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Purchasing a used track loader can be a wise investment, offering flexibility and efficiency for a wide range of construction, landscaping, and agricultural tasks. However, choosing the right model involves careful consideration of several factors, including your specific needs, the equipment’s condition, and budget. In this article, we’ll explore what to look for when buying a used track loader, as well as provide recommendations to help you make an informed decision.
What is a Track Loader?
A track loader is a type of compact construction equipment that uses continuous rubber tracks instead of wheels to provide greater traction and stability. Unlike wheel loaders, which are better suited for hard, smooth surfaces, track loaders are ideal for softer ground, such as mud, snow, or uneven terrain. These machines are widely used for tasks like digging, grading, landscaping, and material handling. The tracks provide superior floatation, allowing them to operate in conditions that would cause wheel loaders to struggle.
Track loaders are often favored for their superior stability on slopes and rough ground, making them a versatile option for operators who work in challenging environments. They are particularly useful in forestry, demolition, and construction projects, where maneuverability and power are essential.
Key Considerations When Buying a Used Track Loader
When shopping for your first used track loader, it’s important to evaluate several key factors to ensure you get the best value for your money. Here’s what to focus on:
Several manufacturers produce high-quality track loaders, and each brand has a reputation for reliability, performance, and serviceability. Here are some of the most popular brands and models to consider:
When purchasing a used track loader, it’s important to budget for any potential repairs or replacements. Track loaders typically require ongoing maintenance, especially if they’ve seen heavy use. Here are some things to consider:
Buying your first used track loader can be a rewarding experience if you make the right choice. By focusing on the machine’s age, hours of use, track and hydraulic system condition, and engine health, you can ensure that the loader you purchase will serve your needs for years to come. Additionally, selecting a reputable brand like Caterpillar, Bobcat, CASE, or Kubota will provide you with reliability and access to a network of service professionals. Always be sure to budget for ongoing maintenance and repairs to keep the machine in peak operating condition.
What is a Track Loader?
A track loader is a type of compact construction equipment that uses continuous rubber tracks instead of wheels to provide greater traction and stability. Unlike wheel loaders, which are better suited for hard, smooth surfaces, track loaders are ideal for softer ground, such as mud, snow, or uneven terrain. These machines are widely used for tasks like digging, grading, landscaping, and material handling. The tracks provide superior floatation, allowing them to operate in conditions that would cause wheel loaders to struggle.
Track loaders are often favored for their superior stability on slopes and rough ground, making them a versatile option for operators who work in challenging environments. They are particularly useful in forestry, demolition, and construction projects, where maneuverability and power are essential.
Key Considerations When Buying a Used Track Loader
When shopping for your first used track loader, it’s important to evaluate several key factors to ensure you get the best value for your money. Here’s what to focus on:
- Machine Age and Hours of Use
- Age: The age of the machine is a critical factor in its long-term reliability. Track loaders are built to last, but older models may require more maintenance and have reduced performance compared to newer machines. Typically, a used loader that’s less than 10 years old is a good starting point.
- Operating Hours: Track loaders, like any heavy equipment, are often measured by the number of operating hours they’ve been used. A loader with high hours may have more wear on key components such as the engine, tracks, and hydraulics. Generally, a machine with under 5,000 hours is considered low, 5,000–8,000 hours is moderate, and anything beyond 8,000 hours may indicate a machine that’s approaching the end of its useful life.
- Age: The age of the machine is a critical factor in its long-term reliability. Track loaders are built to last, but older models may require more maintenance and have reduced performance compared to newer machines. Typically, a used loader that’s less than 10 years old is a good starting point.
- Track Condition
- Track Wear: The condition of the tracks can significantly impact the performance of a track loader. Tracks are expensive to replace, so check for signs of wear and tear, such as cracking, thinning, or uneven wear patterns. Uneven track wear can also indicate problems with the undercarriage.
- Undercarriage Health: Along with the tracks, inspect the undercarriage components, including the sprockets, rollers, and idlers. These parts bear the brunt of the machine’s work and are subject to constant friction. If the undercarriage is worn down, it can affect the loader’s stability and operational efficiency.
- Track Wear: The condition of the tracks can significantly impact the performance of a track loader. Tracks are expensive to replace, so check for signs of wear and tear, such as cracking, thinning, or uneven wear patterns. Uneven track wear can also indicate problems with the undercarriage.
- Hydraulic System
- The hydraulic system powers many of the loader’s critical functions, such as lifting and tilting. Check for any signs of hydraulic fluid leaks, weak hydraulic pressure, or sluggish response from the loader’s arms or attachments. Weak hydraulics can indicate problems with the pump or other components, and repairs to the hydraulic system can be costly.
- Hydraulic Flow Rate: Depending on the tasks you intend to use the loader for, ensure that the hydraulic flow rate is sufficient. Many track loaders are equipped with high-flow hydraulic systems for attachments like augers or hydraulic hammers.
- The hydraulic system powers many of the loader’s critical functions, such as lifting and tilting. Check for any signs of hydraulic fluid leaks, weak hydraulic pressure, or sluggish response from the loader’s arms or attachments. Weak hydraulics can indicate problems with the pump or other components, and repairs to the hydraulic system can be costly.
- Engine and Transmission
- Engine Health: Check the engine for signs of wear, such as unusual smoke, knocking sounds, or excessive oil leaks. A well-maintained engine should run smoothly and efficiently. Be sure to ask for the machine’s service history and whether it has had regular oil changes and other essential maintenance.
- Transmission and Drive System: The drive system, including the hydrostatic transmission, is another key component to inspect. Make sure the loader moves smoothly in all directions and that there are no unusual noises or jerky movements.
- Engine Health: Check the engine for signs of wear, such as unusual smoke, knocking sounds, or excessive oil leaks. A well-maintained engine should run smoothly and efficiently. Be sure to ask for the machine’s service history and whether it has had regular oil changes and other essential maintenance.
- Operator Comfort and Cabin Condition
- Cabin Features: Depending on the type of work you do, comfort and visibility inside the cabin are essential. Check for any damage to the operator’s seat, control levers, or dashboard. A comfortable seat and easy-to-use controls can greatly reduce operator fatigue.
- Visibility: Ensure that the cabin provides good visibility of the work area. A clean, unobstructed view is important for safety, especially in busy construction environments.
- Cabin Features: Depending on the type of work you do, comfort and visibility inside the cabin are essential. Check for any damage to the operator’s seat, control levers, or dashboard. A comfortable seat and easy-to-use controls can greatly reduce operator fatigue.
Several manufacturers produce high-quality track loaders, and each brand has a reputation for reliability, performance, and serviceability. Here are some of the most popular brands and models to consider:
- Caterpillar (CAT) 259D
- A compact track loader that delivers strong performance and versatility for small to medium-sized jobs. The CAT 259D offers a 2,700 lbs (1,225 kg) rated operating capacity and excellent lift height.
- CAT track loaders are known for their durability, smooth ride, and high resale value.
- A compact track loader that delivers strong performance and versatility for small to medium-sized jobs. The CAT 259D offers a 2,700 lbs (1,225 kg) rated operating capacity and excellent lift height.
- Bobcat T770
- The Bobcat T770 is a popular choice for its high-flow hydraulic system and powerful engine. It’s equipped with a 92 hp engine and a 2,500 lbs (1,134 kg) rated operating capacity.
- Bobcat loaders are known for their fast travel speed, great maneuverability, and impressive attachment compatibility.
- The Bobcat T770 is a popular choice for its high-flow hydraulic system and powerful engine. It’s equipped with a 92 hp engine and a 2,500 lbs (1,134 kg) rated operating capacity.
- CASE 570N
- Known for its high productivity and fuel efficiency, the CASE 570N track loader offers excellent comfort and durability. It features a 100 hp engine and a high-flow hydraulic system suitable for heavy-duty attachments.
- CASE machines are well-regarded for their strong hydraulics and user-friendly controls.
- Known for its high productivity and fuel efficiency, the CASE 570N track loader offers excellent comfort and durability. It features a 100 hp engine and a high-flow hydraulic system suitable for heavy-duty attachments.
- Kubota SVL95-2s
- Kubota’s SVL95-2s is a powerhouse compact track loader with a 95 hp engine and a 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) rated operating capacity.
- Known for its high-quality construction, comfort, and excellent fuel efficiency, this machine is favored by operators looking for a balance between power and economy.
- Kubota’s SVL95-2s is a powerhouse compact track loader with a 95 hp engine and a 3,500 lbs (1,588 kg) rated operating capacity.
When purchasing a used track loader, it’s important to budget for any potential repairs or replacements. Track loaders typically require ongoing maintenance, especially if they’ve seen heavy use. Here are some things to consider:
- Price Range: Used track loaders can range in price from $15,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the model year, condition, and features. Older machines may cost less, but be prepared for higher repair costs and more frequent maintenance.
- Warranty and Service History: Look for a used machine that comes with some form of warranty, even if it’s limited. Additionally, ask for the machine’s service records to verify that it has been well-maintained and regularly serviced.
- Inspection: Always have the machine inspected by a qualified mechanic or technician before purchasing. A thorough inspection can uncover hidden issues, saving you from buying a machine that may require expensive repairs.
Buying your first used track loader can be a rewarding experience if you make the right choice. By focusing on the machine’s age, hours of use, track and hydraulic system condition, and engine health, you can ensure that the loader you purchase will serve your needs for years to come. Additionally, selecting a reputable brand like Caterpillar, Bobcat, CASE, or Kubota will provide you with reliability and access to a network of service professionals. Always be sure to budget for ongoing maintenance and repairs to keep the machine in peak operating condition.
