Back

Skid Steer Buying Guide

Dec. 7 2023 Buying Guide By Enlow Tractor Auction

Share

Skid steer loaders have become a necessary part of any construction, agricultural, or site management fleet. These machines have superior maneuverability, as well as plenty of power and utility to get the job done. However, choosing the right skid steer loader can be a difficult task. There is a lot to consider, from finding the right manufacturer and model to the many options, add-ons, and implements available. Before you commit to purchasing, consider some of these factors to ensure you find the right skid steer for you!

Here are a couple of points to consider when purchasing a skid steer.

The Frame and Size

Often the most important factor for almost all commercial vehicle purchases is going to be the size. Fortunately, skid steer loaders are highly prized for their compact size and general maneuverability, so you won’t need a lot of room for them to operate. Still, there are multiple frame sizes that create differences between models.

For example, larger loaders can lift higher, which makes them great for transferring material into dump trucks with higher sideboards, while smaller units are better at moving around cramped workspaces. Keep in mind that size can also come into play when transporting equipment from site to site, as larger units might need more specialized trailers. An owner-operator with a pickup truck and trailer isn’t going to be able to get a larger skid steer to the job in the first place. Small units are compact enough to fit on a trailer alongside other equipment or even another compact vehicle.

The Engine Power

The engine power a skid steer has is equally as important as the overall size and weight of any given unit. While horsepower is an important metric to consider - so is torque. Horsepower can be seen as how quickly a piece of equipment can perform its main operational functions, while torque is the underlying strength of that work. This can mean running smaller skid steers at lower engine RPMs, while still getting enough torque for the job at hand. This translates to greatly improved fuel efficiency. Make sure to keep in mind when buying your skid steer!

Don’t hesitate! Buy your skid steer at Enlow Tractor Auction, located in Tulsa, Oklahoma. We also proudly serve Oklahoma City, OK, Wichita, Kansas, and surrounding areas.