Which Skid Steer Loader Is Right For You?

Which Skid Steer Loader Is Right For You?

Posted by Danielle Beserra on 13 April 2020

Tags: skid steer, construction, agriculture, landscape, kubota, case, bobcat

A skid steer loader is an extremely versatile machine with features that can serve your needs whether you're in the construction, agriculture, or landscape industry. There are fundamental differences in skid steers on the market, choosing the right one for your job can save you time and money. That's easier said than done, with having to consider factors from auxiliary hydraulics, rated operating capacities, and attachment types to lifts, anyone can get lost in the world of skid steers.

These four questions will steer you in the right direction before making a purchase.

What Types Of Jobs Do I Usually Tackle? 

The best place to start is to consider your typical job site. Different-sized skid steers are made for different jobs and job sites. For instance, you could tackle a large job site with a compact skid steer, but it may take more time and effort while also being taxing on your machine. Similarly, if your usual job sites are smaller and involve tight spaces or obstacles a large skid steer would be difficult to maneuver. 

As a skid steer’s size increases, so do its power and load capacity. A mini skid steer usually has less than 50 horsepower and a rated operating capacity of around 700 lbs, while large machines have more than 70 horsepower and a rated operating capacity of over 3,000 lbs. If your job requirements vary from large to small, a medium-size machine may be the best choice, as it will have enough power, while still being able to fit into restricted areas. 

What Type Of Job Surface Will I Be Covering?

Besides your typical job site requirements, you should also factor in what surface your jobs typically revolve around. This is where track loaders or wheel loaders will come into play. Compact wheel loaders (skid steers) work best on flat hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt. While track loaders can tackle jobs on rocky ground, soft mud, sand, and snow. They are also a great option if you encounter heavy rain often maximizing work hours without having to wait for the ground to dry.

Although track loader sounds like a better, more versatile option the rubber track components are more expensive to replace and wear down faster on concrete and asphalt. So if your typical job sites are on hard, flat surfaces, you're better off with a traditional skid steer wheel loader. 

Do I Need A Radial Or Vertical Lift?

When it comes to the different lifts a skid steer has, you can choose between vertical or radial lifts. Both are designed to tackle most jobs, so if you need your skid steer for a variety of applications, it doesn't matter too much. However, if you offer a specialized service or are using your skid steer for a specific purpose, choosing the correct lift can make you more efficient.

A vertical lift is ideal for accessing high spaces along with having a greater reach at the midway point of the left. If most of your jobs are eye level or above, like transporting items from above to another area, a vertical lift is your best choice. If most of your jobs revolve around construction or landscaping, such as digging holes or clearing debris, a radial lift is a better option.

What Attachments Will I Use?

Making the most out of your equipment is important. Just because an attachment fits a machine, doesn't mean it will perform the best. When purchasing a machine, consider what attachments you will need the most or if you have attachments, what machine will work best with what you have. Additionally, if you are planning to use attachments with controls, make sure they match the controls on your chosen machine. For example, tools like stump grinders or large augers, require an extra hydraulic capacity to operate. If you are unsure about the best attachments to make the most of your machine, our team can help you find what you need. 

If you are still unsure which option is best for you, the best thing you can do is talk to a knowledgeable salesperson at your local Bingham dealer. You can also consider renting equipment to test out what option fits your needs the best.