Skid Steers / Track Loaders Buyer Guide

• Used market pricing ranges from $15,000 to $35,000 for older, higher-hour wheeled units, and $35,000 to $85,000+ for late-model, low-hour compact track loaders.
• Operating weights range from 2,500 lbs on ultra-compact wheeled loaders up to 13,500 lbs on large-frame track machines.
• Rated Operating Capacity (ROC) spans 1,300 lbs to over 4,500 lbs, measured at 50% tipping load for wheeled units and 35% for track loaders.
• Expected powertrain lifecycle is typically 4,000 to 5,000 operating hours before requiring major engine or hydrostatic drive overhauls.
• Average fuel consumption runs between 2.2 and 4.5 gallons per hour depending on engine horsepower and high-flow hydraulic demands.
• Standard hydraulic flow typically ranges from 16 to 24 GPM, while high-flow options reach 30 to 45 GPM for running demanding attachments like mulchers and cold planers.
• Primary applications include site preparation, earthmoving, material loading, brush cutting, trenching, snow removal, and light demolition.

• 1CTL undercarriage components: measure track tread depth, check for missing rubber lugs, and inspect drive sprocket teeth for scalloping or razor-sharp wear profiles.
• 2Bogie wheels and idler bearings: check for seal weeping, excessive axial play, and flat spots that indicate seized roller bearings.
• 3Boom pin and bushing wear: rest the bucket flat on the ground and nudge forward/backward to check for sloppy, un-greased, or egg-shaped hinge points.
• 4Hydrostatic drive performance: operate machine in high and low gear; track straightness under load to identify internal hydrostatic motor leakage or unequal pump output.
• 5Engine blow-by and oil conditions: check the oil filler neck at operating temperature for heavy crankcase smoke, and examine coolant for oil contamination or combustion bubbles.
• 6Structural integrity: inspect high-stress weld locations around the loader arm cross-tube, boom stops, and quick-attach plate for stress fractures or improper field welds.
• 7Hydraulic cooler and radiator fins: check behind rear service doors for packed debris, bent cooling fins, or oil-dust sludge indicating hydraulic oil cooler leaks.
• 8Auxiliary hydraulic lines and couplers: inspect high-pressure lines for ballooning, dry rot, or scarred flat-face couplers that bypass pressure.
• 9ECU and telematics hour verification: verify physical dash hour readings against onboard engine control modules to eliminate odometer tampering or instrument panel replacements.

Commonly-reported issues from operators and technicians. Every machine varies — always inspect before you buy.