How to Maintain a Compact Skid Steer Loader

(Before each shift or at the start of each workday)

Walk-Around and Safety Inspection

Before operating the machine, carry out a visual inspection of the exterior and all key safety components.Check for:

• Tire or track damage, uneven wear, punctures, or bulges

• Hydraulic hose and fitting leaks, abrasion, or swelling

• Cab door condition, seat belt function, lights, horn, and emergency stop controls

Fluid Checks

Make sure all critical fluid levels are within the recommended range.

Inspect:

• Engine oil level

• Hydraulic oil level

• Coolant level

• Any signs of fuel leakage

Cleaning

Keeping the machine clean helps prevent overheating and premature wear.

Clean:

• The radiator

• The surface of the air filter

• Dust, grass, mud, and other debris around cooling components

• The undercarriage and any debris caught around the tracks, wheels, or final drive areas

Functional Check

Run the machine briefly before starting work to confirm normal operation.

Verify:

• Idle performance

• Travel drive function

• Lift arm operation

• Steering response

• Unusual noise, vibration, or odors

• Excessive play in the quick coupler or attachment pins

2. Weekly Maintenance

(Every 25 to 50 operating hours)

Air Filter Service

Remove the primary air filter and tap it lightly to remove dust. In very dusty environments, cleaning may be required daily.

Important:

• The safety element should be replaced, not cleaned with compressed air

• Replace the filter immediately if it is damaged or deformed

Lubricate Key Pivot Points

Grease all major pivot and connection points on a regular basis.

Typical lubrication points include:

• Lift arm pivot pins

• Linkage pins

• Bucket or attachment connection pins

• Track tension rollers and carrier rollers on tracked models

Use a general-purpose lithium grease or extreme-pressure grease, and apply grease until old grease is pushed out.

Inspect Chains and Drive Components

Check the condition of the drive system for wear and proper tension.

Inspect:

• Chain tension

• Signs of wear or corrosion

• Sprocket and idler wear

Drain the Fuel/Water Separator

Remove accumulated water from the fuel/water separator to prevent moisture from entering the high-pressure fuel system.

3. Monthly or 250-Hour Maintenance

Change Engine Oil and Oil Filter

Replace the engine oil and oil filter according to the engine manufacturer’s recommendations.

Typical engine oil grades include:

• 15W-40

• 10W-30

Replace the Fuel Filter

Install a new fuel filter at the recommended service interval to maintain proper fuel system performance.

Inspect Hydraulic Oil

Check the condition of the hydraulic oil, not just the level.

Replace the oil if it appears:

• Dark or burnt

• Milky

• Contaminated with debris

Also inspect:

• Return filter

• Suction filter

Battery Inspection

Make sure the battery is clean, secure, and in good working condition.

Check:

• Terminal cleanliness

• Terminal tightness

• Electrolyte level on serviceable batteries

Inspect Belts

Check the condition and tension of all major belts.

This typically includes:

• Fan belt

• Air conditioning belt

Replace belts if cracks, glazing, or improper tension are found.

Retighten Critical Fasteners

Inspect and tighten major bolts throughout the machine, especially on:

• The undercarriage

• Engine mounts

• Cab structure

• Counterweight and other high-load components
  
  

•