Factors to Consider When Buying a Skid Steer Loader
Many factors need to be considered if one is to buy the best skid steer loader for the work he or she does. This article discusses some of the most important factors that you should consider when shopping for a skid steer loader.
Equipment and Frame Size
Many manufacturers of skid steer loaders categorise frame sizes as large, medium or small. These sizes have a correspondence with how much work each machine can be expected to perform. For example, a large skid steer loader may be able to lift loads to a greater height than a small skid steer loader. You should pay attention to your typical jobsites before you pick a skid steer loader of a given size. For example, a large machine may be hard to manoeuvre around a congested city worksite when compared to a small skid steer loader. Pick the size that will suit the type of sites where you usually work.
The Hydraulic System
Consider the types of jobs that you do before you pick an ideal hydraulic system. Minor tasks, such as compacting a yard can be done with the standard hydraulic system on most skid steer loaders. However, complex tasks (digging up a concrete pavement, for example) require hydraulic fluid to flow under higher pressure so that the skid-steer loader attachment performing the task can work effectively. It is therefore very important for you to pick a skid steer loader that has an auxiliary hydraulic system installed so that you are not limited to the tasks that you can perform with that equipment.
Method of Lifting
Some skid steer loaders use a radial lift method while others use a vertical lift mechanism. Each is suited to different circumstances. For example, a vertical lift mechanism may be more suited to loading trucks because this method can reach higher vertical levels. Similarly, a radial lift may be better if you do a lot of digging with the machine. Radial lift machines usually operate over a wider radius. Pick the machine with the lift style that will offer optimum results for the kind of work that you normally do.
As you can see, one skid steer loader may be excellent for one purpose and inadequate for another application. Discuss the issues above with a supplier of skid steer loaders (such as Crozier Diamond Tools Aust Pty Ltd) in your area so that you get all the assistance that you need to pick the best machine for your needs.
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