A skid steer is essential for construction, excavation, and other professional projects. But these handy machines can be expensive to repair and replace when neglected.
Performing routine maintenance helps prevent these issues. A few simple checks can keep your skid steer running well for its entire lifespan. This includes checking the fluid levels like engine oil, hydraulic oil, and coolant.
Check the Engine
Performing essential daily inspections of your skid steer can help to keep it running and looking good. These inspections should include a walk-around, checking the tire pressure, fuel and hydraulic fluid levels, air filters, and cab features like backup alerts and display panels. It’s also essential to check for any damage or tampering that could impact the safety and performance of the machine.
Fluid sampling is a great preventative measure that can help identify issues before they become significant problems. It is recommended that engine oil samples be collected every 250 operating hours and hydraulic and transmission fluids tested at least once yearly. This can provide valuable data to potential equipment suppliers, proving that your skid steer has been adequately maintained.
Dirt and dust are a natural part of heavy construction work and can quickly build up on radiators, filters, and other components. This can cause overheating and affect electrical connections. Cleaning the equipment is a regular part of maintenance, as well. Keeping the cab clear of dirt and debris helps improve your operator’s visibility and keeps them safe.
When you’re ready to sell your skid steer, ensuring it is in top condition will make the process much easier. In addition to checking the basics, consider requesting work orders and service records from previous owners. This will reveal how regimented or lax the owner was in their maintenance practices. This information can explain how diligent the new owner will be with the equipment and may influence resale value. Maintenance Tips for Keeping Your Skid Steer for Sale in Top Condition
A skid steer for sale is essential for construction, excavation, and other professional projects. But these handy machines can be expensive to repair and replace when neglected.
Performing routine maintenance helps prevent these issues. A few simple checks can keep your skid steer running well for its entire lifespan. This includes checking the fluid levels like engine oil, hydraulic oil, and coolant.
Check the Tires
The tires of a skid steer loader take on a lot of abuse in environments like recycling yards and construction sites, so it is vital to check their condition regularly. This helps prevent expensive damage, a common issue that leads to tire replacement and keeps them rolling as long as possible.
When examining the condition of skid steer tires, look for signs of excessive or uneven wear that indicate heavy usage. You should also inspect their overall condition and the type of tire (e.g., foam, pneumatic, or rubber), as each offers different advantages.
Air pressure is the most significant factor affecting pneumatic tires’ lifespan. An over-inflated or under-inflated tire can cause premature, uneven wear and a higher risk of flats. Aim for a recommended level found in the owner’s manual.
Another critical aspect of skid steer maintenance is cleanliness. This is particularly important in environments where dirt and debris can quickly accumulate on components and affect the performance of a machine, especially its electrical connections. Regular cleaning can reduce friction, improve efficiency, and extend the life of a skid steer. It’s also a good idea to regularly check fluid levels, including fuel, engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and radiator fluid, to ensure they are within the manufacturer’s range. Unexplained losses of any of these can lead to system overheating or reduced operation efficiency.
Check the Fluids
While it may seem obvious to check your skid steer’s fluid levels daily, it’s a critical maintenance task. Adding it to your routine can prevent costly breakdowns and extend the life of the equipment. In addition, operators should be trained to respond to in-cab alerts and messages, as these are real-time indicators of the condition. Addressing these promptly can prevent problems from developing and potentially lead to a service appointment that could result in unplanned downtime.
Another vital tip is lubricating attachments like cylinders, lifting arms regularly, and pivot pins. This reduces friction that causes wear. It’s also essential to clean the engine compartment, primarily if you work in high-debris environments. Debris can cause the radiator to overheat and can also clog electrical connections.
Regular sampling of engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and coolant can help you spot potential issues before they develop. The process is simple and inexpensive, and it can add value to your skid steer if you want to sell it.
If you do not need more time to perform routine maintenance, schedule an appointment with a professional service company specializing in skid steers. Their technicians have the specialized tools and training to quickly perform everyday tasks to save you time, money, and hassle. In addition, they can work fast on tasks that require specialized knowledge or equipment.
Check the Hydraulic System
Keeping hydraulic fluid levels at optimal in a skid steer is crucial. Low levels can cause equipment to overheat, causing irreparable damage. Check the manual for recommended levels and replace fluids as needed. Additionally, clean out the radiator and engine filters to ensure proper function. It is also essential to inspect all hoses and hydrant connections for leaks.
A lubricated skid steer is more efficient and can reduce wear on vital parts like the engine and hydraulic system. This is why it’s essential to use the appropriate lubricant type for your machine and to apply grease often to critical points. Additionally, cleaning machines regularly prevent rust and decrease the deterioration of materials like rubber hoses.
The key to a longer life and better resale value for a skid steer is establishing a maintenance schedule that includes daily tasks. When done consistently, these simple steps can prevent significant issues from developing and improve a machine’s longevity.
