Inspecting Used Skid Steers Before You Make Any Final Choices

If you're in the market for a used skid steer, it's important to know what to look for before making a purchase. And not just when choosing the right model. You’ll want to make sure all the parts still run smoothly. Use this guide to help you perform your inspection and find the right used skid steer for your operation. Then visit Arnold’s Inc to explore used skid steers for sale. We serve those throughout Minnesota.

Visual Inspection

When inspecting used skid steer, it is important to do a visual inspection to look for any damage or wear and tear. Keep in mind, not all scratches and dents are signs that the machine is falling apart. You’re bound to encounter some imperfections. What you’re looking for are major concerns, like misalignment or a level of wear and tear that seems excessive. These are concerning for two reasons.

First, more severe damage is more expensive to fix. You don't want to buy a low priced used skid steer, then get stuck with a massive repair bill soon after purchasing! Be sure to factor any repairs into your overall budget.

Second, more severe damage indicates that the past owner(s) did not properly care for the skid steer. They may not have kept up with preventative maintenance, which means the used skid steer could be due for expensive repairs soon.

Hydraulics

Be sure to pay extra attention to the hydraulics system. The hydraulics are responsible for operating the various moving parts on the equipment, so if they are not in good condition, the used skid steer may not work properly. Some things to look for include leaky hoses, damaged fittings, and worn seals.

Test “Drive”

You may not be taking any used skid steers for a drive around the block, but ask to perform some basic operational functions to ensure it runs smoothly. Make sure that all of the controls work, the lighting works, and so on.

If anything feels or sounds off, ask about it. The salesperson may not have an answer, but you can always hire a professional to conduct an inspection to see if there’s an issue you can’t see.

Beyond making sure that the used skid steer works, you want to make sure that it works for you. Step into the operator's cab and make sure that the seat is comfortable and you can easily reach all of the controls. You don't want to spend your work day straining to reach or hunched over in a cramped space, after all!

When you’re ready to explore used skid steers for sale, check out the selection at Arnold’s Inc. See our available models online or at our dealership. We proudly serve those throughout Minnesota.