can still be a good deal if priced correctly.
     
3. Attachments and Accessories
   The type and quality of attachments that come with the machine can also affect the overall price. Common attachments for skid steers include buckets, pallet forks, augers, and grapples. Machines that come with specialized or heavy-duty attachments, like high-flow hydraulic systems for running more demanding attachments, often cost more.
   
4. Dealer and Location
   Prices for the New Holland L185 can also vary depending on the region and dealer. Dealers in urban areas or those with high demand might price machines higher than those in rural areas. Additionally, dealers with a reputation for providing after-sales service or warranty coverage might price their units a bit higher, but they could offer better long-term value due to their services.
   
5. Seasonal Demand
   Depending on the time of year, prices for skid steers can fluctuate. For example, demand for heavy equipment typically increases in spring and summer due to construction and agricultural needs, which could lead to higher prices. Conversely, winter months may see lower demand, which could result in better deals.
   

Market Trends and Pricing Insights
To gain insight into current market conditions, let’s look at recent pricing trends for the New Holland L185. Based on recent market research and industry sources, here’s an approximate breakdown of what buyers can expect to pay in 2023:

1. Brand-New Units:
   • The cost of a new New Holland L185 with a standard bucket, basic features, and warranty is around $30,000 - $35,000. Adding premium options such as high-flow hydraulics, a deluxe cab, or additional attachments could push the price to $40,000+.
     
2. Used Units (2010-2016):
   • Machines from the past decade with under 2,500 hours of use can be found for $18,000 - $25,000, depending on the machine's condition and included attachments.
     
   • Older models (2005-2009) with 3,000+ hours often cost between $10,000 - $16,000, although these may come with additional maintenance or repair needs.
     
3. Auction and Private Sales:
   • Skid steer prices at auctions or through private sales can be lower, especially for older models or machines with significant wear. In some cases, well-maintained older units can be acquired for as low as $8,000 - $12,000.
     

What to Look for When Buying a New Holland L185
To ensure that you're getting the best value for your investment, here are some important things to check when purchasing a New Holland L185, whether new or used:

1. Engine Condition
   Always check the engine's condition, as this is one of the most important components of the machine. Inspect for any signs of oil leaks, unusual noises, or smoking, which could indicate a problem with the engine or related components.
   
2. Hydraulic System
   The hydraulic system powers the lift and other attachments on a skid steer, so it’s essential that this system is in good working order. Look for any leaks around the hydraulic lines and cylinders, and test the lift arm and bucket operation for smooth movement.
   
3. Cab and Controls
   Inspect the operator's cab for comfort and safety features. Make sure that the controls are responsive and the visibility is clear, especially when working in tight spaces. Ensure that safety mechanisms, such as roll-over protection and seat belts, are intact.
   
4. Tires and Tracks
   The tires (for wheeled models) or tracks (for tracked models) should be in good condition to ensure stable traction. Worn-out tires or tracks could reduce the machine’s performance and increase maintenance costs.
   
5. Maintenance History
   Ask the seller for a maintenance history to get a sense of how well the machine has been cared for. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, hydraulic fluid checks, and filter replacements, indicates a machine that has been properly maintained and will likely have a longer life.
   
6. Weight and Size
   Make sure the machine's size and weight are appropriate for your job requirements. The L185 is a mid-sized skid steer, so consider the type of work you need it to perform and whether its lifting and operating capacity match your needs.
   

Conclusion
The New Holland L185 is a reliable and capable skid steer loader that remains a popular choice for various construction, agriculture, and landscaping tasks. Whether purchasing new or used, understanding the market trends, factoring in machine condition, and evaluating the machine’s features will help you make a well-informed purchasing decision. As with any heavy equipment, doing your due diligence is critical—so take the time to assess the machine thoroughly and consider your long-term needs and budget.
With prices for used models ranging from $10,000 to $25,000 and new units pushing the upper $30,000s, the New Holland L185 is an excellent option for those seeking power, versatility, and durability in a compact package.