While it can seem like there are endless options when it comes to skid steer attachments, there's no need to feel overwhelmed.
If you go to a dealership knowing a few key things, your choices will quickly narrow and you'll end up only having to choose between a few models. So, what information is helpful to bring to a dealer? That's just what this SlideShare covers.
2. While it can seem like there are
endless options when it comes to
skid steer attachments, there’s no
need to feel overwhelmed.
If you go in to a dealership knowing
a few key things, your choices will
quickly narrow and you’ll end up
only having to choose between a
few models. So, what information
is helpful to bring to a dealer?
That’s just what we’re going to cover.
3. WHAT WILL
YOU USE THE
ATTACHMENT FOR?
WHAT ENVIRONMENT
WILL YOU USE THE
ATTACHMENT IN?
WHAT SKID STEER
(OR TRACTOR) WILL
YOU BE USING?
“I need to _______”
For Example:
• Clear snow
• Cut down trees
• Level land
• Dig trenches
• Clear manure
• Move dirt
For Example:
• Out on the farm
• In a paved parking lot
• On frozen ground
• On uneven terrain
For Example:
• Frame size
• Track width
• Operating capacity
• Weight
4. FRAME SIZE
There are three frame sizes: small, medium, and
large. Most personal use skid loaders will fall
within the small to medium range. Make sure the
attachment is the right size for the machine. Using
a standard-duty attachment on a larger frame
machine may cause damage to the attachment.
There are attachments that will be too big or too
small for your skid steer.
TRACK WIDTH
Look at the width of your loader. When it comes
to skid steers, it’s vital to cover your tracks–
meaning the attachment should be as wide or
slightly wider than your tires. Some skid steers
have tracks (just like a tank), and others have tires.
WEIGHT
You don’t want an attachment that’s too heavy for
your loader to handle, especially in cases where
you’ll be lifting objects or material. For attachments
that lift objects or material, you need to compare
the loader’s operating capacity and tipping weight
to the weight of the attachment plus the estimated
weight of a load. Different materials will change
the estimated weight of a load.
OPERATING CAPACITY
You’ll need to consider your loader’s operating
capacity. It’s important to fit the
attachment to your machine so it’s not underutilized
or overloaded. In order to find a suitable fit, you
need to know your machine’s operating capacity.
In some cases, you may need to consider the
hydraulic flow of the machine.
5. WILL THE ATTACHMENT BE USED FOR
PERSONAL USE OR COMMERCIAL USE?
While there’s no one-size-fits-all attachment for any customer, this
question gives insight into how the attachment will be used, which makes
finding the right fit easier.
Most attachments built today are for personal use. They’re not made to
perform and last. It’s important to look at the attachment construction.
High-grade steel and quality components are necessary for commercial
operators. Typically, commercial users are recommended a stronger-built
attachment, while personal users will make do with a lighter built attachment.
6. REVIEW
So, what information should you consider when buying
a skid steer attachment?
If you show up at a dealership with this information,
it’ll be easier to narrow your options and find out
which attachment is best for your needs.
• What you’ll be doing
• Where you’ll be doing it
• What skid loader you’ll be using
• Whether it’s for personal or commercial use