What Is a Skid Steer Used for in 2024?

Skid Steers and their Attachments

Skid steers make a suitable companion for people who work outdoors. Though they aren’t considered the most popular construction vehicle, you may have come across one without knowing.

If you are interested in finding out more about skid steers, feel free to use this article as a reference. It will include what a skid steer is, what activities you can do with it, and the reasons why this little construction machine would make life more convenient for you.

Background of Skid Steers

A skid steer, also referred to as a Bobcat or skid steer-loader, is a small engine-powered construction machine.

In 1957, the first skid steer was originally crafted by two brothers named Louis and Cyril Keller. It was requested by a successful turkey farmer, Eddie Velo, for the brothers to make a small and lightweight machine to assist in cleaning out turkey manure from his multi-leveled barn.

The name of the skid steer was coined due to the way it works. It moves by the use of four wheels or a track, where it only moves in a fixed direction. SSLs use differential steering to turn the machine, meaning you must adjust the left and right wheels at different speeds, which cause it to skid across the ground.

What Can You Do With a Skid Steer?

The machine can be equipped with various attachments. Although skid steers are essentially used for digging, these attachments make way for the machine’s limitless uses.

Construction

Although they were first made to be on a farm, skid steers have become more popular for use in construction.

Making way for a smooth asphalt road takes a lot of effort and precision. The skid steer can contribute to the project by demolishing the roads, grading, transporting dirt, and assisting in loading the trucks.

After the road is successfully constructed, skid steers are capable of helping with cleaning up.

Farming

As stated earlier, skid steers were initially made to perform duties around farm areas. Farmers can effectively utilize skid steers by being able to load and move bulky agricultural equipment, tools, lumber, and other materials.

A skid steer can efficiently mow vast grass areas. It can also be used to till the land for future crops. With a rotary broom extension, you will be able to effectively gather debris.

Snow Removal

In places where snow is common, you may feel like shoveling out your driveway is difficult. What more with large parking areas? Skid steers effectively shovel out snow and carry it to the assigned dumpsite.

You can expect the driver to encounter no problems, as the cabs are conveniently heated and the machines have great traction to help avoid accidents.

Excavation

Whenever you spot a skid steer on a construction site, it is most likely to be used for excavation. Digging is a laborious task to execute manually, especially when building foundations, reservoirs, and roads.

Demolition

Skid steers can additionally be used as a tool for demolishing. Because of their compact size, they can ease their way into narrow spaces to remove debris.

They are one of the few light construction vehicles that can be lifted to different floors for any demolition job.

Transportation

Instead of a wheelbarrow, a skid steer can be used to transfer heavy items like rocks, construction equipment, and tools.

On the other hand, heavy farm materials could be transported. As they were originally made for agricultural uses, you could easily move heavy hay bales and farm animals.

Why You Should Own a Skid Steer

Not everyone can always lend a helping hand with outdoor chores. Luckily, skid steers will be there to assist you when no one else can. Not only will you be able to accomplish tasks independently, but also in an efficient manner.

Size

Bigger isn’t always better. Due to its minimal size, a skid steer can fit in more constricted places. Although it may not be as hefty as other construction machines, it can be equipped with better horsepower to increase its power.

Maintenance

In comparison to other machines, skid steers require minimal yet daily check-ups. Tires are usually the most vulnerable part of the skid steer. However, that should not be a problem if they are of high quality.

Versatility

If it’s an outdoor chore, chances are there are uses for a skid steer. Thanks to the machine’s attachments, the capabilities of skid steers are endless.

Conclusion

If you spend a lot of time outdoors, you should know that skid steers make a perfect companion. Even though they may be compact, they shouldn’t be underestimated. Their convenient size should be viewed in a positive light since it allows them to be used in hard to reach areas.

To maximize their use, you should take time in finding the right attachments to get the job done. If you are searching for the best supplier for skid steer attachments, you can try Skid Steers Direct.

We are a team of courteous sales experts who can provide you with the best attachment deals online. To ensure this, we have a price match guarantee wherein you will receive a partial refund if you find the same item for a lower price and it agrees with their limitations.

We can ship out orders worldwide. Skid Steers Direct is so confident in customer satisfaction that they even offer hassle-free returns within 14 days.

In contrast to our company name, we also sell attachments for tractors and telehandlers. If you are looking for a specific part that may not be listed on our site, just fill up a simple form and our team will browse catalogs for you.

For more information or if you have any questions, feel free to contact us through email at hello@skidsteersdirect.com or give us a call at 1-866-990-SKID (7543). We are open to assist customers from Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM Eastern Standard Time (EST).