Skid steer buying tips

Get in it. Many dealers have a "tow and show" trailer they use to bring a demo model for you to try out. This gives you a good sense of the machine's characteristics and lets you see if it fits your operation.

Keep up the maintenance. Skidsteers require some attention to detail: prompt hydraulic fluid and oil changes are a must. If your skid steer gets constant use, it can even be worthwhile to exceed the maintenance schedule.

Know the extras you want. In an industrial setting, where the loader will be shuttling back and forth constantly, you'll want to be more picky about the controls. Landscapers often prefer a little extra reach on their machines, and in general construction, extra power is always a plus. Compare skid steer extras from different providers right from your computer.

Choose attachments wisely. Most skid steer owners spend the bulk of their time using one or two attachments. Don't go overboard and buy everything you might need someday - remember that you can rent attachments for a day or week as needed. If you find yourself renting the same attachment repeatedly, you can always purchase it later. Want more buying tips? Read buying tips submitted by other BuyerZone users.