Skid Steer Buying Guide

I like the functionality of skid steer loaders. I use it in many areas, its functionality, easy operation, and the fact that it decodes my work quickly are among the main reasons for my love for them. As with any machinery, correctly determining the purpose of use and choosing your mini loader accordingly will make you happy, just like me. Now, I will be passing down the details that we need to pay attention to when choosing a mini loader below.

Purpose of Usage

For what purpose you will use the skid steer, which sector or business area you will work in will greatly affect your choice.

Construction

Working with mini loaders in construction areas requires a lifting capacity and a powerful engine. Some important specifications that should be considered when choosing a mini loader in construction areas are as follows:

  • Lifting Capacity and Lifting Height: Since heavy materials will need to be transported, lifting capacity and maximum lifting height are important. These specifications should be determined according to the weight and height of the materials you will carry.
  • Horsepower and Torque: A good horsepower and torque increases efficiency in digging and transportation operations.
  • Manoeuvrability: The manoeuvrability of the skid loader is very important in construction projects working in tight spaces. A good turning radius and manoeuvrability make it easy to work in tight areas.

It is of great importance in construction projects that you pay attention to these features first of all in the specification tables. In addition, there are some factors that make each manufacturer stand out. Choosing a manufacturer’s mini loader that stands out for its material quality and durability in construction projects is vital in harsh environments, such as the construction environment.

Agriculture

Some factors to consider in this area of use include:

  • Load Capacity: In agricultural work, it is often necessary to transport a large amount of materials (for example, hay, feed, fertiliser, etc.). The load capacity of the skid steer should be at a level to meet this business need.
  • Lifting Height: The ability to reach high heights provides convenience in storage and loading operations.
  • Hydraulic System: Powerful and precise hydraulic systems compatible with agricultural attachments increase work efficiency. In addition, models with a second (optional) hydraulic flow allow different attachments to be used simultaneously.
  • Ground Pressure: You should choose a loader with a ground pressure suitable for the soil structure.
  • Engine Power and Torque: You should choose a model that provides enough power for agricultural work. High torque is important for demanding jobs and heavy loads.

As is similar in other projects in agricultural work, you should study the above items more carefully when examining the specifications of mini loaders. In addition, different attachments may be required for agricultural work (bucket, fork, broom, etc.). Make sure that the mini loader is compatible with these attachments.

Landscaping

I explain in detail below the specifications that you should pay attention to when choosing a mini loader for landscape works:

  • Turning Radius: The small turning radius makes it easy to move in tight areas.
  • Hydraulic System: Precise work is required in landscape works (for example, plant planting, stone laying). Powerful and precise hydraulic systems facilitate these operations.
  • Light and Medium Load Capacity: Light and medium weight materials are usually transported in landscape works. The loading capacity of the loader should be suitable for these needs.
  • Lifting Height: It is important to have sufficient lifting height for transporting and planting plants such as trees and shrubs.
  • Sufficient Power: Although heavy loads are not carried in landscape works, sufficient motor power and torque ensure that the machine is effective in various works.

It will usually be enough for you to pay attention to the above items in landscape arrangements. Two other important issues to be considered are that choosing a cabin that offers a wide viewing angle so that the operator can clearly see the work area is important for sensitive landscape works. Another important consideration is to prefer models with rubber wheels in order not to damage the ground when working on grass and sensitive surfaces.

Finally, I would like to clarify the situation even more with a table summarising the situation for you.

SpecificationsConstructionAgricultureLandscaping
Horsepower60 HP-100 HP40 HP-70 HP20 HP-50 HP
Lifting Capacity2000-3500 lbs1500-2500 lbs750-1600 lbs
Pump Flow15-35 GPM10-25 GPM7-15 GPM
Travel Speed7-12 mph6-10 mph5-8 mph
Lift Height9-12 ft8-11 ft5-8 ft
Operating Weight7000-12000 lbs5000-8000 lbs3000-5000 lbs
UndercarriageSkid steer or CTLSkid steer or CTLSkid steer
Dimensions72x130x80 in.60x110x75 in.48x100x72 in.
Working Hours8-10 hours6-8 hours4-6 hours

In addition to all these, the comfort of a cabin that provides a business environment enough to work long hours, the availability of security systems such as roll-over protection system (ROPS) for occupational safety and the fact that it is a mini loader with engines that can provide high power and low fuel consumption are other important items that you should pay attention to when making a purchase.

Mini Loaders Attachments

The skid steer can be made even more functional with various attachments. As you will find below a table summarising the attachments according to their field of widespread use, I have also prepared a table of the basic specifications necessary for their attachments to be used.

AttachmentApplicationGeneralLandscapingAgricultureConstruction
General Purpose BucketsMaterial handling
Excavating BucketsExcavation, trenching
Rock BucketsMoving large rocks and debris
Pallet ForksHandling palletized materials
Log ForksHandling long materials, logs
GrapplesHandling loose materials
AugersDigging holes, drilling
BreakersBreaking concrete, asphalt
SweepersSurface cleaning
Snow Plow AttachmentsSnow removal
Lawn MowersMowing large grass areas
Tree SpadesTree planting, transplanting
Rock PickersCollecting rocks, debris
Silage CuttersCutting and handling silage
Bale UnrollersUnrolling hay bales
Seed DrillsPlanting seeds
Fertilizer SpreadersSpreading fertiliser
Asphalt SpreadersSpreading asphalt
High-Reach PlatformsHigh-access maintenance
AttachmentRequired Key Specs
General Purpose BucketsSufficient lifting capacity and hydraulic power
Standard quick attach system
Excavating BucketsStrong hydraulic system
High breakout force
Robust structure
Rock BucketsHigh breakout force
Reinforced structure
Durable steel build
Pallet ForksAdequate lifting capacity
Adjustable forks
Stability and balance
Log ForksPowerful hydraulic system
Wide-opening forks
High lift capacity
Grapple BucketsDurable material
Wide surface area
Strong hydraulic system
Auger AttachmentsHigh torque
Strong hydraulic system
Adjustable speed and depth
Breaker AttachmentsHigh hydraulic flow and pressure
Robust structure
Shock-absorbing system
Sweeper AttachmentsPowerful hydraulic motor
High rotational speed
Dust collection and water spraying system
Snow Plow AttachmentsStrong hydraulic system
Adjustable angles
Durable and flexible blades

Skid Steer vs. Compact Track Loader (CTL)

The skid steer and the CTL (Compact Track Loader) are both machines used as mini loaders, but they have different specs and areas of use. I have again prepared a table to determine which one should be preferred according to your needs.

FeaturesSkid SteerCTL (Compact Track Loader)
Speed and manoeuvrabilityHigher speed, quick manoeuvrabilityGenerally lower maximum speed, less manoeuvrability
TractionLower uses rubber tiresHigher uses tracks
Ground GripPotential grip issues, especially on slippery surfacesBetter ground grip, advantageous on slippery surfaces
Ground PressureHigher, exerts more pressure on surfacesLower, exerts less pressure on surfaces
Initial Investment CostLowerHigher
Maximum Power and CapacityGenerally similarGenerally similar
ApplicationsFlat and solid surfaces, fast-paced tasksRough terrain, slippery conditions
Recommended UsesConstruction, landscaping, and excavationAgriculture, forestry, and challenging terrains

As can be seen from the table above, if fast manoeuvrability and low cost are important, skid steer may be preferred. However, if you want better traction and less ground damage in difficult off-road conditions, the compact track loader may be a more suitable option.

For Rent or for Sale? Which One Is More Suitable?

When choosing a mini loader, the option for rent or sale should be evaluated depending on your needs, budget and usage plan. Planning by thinking long-term is important for you to make the right decision.

CriteriaRented Mini LoaderBuying Mini Loader
CostGenerally lower short-term costsHigher initial purchase cost, lower long-term operating costs
Usage PeriodIdeal for short-term projects               Suitable for long-term projects or continuous use
Seasonal NeedsSuitable for seasonal or temporary needs          Suitable for permanent and ongoing needs
Maintenance and ServiceTypically provided by the rental companyRequires user maintenance and service
CustomizationLimited, often standard equipmentPossible, can be customised according to needs
Return on InvestmentAllows usage without upfront investmentProvides ownership advantage in the long run
Financial OptionsRequires less financial commitment beyond rental costsOffers flexibility with financing options
RisksObligation to return equipment after lease endsRisk of depreciation, but provides long-term ownership

Used vs New Skid Steer

Is it to buy a used or a new skid steer? The answer to this also covers almost the same situations as the top heading. In this case, it varies according to your needs, budget and long-term plans. I hope the table below will help you make decisions easier.

CriteriaUsed Mini LoaderNew Mini Loader
CostGenerally lowerGenerally higher
Delivery TimeAvailable immediatelyMay require waiting time
Warranty and Service SupportLimited warranty and limited service supportLong warranty, extensive service network
Performance and EfficiencyLower performance and efficiencyHigher performance and efficiency
Technology and FeaturesOlder technology and featuresLatest technology and features
Return on InvestmentLower cost, quicker ROIHigher cost, long-term ROI
RisksPotential hidden defects, depreciation riskDepreciation risk, costly maintenance
SuitabilityBudget constraints, short-term projectsLatest technology and long-term use

Popular Skid Steers

There are a lot of mini loader manufacturers on the market, and each of them has advantages. But over time, there have been popular models that stand out with their user and manufacturer experiences. Buying a popular skid steer often gives good results, but it does not mean that it will always turn out well. In addition, with your current geographical location, the models I will list below may not be popular in your region. Because the widespread service network, the availability of spare parts and the prices of mini loaders that vary depending on the region will vary. Finally, the models listed below are not a buying recommendation.

Small Mini Loaders

ModelIntended UsesAdvantagesDisadvantages
ASV RT-25Working in narrow spaces, light load handlingCompact design, lightweightLow load capacity, limited performance in rough terrain
Bobcat S70Construction sites, small projects, warehouse areasExcellent maneuverability, compatibility with various attachmentsLimited cabin space, low lifting capacity
Gehl R105Agricultural tasks, material handling, light earthworksHigh traction, durable chassisHigh noise levels, limited operator comfort
Takeuchi TL6RConstruction projects, landscaping, urban areasAdvanced control systems, ergonomic cabinHigh initial cost, some models have high fuel consumption
New Holland L213Light load handling, working in narrow spacesCompact design, lightweightLow engine power, limited performance
Caterpillar 226B3General construction tasks, light material handlingPowerful hydraulic system, compatibility with various attachmentsLimited maneuverability, low lifting capacity
Vermeer CTX100Small tree cutting, landscaping, working in tight spacesHigh traction, variety of attachment optionsHigh fuel consumption, low efficiency
Takeuchi TB210RIndoor construction work, working in tight spacesEasy portability, low operating costsNarrow operator cabin, limited operational control
Case SR160Working in narrow spaces, light material handlingCompact design, lightweightLimited hydraulic capacity, restriction in attachment variety
JCB 155Construction projects, load handling, urban area workPowerful engine, stable chassisUser-unfriendly operator cabin design
Kubota SSV65Indoor tasks, wood handling, small material handlingSimple control panel, low operating costsLow hydraulic capacity, lack of operational flexibility
ASV RT-30Rough terrain conditions, agricultural tasksHigh traction, durable chassisLow hydraulic power, limited attachment compatibility
Bobcat MT55Working in narrow spaces, light material handlingCompact size, low total weightLow lifting capacity, limited workload capacity
Gehl R105Light construction tasks, landscapingHigh traction, wide field of viewLimited operator comfort, low material handling capacity
Takeuchi TB210RIndoor construction work, working in tight spacesEasy portability, low operating costsNarrow operator cabin, limited operational control
JCB 165Light material handling, small construction projectsPowerful hydraulic system, stable chassisLimited attachment compatibility, low hydraulic capacity
Bobcat S450Warehouse areas, workshop operationsCompact design, variety of attachment optionsWeak chassis structure, limited heavy load capacity
Case SR160Garden work, light earthworksLow ground contact, easy operationLimited traction, performance decline in rough terrain
John Deere 318GAgricultural tasks, wood handling, small load handlingHigh efficiency, ergonomic operator cabinHigh initial cost, some models have low hydraulic capacity
Kubota SVL75-2Rough terrain conditions, construction projectsPowerful engine, stable chassisLimited cabin space, low manoeuvrability

Mid Skid Steers

ModelIntended UsesAdvantagesDisadvantages
ASV RT-40Agricultural tasks, challenging terrainHigh traction, durable chassisHigh fuel consumption, limited operator comfort
ASV RT-65Agriculture, heavy load handlingHigh-performance engine, wide field of viewHigh initial cost, limited cabin space
Bobcat S590Construction projects, material handling, warehouse areasSpacious operator cabin, high efficiencyHigh initial cost, limited visibility in some models
Bobcat S630High-performance tasks, heavy load handlingPowerful hydraulic system, ergonomic operator cabinCompact design, limited manoeuvrability
Case SR210Forestry maintenance, heavy material handlingStrong hydraulic system, stable chassisLimited manoeuvrability, high operating costs
Case SV185Construction projects, industrial tasksHigh carrying capacity, various attachment optionsHigh fuel consumption, low operator comfort
Caterpillar 239DDemanding applications, heavy material handlingHigh-performance engine, various attachment optionsHigh fuel consumption, low operator comfort
Caterpillar 247BLarge construction projects, miningRobust hydraulic system, high lifting capacityHigh operating costs, limited operator comfort
Gehl R190Agriculture, construction projects, material handlingErgonomic operator cabin, powerful hydraulic capacityHigh operating costs, limited visibility
Gehl R220Large woodwork, industrial tasksSpacious cabin area, stable chassisLimited maneuverability, low carrying capacity
JCB 215Storage facilities, large construction areasAdvanced control systems, wide range of attachment optionsUser-unfriendly operator cabin design
JCB 260Agriculture, large construction projectsHigh safety standards, stable chassisHigh fuel consumption, low operator comfort
John Deere 320EAgriculture, heavy material handlingHigh efficiency, powerful hydraulic systemHigh initial cost, limited maneuverability
John Deere 328EConstruction projects, large storage areasErgonomic operator cabin, low operating costsLimited attachment compatibility, low manoeuvrability
Kubota SSV75Construction projects, indoor tasks, material handlingCompact design, low fuel consumptionLow hydraulic capacity, lack of operational flexibility
Kubota SVL95-2sChallenging terrain, large construction projectsPowerful engine, stable chassisLimited cabin space, limited manoeuvrability
New Holland L218Garden work, light soil tasksEasy operation, low operating costsLimited traction, performance decrease in rough terrain
New Holland L230Construction material handling, heavy-duty serviceHigh carrying capacity, various attachment optionsHigh operating costs, low operator comfort
Takeuchi TL10Landscape shaping, tight area operationsHigh traction, various attachment optionsHigh initial cost, low operator comfort
Takeuchi TL12Construction projects, agricultural tasksCompact design, powerful hydraulic systemLimited operational flexibility, limited operator comfort
Vermeer S800TXTree cutting, landscaping, tight area operationsHigh traction, various attachment optionsHigh fuel consumption, low efficiency

Large Skid Steers

Brand / ModelIntended UsesAdvantagesDisadvantages
ASV RT-75Large agricultural tasks, challenging terrainHigh lifting capacity, durable chassisHigh fuel consumption, limited operator comfort
ASV RT-120Forestry management, heavy-duty servicePowerful engine, spacious operator cabinHigh initial cost, lack of operational flexibility
Bobcat S770Construction projects, material handlingSpacious operator cabin, high efficiencyHigh initial cost, limited visibility in some models
Bobcat T770High-performance tasks, heavy load handlingPowerful hydraulic system, ergonomic operator cabinCompact design, limited manoeuvrability
Bobcat T870Large construction projects, miningHigh lifting capacity, various attachment optionsHigh operating costs, low operator comfort
Case TR310Industrial tasks, large construction projectsHigh carrying capacity, stable chassisHigh fuel consumption, low operator comfort
Case SV280Agriculture, large storage facilitiesVarious attachment options, ergonomic operator cabinHigh operating costs, limited maneuverability
Caterpillar 259D3Demanding applications, large construction projectsPowerful hydraulic system, high-performance engineHigh fuel consumption, low operator comfort
Caterpillar 279D3Mining operations, heavy material handlingHigh lifting capacity, durable chassisHigh operating costs, limited operator comfort
Caterpillar 289D3Large construction projects, challenging terrainPowerful engine, wide field of viewHigh initial cost, limited operational flexibility
Gehl V420Construction projects, material handlingErgonomic operator cabin, powerful hydraulic capacityHigh operating costs, limited visibility
Gehl VT320Forestry work, large woodworkDurable chassis, spacious operator cabinLimited maneuverability, low lifting capacity
JCB 270Storage facilities, large construction areasAdvanced control systems, wide range of attachment optionsUser-unfriendly operator cabin design
JCB 280Agriculture, large construction projectsHigh safety standards, stable chassisHigh fuel consumption, low operator comfort
John Deere 332GAgriculture, heavy material handlingHigh efficiency, powerful hydraulic systemHigh initial cost, limited manoeuvrability
John Deere 333GConstruction projects, large storage areasErgonomic operator cabin, low operating costsLimited attachment compatibility, low manoeuvrability
Kubota SVL95-2Challenging terrain, large construction projectsPowerful engine, stable chassisLimited cabin space, limited manoeuvrability
Kubota SVL90-2Mining, large construction projectsHigh efficiency, various attachment optionsHigh fuel consumption, lack of operational flexibility
Kubota SVL97-2Construction projects, indoor tasksCompact design, low fuel consumptionLow hydraulic capacity, lack of operational flexibility
New Holland L553Garden work, light soil tasksEasy operation, low operating costsLimited traction, performance decrease in rough terrain
New Holland L230Construction material handling, heavy-duty serviceHigh carrying capacity, various attachment optionsHigh operating costs, low operator comfort
Takeuchi TL12V2Landscape shaping, tight area operationsHigh traction, various attachment optionsHigh initial cost, low operator comfort
Takeuchi TL12R2Construction projects, agricultural tasksCompact design, powerful hydraulic systemLimited operational flexibility, limited operator comfort
Vermeer CTX160Tree cutting, landscaping, tight area operationsHigh traction, various attachment optionsHigh fuel consumption, low efficiency

Yes, finally, after transferring the popular skid steers from each segment, we have come to the end of the detailed buying skid steer guide.
If there is any information that you think is missing or incorrect, please let us know. Our expert teams will show the necessary attention.

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