Skid Steer Daily Inspection Checklist: Safety & Performance Guide
Skid steer loaders are versatile, powerful machines found on virtually every construction site, agricultural operation, and industrial facility—but their compact size belies significant safety risks when operated without proper inspection. With rollovers, crushed-by incidents, and hydraulic failures ranking among the most common causes of skid steer accidents, a thorough daily inspection isn't just good practice—it's essential for operator safety and machine longevity. This comprehensive checklist provides contractors, operators, and maintenance personnel with a systematic approach to detecting potential issues before they lead to accidents, downtime, or costly repairs.
Skid Steer Daily Inspection Checklist
1. Operator Safety Systems
- Verify ROPS/FOPS (Rollover/Falling Object Protective Structure) is intact and undamaged
- Check operator restraint system (seat belt) for proper function and condition
- Ensure safety bar/restraint arm operates properly and locks securely
- Verify operator presence system functions correctly (engine should not start with restraint up)
- Check cab entry/exit points for cleanliness and unobstructed access
- Inspect all safety decals and warning labels for presence and legibility
- Verify side screens/doors are in place and properly secured
- Check seat adjustment mechanism for proper operation
- Ensure fire extinguisher is present and fully charged (if equipped)
- Verify emergency exit functions properly (rear window or alternative exit)
2. Engine and Fluid Levels
- Check engine oil level and condition
- Verify hydraulic oil level and look for signs of contamination
- Check coolant level and condition in overflow reservoir
- Inspect fuel level and ensure cap is secure
- Check air filter restriction indicator
- Look for fluid leaks beneath the machine and around components
- Inspect radiator and oil cooler for debris or blockage
- Check battery connections for tightness and corrosion
- Verify DEF level (for Tier 4 Final diesel engines)
- Inspect belts for proper tension and condition
3. Hydraulic Systems and Controls
- Inspect hydraulic hoses for leaks, wear, rubbing, or damage
- Check hydraulic couplers for damage and security
- Verify lift arm and bucket cylinder pins and bushings for wear
- Test joystick controls for proper response and operation
- Verify auxiliary hydraulic function (if used for attachments)
- Check for hydraulic drift when controls are in neutral position
- Inspect lift arm support device (safety prop) for condition and function
- Verify proper cycle times for lift, lower, dump, and curl functions
- Check for unusual noise during hydraulic operation
- Inspect hydraulic cylinders for leaks or damage
4. Tracks or Tires (Model Dependent)
- For wheeled models: Check tire pressure and adjust if necessary
- Inspect tires for cuts, bulges, and excessive or uneven wear
- Verify wheel lug nuts are tight and none are missing
- Examine wheels for cracks or damage
- For tracked models: Check track tension and adjustment
- Inspect tracks for cuts, tears, missing or damaged lugs
- Examine idlers, rollers, and sprockets for damage or excessive wear
- Look for debris trapped in undercarriage components
- Check track drive motors for leaks
- Verify track alignment is correct (no signs of walking off)
5. Attachments and Coupling System
- Inspect quick-attach mechanism for damage or excessive wear
- Verify attachment locking pins fully engage and lock securely
- Check attachment for damage, cracks, or bent components
- Inspect attachment cutting edges, teeth, or working surfaces for wear
- Verify hydraulic connections to attachments are secure and not leaking
- Ensure attachment is compatible with the skid steer model and capacity
- Check attachment mounting plate for damage or deformation
- Verify all attachment fasteners are tight and none are missing
- Inspect attachment safety devices (chain guards, shields, etc.)
- Check for attachment-specific safety concerns based on type
6. Electrical Systems and Indicators
- Test all lights (headlights, taillights, work lights)
- Verify horn function
- Check backup alarm operation (if equipped)
- Test all gauges and warning indicators during startup
- Verify instrument panel illumination
- Check battery disconnect switch (if equipped)
- Inspect visible wiring for damage or exposed conductors
- Test windshield wiper and washer (if equipped with cab)
- Verify HVAC system operation (if equipped with cab)
- Check camera system or proximity sensors (if equipped)
Step-by-Step Inspection Procedure
Pre-Inspection Preparation
Park the skid steer on level ground with the attachment lowered, engine off, parking brake applied (if equipped), and the key removed. Allow the engine to cool before beginning inspection.
Check the operator's manual for any model-specific inspection points, and review previous inspection reports for recurring issues or maintenance alerts that should be addressed.
External Inspection
Perform a complete walk-around, examining the machine's exterior for damage, leaks, loose parts, or other visible issues. Pay particular attention to the ROPS/FOPS structure, checking for dents, cracks, or modifications that could compromise operator protection.
Inspect the tracks or tires thoroughly. For wheeled units, check tire inflation, damage, and lug nut security. For tracked models, verify proper tension, examine drive sprockets, idlers, and rollers, and look for damaged track sections or embedded debris.
Examine the quick-attach system for damage or wear. Check that locking pins move freely and fully engage. Inspect the attachment itself for damage, excessive wear, and properly functioning safety devices. Verify hydraulic couplers are clean and undamaged.
Fluid and Engine Checks
Open access panels to check engine oil, hydraulic fluid, coolant, and fuel levels. Inspect for proper color and condition of fluids. Look for signs of contamination or water intrusion. Note any unusual odors that might indicate overheating or burning fluids.
Carefully examine areas around hydraulic cylinders, hoses, fittings, the engine compartment, and drive motors for evidence of leaks. Look underneath the machine for fluid puddles or stains indicating ongoing or intermittent leaks.
Check radiator and oil cooler fins for debris, bent areas, or blockage that could restrict airflow and cause overheating. Verify cooling fan is intact and fan belt has proper tension without cracks or fraying.
Operational Checks
Before starting the engine, check seat belt functionality, restraint bar/arm operation, and verify that the operator presence system works correctly. Attempt to start the engine with safety restraints disengaged to confirm interlocks are working properly.
Enter the cab using three points of contact. Fasten seat belt, lower restraint bar, and start the engine. Observe all gauges and warning lights, noting any that remain illuminated after startup. Listen for unusual noises and check for excessive smoke from the exhaust.
Test all hydraulic functions, including lift, lower, tilt, and auxiliary hydraulics. Verify that controls respond properly without excessive lag, jerking, or drift. Check steering response in both directions. Test attachment operation through full range of motion.
Test forward, reverse, and turning functions at low speed in an open area. Verify that the machine stops promptly when controls are returned to neutral. Check parking brake effectiveness (if equipped) on a slight incline if safely possible.
Conclusion
A thorough daily inspection is your first line of defense against skid steer accidents and unexpected downtime. By systematically checking each component before operation, operators can identify developing issues before they result in equipment failure, costly repairs, or safety incidents. Remember that documentation of these inspections not only supports maintenance planning but also demonstrates compliance with safety regulations and provides valuable protection in case of incidents or warranty claims.
Modernize Your Skid Steer Inspections with HVI
While paper checklists have traditionally been the standard for equipment inspections, forward-thinking construction companies and rental operations are now embracing digital solutions like the HVI App (Heavy Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance software). This powerful platform transforms skid steer inspections in several important ways:
- Equipment-Specific Checklists: HVI provides customized inspection forms for each make and model in your fleet, ensuring all manufacturer-recommended inspection points are covered.
- Visual Documentation: Operators can capture photos of defects or concerning conditions directly in the app, providing clear visual evidence for maintenance teams.
- Instant Notifications: When critical safety issues are identified, HVI immediately alerts supervisors and maintenance personnel, enabling rapid response to remove unsafe equipment from service.
- Digital Record-Keeping: The system automatically archives inspection records, eliminating paper storage while providing instant access to equipment history for compliance and maintenance planning.
- Maintenance Integration: HVI connects inspection findings directly to work orders and maintenance scheduling, creating a seamless workflow from problem identification to resolution.
- GPS and Time Verification: The app records exactly when and where inspections are performed, improving accountability and creating verifiable records.
- Trend Analysis: By digitizing inspection data, HVI enables analysis of recurring issues across your fleet, helping identify systemic problems and improve preventive maintenance.
- Mobile Accessibility: Inspections can be performed on rugged tablets or smartphones, even in areas with limited connectivity, with data syncing when connection is restored.
The HVI App eliminates the inefficiencies of paper-based systems while substantially improving inspection quality, documentation, and follow-through. Organizations implementing HVI for skid steer management typically report significant reductions in equipment downtime, improved safety compliance, and enhanced maintenance effectiveness.
Prioritize safety, maximize uptime, and protect your equipment investment—thorough daily skid steer inspections powered by HVI technology create the foundation for safe, productive operations and optimal equipment lifecycle management.
