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Tips for Buying a Wheel Loader

Jun. 29 2022 Buying Guide By Cascade Trader Inc.

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Not sure which wheel loader to choose? You're not alone. There are so many available options and it can be hard to tell which will best suit your unique needs.

Here at Cascade Trader, we strive to make your life easier. We created the following buying guide to help you narrow your search to a more manageable number of choices. If you want personalized model recommendations or want to explore wheel loaders for sale, visit our dealership. We are located in Chehalis, Washington, and also serve those in Olympia.

Consider the Materials You're Transporting

A great place to begin is by considering what the wheel loader will be hauling. Think about how heavy the material will be. The wheel loader's bucket needs to be sturdy enough to handle the weight.

For example, maybe you will be transporting hay. This lightweight material can do well with a large, but light, wheel loader bucket. You'll be able to move a large amount of hay on each trip, which helps maximize productivity.

Factor in the Tipping Load 

Wheel loaders have a tipping load. This is a measurement of the weight that can make the rear tires come off of the ground while the wheel loader is stationary. In other words, it refers to the amount of weight that the wheel loader can safely handle.

Keep in mind that the tipping load can be affected by things such as counterweights and tire sizes. If you'll be using any of those at your work site, be sure to factor them into the tipping load assessment and shop accordingly.

Determine the Ideal Wheel Loader Horsepower

A wheel loader's horsepower measures the equipment's capabilities. A higher horsepower is wise if you'll be transporting lots of heavy loads.

It's important to note that not all brands measure horsepower the same way. Some companies will take into account the loss of horsepower due to the cooling fans. Others will list the horsepower before this cooling fan loss. Make sure you understand how a given model's horsepower is being measured so that you can accurately assess its suitability for your needs.

Think About Your Work Site

It's important to pick a wheel loader that's a good match for your work site.

For example:

  • Does your work site contain tight spaces? You'll need a wheel loader that's compact enough to navigate through confined areas. 
  • Is the work site full of obstacles? Focus on wheel loaders that are highly agile and can move around hazards easily. 
  • Is the work area a large piece of property? Consider a larger wheel loader that can more quickly move across the terrain.

Ready to explore wheel loaders for sale? Check out the selection at Cascade Trader. Our dealership is based in Chehalis, Washington, and we also serve those in Olympia.