There are many factors you need to consider before hiring a skid steer loader including:
1. Size of the Skid Steer
2. Job Surface
3. Controls
4. Attachments
1. Size of the Skid Steer
The size of your project impacts on the size of the skid steer loader you may require. There are many sizes that are made to complete a range of projects with varying dimensions. Before deciding on the size, you first have to determine if your workspace is open or narrow and this will help you decide the overall size and power you require. Making sure you select the right skid steer can increase your efficiency when completing your project.
Small frame skid steers are ideally used for demolition work as their narrow frame allows them to navigate paths easily. Residential areas are also ideal for the small frame skid steer as they are easy to manoeuvre.
For larger projects you may require a medium to large size skid steer to tackle these higher intensive projects. The carrying load also increases from small to larger skid steers so on a commercial construction site you can carry more materials away from the working area.
2. Job Surface
You will also need to take into consideration the type of terrain your project will take place on. There are two types of skid steer and wheel combinations, which include wheeled skid steers and tracked skid steers. Wheeled skid steers are made to work on flat and hard surfaces such as cement as the wheels cannot tackle uneven terrain. Tracked skid steers are the more versatile choice as they can tackle rock and uneven terrain while also being able to continue work in diverse weather conditions.
3. Controls
Controls is another factor that could determine the type of skid steer loader you hire. For most traditional skid steers, the pedal and lever controls are the most common form of controls you will find, but in recent years the more modern skid steer loaders have utilised joystick controls that require less force.
4. Attachments
The skid steer loader has a very diverse selection of attachments that can benefit your project. But not every attachment works with every skid steer, so choosing the skid steer that can use the required attachment is essential. Attachments such as hydraulic breakers and grapples can be utilised for small skid steer loaders, but cutters and wheel saws require a higher power that is seen in larger skid steer loaders.
