Skid steer loaders offer exceptional versatility in a compact package, making them an essential piece of heavy equipment for any fleet. But when you’re buying a new skid steer loader, make sure you purchase one with the size, strength, features, options, and specs that’s best suited to your needs. As long as you do, this machine will help keep your job sites highly productive.
Here are some key things to keep in mind when you’re buying a new skid steer loader.
Advice for Buying a New Skid Steer Loader
- Decide on a frame size. Skid steers have small, medium, or large frames. Frame size largely determines what the machine can do (and typically, the larger the machine, the more horsepower). For example, if you need a high lift, you probably need a large frame; if space at the job site is limited or tight, you probably need a small frame. Also, consider your transport and storage capacities.
- Consider the torque. Contrary to what many people think, this spec is more important than horsepower when it comes to what a skid steer can handle. Horsepower is more about how fast the machine works, but torque represents its real power.
- Talk to your dealer about hydraulics. In most instances, the standard hydraulics package on a skid steer is appropriate for the work the machine is designed to do. But some applications benefit from a higher-flow hydraulics system. Talk to your dealer about the work this machine will be performing and ask if you might need auxiliary hydraulics, and discuss which attachments you’ll be using.
- Choose between a radial lift and vertical lift machine. Generally speaking, radial lift skid steers are better for digging and ground-level work, while vertical lift skid steers are better suited to lifting and placing applications, and they can often handle heavier loads.
- Shop for a comfortable cab. Comfortable operators are safer, more efficient, and more content with their job. Look for features like ergonomic design, smart control layout, and highly responsive controls.
- Understand Tier 4 Final engines. New skid steer loaders must meet strict emissions standards. Read more about Tier 4 Final engines here. It’s crucial that you understand the capabilities, technology, fluid needs, and maintenance procedures of your skid steer’s engine.
- Go over the optional features. Today’s skid steer loaders offer plenty of options that can make them safer, more efficient, more user-friendly. Talk to your dealer about which optional features are right for your budget and needs.
- Get a machine with telematics. A remote monitoring system is essential to optimizing your business practices and heavy equipment usage. When buying a new skid steer loader, choose one with an advanced remote fleet monitoring system.
- Buy from an established dealer with great warranties and maintenance contracts. The right dealer means provides personalized purchasing advice and protections for your heavy equipment investments. Work with a dealer who has a long track record offering top-quality brands, who delivers parts and components when you need them, and who has factory-trained technicians for shop and on-site services for preventive maintenance and repairs. Buying from a leading dealer like Trekker means the highest quality equipment and reliable maintenance that keeps you moving safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively.
