Small But Mighty | Compact Track Loaders Are Effective & Versatile Machines
Compact track loaders and skid steers have gained tremendous popularity with contractors because of their petite size and versatility. Now, we’re seeing a trend in the other direction. Not that the smallest machines are losing ground (so to speak), but for some types of work, bigger is simply better. These new machines are still small by construction equipment standards, just not as small. You might say they’re small but mightier.
Larger compact track loaders and skid steers are heavier and more powerful. Their longer wheelbase gives them additional stability. That means they can lift more and reach farther. For larger worksites, these are all significant productivity improvements. For example. One construction company reports they have doubled milling operations productivity by switching to larger machines and outfitting them with 4-ft. milling heads.
Let’s define “bigger”
The whole point of compact track loaders and skid steers is enabling work in tight spaces. They are exceptionally maneuverable as well as functionally versatile. But larger size brings the same versatility to jobs where more output is required.
The largest of this new generation of compact machines weighs something over 11,000 lbs. It has a 4,000-lb. rated operating capacity (ROC) and maximum lift height of 144 inches. No wonder you can move more material in less time. More typically, these machines are rated around 3,000 ROC or higher, still a tremendous efficiency advantage. And because these machines have more horsepower, you can further boost efficiency by using high-performance attachments, as in the example above.
More horsepower means you can push more material — power outputs typically run 80-100 hp. — a real plus for excavating and grading work. You can lift heavier loads, too – another plus when you have to load and unload a lot of material. Together, these advantages give you all-around versatility that can make these machines a cost-effective investment.
Longer reach means you can easily load today’s haul trucks that have higher sides. A traditional tandem-axle gravel truck has an 8- or 9-yard box. New trucks have four or five axles, enabling them to carry a 14-yard box. But to get that capacity, the box is deeper. A machine that can handle that saves you money on drivers and vehicle cycle times.
Get more done, faster
Greater capacity allows you to complete tasks in less time. That’s another productivity-booster. Because the heftier compact track loaders have enhanced hydraulic capacity, you can get more output from hydraulic attachments. Higher flows and higher pressures produce more horsepower to operate attachments such as mulchers, planers, trenchers and wheel saws that require more power and speed.
Choosing the right size machine
As with all construction equipment, which size compact track loader or skid steer is right for you depends on the jobs you take on and other equipment you already own. Bigger machines cost more – as much as $10,000 more than a small compact loader. O&O costs are higher, too. Tires are bigger and, therefore, more expensive to replace. The same goes for tracks, which also have more rubber to wear out and replace. And more power means reduced fuel economy.
It might cost you more to transport a larger machine. Some of these new models weigh more than 10,000 lbs., necessitating a driver with a CDL in many locations. If this is an issue, look for a model that weighs in at something less.
Sheer size comes into play, too. We mentioned at the outset that compact equipment popularity comes from its small size. Does a bigger footprint still work for you, or will it put you out of the running for certain jobs? Even if the answer is yes, will the larger machine open more doors for you?
The more versatile the machines in your construction equipment fleet, the more jobs you can take on. Is a larger compact track loader or skid steer a good investment for you? Only you can evaluate the pros and cons.
