Skid Steer Loader Buyer's Guide

 
Attachments

A skid steer’s ability to use such a variety of different attachments is one feature that makes it such a popular piece of equipment. Most skid steer’s come standard with a bucket attachment, which is used to pick up and move loose sediments such as soil, mulch and gravel, however there are a variety of other attachments that serve a multitude of purposes:

  • Augers – used for digging deep, clean holes for foundations.
  • Backhoes – a bucket attached to a hydraulic arm that is used for digging and excavating.
  • Dozer Blades – a heavy metal blade used to push and level dirt and debris.
  • Forks – used to lift and transport materials on wooden pallets, just like a fork lift.
  • Grapples – hydraulic claws that are used to grab and lift heavy objects.
  • Hitches – attached to the read of a skid steer to allow for trailer attachments.
  • Mowers – used to mow large areas of land.
  • Plows – used to push and clear dirt, gravel, snow and other sediments and materials.
  • Rakes – used for ground preparation, such as leveling, grading and filling.
  • Trenchers – used for digging trenches, typically for cables and pipes, or for drainage.

There are dozens of varieties of attachments, some companies have 50 different attachments, however it is not important to decide now all of your attachment needs. Most buyers only purchase one or two necessary attachments and then return later if another is required. It is also possible to rent attachments if you will only occasionally need a certain tool.

Because of a universal system called the “quick attach” most attachments will work with all the different models and brands of skid steers. Some attachments however will not work universally. A backhoe, for example, can rip itself off the quick attach because of the torque that it generates, therefore it needs to be directly attached to the frame as well as the quick attach. Attachments such as these will only work with the brand they were designed for.

Other Skid Steer Features

In recent years there have been all kinds of features added by manufacturers for usability and comfort. Years ago skid steer loaders were very bare minimal, now they have several options for safety, comfort and efficiency.

The anti-stall device is a good example of this. Because skid steer loaders use the same power system for driving and for maneuvering attachments, if the driver attempts to do too much at the same time there is not enough power and the skid steer will stall. It used to take practice and skill to avoid stalling, but now there are several brands with built in anti-stall devices to prevent it.

Cab Enclosures
 
Previously skid steer loaders were only available with a canopy overhead, or an open configuration with no windows or doors. This exposed the operator to weather, now however, many models are available with heated cabs that are closed and comfortable in cold environments. Skid steer operators can take the cab enclosure on and off at will however, and this is often the case in the summer because dirt and dust can cloud visibility in an enclosed cab.

Control Options

Most skid steer loaders are available in two different control setups. The older method uses two hand levers, one for controlling the travel and speed on the right side and the other for the left side, while foot pedals are used to control the bucket. Now a newer setup is available which uses two 360 ° joysticks, one of them controls the movement of the skid steer and the other controls the attachment.

The only main reason to pick one setup over another is preference. The two joystick only system is generally easier to learn, however some industry professionals believe that the traditional hand and foot control setup is more efficient.

Other Skid Steer Features

  • Warning Flashers – can be an important safety feature if working on the road or in a traffic area.
  • Lighting – Can be available on both the front and rear which can make working at night much easier.
  • Overhead Displays – offers gauges and warning lights that can provide extra information.
  • Seat Suspension – can make working much more comfortable on rough grounds.
  • Push-Button Quick Attach – a control which allows you to switch out attachments without exiting the cab.
  • Rear View Mirrors – very important for working efficiently in a crowded area.

Because of the wide variety of options and features available on skid steer loaders it is important to make sure you take the time to purchase the right skid steer loader for your needs. Hopefully this guide will be able to assist you in making such an important decision, and we hope that you enjoy your new purchase!