Take control of any terrain with a skid steer
Skid steers are a popular compact heavy machine that is used for a variety of construction, landscape, agriculture and landscaping/forestry type projects. These machines are designed to be small, efficient and easy to maneuver in tight spaces and are always seen in just about every construction project no matter how big or small.
The unique design of a skid steer allows it to turn in its own length by using the wheels or tracks to skid in opposite directions. To turn left, the operator pushes the joystick control forward on the left side of the machine and pulls it back on the right side. To turn right, the operator does the opposite. By varying the speed and direction of the wheels or tracks on each side of the machine, the operator can achieve precise movement and steering.
Who makes the best skid steer?
At Ritchie List, you’ll find a wide selection of used skid steers for sale by owners who are located near you! We currently have over 1,000 used skid steers for you to browse from that's sold by trusted and verified owners who depend on their skid steer to work as hard as you do.
There are several manufactures that produce high quality skid steers and while there really isn’t the “best one”, there are some well-known brands that are highly preferred in the industry.
Bobcat is a well-known brand when it comes to skid steers, so much so that the term skid steers is synonymous with bobcat. Some key features of bobcat skid steers are its reliability, powerful engines and advanced control systems.
Caterpillar, also known as CAT, is well known for its heavy construction equipment and brings their recipe for success to its smaller machines including the skid steer. CAT skid steers are known to be durable, spacious operating cabs, all wheel steer options.
Kubota is a popular brand when it comes to earth moving equipment such as mini excavators and skid steers. Kubota is well known to making skid steers with excellent and extensive safety features such as its ROPS (rollover protection structures).
Different types of skid steers
Though most skid steers look the same, there are different types of skid steers that you’ll come across at Ritchie List, and each skid steer is designed to operate differently due to their unique differences. Here’s a list of some of the most common types of skid steers:
Wheeled Skid Steers
Wheeled skid steers are as the name suggests, they are equipped with four large wheels as opposed to a track system. Wheeled skid steers won’t provide the same level as traction as a track system therefor these are highly suited for construction and landscaping where the surface is mostly flat and dry. This also gives them an advantage of moving faster compared to a tracked skid steer.
Tracked Skid Steers
Tracked skid steers offer a track system instead of wheels and offer two main advantages. The first is excellent traction in uneven terrain conditions due to more ground contact compared to just four wheels. The second advantage is excellent operating and maneuvering capabilities in loose and wet terrain due to a larger weight distribution of the tracked system.
Mini Skid Steers
Mini skid steers function just like a normal skid steer just at a smaller capacity. Aside from that, the next difference is the operating cab. A traditional skid steer features a enclosed cabin, where the operator stands in the rear of a mini skid steer.
For those focusing on light duty excavation and earthmoving work such as landscaping, mini excavators would be an excellent addition to the workforce. Some models will have an operating capacity of up to 1500lbs and feature interchangeable attachments for various types of earthmoving tasks.
What is the difference between a skid steer and a skid loader?
Often time, both terms skid steer and skid loader are used interchangeably referring to the same piece of equipment. Either term refers to a compact machine that’s designed for a variety of digging, hauling, forestry type tasks.
However, in some circ*mstances you might find skid loader or compact loader might refer to a specific type of skid steer. Skid loader might refer to a smaller tracked machine with a single set of controls vs the traditional skid steer would be referring to a wheeled skid steer.
FAQs
A smaller, more compact skid steer with a 40-hp engine might need an overhaul at 4,000 hours. On average, many machine operators will say you'll get 5,000 hours out of a skid steer before you encounter mechanical issues, but this comes down to a number of factors.
How long do mini skid steers last? ›
Typical Lifespan of Mini Skid Steers
On average, a well-maintained mini skid steer can last between 5,000 to 7,000 operating hours. This translates to about 10 to 15 years of use for machines operated for approximately 500 hours per year.
Who makes the smallest skid steer loader? ›
The S70 is the smallest compact loader in the Bobcat lineup.
What is the useful life of a skid steer loader? ›
Skid steers, along with compact track loaders, typically have an average working life spanning 6,000 to 12,000 hours. Their longevity can be affected by factors such as the quality of maintenance, the intensity of the tasks performed, and the operator's handling.
What is the life expectancy of a skid steer? ›
Skid Steer Lifespan Overview
Upwards of 5,000 hours with proper maintenance. Used in all weather conditions; withstands incredible stress. Gentle with controls, drive at practical speeds, and wipe down after use in muddy or wet conditions.
Can I make money with a mini skid steer? ›
Dirtwork with a skid steer involves activities like digging, grading, backfilling and leveling soil, as well as demolition on smaller-scale such as construction sites. Through these services, you can make a significant amount of profit and provide necessary services for commercial and residential construction jobs.
Is buying a used skid steer worth it? ›
Benefits of Buying a Used Skid Steer
A better purchase price: The most obvious benefit is the reduction in cost. Used machinery is typically more affordable than new vehicles. No matter what industry you're in, extra cash can help you get more work done and accomplish a wide variety of goals.
What questions to ask when buying a used skid steer? ›
Questions to Ask During a Skid Steer Inspection
- Can I See the Maintenance and Service History? The maintenance and service records of the skid steer tell you a lot about the machine's reliability. ...
- Are There Any Appearance Issues? ...
- How Does the Engine Function? ...
- How's the Transmission? ...
- How Do the Loader Arms Look?
The typical skid steer's lifespan is about 5,000 hours, but this could be higher or lower depending on the brand. Aim to purchase a skid steer with less than 3,500 used operating hours.
What is a mini skid steer called? ›
Mini track loaders, also called mini skid-steers or walk-behind loaders, are often considered a smaller version of popular compact track loaders. They are used for landscaping and grounds maintenance work and construction support. The machine's small size makes it perfect for limited-access tasks.
The Kanga Kid is the world's smallest multi-task compact skid steer loader, with a special range of attachments that completes the toughest jobs quickly and easily.
Will a mini skid steer fit through a gate? ›
Due to its small size, this is the perfect skid loader for working in very restrictive areas. The Bobcat S70 will fit through 39” w gates into a backyard.
Do skid steers hold their value? ›
3 Pros of Buying a Used Skid Steer
Lower Depreciation: Used skid steers have already undergone the steepest part of their depreciation curve, meaning they retain their value better over time. This can be an advantage for resale value or if you're looking to upgrade.
How much does it cost an hour to run a skid steer? ›
At the time of this writing, Bobcat said operating an S66 under average use conditions will cost $9.11 per hour. Typical maintenance costs (excluding labor) include: Average once-a-year oil change (including filter) will cost $75-$80.
What maintenance does a skid steer need? ›
Engine oil, radiator fluid, windshield wiper fluid, coolant and hydraulic oil all help prevent wear and heat damage to the machine. Make sure your daily skid steer maintenance schedule includes checking each liquid, and that they are changed at regular intervals throughout the year.
Is 5000 hours a lot for a mini excavator? ›
Mini-excavators typically offer a similar average lifespan of around 10,000 hours.
What is considered high hours on skid steer? ›
The typical skid steer's lifespan is about 5,000 hours, but this could be higher or lower depending on the brand. Aim to purchase a skid steer with less than 3,500 used operating hours.
How many hours can you get out of a mini excavator? ›
On average, a well-maintained excavator with no damage will last you somewhere between 7,000 and 10,000 hours. Of course, the lifetime hours will differ from one brand to the next – but it gives you a good ballpark figure to work with.
Is 1000 hours on a skid steer a lot? ›
As a general rule, skid steers with lower log hours will be a better investment than those that have been used full time for years on end. A skid steer that was used for a few years and only has 1,000 hours on it will likely need less maintenance than one used for 4,000 hours in a similar time frame.
