The Complete Guide to Skid Steer Loaders
Compact construction equipment is essential for contractors and builders. When you need to get the job done quickly, efficiently and under budget, you need equipment that works as hard as you do. Bobcat Equipment has been synonymous with reliability for over 70 years, and over the course of that period, one of the most dependable pieces of equipment has been the skid-steer loader.
What is a skid-steer loader?
A skid-steer loader is perhaps the most versatile piece of equipment you can find on a job site. A true jack-of-all-trades, skid-steer loaders are available in a wide variety of sizes and are compatible with many attachments. Because of its compactness, skid steer loaders can get the job done inside tight spaces as well as out in the open.
What are skid-steer loaders used for?
Skid-steer loaders can do almost everything you can think of on a job site. They excel at tasks ranging from digging to grading to excavating and more. If you opt for a larger skid-steer loader, you can use it for material handling, scrap removal and demolition. With their attachment compatibilities, skid-steer loaders can really handle whatever you throw their way.
One of the main situations in which you might want to avoid using a skid-steer loader is if landscape maintenance is a concern. If it is, you’ll want to use a compact track loader, as the tracks will not damage the landscape.
How wide are Bobcat skid-steer loaders?
Depending on the model, Bobcat skid-steer loaders can range from 3 to 6 feet wide. If you’re trying to decide on a model, determine what you think you will be using the loader for. Will you need to maneuver the unit in and out of gates, fences or other narrow openings? Once you know how you will be using the machine, discuss your needs with one of the knowledgeable sales and rental experts at any of our convenient locations.
How much do skid-steer loaders weigh?
Skid-steer loaders are available in a number of size classes as determined by Associated Equipment Manufacturers:
- Zero to 1,251 lbs.
- 1,251 to 1,350 lbs.
- 1,351 to 1,600 lbs.
- 1,601 to 1,750 lbs.
- 1,751 to 2,200 lbs.
- 2,201 to 2,700 lbs.
- 2,701 lbs. and above
As the size class increases, so does the unit’s horsepower.
Are skid-steer loaders hard to maneuver?
Skid-steer loaders are quite easy to maneuver — in fact, this is one of their main selling points. The smaller size, for instance, is designed to easily move around inside and fit through narrow gates or fences. Most units offer a choice of standard or joystick controls allowing the operator to choose which version they prefer.
How tall is a skid-steer loader?
Depending on the model, the height of a skid-steer loader can starts around 6 feet and goes up to about 8 feet.
What size skid-steer loader do you need?
The size of the skid-steer loader you need is dependent on the job at hand. If you’re going to be doing work in an enclosed space like a backyard, you’ll want to stick with a smaller loader. If the job requires heavy lifting, you’ll want to go bigger. You will also want to determine if a radial or vertical lift machine would be more useful.
Be sure to speak to one of our team’s rental and sales experts, who can help guide you to the perfect skid-steer loader and the best attachments for the job.
Stop by any of our convenient Bobcat branches and talk with a sales expert today.