You've reached the point that the final drive on your skid steer loader or compact track loader just has to be replaced. So what do you need to know before you order one?

Here are a few other Shop Talk blog posts that you might be interested in:

• Daily Maintenance for Skid Steer Loaders
• CTL/MTL Undercarriage Basics
• Final Drives: Why Not Just Buy Used?

Identifying Your Final Drive Motor

The first step in finding the right final drive solution for your SLL or CTL is identifying the type of drive you need. Here is a summary of the information you should have on hand -- but don't worry, if you don't have all of it a good final drive shop will be able to help you with the rest.

Machine Information

• Brand
• Model
• Year
• Serial Number

Drive Motor Information

• Manufacturer
• Model

Flange to Sprocket and Flange to Undercarriage

• Number of holes
• Screw size

Key Dimensions

In the figure below you can see the key dimensions that you need to have on hand when ready to order a new drive motor for your skid steer loader. Try to track down as many of these dimensions as you can.

Key dimensions for tracking down a replacement drive motor for you SSL

Type of Final Drive Motor

Once you have the facts about the final drive that needs replacing, you can then choose the type of final drive you need: new, reman, or used.

For new final drives, you can get a brand new OEM replacement, but that can be a bit expensive. There are also new aftermarket final drives that are less expensive than OEM. However, if you aren't careful about the brand you could end up with a very poor quality drive.

Another option that costs less than a new OEM drive would be a reman final drive. When you find a quality reman shop, you can get a drive that meets or exceeds the original OEM specifications at a fraction of the price. Of course, the cheapest option is used but that is highly risky: you may end up with far more problems than you began with.

If you have an old compact track loader or skid steer loader, you might have some trouble trying to find a replacement motor. Your best option may be a reman final drive or possibly an aftermarket final drive.

Things to Consider Before Purchasing a Final Drive Motor

Before you purchase a final drive motor, keep in mind that there is more to it than just the cost. Here are some key considerations:

• Price (be sure to compare prices)
• Warranty (including how long it applies and what causes it to be void)
• In Stock (if it isn't in stock, it will take longer for you to get it)
• Shipping Costs
• Shipping Time (how soon do you need it?)

Finally, make sure you're getting THE RIGHT motor for your machine. That includes the right size and number of bolt holes. Bobcat T-series final drives can be especially confusing, which is why we put together a guide to help you out. Good final drive shops will be able to assist you in tracking down the right motor as well.

Conclusion

Whether you've got a Bobcat, CAT, Deere, Mustang, or any other brand of skid steer loader, you can depend on the professionals at Texas Final Drive to help you track down a cost-effective replacement option for you. And we offer excellent, hassle-free warranties on both used and reman final drives.