Skid Steer Loader

A skid steer, or skid steer loader, is a small rigid frame, engine-­powered machine with lift arms used to attach a wide variety of labor-­saving tools or attachments. Bobcat skid steers are 4WD vehicles that are available with either wheels or tracks.

Tires are less intrusive to surfaces when turning, but tracks provide more traction and floatation in sand or loose/wet soil conditions. Tracks are also better suited for steep hillsides.

Skidsteers are commonly equipped with smooth buckets, which are ideal for loading loose materials or light grading. A toothed bucket should be used in applications such as digging or grading in areas of hard dirt, and a bucket with a grappler is best suited for demo work and land clearing projects.

Skid steer or skid-steer loaders are one of the most common types of earthmoving equipment. Also called Bobcats, compact wheel loaders, and track loaders, these machines perform many functions, especially on construction sites.

Functions of Skid Steer Loaders

Skid steer loaders consist of a tractor with two arms hinged at the rear. That arm extends over the cab to the front, and you can add a variety of attachments to accomplish specific jobs. Some common attachments include a shovel, blade, and bucket.

Because skid steer loaders are relatively compact, you now have a multipurpose machine to use on job sites with limited space. Also, skid steer loaders are simple to maneuver, making it easier to perform tasks in a tight area.

Skid Steer Loader Sizes

The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) has designated the following size classes for compact wheel loaders, which uses a rated operating capacity (ROC):

• 0-1,250 pounds
• 1,251-1,350 pounds
• 1,351-1,600 pounds
• 1,601-1,750 pounds
• 1,751-2,200 pounds
• 2,201-2,700 pounds
• 2,701 pounds and above

The most common size used for a wheel loader in the construction industry is a skid steer loader with a ROC of 1,751 to 2,200 pounds.

Uses for Skid Steer Loaders

Because compact wheel loaders perform so many tasks, from digging and moving dirt to grinding asphalt and plowing snow, you can use one for a wide variety of jobs. Skid steer loaders are most commonly used on construction sites. However, you can regularly use a skid steer loader on farms, for landscaping, and for road work.

For jobs of all kinds where versatility and maneuverability are essential, rent a skid steer loader from BigRentz.