Compact utility loaders have surged in popularity over the last few years, offering improved access to tight properties, increased visibility and attachment capability. However, the smaller machine may not handle the same weights as a full size skid steer and usually operates at slower speeds. Dan Kilgas, marketing category manager, Ariens, Brillion, Wis., outlined this give-and-take with the following pro/con list, which may help contractors with their equipment purchasing decisions.
Pros of small skid-steer loaders:
1. Less expensive
2. Able to get through small gates into areas between homes
3. Much easier and faster for applications in which the operator needs to perform a secondary operation like loading a pallet or setting a tree (may eliminate a second person)
4. Excellent visibility because operators stand on the machine instead of sitting inside of it
5. Easier to transport because of its small size
6. Short learning curve, so excellent for inexperienced operators
7. Implements are smaller and lighter for easy transportation
8. Lightweight, so they don’t do as much damage to the ground surface
Cons of small skid-steer loaders:
1. Not able to do as much work as quickly as their larger big brothers
2. Lift capacities are less
3. Lift heights are less
4. The working width of implements is less
5. Limited availability of implements
6. Slower operating speeds
7. Slower ground speeds
8. No safety belt to hold operators onto the unit
The author is Assistant Editor – Internet of Lawn & Landscape magazine and can be reached at kmohn@gie.net.