Skid Steers: Complete Guide to Skid Steer Loaders
What is a Skid Steer?
Skid steer loaders are versatile and powerful machines that are essential in the commercial construction industry.
With their compact size, agile maneuverability, and impressive lifting capabilities, skid steers play a crucial role in any construction project.
In this article, we will discuss some of the best skid steer makes and models available in the USA, along with their specifications and price ranges.
5 Best Skid Steers
The five skid steer models discussed in this article—Bobcat S740, Caterpillar 262D3, John Deere 332G, Case SV340B, and Kubota SSV75—represent some of the best options available in the USA, each with its unique features, specifications, and price ranges.
Bobcat S740
The Bobcat S740 is an industry favorite, known for its exceptional performance, durability, and versatility.
Its vertical lift path design provides ample reach and height for efficient material handling.
The Bobcat S740 is equipped with a powerful Tier 4 diesel engine, ensuring efficient and environmentally friendly performance.
Specifications:
- Operating Weight: 8,788 lbs
- Rated Operating Capacity: 3,100 lbs
- Horsepower: 74 HP
- Lift Height: 132 in
Price Range: $45,000 – $60,000
Learn more about the Bobcat S740
Caterpillar 262D3
The Caterpillar 262D3 is a popular skid steer with a radial lift design, providing excellent digging performance and mid-range reach.
Its advanced electro-hydraulic system allows for smooth and precise control of the machine.
The 262D3 is also designed with Caterpillar’s renowned durability and reliability, making it a solid investment for any commercial construction project.
Specifications:
- Operating Weight: 8,091 lbs
- Rated Operating Capacity: 2,700 lbs
- Horsepower: 74.3 HP
- Lift Height: 126 in
Price Range: $45,000 – $65,000
Learn more about the CAT 262D3
John Deere 332G
The John Deere 332G is a powerful skid steer designed for heavy-duty construction work.
Its vertical lift design provides exceptional reach, and its 100 HP engine delivers unmatched performance.
The 332G is also equipped with an advanced cooling system, ensuring the machine remains cool and efficient during extended periods of operation.
Specifications:
- Operating Weight: 9,902 lbs
- Rated Operating Capacity: 3,600 lbs
- Horsepower: 100 HP
- Lift Height: 134 in
Price Range: $55,000 – $70,000
Learn more about the John Deere 332G
Case SV340B
The Case SV340B is a high-performance skid steer loader that combines power, durability, and operator comfort.
Its vertical lift design offers excellent reach and lifting capabilities, while its 90 HP engine provides ample power for demanding construction tasks.
The SV340B also features a spacious, ergonomically designed cab, ensuring operator comfort throughout the workday.
Specifications:
- Operating Weight: 9,100 lbs
- Rated Operating Capacity: 3,400 lbs
- Horsepower: 90 HP
- Lift Height: 131 in
Price Range: $50,000 – $65,000
Learn more about the Case SV340B
Kubota SSV75
The Kubota SSV75 is a reliable and efficient skid steer loader that offers excellent value for its price.
Its vertical lift design provides a good balance of reach and lifting capabilities, while its 74.3 HP engine delivers dependable performance.
The SSV75 also features a user-friendly control system, making it an ideal choice for operators of all skill levels.
Specifications:
- Operating Weight: 8,157 lbs
- Rated Operating Capacity: 2,690 lbs
- Horsepower: 74.3 HP
- Lift Height: 120.5 in
Price Range: $40,000 – $55,000
Learn more about the Kubota SSV75
In Summary
When selecting a skid steer for commercial construction work, it is crucial to consider factors such as lifting capacity, reach, horsepower, and operator comfort.
By carefully evaluating your construction project’s specific requirements and budget, you can choose the most suitable skid steer to maximize productivity, efficiency, and safety on the job site.
Remember that investing in a high-quality, reliable skid steer loader will ensure a long-lasting and profitable return for your commercial construction business.
How to Finance a Skid Steer?
Financing construction equipment is an essential aspect of managing construction projects or running a construction business.
We offer many financing options available to help you acquire the necessary equipment while preserving cash flow and working capital.
Here are some factors and requirements when trying to secure financing for a skid steer.
- Typically you’ll need a 650 or higher FICO score.
- 2+ years time in business or industry experience.
- We do have start-up programs as well.
- Depending on your credit profile, we do offer no downpayment options.
(This is for commercial equipment financing. We do not offer personal loans for skid steers. Commercial financing only.)
Contractors and construction companies all across the country trust TopMark Funding to be their go-to with their heavy equipment finance and leasing needs. We have a combined knowledge base of over 20 years in heavy-duty equipment finance and will help your business thrive today.
Deciding whether to get a loader lease or loan, choosing between a new or used excavator, having a partner like TopMark Funding that understands the heavy equipment and construction industry and all that comes with it (titling, registration, insurance, warranties, etc.) is crucial to your success.
Best online site to shop for a skid steer?
When looking to purchase a skid steer for commercial construction, some of the best online marketplaces to explore are:
Machinery Trader
www.machinerytrader.com – Machinery Trader is one of the leading online marketplaces for buying and selling heavy construction equipment, including skid steers.
They have an extensive inventory of new and used skid steers from various manufacturers, allowing you to compare prices, specifications, and features to find the best fit for your needs.
IronPlanet
www.ironplanet.com – IronPlanet is another popular online platform for buying and selling used heavy equipment.
They offer a wide range of skid steer loaders from well-known brands, as well as financing and shipping options.
IronPlanet also conducts regular auctions, providing potential buyers with additional opportunities to find a suitable skid steer at a competitive price.
Equipment Trader
www.equipmenttrader.com – Equipment Trader is a comprehensive online marketplace for new and used construction equipment, including skid steers.
Their user-friendly website allows you to filter search results based on make, model, price range, and location, making it easy to find the ideal skid steer for your commercial construction project.
Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers
www.rbauction.com – Ritchie Bros. is the world’s largest industrial auctioneer and a reputable source for purchasing used construction equipment.
They host both live and online auctions, where you can find a wide variety of skid steers for commercial construction.
Their detailed inspection reports and transparent bidding process provide confidence in the quality and value of the equipment being purchased.
Mascus
www.mascus.com – Mascus is a global online marketplace for buying and selling used heavy equipment, including skid steer loaders.
They offer a vast inventory of skid steers from top manufacturers, with options to filter by make, model, year, price, and location.
Before making a purchase, it is essential to research the skid steer’s condition, maintenance history, and warranty information.
When buying from an online marketplace, consider reaching out to the seller to address any concerns or questions you may have.
Additionally, inspecting the equipment in person or hiring a third-party inspector can provide further assurance of the skid steer’s quality and value.
When Buying A Skid Steer What Features Should I Consider?
When purchasing a skid steer, it’s essential to consider several features to ensure the machine meets your specific needs and requirements. Here are some key factors to take into account:
- Lift Arm Style: Decide between radial lift and vertical lift based on the type of tasks you’ll be performing. Radial lift is better suited for digging and grading, while vertical lift offers higher reach and stability for material handling at greater heights.
- Rated Operating Capacity (ROC): ROC is a measure of the maximum load a skid steer can safely handle. Choose a machine with an ROC that matches or exceeds the requirements of your construction projects.
- Horsepower: A skid steer’s engine horsepower determines its overall power and performance. Higher horsepower machines offer better performance in demanding tasks but may come at a higher cost. Consider your typical workload and the power requirements when selecting an appropriate horsepower.
- Operating Weight: Heavier skid steers tend to provide better stability and traction. However, if you need to transport the machine frequently or operate on sensitive surfaces, a lighter machine may be more suitable.
- Lift Height: Ensure the skid steer’s lift height is sufficient for the tasks you plan to perform, such as loading trucks or stacking materials.
- Attachments: Skid steers are versatile machines due to the wide range of attachments available. Consider the types of attachments you’ll need for your projects and ensure the skid steer is compatible with them.
- Control System: Skid steers come with different control systems, such as hand and foot controls or joystick controls. Choose a control system that is comfortable and user-friendly for you or your operators.
- Cab Comfort and Ergonomics: Since operators spend a significant amount of time in the machine, a comfortable and ergonomic cab is crucial. Look for features like adjustable seats, climate control, and ample visibility.
- Serviceability: Easy access to maintenance points and routine service components can save you time and money on maintenance. Check the machine’s design for easy access to filters, fluid checks, and other service points.
- Manufacturer and Dealer Support: Choose a reputable manufacturer with a strong dealer network for parts availability, service, and support. This ensures you get the necessary assistance when needed, minimizing downtime.
By carefully evaluating these features and considering your specific construction project requirements, you can make an informed decision and choose the most suitable skid steer for your needs.
Types of Skid Steer Attachments
Skid steer loaders are incredibly versatile machines, thanks to the wide range of attachments available.
These attachments enable skid steers to perform various tasks in construction, landscaping, agriculture, and other industries.
Here are some common types of skid steer attachments:
- Buckets: Buckets are the most commonly used attachment and come in different styles, including general purpose, light material, heavy-duty, rock, and 4-in-1 (multi-purpose) buckets. Each type is designed for specific tasks such as digging, grading, or handling loose materials like gravel, sand, or soil.
- Pallet Forks: Pallet forks are used for lifting and transporting palletized materials, such as lumber or construction supplies, around a job site.
- Augers: Augers are used for drilling holes in the ground for fence posts, footings, or tree planting. They come in various sizes and can be used with different types of auger bits.
- Trenchers: Trenchers are designed for digging trenches for utilities, irrigation systems, or drainage. They come in various sizes and styles, such as chain or wheel trenchers, depending on the depth and width requirements.
- Grapples: Grapple attachments are used for handling irregularly shaped or bulky materials like logs, brush, or scrap. They come in several styles, including root grapples, scrap grapples, and demolition grapples.
- Hydraulic Breakers: Hydraulic breakers, or hammers, are used for breaking up concrete, asphalt, or rocks. They are commonly used in demolition work or construction projects that require excavation.
- Snow Removal Attachments: Snow removal attachments, such as snow plows or snow blowers, are used for clearing snow from roads, parking lots, and other surfaces.
- Landscape Rakes: Landscape rakes are used for soil preparation, grading, and leveling in landscaping projects. They can also be used for removing rocks, debris, or vegetation from a job site.
- Mowers: Mower attachments, such as brush mowers or flail mowers, can be used for cutting grass, brush, or small trees.
- Stump Grinders: Stump grinders are used for grinding down tree stumps and roots, allowing for easier removal and site preparation.
- Backhoes: Backhoe attachments transform a skid steer into a small-scale excavator, allowing for digging, trenching, and backfilling tasks.
- Sweepers and Brooms: Sweeper and broom attachments are used for cleaning and clearing debris from job sites, streets, or parking lots.
These are just a few examples of the many skid steer attachments available.
Before purchasing any attachment, ensure that it is compatible with your skid steer’s specifications and hydraulic capabilities.
Selecting the right attachments for your specific needs can help maximize your skid steer’s productivity and efficiency.
What Are The Different Hydraulic Systems For A Skid Steer?
Hydraulic systems play a crucial role in skid steer loaders, as they power the machine’s movement, lifting capabilities, and attachment operations.
There are different hydraulic systems utilized in skid steers, primarily distinguished by their flow rate and pressure.
Here are the main types of hydraulic systems found in skid steers:
Standard Flow Hydraulics
Standard flow hydraulics are the most common hydraulic system found in skid steers. This system offers sufficient flow and pressure to operate most attachments, such as buckets, pallet forks, and landscape rakes.
The flow rate for standard flow systems typically ranges between 15-25 gallons per minute (GPM) and a pressure of around 3,000 pounds per square inch (PSI).
High-Flow Hydraulics
High-flow hydraulic systems are designed to deliver a higher flow rate, usually between 30-45 GPM, and sometimes even higher.
This increased flow rate provides more power for operating attachments that require greater hydraulic demands, such as cold planers, hydraulic hammers, and large augers.
High-flow systems are typically found in larger and more powerful skid steers, designed for heavy-duty applications.
Enhanced High-Flow Hydraulics
Enhanced high-flow hydraulic systems represent the top tier of hydraulic performance in skid steers, providing even higher flow rates and pressures than standard high-flow systems.
These systems are designed for the most demanding applications and attachments, such as mulchers and large trenchers. Enhanced high-flow systems are less common and are usually found in high-performance skid steers for specialized tasks.
In addition to the main hydraulic systems, skid steers may also have auxiliary hydraulic systems that provide additional hydraulic power for attachments with more demanding hydraulic needs.
When choosing a skid steer, it is essential to consider the hydraulic system requirements for the tasks you will be performing and the attachments you plan to use.
A higher-flow hydraulic system may be necessary for certain applications, but it may also come with a higher initial cost and increased fuel consumption.
Assess your needs and select a skid steer with a hydraulic system that best matches your specific requirements.
Skid Steers Have Two Different Lift Arm Styles
Skid steers employ two different lift arm styles, each with its own advantages and suitable applications. These lift arm styles are:
Radial Lift
Radial lift skid steers have a single pivot point on the loader arm, allowing the lift arm to follow a curved path while raising and lowering.
This design is characterized by excellent digging and downward force at the beginning and middle of the lift cycle, making it particularly suitable for tasks such as digging, grading, and backfilling.
Radial lift skid steers generally have a lower initial and operating cost, making them an attractive option for those on a tighter budget.
Advantages of radial lift skid steers:
- Greater breakout force for digging and prying
- Lower initial and operating costs
- Suitable for tasks requiring downward force, like digging, grading, and backfilling
Vertical Lift
Vertical lift skid steers, on the other hand, have a more complex linkage system that allows the loader arm to move vertically while raising and lowering.
This design provides higher reach and more stable lifting capabilities, making it ideal for applications that require precise placement and material handling at greater heights, such as loading trucks or stacking pallets.
Advantages of vertical lift skid steers:
- Higher reach and lifting capabilities
- Enhanced stability when lifting and placing materials
- Ideal for tasks requiring precise placement and material handling at greater heights
Choosing between radial and vertical lift skid steers largely depends on the specific tasks and requirements of your construction projects.
Radial lift skid steers are well-suited for projects requiring more digging and downward force, while vertical lift skid steers excel in tasks that demand higher reach and precise material handling.
Assessing your job site requirements and understanding the capabilities of each lift arm style will help you select the most appropriate skid steer for your needs.
What Are The Different Types Of Engines For Skid Steers?
Skid steer loaders can be powered by different types of engines, each with its own benefits and drawbacks.
The two main types of engines used in skid steers are diesel engines and gasoline engines.
In recent years, there has also been growing interest in alternative power sources, such as electric engines.
Here is an overview of the different types of engines for skid steers:
Diesel Engines
Diesel engines are the most common type of engine used in skid steer loaders.
They are known for their durability, high torque, fuel efficiency, and longer service intervals.
Diesel engines are suitable for heavy-duty applications and provide ample power for demanding tasks.
However, they tend to be more expensive upfront and require more costly maintenance due to the complexity of their emission control systems.
Advantages of diesel engines:
- High torque and power output
- Better fuel efficiency
- Suitable for heavy-duty applications
- Longer service intervals
Gasoline Engines
Gasoline engines are less common in skid steers but can still be found in some models, particularly in smaller and lighter machines.
Gasoline engines are generally cheaper upfront and have lower maintenance costs than diesel engines.
However, they typically offer less torque and power, making them better suited for lighter tasks and less demanding applications.
Advantages of gasoline engines:
- Lower initial cost
- Lower maintenance costs
- Suitable for lighter tasks
Electric Engines
Electric skid steer loaders are a relatively new development in the market, driven by the demand for more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient machines.
Electric skid steers are powered by batteries and electric motors, eliminating the need for internal combustion engines.
They produce zero emissions, operate more quietly, and have lower operating costs due to reduced fuel consumption and maintenance requirements.
However, electric skid steers may have limited run times due to battery capacity, and the initial cost of the machines and battery replacement can be higher than traditional engine options.
Advantages of electric engines:
- Zero emissions
- Quieter operation
- Lower operating costs
- Reduced maintenance requirements
When choosing a skid steer engine type, consider factors such as your specific application requirements, budget, fuel availability, and environmental concerns.
Diesel engines are the most popular choice for their power and efficiency, while gasoline engines may be more suitable for lighter tasks.
Electric engines are an emerging alternative for those seeking a more environmentally friendly and quieter option.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, skid steer loaders are versatile and essential machines in various industries, such as construction, landscaping, and agriculture.
When choosing a skid steer, it is crucial to consider factors like lift arm style, engine type, hydraulic system, rated operating capacity, and attachment compatibility, among others, to ensure the machine meets your specific needs.
Additionally, it is vital to be aware of the EPA’s Tier 4 emissions requirements, which mandate strict emissions standards for non-road diesel engines, including those in skid steers.
While Tier 4 compliant engines may have higher upfront and maintenance costs, their significant reduction in harmful pollutants contributes to improved air quality and a more sustainable environment.
By carefully evaluating your needs and considering the various factors outlined in this discussion, you can make an informed decision and select the most suitable skid steer loader for your applications.
ABOUT TOPMARK FUNDING
TopMark Funding is a top-rated construction equipment finance company. We specialize in commercial vehicles and construction equipment. Our mission is to become your long-term financial partner by helping you grow your business and fleet.
We have financing options for dump trucks, box trucks, cargo vans, commercial trucks, and small businesses. We have great rates, low down payments, and flexible monthly payments regardless of credit history.
Fill out the contact form or give us a call at (866) 627-6644. One of our equipment financing specialists will contact you as soon as possible to go over your truck lease needs and learn more about you and your business financing goals.
