First Skid Steer

[MikePhua]

Starting the Journey
A newcomer to the world of compact loaders decides to purchase their very first skid steer as a milestone investment. The decision isn’t taken lightly—it’s seen as the gateway to streamlined property upkeep or launching a modest contracting venture. The excitement of owning such a versatile workhorse is paired with the understandable uncertainty that comes with evaluating used machines.
Terminology note: “Skid steer” refers to a compact loader whose wheels are fixed in orientation, relying on differential steering (speed differences between left and right wheels) to pivot sharply—even spinning in place—a feature often called “zero-turn capability.”

What to Look for in a Used Skid Steer
Drawing from shared experiences among buyers and industry guidance, several key evaluation points emerge:

• Hourly usage
  A widely accepted threshold is around 4,000 hours of operation—beyond that, hydraulic seals and undercarriage wear often become costly concerns.
  
• Engine health
  A quick but effective test: remove the oil cap, start the engine briefly, and watch if pressure forcefully escapes—excessive blow-by could indicate worn piston rings.
  
• Hydraulic systems
  Use a flashlight to inspect for leaks. Test the lift arms and bucket—they should move fluidly without jerks.
  
• Cold-start behavior
  Upon a cold start, expect minimal smoke—10 to 15 seconds max. Heavy smoking suggests engine issues.
  
• Undercarriage condition
  For tracked models, lift the machine slightly to check rollers—they should spin smoothly without wobbling.
  
• Drive configuration
  Tracked vs. tires: Tracks offer better traction in rough terrain but aren’t ideal in freezing climates where they can seize. Tires may suffice in milder conditions and are easier to manage.
  

User Perspectives from the Field
Several individuals recount their buying choices:
One person valued straightforward machinery: a rugged New Holland L170 with floor pedal controls, minimal electronics, and easy maintenance. They found it reliable for fence-building and cleanup tasks, avoiding unnecessary complexity in favor of proven simplicity.
Another shared this wise advice:

“Get the biggest one you can find”
—emphasizing the benefits of capacity and efficiency—paired with a caution to test drive various brands until control layout and visibility suit the operator.

A third note warned of hidden wear: even without obvious damage, rubber mulching jobs can infiltrate machinery, leading to internal rust and premature failure.

A Small Anecdote
Imagine a landowner preparing trails on a newly inherited forested parcel. Eager for efficiency, they opt for a compact, simple skid steer. After initial success clearing brush with a reliable machine, they realize that a slightly larger frame with a higher lift capacity would let them work twice as fast on their 20-acre plot. With one piece of informed advice and a test drive, they avoided months of slower work—and recouped costs through better productivity.

Skid Steer Origins and Industry Context
Early Innovation and Evolution
The skimpy but revolutionary “Keller Loader” emerged in 1957, created to help clear turkey manure from multi-level barns. Built by brothers Cyril and Louis Keller, it was light enough for upper floors and sharp-turning—foreshadowing skid steer design.
Melroe Manufacturing took the design forward: in 1960 they introduced a full four-wheel skid steer (M-400 model), improving traction and ruggedness. Two years later, the "Bobcat" name debuted on the M-440 model—symbolic of the machine’s toughness, agility, and speed.
By the late 1960s, the company had produced over 10,000 units, laying the groundwork for broad adoption across construction, landscaping, agriculture—and beyond.
Brand and Market Expansion
Bobcat Company, originally Melroe, later became part of Clark Equipment, then Ingersoll-Rand, and is now a subsidiary of Doosan Group—cementing its global reach. Today, the skid steer concept has expanded to include machines across a spectrum—from under-50 hp small frames to heavy-duty loaders over 70 hp—with countless attachments enhancing versatility.

Practical Suggestions for First-Time Buyers
A helpful checklist to guide evaluation:

• Confirm maintenance history and inspect documentation if possible.
  
• Bring a trusted mechanic for onsite evaluation.
  
• Try different brands and control layouts—operator comfort matters.
  
• Consider attachment needs: high-flow hydraulics, quick-attach systems, or simple mower decks may steer your model choice.
  
• Factor in resale value—brands with broad support and rental uptake tend to retain value better.
  

Summary Insights

• Experience matters: Engage with the machine before purchase—controls, visibility, and comfort are vital.
  
• Seek balance: Find a model with manageable hours, fluid operation, and straightforward maintenance.
  
• Know brand strengths: Simpler setups (e.g., New Holland) can be reliable workhorses; “get the biggest you comfortably control” often holds true.
  
• Understand evolution: From turkey barn prototype to versatile modern fleets, skid steers have transformed multiple industries.
  
• Be preparation-ready: Carry basic diagnostic tools, spare parts, and protect against wear-inducing attachments like mulchers.