Starting your own heavy equipment business can be a rewarding experience. However, it’s essential to keep up with the required maintenance on your equipment to avoid costly breakdowns down the road. This includes regularly performing a walk-around inspection and following the equipment manufacturer’s service schedule. Consider the manufacturer, optional features and amenities, comfort and more. Many heavy equipment dealerships can provide a wide range of new and used machines that meet various specifications and budgets. Additionally, many offer financing and other benefits for qualified buyers.
When buying a used skid steer, it’s important to conduct a thorough inspection of the machine. This includes visual and mechanical inspections. You can ask a professional to inspect the machine or have someone you trust test it out. A good dealer should be able to point out any potential red flags and can make you feel more confident about your purchase. The age of a skid steer can also be a factor. If the skid steer has been in use for a long time, it will have more wear and tear than a newer machine that’s been well cared for. Also, consider whether the machine has been run full or part-time. A full-time machine from The Red Barn Guy will have more wear and tear than a part-time one that has only been used for smaller projects.
Another thing to keep in mind is the size of a skid steer. There are several sizes available, including large, medium and small. Each will have different weight limits and power capabilities. Choosing the right size can help you save money on fuel and repairs down the road. When evaluating the condition of a skid steer, it’s important to look for any signs of abuse or neglect. Scuff marks, scratches, dents, and signs of rust can be warning signs. A dirty cab or engine can indicate the machinery hasn’t been properly maintained and could cost you more in the long run. Skid steers are one of the most versatile small machines in construction, agriculture and landscaping. They offer power, easy maneuverability and 360-degree visibility that help operators keep projects on track. A Trencher Attachment, however, can take this machine’s capabilities even further. These attachments dig trenches that are perfect for laying down cable, fiber optic and irrigation lines. A reputable machinery rental yard will carry trencher attachments in a variety of sizes and chain types, but the most common will allow you to dig up to 3 feet deep. You can also find them in a wide range of widths from 4 to 12 inches. Trencher attachments work by lowering a chain and cutting through the soil as you drive forward, pushing the spoil to one side and creating a neatly shaped trench. When choosing a trencher, you’ll want to make sure it matches the conditions at your job site.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to determine the best option for your business or project. It’s easy to get caught up in the initial price of a skid steer, but don’t forget about future maintenance costs, shipping, follow-up and more. A quality dealer can provide a second-to-none customer experience and will help you find the right machine for your needs. The skid steer broke the “Bigger Is Better” mold for construction equipment and heralded a new day of compact machinery. They’re multi-purpose tool carriers capable of a wide range of functions like digging, loading, lifting, and transporting materials around any job site. In fact, a single skid steer can replace several more specialized machines when properly fitted with the appropriate attachments.
Most skid steer manufacturers offer a wide variety of models with different features to help you match the best machine for your application. Some factors to consider include whether the cab is caged, what type of tires it has (pneumatic, foam-filled, solid), and the engine size. It’s important to understand the load capacity of each model before renting one, and remember that you’ll need a trailer with a ramp for loading. A good skid steer will have a high-performance posi track and be compatible with numerous attachments. Depending on the model, it may also have a radial or vertical lift path. The former offers a curved C-shaped angle when raising the arms and bucket, while the latter has a straight lift path and reduced reach at maximum lift height. Both are great for light- to mid-weight material handling, but choose a model that matches your needs and worksite application.
If you’re planning on using the skid steer for landscaping projects, look for one that has a garden hose connection in order to spray weeds and other plants. You’ll also want to make sure that the skid steer has a backhoe or dump bucket attachment so you can dig trenches or move soil. Attachments like a brush mower, tree mulcher, or snow blower can also be used to save time and money on yard cleanup tasks. Buying a skid steer from The Red Barn Guy is a great way to get acquainted with the equipment and determine if it’s a good fit for your business or project. However, be careful to only rent equipment from reputable dealers that offer safe and well-maintained machines with knowledgeable staff to assist you in your choice of equipment. It’s also important to make sure that the equipment is safe for you and your employees to operate. For your safety, always wear a hard hat and gloves when operating any piece of heavy equipment.
The cost of a new skid steer depends on the brand, size, and attachments. Different manufacturers offer a wide range of models with different operating capacities and features. Choosing the right skid steer will help you achieve your project goals more efficiently and effectively. Some of the most popular brands of skid steers are Bobcat, Takeuchi, and Kubota. When buying a new skid steer, you should always consider the price, operating capacity, weight, and tire size. Make sure to choose a reputable dealer who provides exceptional customer service and offers quality after-sales support. It is also a good idea to select a skid steer with a quick-change attachment system, which allows you to change the attachments quickly and easily.
