used asv skid steers

Used ASV Skid Steers: Choosing, Maintaining, and Maximizing Value

Used ASV skid steers remain a strong choice for contractors, landscapers, and municipalities looking for a compact machine with exceptional traction and productivity. To ensure a confident purchase that matches your project needs, focus on the key areas below.

Why ASV Skid Steers Stand Out

ASV pioneered the dual-track skid steer concept, giving machines like the P50 and RT-75 a broader footprint, lower ground pressure, and unmatched stability when working on soft, uneven ground. This translates into:
– Superior traction for year-round use in mud, snow, or sand without bogging down.
– Even weight distribution, which protects turf and reduces rutting compared to wheeled loaders.
– Operator comfort, often featuring a roomy cab, great visibility, and responsive controls even in older models.

These advantages keep ASV rigs competitive on the resale market, so you’ll often find well-maintained units that still deliver premium performance.

Prioritizing Inspection Points

When evaluating a used ASV skid steer, inspect these critical systems:

1. Under-carriage and tracks – Examine the rubber tracks (or optional steel tracks) for wear, cracks, or missing lugs. Replacing tracks is expensive, so ensure there is adequate life left and look for even wear that indicates proper alignment. Check rollers, idlers, and sprockets for play or damage.
2. Hydraulic system – ASV machines rely heavily on hydraulics for lift capacity and attachments. Inspect cylinders for leaks, test the boom lift for smooth movement, and listen for whining pumps under load. Low hydraulic oil or contamination often points to poor maintenance.
3. Engine health – Review service records for oil changes, air filters, and coolant flushes. Look for oil leaks around valve covers or turbochargers, and verify that the engine starts easily without smoking or rough idle.
4. Electrical/electronic controls – Since ASV uses joystick or multi-function control systems, confirm that buttons, sensors, and gauges function correctly. Warning lights or inconsistent responses may indicate sensor failure or control module issues.
5. Frame and welds – Check the chassis for cracks or weld repairs, especially around the loader arms and hinge pins. ASV frames are usually robust, but any structural rust or fatigue reduces lifespan.

Match Machine Size to Workload

ASV offers models ranging from compact to heavy-duty. Don’t assume every used machine fits your job; instead:
– Choose smaller models (P38, P50) for tight urban landscaping, tight dö sites, or light construction.
– Opt for mid-size (P70, RT-65) if frequently moving aggregate, pallets, or snow.
– Reserve larger tracks (RT-75, PT-80) for heavy grading, site prep, and handling tough material.

Consider the machine’s rated operating capacity and compare it to your heaviest attachments and payloads. Bigger isn’t always better; an oversized skid steer may hinder visibility or consume more fuel.

Verify Attachment Compatibility

Used ASV skid steers often come with a variety of attachments—buckets, grapples, augers, or hydraulic breakers. Confirm:
– Quick-attach system condition. ASV’s universal plate is durable, but pins and bushings wear over time.
– Hydraulic flow and pressure match the attachment’s requirements.
– Electrical hookups, if the attachment uses sensors or auxiliary controls.

If no attachments are included, check that the machine’s auxiliary hydraulic lines, couplers, and controls are still in good working order—avoid machines with corroded or leaky fittings.

Maintenance and Documentation

Evaluate the available maintenance history:
– Well-documented service records show adherence to recommended intervals and OEM parts usage.
– Check for consistent oil/fuel filter changes and greasing of pivot points.
– Verify any recent major components (tracks, hydraulics, electrical modules) were replaced or rebuilt.

If possible, confirm the machine’s uptime by asking for hours logged versus reported. ASV skid steers are designed to last beyond 5,000 hours with proper care; a clean history often indicates the next owner won’t inherit surprise repairs.

Maximize Value After Purchase

Once purchased:
1. Replace worn consumables—tracks, filters, hoses, and rubber boots—before they fail in the field.
2. Grease pivot points and inspect undercarriage weekly to prevent accelerated deterioration.
3. Keep up with OEM software updates for electronic models; outdated firmware can lead to diagnostic issues or poor control response.

A used ASV skid steer that’s been properly inspected, matched to the intended work, and maintained post-sale will deliver the same reliability and productivity as a new machine—at a fraction of the price.