Mustang 930 940 960 Skid Steers Still Serve After Decades

[MikePhua]

The Legacy of Mustang Skid Steers
Mustang skid steers have been a staple in compact construction equipment since the mid-20th century. Originally founded in 1865 as the Owatonna Manufacturing Company in Minnesota, Mustang became one of the earliest manufacturers of skid steer loaders in North America. The 930, 940, and 960 models were introduced during the late 1980s and early 1990s, designed to meet the growing demand for versatile, maneuverable machines in landscaping, agriculture, and light construction.
These models were powered by robust diesel engines, typically ranging from 30 to 60 horsepower, and featured hydraulic systems capable of lifting between 1,000 and 1,800 pounds. Their compact dimensions and mechanical simplicity made them popular among independent contractors and small businesses. By the early 2000s, Mustang had sold tens of thousands of units globally, with strong markets in North America, Australia, and Eastern Europe.
Why Manuals Matter for Aging Equipment
As these machines age, factory service manuals become essential for repairs and maintenance. Unlike modern equipment with onboard diagnostics and digital service portals, older skid steers rely on mechanical systems that require hands-on troubleshooting. Manuals provide:

• Hydraulic schematics for lift and tilt circuits
  
• Torque specifications for engine and frame bolts
  
• Wiring diagrams for ignition, lights, and safety switches
  
• Routine service intervals for filters, fluids, and bearings
  

Without these documents, even experienced mechanics may struggle to identify part numbers or understand system layouts. For example, the hydraulic dipstick location on a Mustang 940 is inside the reservoir tank, often mistaken for a filler cap. Misidentifying this can lead to overfilling or under-servicing the hydraulic system.
Common Repairs and Field Challenges
Owners frequently report issues such as:

• Blown fuses during startup, often caused by worn ignition switches or shorted safety interlocks
  
• Hydraulic leaks under the seat, where steel lines run between the pump and control valves
  
• Starter motor failures due to corroded solenoids or weak battery cables
  

One operator in Kentucky described a Mustang 2064 that ran perfectly for two weeks before suddenly blowing fuses and refusing to start. After tracing the wiring harness, he discovered a pinched wire under the seat bracket—a fault that would have been easier to diagnose with a manual.
Hydraulic Cylinder Overhaul Tips
When rebuilding lift or tilt cylinders, follow these steps:

• Measure bore and rod diameter to match seal kits
  
• Inspect for scoring or pitting on the rod surface
  
• Use a seal installation tool to avoid damaging O-rings
  
• Torque gland nuts to factory specs (typically 80–120 ft-lbs)
  

Always bleed air from the system after reassembly to prevent cavitation and erratic movement.
Global Demand for Documentation
Requests for Mustang manuals span continents—from Canada to Romania to Australia. In regions where dealer support is limited, digital copies of service manuals become lifelines. Mechanics often trade scanned PDFs, even if the quality is poor, because the alternative is blind disassembly.
In one case, a technician in Shanghai rebuilt a Mustang 940 using a faded manual printed in the 1990s. Despite language barriers and missing pages, he successfully replaced the hydraulic pump and restored full function. His success underscores the resilience of these machines and the global community that supports them.
Modern Support and Legacy Preservation
Although Mustang was acquired by Manitou Group in 2008, support for legacy models remains patchy. Some parts are still available through aftermarket suppliers, but others require fabrication or adaptation. Owners are advised to:

• Join local equipment clubs or online forums for peer support
  
• Maintain a digital archive of manuals and schematics
  
• Label wiring and hydraulic lines during disassembly
  
• Keep a logbook of repairs and part replacements
  

Conclusion
The Mustang 930, 940, and 960 skid steers continue to serve decades after their release, thanks to durable engineering and a loyal user base. While factory support has waned, the machines live on through shared knowledge, field ingenuity, and the enduring value of a well-worn manual. Whether lifting hay bales in Ontario or trenching in Melbourne, these skid steers prove that legacy equipment still has a place in modern work.