Anyone know anything about skid-steers? I’ve been renting them on an as-needed basis for several years, and seem to be needing one more often these days. Although I have a tough time justifying the numbers on a new one, I am tempted by the prices I see on used ones and at auctions. Unlike vehicles or even most tools, I don’t really know what to look for when sizing up a used machine. Other than hours on the clock and overall appearance, what goes wrong on these puppies? How much HP is needed for general construction work (site cleanup, sinking post holes, etc)? Is there any real difference between the various makes? I’m not in any particular hurry on this, but would like to know what questions to ask when I start to get serious.
Zippy
Replies
HOnestly the govt makes it worth while to buy a new one. Get it and depriciate it and when you cant depriciate it anymore, trade it for a new one. While many times you can get a skidder thats in good shape used ones are used. No warranties. They are basically 90% hydraulics, and thats not cheap to fix. But if you can find one thats well maintained, and the workers didnt drive it like a rental you can find some good ones out there used.
But if you looking id say something in the 65-80hp engine range for general all purpose work. to cover the basics(backhoe, auger in nasty soil, dozer blade to move packed earth. Some get by for 40-60, but its really about what you want to use it for. (i tend to favor more HP)
Look at the accessories you use daily and learn what they need, Do they need Hi Flow hydraulics? or will a std pump work. so find out what your accessories need and match it to a skidder.
Skid steer is pretty hard on the ground and pavement. So if you do landscaping and finish work consider an all wheel turning skidder. Bobcat.com makes one that is both a skidder and an all wheel turner. All wheel is low impact on grass and soil, but doesnt turn tight like a skidder