best used skid steer to buy

Best Used Skid Steer to Buy

When shopping for a used skid steer, the goal is to balance reliability, performance, and value. Whether you’re expanding a fleet or adding a versatile machine to tackle landscaping, construction, or agricultural tasks, choosing a tried-and-true model pays off.

Why Buy Used?

Buying used offers significant savings without sacrificing capability—especially if you focus on models with strong maintenance records and proven durability. A used skid steer can still deliver several years of heavy-duty service, especially when inspected carefully and supported by readily available parts.

Top Models Worth Considering

1. Bobcat S650
2. The S650’s compact size and powerful engine (up to 74 hp) make it a favorite for general contractors. Its vertical-lift linkage adds reach and dump height, which helps when working around tight job sites or loading trucks.

3. Look for later models (2016+) with updated operator cabs and hydraulic systems. Check for signs of hydraulic hose wear, especially around the boom and attachment couplers.

4. Case SV315

5. Case skid steers are known for heavyweight frames and smooth ride control. The SV315 delivers excellent ground speed and a spacious cab with good visibility, reducing operator fatigue on long days.

6. Prioritize machines with regular oil/filter changes and clean air filtering; avoid ones with noticeable frame cracks near the lift arms.

7. John Deere 317G

8. Deere offers a comfortable, tech-forward experience even on older machines. The 317G provides solid lifting capacity (over 3,300 lb) and user-friendly controls.

9. A well-maintained 317G will have a clean engine bay and responsive drive hydraulics. Use service records to verify scheduled maintenance intervals.

10. Caterpillar 262D

11. Cat machines are built for heavy-duty cycles. The 262D’s durable tracks or tires and hydraulic efficiency make it ideal for demanding sites.
12. Inspect the undercarriage and S·O·SS service logs (if available) to confirm consistent filter changes. Look for hydraulic fluid that’s still clean—milky or dark fluid can signal internal wear.

What to Inspect Before Buying

• Engine and hydraulics: Start the machine cold and listen for unusual noises. Check all hydraulic hoses for leaks and verify boom operations are smooth without jerking.
• Attachment system: Ensure quick coupler connections are tight and that attachments (buckets, forks, augers) interface properly, since replacement parts can be costly if the coupler is worn.
• Service history: Request detailed records. Machines with consistent oil, coolant, and hydraulic servicing tend to have fewer surprises later.
• Hours vs. Age: A mid-2010s machine with 3,000–4,000 hours in a gentle application can be a better buy than a newer unit used in quarry work. Match hours to the expected remaining life you need.

Financing and Aftermarket Support

Used skid steers often qualify for lower-interest financing through dealers, and some manufacturers still support legacy models with remanufactured parts. Choose equipment brands with local dealer support for filters, belts, and hydraulics—downtime costs more than the savings from a marginally cheaper purchase.

Final Tips

• Always perform a pre-purchase inspection with a mechanic or technician familiar with skid steers.
• Consider certified pre-owned programs from dealerships, as they provide rebuild-level checks and limited warranties.
• Keep track of fuel efficiency—some models sip diesel better than others, reducing operating costs over the machine’s remaining service life.

With the right research and inspection, a used skid steer can deliver years of heavy lifting, digging, and grading work. Focus on reputable models, verify their maintenance, and match the machine to your workload, and you’ll find the best used skid steer to buy.