Buying Your First Skid Steer: Practical Advice, Pitfalls, and Field Wisdom

[MikePhua]

Introduction to the First-Time Purchase
Purchasing a skid steer for the first time is a pivotal moment for contractors, landowners, and equipment enthusiasts alike. The decision blends mechanical scrutiny with financial strategy, especially when considering used machines bundled with attachments and trailers. A well-informed buyer must balance optimism with caution, particularly when evaluating older units with high operating hours and limited service history.
Key Terminology

• Skid Steer: A compact, maneuverable loader with lift arms used for digging, grading, and material handling.
  
• Undercarriage: The track or wheel assembly beneath the machine, including bogie wheels, drive sprockets, and rollers.
  
• Brush Cutter: A hydraulic attachment used to clear vegetation, often subject to heavy wear.
  
• Hydraulic Leak: Fluid loss from hoses, cylinders, or fittings, potentially indicating wear or overpressure.
  
• Bogie Wheel: A wheel supporting the track system, critical for load distribution and smooth operation.
  

Evaluating a Used Machine
When considering a used skid steer, especially one with high hours and no service records, buyers should focus on the following:

• Undercarriage Condition
  Inspect bogie wheels, track tension, and drive sprockets. Chunking or excessive wear may signal heavy use or poor maintenance.
  
• Hydraulic System Health
  Leaking cylinders, especially on the front arms, may indicate overloading or worn seals. Repacking is inexpensive unless the rods are bent or pitted.
  
• Engine Performance
  Listen for smooth idle and acceleration. A clean engine bay and healthy exhaust tone suggest good internal condition.
  
• Attachment Viability
  Assess whether included attachments are ones you would purchase independently. A brush cutter used on 5-inch trees may have endured stress beyond its design.
  
• Trailer Compatibility
  Ensure the trailer is rated for the machine’s weight and includes proper tie-downs and brake systems.
  

Field Anecdote: Texas Mechanic’s First Skid Steer
A mechanically inclined buyer in Texas, with a background in automotive and aviation maintenance, considered an ASV RC50 with a full suite of attachments and a trailer. Despite lacking skid steer experience, he applied his mechanical intuition to assess the machine’s condition. The seller offered a refund if the buyer was dissatisfied upon inspection—a rare gesture that added confidence. Ultimately, the buyer decided to proceed, recognizing the value of the bundled equipment and the machine’s apparent health in video footage.
Inspection Checklist for First-Time Buyers

• Check undercarriage for wear, alignment, and track integrity
  
• Inspect hydraulic cylinders for leaks, pitting, and smooth operation
  
• Test engine startup, idle, and throttle response
  
• Examine attachment mounts and hydraulic couplers
  
• Review trailer tires, brakes, and frame condition
  
• Ask about previous usage—heavy brush cutting may imply stress
  
• Look for signs of abuse or neglect in cab cleanliness and weld repairs
  

Historical Context: ASV Track Systems and Market Distribution
ASV (All Season Vehicle) skid steers gained popularity in the Northeast and Southeast due to their superior traction in snow and mud. Their track systems, while offering excellent flotation, required frequent greasing and careful turning on hard surfaces to avoid damage. Models like the MD70 were known for their power but criticized for maintenance intensity. Buyers in regions with fewer ASV dealers often turned to online marketplaces, accepting the risk of remote purchases.
Recent Trends and Buyer Behavior

• Online Equipment Sales
  Platforms like eBay have become common for used equipment, though buyers must weigh the risk of unseen defects.
  
• Inspection Hesitation
  Sellers may resist dealership inspections, especially for online sales, leaving buyers to rely on personal visits and mechanical intuition.
  
• Attachment Bundles
  Sellers increasingly offer machines with multiple attachments to sweeten deals, though buyers must assess each item’s condition and relevance.
  

Recommended Buying Strategy

• Visit the machine in person before finalizing the deal
  
• Use your mechanical background to assess wear and function
  
• Prioritize undercarriage and hydraulic health over cosmetic appearance
  
• Consider the total value of attachments and trailer when evaluating price
  
• Be wary of high-hour machines without service records—assume worst-case scenarios
  
• Judge the seller’s attitude and honesty as part of the machine’s story
  

Preventive Maintenance Tips for New Owners

• Grease track systems regularly, especially after heavy use
  
• Monitor hydraulic fluid levels and inspect hoses monthly
  
• Replace filters and fluids upon purchase to establish a maintenance baseline
  
• Store attachments properly to prevent rust and hydraulic degradation
  
• Keep a log of repairs and observations to track machine health
  

Conclusion
Buying your first skid steer is a blend of excitement and diligence. While bundled deals may seem irresistible, the true value lies in the machine’s mechanical integrity and the buyer’s ability to assess it. With a sharp eye, a bit of field wisdom, and a willingness to learn, even a high-hour machine can become a reliable workhorse. The journey from cautious buyer to confident operator begins with a well-informed decision—and a few grease stains along the way.