3 Quick Tips for Skid Steer Maintenance
Digging, hauling, and moving debris, skid steers are put to heavy use in the agriculture, construction, and landscaping industries. While they’re considered compact and smaller than other equipment you may have at your jobsite, these popular machines pull their weight when it comes to getting tasks done, so ongoing maintenance is a must. To get more out of your machine, Equipment Trader is sharing three quick tips for skid steer maintenance.
Using Your Skid Steer
Before we discuss maintenance, it’s worth mentioning that it’s essential that you know how to properly and effectively use your skid steer based on the job you’re performing. Whether it’s a radial-lift or vertical-lift skid steer, obtain certified training so you know how to operate the loader properly and only use corresponding attachments. Don’t overload your machine; don’t hang out or exit the cab while it’s running; stay aware of your work crew while you operate the machine; and keep it properly stored when it’s not in use. Always follow your owner’s manual and the manufacturer’s website so it properly functions, and in case you need replacement parts.
Skid Steer Maintenance
The key to keeping your skid steer in its best condition over time comes down to proper use, daily inspections, long-term maintenance, and care for your attachments. Here’s a breakdown of what it takes to maintain your skid steer.
1. Perform a Pre-Work Inspection
Whether you own a Bobcat skid steer or a loader from another top brand, it’s essential you do a visual inspection before you get to work. Keep a checklist for each shift, making notes of any parts that may need maintenance or replacement soon, before a problem occurs that may slow down or otherwise impede work. Here’s a quick rundown for what you should look for with a pre-work inspection:
- Look for fluid leaks, including hydraulic oil, engine oil, coolant and fuel levels; you may need to drain and refill these fluids.
- Check hoses to make sure they’re secure.
- Check fan belt tension.
- Inspect fuel water separator.
- Grease and lubricate parts: cylinders, lifting arms, pivot pins, loader.
- Check and replace the air filter if needed.
- Look for failed seals.
- Check tire wear, look for punctures or cracks, and maintain adequate tire pressure based on temperatures.
2. Keep Up with Long-term Maintenance
You have your day-to-day checklist for using your skid steer, but you should also have a schedule for longterm skid steer maintenance and repairs. Here’s a quick overview for long-term care:
- Perform oil changes, usually after 250 hours of operation.
- Change the hydraulic fluid filter, usually every 500 hours.
- Check engine components that may be dirty or clogged; replace parts if necessary.
- Change skid steer fluids as the temperatures change over the seasons to prevent freezing.
- Wash equipment, remove dirt and debris, weekly or monthly, depending on the amount of use.
- Cover and put your skid steer in storage to protect it from weather damage.
3. Don’t Forget Attachment Maintenance
Skid steer attachments help you accomplish more with this valuable piece of heavy equipment. They range from forks and buckets to augers, rakes, and backhoes. Make sure these attachments are secure and there are no loose parts, including gears or bolts. Check for any tears, dents, or other damage that may affect how your machine operates. You should regularly grease attachments to prevent rust and water damage, and wash and clean them to remove debris after using your equipment each day.
Skid steers continue to receive high demand on the market for their compact size, power, and versatility. Even if you’re looking to accomplish a small project or want to test out this equipment before buying, you should consider renting a skid steer to see what it can do for you. When you’re ready to buy, see all the new and used listings for this machine on the nation’s leading marketplace, EquipmentTrader.com.
Ryan Miller
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