How To Find The Right Skid Steer Size For Your Needs
Skid steer loaders are versatile pieces of construction equipment often found on landscaping, construction, and demolition worksites. They can be made even more versatile with the purchasing of attachments.
But knowing you want a skid steer loader is one thing. Knowing which model to get is another. Below you'll find information on the sizes of skid steers, which will help you narrow your search to a more manageable number of choices.
When you are ready to shop skid steers for sale in Minnesota, contact Alex Power Equipment. We are based in Alexandria, Minnesota, and also serve those in Sartell and St. Cloud.
Classifications of Skid Steers
Skid steers are broken down into categories based on the equipment's operating capacity. Small frame models are less than 1,750 pounds and less than 50 horsepower. Medium frame models weigh between 1,750 and 2,200 pounds. They also have between 50 and 70 horsepower. Large frame models exceed 2,000 pounds and exceed 70 horsepower.
When to Pick Small Frame Skid Steers
These skid steers offer a compact size which allows them to offer impressive agility. Anyone who works in cramped, tight spaces should consider these models. You won't have any trouble moving around obstacles and getting the job done. The lighter weight of these skid steers also means they won't cause as much damage to the turf, which is one reason they are often used by landscaping and property management industries. These skid steers are great at tasks such as moving materials around, leveling, minor demolition, hole digging, and trenching.
When to Pick Medium Frame Skid Steers
These skid steers offer a middle of the road amount of power and size. Their larger frame works well on larger work sites and they do offer more agility than the large frame skid steers. They are often used on construction or material management sites. Use this size of skid steer to help remove debris, transport heavy materials, prep a site, and light grading and leveling.
When to Pick Large Frame Skid Steers
These skid steers are mechanical beasts of machines ready to tackle the big projects. They are used on construction and demolition sites that need the best power and output possible. They can handle almost any task you throw their way such as excavation, grading work, drilling, and large demolition projects. These models also come with an impressively large range of attachment options, making it easy to tackle an even wider range of tasks.
Picking the Right Skid Steer
As you explore skid steers, you will want to account for two key factors. First, what is the size of your work space? If you will only be operating in tight spaces, you will need a compact and agile skid steer. If you will be operating on large work sites, you will need a model with the speed and efficiency needed to handle the large work area.
Second, what will your work site terrain be like? Uneven or unfinished workspaces can pose a challenge to smaller skid steers while larger models offer the stability needed to cruise around these work sites.
Ready to shop skid steers for sale in Minnesota? Check out the selection at Alex Power Equipment. Explore our inventory online or stop by our dealership in Alexandria, Minnesota. We are also proud to serve those in Sartell and St. Cloud, Minnesota.