Compact track loaders (CTL) and skid steer loaders (SSL) are fast and agile, and large ones can even compete with small wheel loaders and dozers. With their vast array of available attachments, they are highly versatile, productive machines and are easy to put on a trailer. These pieces of machinery have a load capacity from 800 pounds to two tons and are very popular on job sites.
Skid Steer Loader
A skid steer is a piece of construction equipment that’s main purpose is digging and hauling materials. These machines offer high power in small frames and can perform heavy tasks in small spaces. They also reduce the need to have more heavy-duty machines for different jobs, as many attachments come with every size and model.
A few more common skid steer uses are:
- Excavation
- Digging or trenching
- Landscaping
- Construction
The variety of sizes, models and attachments that skid steers offer make them especially useful for managing your fleet, since they’re very adaptable.
Skid steer loaders are categorized into three sizes: Small frame, medium frame and large frame. Each size has a specific rated operating capacity, or ROC.
A small frame produces under 50 horsepower and can lift a maximum of 1,750 pounds. A medium frame produces 50-70 horsepower and can lift anywhere from 1,750 to 2,200 pounds. Large frames produce over 70 horsepower and can lift anything over 2,200 pounds.
When determining what size skid steer you need, you will want to consider how large your work space is, what materials you’re handling and how much time you’ll spend working with them. A small frame skid steer can operate in tight spaces and drive through narrow paths. They’re the most common and can normally be found on landscaping projects.
Medium-size loaders, as the name would suggest, offer a middle ground between compact and powerful. They’re stronger than small-sized skid steers, but not quite as powerful as larger models. Medium frame track loaders are often used on road work, since they offer standard construction power while still being small enough to drive over asphalt or concrete.
The large loaders are the most suitable for extensive work within grading, drilling and extensive demolition work. While storing and maintaining them might be more difficult than some small models, they are large enough to move around sites without needing to be transported by a semi-truck.
Compact Track Loader
Operators will be able to use a variety of attachments on the compact track loader, one of the biggest selling points of the compact loader industry. Optional high-flow auxiliary hydraulics — up to 40 gallons per minute — will be available for the CTL for enhanced performance with attachments like asphalt planers, forestry cutters, and breakers that require additional hydraulic flow.
The machine’s cab is designed to provide operators with excellent visibility of the jobsite. A standard rearview camera gives operators better visibility to the attachment and their surroundings.
What’s next?
Is your job better suited for a CTL or an SSL? Although similar, each job site requires the best option for your future jobs. Ask or experts. Partner Rentals has your back when looking for compact loaders. And keep in mind that if your rental needs to be serviced, our mechanics can go to your jobsite, or it can be hauled back to the yard. If you need to book equipment for your next project, call 877-740-RENT (7368) today to book with Partner Rentals.
Keywords: Skid Steer, compact track loaders, SSL, CTL, construction, earthmoving equipment, construction site, compact construction equipment