With the right attachments, a skid steer can take on multiple jobs across your site, replacing the need for several machines
The rugged skid steer loader may be the single most versatile piece of equipment on the construction site. If you're thinking about hiring a wheel loader, digger, trencher, roller, forklift or other heavy equipment for your project, a compact skid steer loader with the right attachments could be all you need.
Why is it called a skid steer?
Skid steers are so called because of their distinctive turning action. Unlike the larger six-wheeled loaders, skiddys have four wheels (except those with tracks) and the front wheels are not independent of the rear wheels. This causes the machines to skid when steering, allowing for a tighter turning circle.
Skid steers are also called bobcats after a prominent manufacturer.
What are skid steers used for?
A skid steer loader can perform a huge range of tasks with the right attachments. Different sizes of skid steers are better suited to certain types of jobs. Smaller models can be ideal for landscaping and agricultural work, as well as working inside buildings and underground. Larger models have the power to take on heavy construction and demolition jobs, including lifting, excavating and grading.
How easy are they to use?
Another advantage of skid steers is that they're easy to operate, with ergonomic operator stations and intuitive joystick-type controls. They also offer greater visibility and easier front access than some larger loaders.
While certification is no longer required to operate a skid steer loader in Australia, operators must be appropriately trained.
What options are there?
Skid steers come in a range of sizes suited to different tasks, from mini bobcats up to extra large loaders weighing over a ton. All share similar controls, hydraulics and power trains. Another decision to make is whether you need a wheeled or tracked loader.
If you're working on grass or soft ground, a skid steer loader with tracks will be more manoeuvrable and cause less damage than one with wheels. However, if you're working on rough terrain such as a demolition site, this could cause damage to rubber tracks.
What attachments are available?
The reason skid steers are so versatile is the sheer variety of attachments that can be fitted for different jobs. Most models are supplied with a 4-in-1 bucket as standard, which can dig, doze, haul and load. General purpose buckets are available in a range of sizes.
Other popular attachments include:
- Augers to bore holes for fence posts and other uses up to 600mm
- Diameter brooms for sweeping dirt and debris from roads, paths and floors
- Brush cutters for cutting tall grass and weeds on farms and overgrown sites
- Crane jibs for lifting heavy loads
- Dozer blades for cutting and spreading material
- Forks for lifting and transporting pallets, bales and other loads
- Hammers for breaking rocks, concrete and other hard materials
- Rakes for conditioning and levelling soil prior to turf laying
- Trenchers to dig trenches for irrigation, pipes or cables
- Vibratory rollers to compact clay, soil, asphalt and other surfaces
Modern skid steers have high-flow auxiliary circuits that make them more efficient when using hydraulic attachments.
Want to hire a skid steer loader today? Explore our range online, call 13 15 52 or contact your local branch
