I like the functionality of skid steer loaders. I use it in many areas, its functionality, easy operation, and the fact that it decodes my work quickly are among the main reasons for my love for them. As with any machinery, correctly determining the purpose of use and choosing your mini loader accordingly will make you happy, just like me. Now, I will be passing down the details that we need to pay attention to when choosing a mini loader below.
Purpose of Usage
For what purpose you will use the skid steer, which sector or business area you will work in will greatly affect your choice.
Construction
Working with mini loaders in construction areas requires a lifting capacity and a powerful engine. Some important specifications that should be considered when choosing a mini loader in construction areas are as follows:
- Lifting Capacity and Lifting Height: Since heavy materials will need to be transported, lifting capacity and maximum lifting height are important. These specifications should be determined according to the weight and height of the materials you will carry.
- Horsepower and Torque: A good horsepower and torque increases efficiency in digging and transportation operations.
- Manoeuvrability: The manoeuvrability of the skid loader is very important in construction projects working in tight spaces. A good turning radius and manoeuvrability make it easy to work in tight areas.
It is of great importance in construction projects that you pay attention to these features first of all in the specification tables. In addition, there are some factors that make each manufacturer stand out. Choosing a manufacturer’s mini loader that stands out for its material quality and durability in construction projects is vital in harsh environments, such as the construction environment.
Agriculture
Some factors to consider in this area of use include:
- Load Capacity: In agricultural work, it is often necessary to transport a large amount of materials (for example, hay, feed, fertiliser, etc.). The load capacity of the skid steer should be at a level to meet this business need.
- Lifting Height: The ability to reach high heights provides convenience in storage and loading operations.
- Hydraulic System: Powerful and precise hydraulic systems compatible with agricultural attachments increase work efficiency. In addition, models with a second (optional) hydraulic flow allow different attachments to be used simultaneously.
- Ground Pressure: You should choose a loader with a ground pressure suitable for the soil structure.
- Engine Power and Torque: You should choose a model that provides enough power for agricultural work. High torque is important for demanding jobs and heavy loads.
As is similar in other projects in agricultural work, you should study the above items more carefully when examining the specifications of mini loaders. In addition, different attachments may be required for agricultural work (bucket, fork, broom, etc.). Make sure that the mini loader is compatible with these attachments.
Landscaping
I explain in detail below the specifications that you should pay attention to when choosing a mini loader for landscape works:
- Turning Radius: The small turning radius makes it easy to move in tight areas.
- Hydraulic System: Precise work is required in landscape works (for example, plant planting, stone laying). Powerful and precise hydraulic systems facilitate these operations.
- Light and Medium Load Capacity: Light and medium weight materials are usually transported in landscape works. The loading capacity of the loader should be suitable for these needs.
- Lifting Height: It is important to have sufficient lifting height for transporting and planting plants such as trees and shrubs.
- Sufficient Power: Although heavy loads are not carried in landscape works, sufficient motor power and torque ensure that the machine is effective in various works.
It will usually be enough for you to pay attention to the above items in landscape arrangements. Two other important issues to be considered are that choosing a cabin that offers a wide viewing angle so that the operator can clearly see the work area is important for sensitive landscape works. Another important consideration is to prefer models with rubber wheels in order not to damage the ground when working on grass and sensitive surfaces.
Finally, I would like to clarify the situation even more with a table summarising the situation for you.
Specifications | Construction | Agriculture | Landscaping |
---|---|---|---|
Horsepower | 60 HP-100 HP | 40 HP-70 HP | 20 HP-50 HP |
Lifting Capacity | 2000-3500 lbs | 1500-2500 lbs | 750-1600 lbs |
Pump Flow | 15-35 GPM | 10-25 GPM | 7-15 GPM |
Travel Speed | 7-12 mph | 6-10 mph | 5-8 mph |
Lift Height | 9-12 ft | 8-11 ft | 5-8 ft |
Operating Weight | 7000-12000 lbs | 5000-8000 lbs | 3000-5000 lbs |
Undercarriage | Skid steer or CTL | Skid steer or CTL | Skid steer |
Dimensions | 72x130x80 in. | 60x110x75 in. | 48x100x72 in. |
Working Hours | 8-10 hours | 6-8 hours | 4-6 hours |
In addition to all these, the comfort of a cabin that provides a business environment enough to work long hours, the availability of security systems such as roll-over protection system (ROPS) for occupational safety and the fact that it is a mini loader with engines that can provide high power and low fuel consumption are other important items that you should pay attention to when making a purchase.
Mini Loaders Attachments
The skid steer can be made even more functional with various attachments. As you will find below a table summarising the attachments according to their field of widespread use, I have also prepared a table of the basic specifications necessary for their attachments to be used.
Attachment | Application | General | Landscaping | Agriculture | Construction |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
General Purpose Buckets | Material handling | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Excavating Buckets | Excavation, trenching | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Rock Buckets | Moving large rocks and debris | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Pallet Forks | Handling palletized materials | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Log Forks | Handling long materials, logs | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Grapples | Handling loose materials | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Augers | Digging holes, drilling | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
Breakers | Breaking concrete, asphalt | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Sweepers | Surface cleaning | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Snow Plow Attachments | Snow removal | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Lawn Mowers | Mowing large grass areas | ✓ | |||
Tree Spades | Tree planting, transplanting | ✓ | |||
Rock Pickers | Collecting rocks, debris | ✓ | ✓ | ||
Silage Cutters | Cutting and handling silage | ✓ | |||
Bale Unrollers | Unrolling hay bales | ✓ | |||
Seed Drills | Planting seeds | ✓ | |||
Fertilizer Spreaders | Spreading fertiliser | ✓ | |||
Asphalt Spreaders | Spreading asphalt | ✓ | |||
High-Reach Platforms | High-access maintenance | ✓ |
Attachment | Required Key Specs |
---|---|
General Purpose Buckets | Sufficient lifting capacity and hydraulic power Standard quick attach system |
Excavating Buckets | Strong hydraulic system High breakout force Robust structure |
Rock Buckets | High breakout force Reinforced structure Durable steel build |
Pallet Forks | Adequate lifting capacity Adjustable forks Stability and balance |
Log Forks | Powerful hydraulic system Wide-opening forks High lift capacity |
Grapple Buckets | Durable material Wide surface area Strong hydraulic system |
Auger Attachments | High torque Strong hydraulic system Adjustable speed and depth |
Breaker Attachments | High hydraulic flow and pressure Robust structure Shock-absorbing system |
Sweeper Attachments | Powerful hydraulic motor High rotational speed Dust collection and water spraying system |
Snow Plow Attachments | Strong hydraulic system Adjustable angles Durable and flexible blades |
Skid Steer vs. Compact Track Loader (CTL)
The skid steer and the CTL (Compact Track Loader) are both machines used as mini loaders, but they have different specs and areas of use. I have again prepared a table to determine which one should be preferred according to your needs.
Features | Skid Steer | CTL (Compact Track Loader) |
---|---|---|
Speed and manoeuvrability | Higher speed, quick manoeuvrability | Generally lower maximum speed, less manoeuvrability |
Traction | Lower uses rubber tires | Higher uses tracks |
Ground Grip | Potential grip issues, especially on slippery surfaces | Better ground grip, advantageous on slippery surfaces |
Ground Pressure | Higher, exerts more pressure on surfaces | Lower, exerts less pressure on surfaces |
Initial Investment Cost | Lower | Higher |
Maximum Power and Capacity | Generally similar | Generally similar |
Applications | Flat and solid surfaces, fast-paced tasks | Rough terrain, slippery conditions |
Recommended Uses | Construction, landscaping, and excavation | Agriculture, forestry, and challenging terrains |
As can be seen from the table above, if fast manoeuvrability and low cost are important, skid steer may be preferred. However, if you want better traction and less ground damage in difficult off-road conditions, the compact track loader may be a more suitable option.
For Rent or for Sale? Which One Is More Suitable?
When choosing a mini loader, the option for rent or sale should be evaluated depending on your needs, budget and usage plan. Planning by thinking long-term is important for you to make the right decision.
Criteria | Rented Mini Loader | Buying Mini Loader |
---|---|---|
Cost | Generally lower short-term costs | Higher initial purchase cost, lower long-term operating costs |
Usage Period | Ideal for short-term projects | Suitable for long-term projects or continuous use |
Seasonal Needs | Suitable for seasonal or temporary needs | Suitable for permanent and ongoing needs |
Maintenance and Service | Typically provided by the rental company | Requires user maintenance and service |
Customization | Limited, often standard equipment | Possible, can be customised according to needs |
Return on Investment | Allows usage without upfront investment | Provides ownership advantage in the long run |
Financial Options | Requires less financial commitment beyond rental costs | Offers flexibility with financing options |
Risks | Obligation to return equipment after lease ends | Risk of depreciation, but provides long-term ownership |
Used vs New Skid Steer
Is it to buy a used or a new skid steer? The answer to this also covers almost the same situations as the top heading. In this case, it varies according to your needs, budget and long-term plans. I hope the table below will help you make decisions easier.
Criteria | Used Mini Loader | New Mini Loader |
---|---|---|
Cost | Generally lower | Generally higher |
Delivery Time | Available immediately | May require waiting time |
Warranty and Service Support | Limited warranty and limited service support | Long warranty, extensive service network |
Performance and Efficiency | Lower performance and efficiency | Higher performance and efficiency |
Technology and Features | Older technology and features | Latest technology and features |
Return on Investment | Lower cost, quicker ROI | Higher cost, long-term ROI |
Risks | Potential hidden defects, depreciation risk | Depreciation risk, costly maintenance |
Suitability | Budget constraints, short-term projects | Latest technology and long-term use |
Popular Skid Steers
There are a lot of mini loader manufacturers on the market, and each of them has advantages. But over time, there have been popular models that stand out with their user and manufacturer experiences. Buying a popular skid steer often gives good results, but it does not mean that it will always turn out well. In addition, with your current geographical location, the models I will list below may not be popular in your region. Because the widespread service network, the availability of spare parts and the prices of mini loaders that vary depending on the region will vary. Finally, the models listed below are not a buying recommendation.
Small Mini Loaders
Model | Intended Uses | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|---|
ASV RT-25 | Working in narrow spaces, light load handling | Compact design, lightweight | Low load capacity, limited performance in rough terrain |
Bobcat S70 | Construction sites, small projects, warehouse areas | Excellent maneuverability, compatibility with various attachments | Limited cabin space, low lifting capacity |
Gehl R105 | Agricultural tasks, material handling, light earthworks | High traction, durable chassis | High noise levels, limited operator comfort |
Takeuchi TL6R | Construction projects, landscaping, urban areas | Advanced control systems, ergonomic cabin | High initial cost, some models have high fuel consumption |
New Holland L213 | Light load handling, working in narrow spaces | Compact design, lightweight | Low engine power, limited performance |
Caterpillar 226B3 | General construction tasks, light material handling | Powerful hydraulic system, compatibility with various attachments | Limited maneuverability, low lifting capacity |
Vermeer CTX100 | Small tree cutting, landscaping, working in tight spaces | High traction, variety of attachment options | High fuel consumption, low efficiency |
Takeuchi TB210R | Indoor construction work, working in tight spaces | Easy portability, low operating costs | Narrow operator cabin, limited operational control |
Case SR160 | Working in narrow spaces, light material handling | Compact design, lightweight | Limited hydraulic capacity, restriction in attachment variety |
JCB 155 | Construction projects, load handling, urban area work | Powerful engine, stable chassis | User-unfriendly operator cabin design |
Kubota SSV65 | Indoor tasks, wood handling, small material handling | Simple control panel, low operating costs | Low hydraulic capacity, lack of operational flexibility |
ASV RT-30 | Rough terrain conditions, agricultural tasks | High traction, durable chassis | Low hydraulic power, limited attachment compatibility |
Bobcat MT55 | Working in narrow spaces, light material handling | Compact size, low total weight | Low lifting capacity, limited workload capacity |
Gehl R105 | Light construction tasks, landscaping | High traction, wide field of view | Limited operator comfort, low material handling capacity |
Takeuchi TB210R | Indoor construction work, working in tight spaces | Easy portability, low operating costs | Narrow operator cabin, limited operational control |
JCB 165 | Light material handling, small construction projects | Powerful hydraulic system, stable chassis | Limited attachment compatibility, low hydraulic capacity |
Bobcat S450 | Warehouse areas, workshop operations | Compact design, variety of attachment options | Weak chassis structure, limited heavy load capacity |
Case SR160 | Garden work, light earthworks | Low ground contact, easy operation | Limited traction, performance decline in rough terrain |
John Deere 318G | Agricultural tasks, wood handling, small load handling | High efficiency, ergonomic operator cabin | High initial cost, some models have low hydraulic capacity |
Kubota SVL75-2 | Rough terrain conditions, construction projects | Powerful engine, stable chassis | Limited cabin space, low manoeuvrability |
Mid Skid Steers
Model | Intended Uses | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|---|
ASV RT-40 | Agricultural tasks, challenging terrain | High traction, durable chassis | High fuel consumption, limited operator comfort |
ASV RT-65 | Agriculture, heavy load handling | High-performance engine, wide field of view | High initial cost, limited cabin space |
Bobcat S590 | Construction projects, material handling, warehouse areas | Spacious operator cabin, high efficiency | High initial cost, limited visibility in some models |
Bobcat S630 | High-performance tasks, heavy load handling | Powerful hydraulic system, ergonomic operator cabin | Compact design, limited manoeuvrability |
Case SR210 | Forestry maintenance, heavy material handling | Strong hydraulic system, stable chassis | Limited manoeuvrability, high operating costs |
Case SV185 | Construction projects, industrial tasks | High carrying capacity, various attachment options | High fuel consumption, low operator comfort |
Caterpillar 239D | Demanding applications, heavy material handling | High-performance engine, various attachment options | High fuel consumption, low operator comfort |
Caterpillar 247B | Large construction projects, mining | Robust hydraulic system, high lifting capacity | High operating costs, limited operator comfort |
Gehl R190 | Agriculture, construction projects, material handling | Ergonomic operator cabin, powerful hydraulic capacity | High operating costs, limited visibility |
Gehl R220 | Large woodwork, industrial tasks | Spacious cabin area, stable chassis | Limited maneuverability, low carrying capacity |
JCB 215 | Storage facilities, large construction areas | Advanced control systems, wide range of attachment options | User-unfriendly operator cabin design |
JCB 260 | Agriculture, large construction projects | High safety standards, stable chassis | High fuel consumption, low operator comfort |
John Deere 320E | Agriculture, heavy material handling | High efficiency, powerful hydraulic system | High initial cost, limited maneuverability |
John Deere 328E | Construction projects, large storage areas | Ergonomic operator cabin, low operating costs | Limited attachment compatibility, low manoeuvrability |
Kubota SSV75 | Construction projects, indoor tasks, material handling | Compact design, low fuel consumption | Low hydraulic capacity, lack of operational flexibility |
Kubota SVL95-2s | Challenging terrain, large construction projects | Powerful engine, stable chassis | Limited cabin space, limited manoeuvrability |
New Holland L218 | Garden work, light soil tasks | Easy operation, low operating costs | Limited traction, performance decrease in rough terrain |
New Holland L230 | Construction material handling, heavy-duty service | High carrying capacity, various attachment options | High operating costs, low operator comfort |
Takeuchi TL10 | Landscape shaping, tight area operations | High traction, various attachment options | High initial cost, low operator comfort |
Takeuchi TL12 | Construction projects, agricultural tasks | Compact design, powerful hydraulic system | Limited operational flexibility, limited operator comfort |
Vermeer S800TX | Tree cutting, landscaping, tight area operations | High traction, various attachment options | High fuel consumption, low efficiency |
Large Skid Steers
Brand / Model | Intended Uses | Advantages | Disadvantages |
---|---|---|---|
ASV RT-75 | Large agricultural tasks, challenging terrain | High lifting capacity, durable chassis | High fuel consumption, limited operator comfort |
ASV RT-120 | Forestry management, heavy-duty service | Powerful engine, spacious operator cabin | High initial cost, lack of operational flexibility |
Bobcat S770 | Construction projects, material handling | Spacious operator cabin, high efficiency | High initial cost, limited visibility in some models |
Bobcat T770 | High-performance tasks, heavy load handling | Powerful hydraulic system, ergonomic operator cabin | Compact design, limited manoeuvrability |
Bobcat T870 | Large construction projects, mining | High lifting capacity, various attachment options | High operating costs, low operator comfort |
Case TR310 | Industrial tasks, large construction projects | High carrying capacity, stable chassis | High fuel consumption, low operator comfort |
Case SV280 | Agriculture, large storage facilities | Various attachment options, ergonomic operator cabin | High operating costs, limited maneuverability |
Caterpillar 259D3 | Demanding applications, large construction projects | Powerful hydraulic system, high-performance engine | High fuel consumption, low operator comfort |
Caterpillar 279D3 | Mining operations, heavy material handling | High lifting capacity, durable chassis | High operating costs, limited operator comfort |
Caterpillar 289D3 | Large construction projects, challenging terrain | Powerful engine, wide field of view | High initial cost, limited operational flexibility |
Gehl V420 | Construction projects, material handling | Ergonomic operator cabin, powerful hydraulic capacity | High operating costs, limited visibility |
Gehl VT320 | Forestry work, large woodwork | Durable chassis, spacious operator cabin | Limited maneuverability, low lifting capacity |
JCB 270 | Storage facilities, large construction areas | Advanced control systems, wide range of attachment options | User-unfriendly operator cabin design |
JCB 280 | Agriculture, large construction projects | High safety standards, stable chassis | High fuel consumption, low operator comfort |
John Deere 332G | Agriculture, heavy material handling | High efficiency, powerful hydraulic system | High initial cost, limited manoeuvrability |
John Deere 333G | Construction projects, large storage areas | Ergonomic operator cabin, low operating costs | Limited attachment compatibility, low manoeuvrability |
Kubota SVL95-2 | Challenging terrain, large construction projects | Powerful engine, stable chassis | Limited cabin space, limited manoeuvrability |
Kubota SVL90-2 | Mining, large construction projects | High efficiency, various attachment options | High fuel consumption, lack of operational flexibility |
Kubota SVL97-2 | Construction projects, indoor tasks | Compact design, low fuel consumption | Low hydraulic capacity, lack of operational flexibility |
New Holland L553 | Garden work, light soil tasks | Easy operation, low operating costs | Limited traction, performance decrease in rough terrain |
New Holland L230 | Construction material handling, heavy-duty service | High carrying capacity, various attachment options | High operating costs, low operator comfort |
Takeuchi TL12V2 | Landscape shaping, tight area operations | High traction, various attachment options | High initial cost, low operator comfort |
Takeuchi TL12R2 | Construction projects, agricultural tasks | Compact design, powerful hydraulic system | Limited operational flexibility, limited operator comfort |
Vermeer CTX160 | Tree cutting, landscaping, tight area operations | High traction, various attachment options | High fuel consumption, low efficiency |
Yes, finally, after transferring the popular skid steers from each segment, we have come to the end of the detailed buying skid steer guide.
If there is any information that you think is missing or incorrect, please let us know. Our expert teams will show the necessary attention.