Buying a Used Skid Steer or CTL? How to Inspect Tracks & Undercarriage
The undercarriage is the most expensive maintenance system on any compact track loader. A used CTL with worn tracks, shot sprockets, and failing idlers can easily hide $3,000 to $5,000 in immediate replacement costs. Knowing what to inspect before you buy can save you from a costly surprise.
The used CTL market is strong heading into 2026. Used compact equipment ranges from $5,000 to $60,000 depending on brand, hours, and condition. Popular used models like the Bobcat T650, CAT 259D3, and Kubota SVL75-2 hold value well — but undercarriage condition is the biggest variable in actual value.
How much life is left in the tracks?
This is the first thing to check. Measure tread depth at three points around each track:
- 25mm (1 inch): New condition — full life remaining
- 16mm (5/8 inch): Half-life — roughly 800–1,000 hours left
- 6mm (1/4 inch) or less: End of life — replacement needed immediately
- Exposed steel cord: Replace before operating — safety issue
Factor the cost of new tracks into your purchase price. A pair of 450x86x56 tracks runs $800 to $1,400 each. If the used machine needs tracks, negotiate accordingly. See our cost guide for pricing by size.
What to look for on the sprockets
Inspect the sprockets teeth closely. On a healthy sprocket, the teeth have a flat, symmetrical profile. Warning signs:
- Hooked teeth: Tips curve in one direction — indicates heavy wear and improper track engagement
- Pointed teeth: Tips worn to a point instead of flat — the sprocket is near end of life
- Missing or chipped teeth: Immediate replacement needed
- Uneven wear: One side worn more than the other indicates alignment issues
Sprockets typically last 2 track sets (3,000–4,000 hours). If the machine has original sprockets at 2,500+ hours, factor replacement cost into your offer. CAT D-series sprockets (OEM 304-1916) and Bobcat T-series sprockets (OEM 7196807) are the most common.
Front and rear idler inspection
Grab the idlers and try to wiggle it side to side. Any play indicates worn bearings. Listen for grinding or clicking when the machine tracks forward and backward. Check for grease leaking from the seals — a leaking idler is on borrowed time. idlerss typically last 2 to 3 track sets if seals stay intact.
Bottom roller inspection
Check each rollers for:
- Flat spots: The roller surface should be uniformly round. Flat spots cause vibration and uneven track wear.
- Bearing noise: Grinding or clicking when spinning by hand
- Seal condition: Grease leaking means the sealed bearing is compromised
Track tension and adjuster
Check the track tension — proper spec is 1 to 1.5 inches of sag. More importantly, check the grease adjuster. If the adjuster is pumped to maximum and the track is still loose, the track has stretched beyond its service limit. This means you're buying new tracks immediately.
What's the real cost of undercarriage replacement?
Worst case — full undercarriage rebuild on a large-frame CTL:
- 2 rubber tracks: $1,600–$2,800
- 2 sprockets: $300–$600
- 2 front idlers: $400–$800
- 2 rear idlers: $300–$600
- Bottom rollers (6–8): $600–$1,200
- Total: $3,200–$6,000
That's a significant hidden cost on a $25,000–$40,000 used machine. Always inspect the undercarriage before agreeing on a price.
Best used CTLs to buy in 2026
Models that hold value, have good parts availability, and are easy to maintain:
- Bobcat T650 / Bobcat T770: Industry standard. Massive parts availability. Tracks: 450x86x55
- CAT 259D3 / CAT 289D3: Heavy-duty construction machines. Strong resale. Tracks: 320x86x53 / 450x86x56
- Kubota SVL75-2 / Kubota SVL95-2: #1 selling CTL brand. Reliable, fuel-efficient. Tracks: 450x86x58
- John Deere 331G / John Deere 333G: Popular in rental fleets. Consistent build quality. Tracks: 450x86x58
- Bobcat T590: Compact, affordable, great entry point. Tracks: 320x86x49
After you buy: first steps
Once you've purchased a used CTL, install fresh tracks if the existing ones are past half-life. This protects the rest of the undercarriage and gives you a known starting point for track life forecasting. Check out our track installation guide for step-by-step instructions and our maintenance guide for ongoing care.
Find replacement tracks for any used machine in the Track Finder. TrackTECH stocks 1,300+ verified fitments with free shipping and a 24-month warranty. Call (850) 816-7898 for fitment help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I check on the tracks when buying a used CTL?
Measure tread depth at three points around each track. New tracks have 25mm of tread. At 16mm you're at half-life. At 6mm or less, the machine needs new tracks immediately. Also check for exposed steel cord, cracking, and missing lugs.
How much does it cost to replace the undercarriage on a used skid steer?
A full undercarriage rebuild on a large-frame CTL — two tracks, two sprockets, front and rear idlers, and bottom rollers — can cost $3,200 to $6,000 depending on the machine. Factor this into your purchase price if components are worn.
What are the best used compact track loaders to buy?
Models with strong resale value and parts availability include the Bobcat T650 and T770, CAT 259D3 and 289D3, Kubota SVL75-2 and SVL95-2, and John Deere 331G and 333G. These machines have proven reliability and extensive aftermarket track support.
How many hours should a used CTL have?
The typical compact track loader lifespan is 5,000 to 8,000 hours depending on maintenance and operating conditions. Under 2,000 hours is low use. 2,000 to 4,000 is moderate. Over 4,000 hours, inspect the undercarriage carefully and budget for component replacement.