How to Select The Best Skid Loader Attachment?


When you’re in the market for a new skid steer attachment, its quality, price, and functionality is everything. You want to get the best deal, but you also need an attachment that will perform as it’s supposed to, and is made of high-quality components.

The next issue is finding out which attachment is going to be suitable for the task at hand. Are you clearing trees and shrubs as a professional or a farmer? Are you looking for a helping hand to move hay bales around your farm? Are you a professional contractor in need of quality equipment for infrastructure and roading work?

The buying process can seem overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with skid steers and appropriate attachments. This is where our buying guide comes in. Within it, you will find out which attachments are suitable for which industries. This will enable you to find top-rated skid steer attachments on the market, which will inevitably lead you to finding the best deal.

 

Work Type

Skid steer attachments are produced all around the world, for all kinds of work. There are also several manufacturers, brands, and models catering to every kind of job. Because of this, it can get extremely confusing.

Do you know what counts as a quality brand, and what doesn’t? That’s why it’s important that you first establish your work type. Find out the exact task you will need help with, and then narrow down the list of possible skid steer attachments to carry out the work.

Once you have determined the attachment you need, read our product reviews on particular brands. You will soon know which tool you will require to carry out the task.

 

Safety

As with most machinery and outdoor equipment, being safe around skid steers and their attachments is extremely important. While generally only experienced people own such machinery, it’s easy to become complacent.

Below are a few ways you can put your safety first:

  • Make sure all skid steer attachments are free of debris and imperfections.
  • Keep the attachments clean to avoid malfunction.
  • Make sure all maintenance is up-to-date on both the skid steer and its attachments.
  • Wear steel-toe boots, a hard hat, and gloves when operating a skid steer.
  • Don’t linger around the skid steer attachment when it’s in use.
  • Ensure all hydraulic lines are well-maintained to avoid malfunction.
  • Don’t attempt to lift or move the attachment as this can cause back strain.

 

Efficiency

The key to getting the most efficiency out of your machine, is by making sure it’s fit for purpose. Too often, people purchase a skid steer attachment thinking it can take care of any kind of job – large or small.

However, as with anything, skid steer attachments have their limits. In the case of getting premium efficiency, you should ensure you read the manufacturer’s guide. This will educate you on the various specifications of the machine, and how it will perform in specific circumstances.

The best time to read the guide or manual is before you purchase the attachment. Not all attachments are going to be suitable for your skid steer, and this is not the manufacturer’s fault. If you believe your skid steer attachment isn’t performing as well as it should be, consider the work you’re asking it to do. Is it within its capabilities?

 

Features

Skid steer attachments were created to make the job of a contractor or farmer that much easier. Instead of relying on manual labor, you can simply attach a tool to your skid steer, and swap it out for a different one as needed.

Aside from featuring power, efficiency, and increased productivity, skid steer attachments generally have a convenient disengagement system. Some manufacturers offer a quick coupler system, whilst others have two leverage handles to engage and disengage particular attachments.

Each attachment offers a different set of features, depending on what it does. Some are designed to take all the hard work out of the farmer’s day, whilst others are larger and more technologically advanced to cater to those in contracting and infrastructure work.

 

Maintenance

Regardless of whether you buy online or in-store, your new skid steer attachment will come with a manufacturer’s guide.

Within this guide, you can review several pieces of information relating to your particular model of machine. One of the most important sections is the maintenance one. In order to ensure your skid steer attachment stands the test of time, you must always keep- up-to-date with maintenance.

Your workplace may already have a set schedule and list to follow for daily or weekly upkeeping, but other maintenance requirements include:

  • Keeping the attachment clean and free of debris or obstructions.
  • Checking all hydraulic lines and attachments for blockages.
  • Replacing hydraulic fluid when it’s necessary.
  • Keeping the skid steer in good-working order.
  • Lubricating all moving parts.
  • Replacing any broken parts.

 

Budget

The cost of a skid steer attachment can vary greatly, especially since there are so many on the market. Once you ascertain the particular type of attachment you need, you can then begin to work out a ballpark figure.

Ensure your budget includes all the features you want your attachment to have, as well as the inclusive warranty. You can also get the best deal when you buy online, so keep your options open.

Always be ready to compare the cost in comparison to the features. Often, an attachment can be far cheaper than other similar options on the market because it doesn’t offer all the features you require.

 

Tree & Shrubbery

 

Farmers, contractors, and lifestyle block owners are sure to see the many benefits of tree and shrubbery skid steer attachments. After all, time is money and less time spent on a job is more money left in your wallet.

So, when you’ve purchased a skid steer and you’re looking for the perfect attachment to accompany it, our buying guide can help you make a decision.

There are so many different tree and shrubbery skid steer attachments to choose from, but not all are suitable for every task. Read through each of the possible product types carefully and discover which will be the perfect tool for the job.

 

1

Skid Steer Brush Cutter

If you’re looking to make short work of clearing a paddock or a section, a skid steer brush cutter is a good solution. They are mainly used for clearing undergrowth, long grass, weeds, brush, and saplings. They are far easier to maneuver than a dozer, and complete the task far quicker as well.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer brush cutter attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They limit regrowth of grass and scrub.
  • They clear sections much quicker than a push mower.
  • They leave a cleared area much tidier than if a dozer completed the job.

Cons:

  • They are very dangerous.
  • They have their own engine so they require regular maintenance.

Work Type

Brush cutters are used in a range of industries due to their versatility and power. While there are other tools and machinery that can clear a section of troublesome growth just as well, none of them do it in the timeframe a brush cutter can. Therefore, if you’re looking for a powerful attachment to make short work of paddock or section-clearing, this is the tool for the job.

Safety

Skid steer brush cutters are exceptionally dangerous, therefore extreme caution must be taken. Manufacturers are always looking to make usage of a brush cutter far safer, and introduced several safety measures for the operator’s peace of mind.

The cutter’s motor will generally feature good braking to stop the blades’ spinning within 10 seconds, as well as a pressure relief valve. The brush cutter attachment may also have a feature to stop the deck from going above the cab door. This helps to stop debris from flicking up into the operator’s general vicinity.

Efficiency

Efficiency counts for a lot in the working world, and operating a skid steer brush cutter is no different. When you’re looking to choose the most efficient skid steer brush cutter, you will need to take note of:

  • The flow rate of the skid steer.
  • The lift capacity of the skid steer.
  • The cut width.

All three of these features play a huge part in making sure your cutter performs as you would expect it to. If you believe your work will require something with better specifications, choose a larger machine. Pushing a smaller machine past its limits will only shorten its lifespan.

Features

When you need a top-rated skid steer brush cutter, its features are going to be very important. After all, if you’re looking to get the most out of your machine, you want to make sure all components are durable and work well in harmony.

Features to be on the lookout for are:

  • A quality spindle.
  • A reinforced mower deck.
  • A durable push bar.
  • A durable and heavy-duty flywheel.
  • Pressure relief valves for the hydraulic components.
  • Blades that are easy to replace.
  • Skid shoes that are easy to replace.

Maintenance

While having its own engine makes the brush cutter far more efficient, it also means it requires more maintenance. Not only do you have to ensure your skid steer’s maintenance is up-to-date, you also have to care for the cutter’s engine as well. That’s double the fluid, double the air filters, and double the spark plugs.

Budget

Because a skid steer brush cutter has its own motor, it can be quite expensive to purchase. However, if you’re a professional, it’s a small price to pay for productivity. Eventually, the cost will even itself out.

You either pay someone to work more hours on a less productive machine, or you pay someone to work less hours on a more productive one. However, if you’re still looking to cut costs, you can often get the best deal when you buy your skid steer attachment online.

 

2

Skid Steer Tree Saw

When time is money, contractors are always on the lookout for a tool that will complete a job fast and effectively. So, in the case of taking care of tree clearing, limb trimming, cutting logs, and high-volume commercial cutting, a skid steer tree saw is a great solution.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer tree saw attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They can cut most kinds of wood – something that many other cutting tools can’t do.
  • They are versatile and can be used for cutting logs, clearing felled trees, limb trimming, and more.
  • Many skid steer tree saws can cut around 10 inches per second, if not more.

Cons:

  • They are very dangerous to operate.
  • The blades need to be replaced and/or sharpened often.
  • They are expensive to purchase.

Work Type

When you own a skid steer and you have trees to clear, it can be a natural next step to purchase a skid steer tree saw. But how do you know it’s exactly what you need?

Because skid steer tree saw attachments are designed to take care of high-volume commercial cutting jobs, they can often not be cost-effective to purchase and operate for anything less. This means, you should always think about the work you’re looking to undertake.

Does it require something of this size, and with this power? Or can you settle for a chainsaw or something a little smaller? We recommend you first weigh up the pros and cons before you go ahead with the purchase.

Safety

Tree saws, like all power tools and machines with blades, are exceptionally dangerous. It takes a skilled and experienced contractor to know how to operate such a tool with precision and safety.

When you’re either operating the tree saw, or you’re around one that’s being operated, you should:

  • Steer clear of the moving blade at all times.
  • Never lose concentration.
  • Make sure all maintenance on both the skid steer and the tree saw attachment is up-to-date.
  • Make sure the blade is sharp.
  • Wear eye and ear protection if you’re going to be working in the general vicinity of the machine.

Efficiency

Tree saws for skid steers are very powerful attachments. Many operate using their own motors, and they require a lot of maintenance and skill to operate effectively. Therefore, it’s important you make sure you use the tree saw efficiently.

Always cut with a blade that’s recommended by the manufacturer, and maintain all components effectively. Failure to keep your skid steer tree saw well-maintained can result in a drop in efficiency, or a premature failure of the attachment.

Features

There are so many tree saws for skid steers on the market – many with features aimed at making the operator’s job easier.

Such features include:

  • Powerful motors for increased productivity.
  • Large blades of around 34 inches in size.
  • An additional sprayer pump to spray herbicides in the area.
  • Self-lubricating components.
  • Easy-access panels for quick maintenance.
  • An extended reach.
  • Hydraulic rotating heads.

Maintenance

Many manufacturers have made the decision to provide easy-access panels to make maintenance a breeze. While this helps, there is still quite a bit of maintenance that needs to be completed.

This includes:

  • Checking all shields and guards to ensure they’re in place and are in good condition.
  • Tightening bolts and replacing any that aren’t in good condition.
  • Sharpening or replacing the saw cutter blades when necessary.
  • Maintaining the hydraulic components, topping up the fluid and replacing perished lines.

Budget

The price of a skid steer tree saw can vary from one manufacturer to the next. However, contractors can expect to pay around $8,000 for a quality tree saw that takes care of trees effectively.

 

3

Skid Steer Stump Bucket

If tree stumps are proving troublesome on your farm, or you’re looking to clear a lot of them, a skid steer stump bucket attachment is a very convenient tool. They make short work of tree stump removal, all the while leaving a minimal mess behind. They are also relatively affordable on the market and can be used for digging trenches, demolition, and more.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer stump bucket attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They can remove a tree very quickly.
  • They pull the stump out, while cutting the roots in the process.
  • They can be used for digging trenches, footings, gripping asphalt, demolition, and more.
  • They are quite affordable in comparison to how many work types they’re suitable for.

Cons:

  • The forks can be easy to break.
  • They come in different sizes, which means one size isn’t suitable for all kinds of tree stumps.

Work Type

Whether you’re a part of a roading gang, or you’re a farmer, you are sure to find that a stump bucket is a suitable tool for you. Because of its shape, it’s capable of catering to many different kinds of tasks, in various environments. Just pay careful attention to its specifications to ensure it has enough power to do the job properly.

Safety

All attachments come with a set of safety recommendations and this stump bucket is no different. Read through the manufacturer’s guide to ensure you can operate the stump bucket in the safest way possible. Never place yourself between the bucket and the tree stump, and avoid staying in the immediate vicinity when it’s in use.

Efficiency

Stump bucket skid steer attachments come in all different shapes and sizes. This is because they are designed to meet the needs of different skid steers to remove different sized tree stumps. Think about the stumps you need to remove.

Are they large in size or are they small? Choose the stump removal bucket that best suits your requirements. Pushing an attachment beyond its capabilities could end in damage to both your skid steer and the attachment itself.

Features

Most skid steer stump buckets feature replaceable teeth, a curved base to ‘scoop’ the trees, and a universal skid steer mount. They are made of solid, durable materials, and are built to withstand the pressures of both tree stumps and solid roading materials.

Maintenance

Maintenance is fairly minimal for a stump bucket. All you need to do is make sure the attachment points are clear, and replace the teeth as, and when, necessary.

Budget

Because stump buckets feature no moving parts and require no maintenance, they are exceptionally affordable. A lifestyle block owner, farmer, or a contractor can generally find the perfect stump bucket for their needs online at a very competitive price.

 

4

Skid Steer Tree Puller

When manual labor is not enough to see a tree budge from its permanent spot in the ground, a skid steer tree puller attachment is necessary. Suitable for a range of skid steers and tractors, and well-priced on the market, they can easily become your new favorite farm hand.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer tree puller attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They can be used for pulling up wood posts and trees.
  • They generally fit most skid steers.
  • They have hydraulic components to make them more powerful.
  • They are very affordable.

Cons:

  • They aren’t very versatile.

Work Type

The work type a tree puller attachment can carry out is very limited. While it’s priced accordingly, it’s restricted to pulling out small trees and fence posts. If you’re looking for a tool to do this for you, rather than relying on man power, this is the tool for you.

Safety

It pays to never get complacent around machinery, including this tree puller. While it doesn’t look scary, there’s a lot of force behind the teeth that grab the trees and wood posts.

Stay away from the attachment while it’s in use, and never attempt to come to its aid if it falters while picking up a tree. Turn your machine off before attempting to do maintenance or service work.

Efficiency

While its job is to pull up tree stumps and wood fencing, this attachment does have its limits. It’s not suitable for large trees, or large fence posts, and it won’t take care of metal posts either.

It has hydraulic components to give it additional power, but users must ensure they operate the attachment within its capabilities. This prevents unnecessary damage to both the attachment and your skid steer.

Features

Most skid steer tree pullers have the same features. These include hydraulic components, durable framing, a universal, quick-attach fitting, hoses and couplers, and thick teeth. Pay careful attention to each attachment’s limitations to ensure they’re the correct fit for your machine.

Maintenance

Before and after use, an operator of a skid steer tree puller attachment should ensure it’s in good-working order. This could include removing all debris from the teeth, checking the hydraulic lines, looking for imperfections, and checking the quick-attach mechanism is in good-working order.

Budget

Most lifestyle block owners and farmers won’t need to open their wallets too wide when they’re looking to purchase a tree puller. Because of their basic form, lack of features, and simplicity, most are for sale on the market for around $800-$1,000. This is often far cheaper than if you were to purchase them in a physical store.

 

5

Skid Steer Log Splitter

While far more expensive than a manual or gas-powered log splitter, a skid steer log splitter is far more efficient. With many being able to be operated from the cab of the skid steer rather than the attachment itself, it’s also a far safer option.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer log splitter attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Many can be operated from the comfort of your skid steer cab.
  • They only require one person to operate them.
  • They’re far safer than hand-held log splitters.
  • The pushing ram is more powerful than other log splitting tools on the market.

Cons:

  • They are quite expensive to own.

Work Type

Skid steer log splitters have one job, and one job only: splitting logs. So, when you’re in the market for a quality log splitter that will cut faster and with more ferocity than a hand splitter, this is a good option.

Safety

You would think that being larger and more powerful than a hand-operated log splitter, it would be more dangerous. However, in most cases, that’s not the case.

Because many skid steer log splitters can be operated from the cab, it doesn’t require anyone to feed the wood and the splitting process is handled remotely. This almost completely eradicates the risk of injury.

Efficiency

If you were to compare a wood axe to a skid steer wood splitter, it’d be easy to see which is the more efficient option. Although the wood axe would be the cheaper option, time is just as valuable as money.

A skid steer wood splitting attachment is a far more efficient tool. When you’re deciding on the best splitter for your needs, pay careful attention to the specifications of each option.

Many come with force restrictions, or can be upgraded with larger cylinders. If you have plenty of big logs to split, it always pays to buy the bigger attachment.

Features

Most skid steer wood splitters feature a hydraulic cylinder, a pushing ram on a greasable track, and a cutting wedge. An added bonus are deflectors that split the wood down both sides of the machine. These splitters also hook up conveniently with a quick-attach system and hydraulic hoses to both skid steers, and mini skid steers.

Maintenance

The majority of the maintenance needing to be completed is on the skid steer itself, rather than the attachment. The wedge can be sharpened, the moving parts lubricated, and the hydraulic fluids topped up, but that’s generally the extent of the service work required.

Budget

Skid steer wood splitters are generally quite expensive to purchase. Because they are often used by contractors and farmers for large-scale splitting jobs, there is a limited market for them.

However, that doesn’t mean you can’t get the best deal possible. Review several different products and you are sure to find one that’s both affordable, and meets your needs.

 

6

Skid Steer Stump Grinder

Skid steer stump grinders are used by farmers, contractors and agricultural professionals who are looking to make short work of stump removal. While walk-behind stump grinding machines and stump removal chemicals are equally as effective at removing stumps, they aren’t able to do so at the same pace as stump grinder attachment for skid steer capable of.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer stump grinder attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Even though they are very technical, they are quite easy to maintain.
  • They are easy to operate.
  • Most have an adjustable swing and lift option.
  • They reach further under the ground than most portable stump grinders.
  • Most on the market can cut both horizontally and vertically.
  • They have safety guards for protection.

Cons:

  • They are very dangerous and should only be used by professionals.
  • They are expensive to purchase.
  • Ongoing maintenance costs are expensive.

Work Type

Skid steer stump grinders are used to grind stumps to be removed from the ground. They make quick work of stump removal, unlike chemicals and other portable devices that take time and manpower. They can be used in all kinds of settings, including on farms, in empty lots, and on lifestyle blocks.

Safety

While the manufacturers of these attachments do all they can to make them safe, there has to be a bit of personal responsibility.

Those operating a skid steer stump grinding attachment should:

  • Make sure the machine is in good-working order.
  • Wear protective clothing, gloves, boots, and eye protection.
  • Keep arms and legs away from the blade.
  • Check the blade regularly for imperfections that could cause it to malfunction.

Efficiency

A stump grinding attachment is only as good as its operator. This means that the operator should ensure the hydraulic flow of the skid steer matches the attachment, the wheel diameter is suitable for the job at hand, and that all teeth are in good condition.

When efficiency is poor, the operator should look at how they are operating the machine, and whether it’s suitable for that particular work type. You can work out how efficient your stump grinding attachment will be before you purchase it by simply referring to its specifications.

Features

Most manufacturers of stump grinding attachments are trying to make them as safe and as productive as possible. Therefore, they are packed full of helpful features to ensure the job takes as little time as possible.

These features could include:

  • Adjustable function controls.
  • Safety guards.
  • Double cutting action.
  • Large cutting discs to reach underground further.
  • Horizontal and vertical positions for cutting.

Maintenance

Maintenance for a stump grinder is fairly complex. You need to make sure all hydraulic fluids are topped up, teeth are replaced or sharpened, and the cutting disk is in good condition. You also need to make sure the guard isn’t damaged or broken, and the hydraulic lines aren’t perished or split.

Budget

For the average homeowner, a skid steer stump grinding attachment isn’t cheap. However, for the market it’s intended for, it’s quite affordable. In comparison to other skid steer attachments on the market, it’s certainly competitively priced. Weigh up the features on offer in comparison to the price to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.

 

7

Skid Steer Tree Shear

Constructed to do the same job as a chainsaw, a skid steer tree shear takes all the hard work out of removing troublesome trees. Many can complete around four cutting cycles a minute, and some can even remove trees to ensure there’s no ground disturbance and minimal stump growth left behind. They are a good alternative to a chainsaw for the busy contractor who needs to remove many trees in a short amount of time.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer tree shear attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They work like a pair of scissors, shearing trees with ease.
  • They are quite powerful and can produce around 30 tons of force.
  • They are easy to attach to a skid steer.
  • They require minimal maintenance.

Cons:

  • They are very dangerous and deaths have been recorded while using them.

Work Type

Tree shears are used by a range of people – both in forestry, and agriculture. While there are several other tools that can complete the job in the same way, they are far more labor-intensive than if you were to just use a skid steer.

However, the operator must first establish whether the tree shear attachment is going to be suitable for the work type. Do you have large or small trees? Most tree shear attachments will clearly specify the cutting limits to help you make an informed decision.

Safety

There have been deaths in the workplace involving skid steer tree shears. Therefore, all care measures must be taken.

Operators should not get complacent when operating any kind of heavy machinery, especially not something that can take your life. As such, you must ensure you use the attachment as is recommended by the manufacturer, and don’t exceed its capacity.

Other recommendations include:

  • Ensuring the tree shear attachment has barriers on all sides to protect the operator from falling tree limbs.
  • Using extreme caution when you’re working on sloped grounds. It’s very easy for a skid steer to become unbalanced.

Efficiency

The easiest way to lose efficiency is by pushing your tree shear attachment beyond what it was designed to do. While the cutting capacity varies from one attachment to the next, very few are designed to take care of large trees. To ensure your attachment stands the test of time, only ever cut up to its recommended capacity.

Features

Most tree shears can cut up to 12 inches in diameter, and use a relatively large hydraulic cylinder to direct power to the shears. A rotating cutting head is also quite a common feature, as is a thick, steel cutting edge and around 30 tons of cutting force.

Maintenance

Maintenance of a tree shear attachment is quite straightforward. Simply make sure the hydraulic fluids are topped up, check the lines for imperfections, and ensure any moving parts are greased. The remaining maintenance can be completed on the skid steer itself, as it controls the attachment through its quick-attach components.

Budget

Akin to a giant pair of scissors, tree shear attachments are relatively affordable. For a contractor or a farmer, it’s a small price to pay for getting a job done quickly and efficiently. Therefore, it’s generally not a problem to spend $1,000 or more.

 

8

Skid Steer Chipper Shredder

Unlike most other skid steer attachments, a wood chipper shredder is designed to be installed in one location, remaining stationary while using the power supply of a skid steer. While a gas-powered portable chipper shredder is suitable for general household greenery, a skid steer chipper shredder offers far more power and a larger chipping capacity for contractors and farmers. They can chip, mulch and shred in a more productive manner, but they are also exceptionally dangerous.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer wood chipper shredder attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They work far quicker than small, portable chipper shredders.
  • They can chip larger branches.
  • They are easy to transport around work sites on the front of a skid steer.
  • They are less prone to jamming than smaller models on the market.
  • Most models self-feed the branches.
  • They are suitable for a range of industries.

Cons:

  • They are very dangerous and operators should ensure they operate them with care.
  • They require more maintenance than standard gas-powered portable chipper shredders.

Work Type

Your work type can ultimately determine whether a skid steer chipper shredder will be the best tool for the job, or whether something else is more suitable. First, you need to work out whether such an attachment is going to be necessary.

Do you have lots of scrub and branches needing to be cleared, or very little? Will the skid steer chipper shredder be getting a lot of use, or will it sit for long periods of time?

Because there are so many different skid steer chipper shredders on the market such as gas-powered and electric, it always pays to weigh up your options before making a huge investment.

Safety

Skid steer chipper shredders are some of the most dangerous attachments on the market. While it’s easy to operate them in a safe and effective manner, some experienced operators may become complacent, and accidents can happen.

You can find all recommended safety guidelines within your manufacturer’s guide, including:

  • Sticking to lighter loads of wood and scrub to reduce the risk of wood flying out at the operator.
  • Wearing safety clothing that fits well and has no loose bits.
  • Wearing safety glasses, gloves, a hard hat and ear protection.
  • Using a pole to feed the chipper, rather than your hands.
  • Staying away from the chute area and avoiding the hopper.
  • Keeping the ground area clean to reduce the risk of slipping or falling.

Efficiency

There are so many skid steer chipper shredders on the market, but not all are going to suit your requirements. In fact, they vary so greatly that it’s important you know the ins and outs of your skid steer and your chipping requirements before making a purchasing decision.

Firstly, each shredder chipper attachment has a different chipping or shredding capacity. While your budget might point you towards the cheapest option on the market, your actual requirements may pull you in another direction.

Your budget should be reflective of the wood and scrub you are needing to chip. Because the chipper shredder feeds off the power supply of your skid steer, you will also need to determine whether it’s going to suit your model.

Standard-flow chippers should be matched with standard-flow skid steers, and the same goes for high-flow. They should also have matching hydraulic pressure levels as well. These specifications will ensure your skid steer chipper shredder will work at optimum efficiency throughout the chipping and shredding process.

Features

Because skid steer chipper shredders vary, depending on the model and manufacturer, you can expect the features to vary slightly for each.

However, many offer:

  • Adjustable deflectors to reduce the distance the chips are thrown.
  • Chipper discharge chutes to discharge the chips.
  • Chipper disks which are generally made from durable steel.
  • Hydraulic power feeds to help with the feeding process.
  • Speed rollers to allow the operator to set the speed.
  • Remote control kits – some technologically-advanced chipper shredders come with the option of controlling the chipper remotely.

Maintenance

A skid steer chipper shredder is dangerous when it’s in good working condition, but one that’s not can be far more dangerous. Therefore, it’s important you always remember to perform regular upkeep.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re an employer, an employee or a contractor, it’s an important requirement for the safety of yourself and others around you.

A maintenance checklist generally comes as part of the manufacturer’s manual, but we’ve included a few extra maintenance tips below:

  • Always keep the chipper shredder clean and free of debris.
  • Always operate in good light.
  • Never remove shields, guards or safety signs, and ensure they’re in good condition.
  • Always replace broken or damaged parts with genuine parts.
  • Always check bolts, nuts and screws and tighten when necessary.
  • Ensure all electrical and fuel connections are secure.
  • Lubricate all moving parts.
  • Check the rotor, blades and twig-breaker to ensure they are in good working order.
  • Ensure all bearings turn freely and replace any that don’t.
  • Check the curtain in the feed hopper. If it’s worn or damaged, replace it.

Budget

As most skid steer owners will be aware, attachment parts for their machines can cost thousands of dollars. Chipper shredders are no different.

For a top-rated skid steer chip shredder, customers can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000. Of course, the lower-end models will often not require hydraulic components, and can be very labor-intensive, while the higher-end models will be more suitable for large-scale jobs.

While setting a budget is important, don’t settle for less than the best product for the job at hand. Choosing an attachment because it’s cheaper than a more suitable model can end up costing you more money in the long run.

 

Farming & Agriculture

 

While farming and agriculture were traditionally very labor-intensive industries, new technological advances have changed that. We can now get farming work completed in less than half the time, with far less money spent as well. Very rarely will you find a farmer without a tractor or skid steer, with an attachment in tow. They really are making the life of a farmer and contractor so much easier.

 

1

Skid Steer Tiller

Skid steer tillers are attachments for skid steers that help farmers with a traditionally manual process. They help to prepare the ground for turfing, planting, and seeding. While they’re not the most affordable attachment, they do cut down on labor costs, which enable the farmer to save money at the other end of the production process.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer tiller attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They remove the need for manual seeding and tilling.
  • They can level out uneven grounds.
  • The scarifier depth is adjustable on most units.
  • The hydraulic power of the tiller works in conjunction with the skid steer’s engine for increased power and performance.

Cons:

  • They can easily get clogged.
  • They are quite expensive to purchase.

Work Type

Farmers and agricultural professionals will be the two kinds of people to reap the benefits of this convenient attachment. While it’s expensive initially, it is a very helpful tool that can level ground, and help with seeding, tilling, turfing, and planting.

Safety

Tillers are generally quite safe to operate, but only as long as all care is taken based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. An operator should never try to unclog or touch the attachment while it’s operating, and people should stay out of its direct path at all times.

Efficiency

Many different farmers have different needs, therefore it’s important you pay attention to each tiller’s features. If you’re having trouble with the efficiency, you may be pushing it above what is recommended.

Pay attention to the recommended flow, the tilling depth, the maximum tilling width, and the scarifier teeth. The user guide should also give you a fair idea of what the recommended usage is for the particular attachment you’ve chosen.

Features

Most tiller attachments feature bi-directional tines, hydraulic power, a clearance hood, a high-efficiency torque chain system, and scarifiers. In some, the positioning of the scarifiers is also customizable. Features will, of course, vary from one attachment to the next. Some are wider than others, whilst others have a lower tilling depth.

Maintenance

Maintenance, while easy to do, is very important. You must remember to lubricate all the parts that move, as well ensure the scarifier teeth are sharp and are in good-working order. It’s also important to make sure the hydraulic lines aren’t split or perished.

Other maintenance relates to the skid steer itself. General service work such as refuelling, checking fluids, replacing spark plugs and air filters should be carried out regularly.

Budget

Your budget can ultimately depend on how large the area needing to be tilled is. If you’ve got a large skid steer and a large space to till, then you’re most likely going to need a large tiller attachment.

Prepare to open your wallet a little wider in this case. However, if you’re looking to save money, you can often find the best deal for a tiller attachment online.

 

2

Skid Steer Bale Spear

Skid steer bale spears are used by farmers and agricultural professionals who need to feed their stock efficiently. You simply load square or round bales onto the forks, and transport them to any part of your farm. They’re inexpensive, easy to maintain, and take the hard work out of feeding stock.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer bale spear attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They are very affordable on the market.
  • They require little-to-no maintenance.
  • They remove all the hard work out of feed transport.

Cons:

  • They can reduce visibility for the operator.

Work Type

Bale spears are key players in the feeding process of stock on a farm. With bales being so heavy, a machine such as a skid steer is needed to transport bales to the stock. They come in many different sizes, but most are capable of carrying 1-3 bales, depending on the weight capacity of the skid steer.

Safety

When you choose to use a bale spear attachment, you must ensure it’s attached properly. Once it’s loaded up with the weight of a bale, it becomes exceptionally heavy. Ensure the bales are also installed on the spears correctly as well.

If you’re travelling over slopes, do so with the spears as low as they can go. This reduces the risk of the skid steer tipping over with an unbalanced load.

Efficiency

In order to make a bale spear attachment as efficient possible, you must not overload it. Overloading the spears will mean your skid steer has to work harder, which may cause damage to both the attachment, and the skid steer.

Features

Most bale spears have a high visibility frame and three heavy duty tines. The frame itself is made out of durable steel, and connects via hydraulic components to the skid steer. When it comes to the length of the tines, this varies from one machine to the next.

In fact, many bale spear attachments come with the option of buying the tines separately. This enables the farmer to make an informed decision on the ones that best suit his or her situation.

Maintenance

Unlike most other skid steer attachments, a bale spear attachment requires absolutely no maintenance. It simply attaches onto the skid steer, and uses the machine’s controls to accurately move it to where it needs to be.

Budget

Because there’s minimal features on a skid steer bale spear attachment, you can expect to pay very little for this product. It’s affordable for most farmers and lifestyle block owners, yet it could easily be one of the best attachments you can own.

However, when you’re looking to buy online, make sure you read the listing carefully. If the price is too low, it may not include the tines. Be prepared to either purchase those separately, or find a listing that offers both the frame and the tines.

 

3

Skid Steer Forks

Skid steer forks are a staple in many trades, including those within the farming and agricultural industry. Most of what comes onto a farm cannot be lifted by man alone. How do you lift barrels of fuel, sacks of grain, medication for stock, and maintenance tools without a skid steer fork? With great difficulty. This is why you see them on many farms, looking well-used and ready for work.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer forks attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They are versatile.
  • They require no maintenance.
  • They are quite affordable to buy.
  • They are durable.
  • They don’t require parts to be replaced.

Cons:

  • Most kinds rust very easily.

Work Type

Most tasks on the farm can be carried out by a fork attachment. While the farmer may tire from carrying bags of grain from one place to another, the skid steer with its fork attachment never will.

However, there are different kinds of forks to cater to different kinds of skid steers. Some have longer tines, whilst others are wider and feature more tines than average.

Before you purchase one, make sure your work type and your skid steer meet the specification requirements of the fork attachment.

Safety

Any kind of farming or agricultural work is dangerous, you just have to be sensible.

You shouldn’t:

  • Operate the skid steer under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Overload the fork attachment.
  • Use the forks if they are broken, bent, or damaged.

Efficiency

The biggest mistake a farmer can make is thinking they can load just one more bag of grain onto the fork attachment. That one last bag can be the difference between your skid steer operating efficiently with its attachment, and breaking down.

When you buy your fork attachment, the manufacturer’s guide will clearly state the recommended load weight. Stick within these guidelines to ensure your skid steer will always run as efficiently as possible.

Features

Skid steer fork attachments are very basic tools. They are made of durable steel, are often powder-coated, and feature forks in various widths and lengths for carrying different weights.

They connect to the engine components of the skid steer and are operated from the cab. There is often very little difference between one brand of skid steer fork attachment and another.

Maintenance

The only maintenance for skid steer forks is preventative maintenance. Try to treat them with as much care as possible. Mend any damage as it arises, and avoid overloading them to prevent the risk of bending or breaking the forks.

Budget

Most skid steer owners own a fork attachment. It’s one of the most common attachments, and therefore is one of the cheapest, as well. Most skid steer forks can be picked up for between $500 and $1,200.

 

Infrastructure, Construction & Roading

 

Traditionally, roading, infrastructure, and construction work was completed with manual labor and hand-held tools. While it worked for the time period, it’s no longer acceptable now. Time is money, and large, powerful machinery is needed to get the job done. Luckily, there is plenty of such machinery on the market for a range of construction workers to take advantage of.

 

1

Skid Steer Grapple Bucket

Skid steer grapple buckets are a popular choice for many different industries. Not only can they be beneficial for cleaning up storm damage, but they are also particularly useful for moving logs, general debris, and even roading materials. They are shaped as a scoop and feature prongs to help scrape and rake up debris.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer grapple bucket attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They are versatile.
  • Many brands guarantee they will work beyond the capabilities of the skid steer itself.
  • They are generally quite affordable, considering how many uses they have.
  • They are suitable for a range of industries.

Cons:

  • They aren’t suitable for picking up small items due to being shaped more like a fork rather than a bucket.
  • They can’t scoop very well.

Work Type

If you’re looking to purchase the best skid steer attachment for the money, a skid steer grapple bucket should be near the top of your list. Not only does it do the job of many other attachments, but it’s also versatile for a range of industries. If you need debris or greenery cleared, this bucket can carry out the work with ease.

Safety

While skid steer attachments generally aren’t that dangerous, operators of skid steers should still take care. Don’t attempt to lift or move the bucket by hand, and avoid being near it while it’s in use. While the prongs aren’t sharp either, don’t attempt to put yourself in front of them, or near them, when the bucket is in use.

Efficiency

When you purchase a skid steer grapple bucket, the supplier or manufacturer will outline the specifications for that particular model. This will include its capacity for use, the type of skid steer it’s suitable for, and the weight it can carry. Never try to push the bucket above what it’s designed for. This can result in reduced efficiency or even the premature end of the attachment.

Features

A skid steer grapple bucket features hydraulic lines which attach to either a skid steer, or a mini skid steer. Once attached, it works from the skid steer’s engine to scoop and scrape up debris using its many prongs. These prongs are curved, in order to form a bucket shape to hold the materials it’s carrying.

Maintenance

Maintenance on the attachment itself is very minimal. Because it gets its power from the skid steer, you won’t have to spend much time tending to the bucket. However, it still does need care from time to time. This includes looking after the hydraulic lines, keeping moving parts well lubricated, and checking for rust and structural imperfections.

Budget

Because there are so many manufacturers creating grapple buckets, the price is kept relatively competitive. You can buy a top-rated grapple bucket for a very reasonable cost when you buy online. Generally, the more you pay for the attachment, the better the specifications are.

 

2

Skid Steer Vibratory Roller

The job of a skid steer vibratory roller is to flatten and even-out base material from the bottom up. It uses a hydraulic motor to drive its centrifugal weight onto its drum shaft, which provides compacting action. It’s suitable for a range of terrains, and can interchange with hard and soft materials with just a switch of drum.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer vibratory roller attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • There are several kinds to choose from – either with padded or smooth drums.
  • They can work at various widths, depending on the roller attachment you buy.
  • They have hydraulic components to increase performance and reliability.
  • They can deliver thousands of pounds of force.
  • They are suitable for a range of industries.

Cons:

  • They are very expensive.
  • They are hard to store due to their size.
  • They require a lot of maintenance.
  • You have to change parts depending on the terrain you’re on.

Work Type

Vibratory rollers can be used in a range of industries, including roading. They are powerful, durable, and their work includes paving, patching, trenching, and flatwork.

Safety

While many brands try to add safety features to their rollers to make them safer, the reality is, they are a dangerous piece of machinery. However, as they are more suitable for professionals, contractors generally have a good understanding of the steps they must take to be safe around them.

This includes:

  • Not operating it under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Making sure no one is in the direct path of the machine.
  • Keeping hands and legs away from it when it’s operating.
  • Not undertaking maintenance on it while it’s connected to the skid steer.

Efficiency

Efficiency on such a machine is generally not a problem. An operator would only run into efficiency problems if they are using the wrong drum for the wrong surface, failed to undertake maintenance to the attachment or the skid steer, or the machine was not accurately matched to the attachment.

Features

There are so many technologically advanced features on a vibratory roller. To start with, many have bi-directional operation features. This means they can either go forward or backwards.

Some brands also feature an isolation mounting system. This means, the vibration that’s felt throughout the machine, is reduced in the cab of the skid steer.

Maintenance can also be tricky, so some feature oil-bath bearings which remove the need to grease bearings after every use.

Maintenance

Maintenance is fairly complex, so it should always be carried out by a professional, or someone with expertise. Because the drums are swapped often, these should be cleaned after each use.

All moving parts should also be lubricated and the hydraulic lines checked. Keeping the attachment clean is also very important, as buildup can cause the machine to lose efficiency.

Budget

The price tag varies on a vibratory roller, but contractors should expect to pay between $7,000 and $15,000, depending on the features. Some come with a smooth roller as standard, which is often cheaper, whilst others come with a padded roller, which is more expensive. You can also buy the drums separately.

 

3

Skid Steer Concrete Breaker

Concrete breaking is often a fairly manual task. It requires plenty of muscle, and is very taxing on the body. That was before the skid steer concrete breaker was invented. Such a tool has made the breaking up of concrete so much easier for roading crews. While they are initially expensive to purchase, they do save time and money in the long run.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer concrete breaker attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They can demolish concrete, rock-hard structures, and asphalt with ease.
  • They remove the need for manual labor.
  • Many offer features that reduce the maintenance required.

Cons:

  • They are quite expensive – starting off at around $5,000.
  • They can overheat quite easily.

Work Type

Skid steer concrete breaker attachments can be used by almost anyone looking to make light work of removing concrete. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a road or a concrete footpath, this small tool is all you need.

Safety

Aside from steering clear of all moving parts, it’s beneficial for people working around the job site to wear eye protection, ear protection, and a face mask. Concrete dust can be hazardous to your health.

Efficiency

Not every skid steer concrete breaker is the same, therefore you need to make sure you choose one that meets the efficiency level you require. By reading the specification list, you can be sure that the impact rate, BPM, oil pressure, and breaker weight are sufficient for both your skid steer, and your requirements.

Features

The features of each skid steer concrete breaker attachment depend on the individual brand and model. Some basic features include an anti-blank fire system, an auto-lubrication system, and a built-in accumulator.

Maintenance

Maintenance for a concrete breaker is fairly standard. You need to make sure the drilling component is well-lubricated, the hydraulic lines are working well, and no bolts are loose or damaged.

Budget

If you’re looking for a cost-effective concrete breaking tool, you can expect to pay a minimum of $4,000. They are complex tools made of quality parts, and the price ultimately reflects this. Due to the money saved on labor, most contractors don’t mind paying top dollar for a good, reliable concrete-breaking tool that can last for many years.

 

4

Skid Steer Dozer Blade

Perfect for construction and landscaping, a skid steer dozer blade works by pushing material around in a far quicker manner than if it were moved by hand.

Generally, they have adjustable skid shoes and can grade the ground by moving backwards and forwards. Many people use them for backfill around foundations, for sculpting landscapes areas, and for levelling or grading loose dirt.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer dozer blade attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They are suitable for a range of people.
  • They require minimal maintenance.
  • They are quite affordable.
  • They dramatically increase productivity.

Cons:

  • Dirt can get clogged in hydraulic components.
  • They are hard to clean.

Work Type

Dozer blades are used in a variety of workplaces, for a variety of work types. They are flexible, reliable, and are shaped to be useful for both scooping and levelling. In fact, they can even grade areas of land.

Safety

As with most machinery, dozer blades are dangerous when not used with care. Never operate a machine while you’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and avoid tampering with any component while the blade is in use. To avoid injury, avoid lifting or moving the blade yourself.

Efficiency

Dozer blades are designed to lift, scoop, and push loose debris. This includes greenwaste, dirt, sand, and gravel. If you decide to use them for anything other than that, you may run into efficiency problems.

Pay careful attention to the blade’s weight limits and make sure you operate it in the same way it’s intended to be operated.

Features

Standard features of a dozer include:

  • Adjustable blades that can operate in up to six different ways.
  • Adjustable depth guides to control how deep the skid shoes go.
  • The ability to be operated both backwards and forwards.
  • Easy controls.
  • A reversible cutting edge to get more time out of the blade, and reduce the maintenance costs and time.

Maintenance

An operator must always make sure the dozer blade is clean before beginning work. This is because it’s very easy for dirt, sand, and gravel to get stuck in vital moving parts. It also helps to lubricate moving parts, check the hydraulic lines for breakages, and sharpen or replace the blade.

Budget

The price of a dozer blade depends on the brand. Some manufacturers produce low-cost blades, but they are made out of very poor-quality steel. Whilst others are very highly priced, but are durable to last the distance. Weigh up the features in comparison to the cost, to work out a healthy balance that suits your wallet.

 

5

Skid Steer Auger

Whether you’re a farmer or you just work within the agricultural sector, there’s every possibility you would have used a skid steer auger at some point. And if you haven’t, there’s every reason to discover the benefits of such a tool today. Skid steer augers are used to dig post holes. They also help make the planting process for shrubs and trees so much easier.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer auger attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They can be used in all kinds of soils.
  • They make planting and digging post holes a far quicker process than if you were to do it by hand.
  • Given the convenience such an attachment offers, they are relatively affordable.

Cons:

  • Many operate using their own hydraulic motor, so they require plenty of maintenance.
  • You have to purchase separate bits, depending on the result you want to achieve. This can make the attachment cost more than what you expected.

Work Type

Because there are so many different auger attachments on the market, you are sure to find one that suits your requirements. It doesn’t matter if you only have a few holes to dig or an entire farm to fence, there is sure to be one model capable of ticking all the boxes.

However, because of the variety, you do need to make sure you choose one that suits your particular work type. Some are suited to much larger tasks, whilst others are only powerful enough for small drilling tasks. Read the specifications for each model, and work out which is going to be the best option for you.

Safety

Because augers are digging into the ground, their movements are unpredictable. If they hit something they aren’t expecting, you run the risk of becoming seriously injured.

Therefore, you should always wear safety glasses, especially when you’re driving pins in or out. You should also avoid working under raised booms without support, and lower the booms when you’re leaving the cab. Anyone working around the auger should be a minimum of 10 feet away.

Most importantly, take care when you’re connecting or disconnecting the hydraulic hoses. Hydraulic fluid under pressure can cause serious injury and even death.

Efficiency

Not every auger is going to be suitable for your skid steer. Pay attention to the hydraulic flow required – does it need a high or standard flow? Also, check the optimal hydraulic pressure of your particular chosen auger.

Not all will match up correctly with your machine. Failure to choose an attachment that perfectly suits your skid steer can result in reduced efficiency – or it may not even work at all.

Features

Features vary depending on the size and power of any particular auger. Some are designed to create small post holes, whilst others are built for high-performance drilling work.

A few of the many features include:

  • Hydraulic motor.
  • Durable mounting bracket.
  • Joints to ensure the auger stands straight.
  • Auger bits for all kinds of work.

Maintenance

Maintenance is fairly standard on an auger, but it’s vital that you read your manufacturer’s guide to ensure you’re taking care of it as recommended. Your place of work may also follow its own set of procedures as well.

Before each use, you should:

  • Check the auger point and teeth for wear.
  • Ensure the cutting edge is sharp, and sharpen it if it’s not.
  • Inspect the flighting for wear and tear.
  • Inspect all hardware and parts for wear and tear.
  • Check the gearbox fluid levels, if applicable.
  • Replace all worn or damaged components before use.

Budget

Whether you’re on a shoestring budget or money’s no object, there is going to be an auger to suit your particular situation. A simple internet search will reveal many cost-effective options from various top-rated manufacturers.

Even Amazon is home to many different skid steer attachments, available at competitive prices. You can expect to pay, on average, around $2,000 for an auger. This doesn’t include the bits which can be purchased separately.

 

6

Skid Steer Trencher

The main role of a skid steer trencher within a roading or infrastructure company, is to cut narrow and straight trenches. It’s far quicker and less tiresome than doing this job by hand, as it was traditionally done. In most cases, these trenches are used for laying cable lines for electrical or telephone lines, or for water and gas pipes.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer trencher attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They save a lot of time in manual labor.
  • They are easy to attach to a skid steer.
  • They are easy to maintain.

Cons:

  • They are very dangerous.
  • They are expensive to purchase.

Work Type

These tools are not often used in everyday contracting work and aren’t very well heard of either. That’s because they have one job, and that’s to dig trenches.

However, not all skid steer trenchers are the same. When you’re looking to purchase one, you must pay careful attention to the features.

Work out the standard boom length you require, the required hydraulic flow, the hydraulic pressure, and the cutting width. Smaller trenchers are used for electrical and phone wires, whilst larger trenchers are used for gas and water pipes.

Safety

Trenchers have a fast-moving blade, and it should be avoided at all costs. While many roading gangs work as a team, a trencher should ultimately be used by one person, with every other worker staying clear. It’s all too easy to lose your footing and fall into a freshly dug trench, into the path of the blade.

Efficiency

Because there are so many different options to choose from, it can be easy to end up purchasing the wrong trencher.

In many cases, the only way you will know, is when you are finding it’s not as powerful as you had hoped for, doesn’t cut the trenches as wide, and doesn’t match the hydraulic flow of your skid steer.

Always make sure you read the specification list of a skid steer trencher in order to make sure you order the correct one.

Features

Features will vary on each trencher – including the boom length, the cutting width, and the cutting length.

However, many offer:

  • Direct-drive systems with a variable speed feature.
  • Bi-directional cutting features.
  • A durable chain.
  • Tungsten carbide teeth.
  • Hydraulic or manual side-shifters.

Maintenance

Operating in a similar manner to a chainsaw, maintenance is fairly close to that of a chainsaw as well. You should make sure the chain is well-lubricated and check all the teeth as well. If any teeth are broken or blunt, sharpen or replace as necessary.

You should also check that all bolts are tight and aren’t broken or damaged, while at the same time ensuring the hydraulic lines which attach to the skid steer are in good working order.

Budget

Trenchers can run into the thousands of dollars, depending on the kind you get. The larger trenchers used for gas and water pipes are generally upwards of $10,000, whilst the smaller trenchers begin at around $4,000.

You can often get the best deal, and a reduced rate, when you purchase your trencher online from a reputable dealer.

 

7

Skid Steer Rock Bucket

There has never been a faster way to separate workable soil from rocks and debris until now. A skid steer rock bucket takes all the hard work out of making sure soil is workable and ready for construction work and farming. It can even be used for waste processing.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer rock bucket attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They require minimal maintenance.
  • They are affordable.
  • They are versatile.
  • They can be used in a variety of jobs.

Cons:

  • The tine spacing varies, so if you’re buying online, photos can be deceiving.

Work Type

Rocks can be a hindrance when you’re laying out new roads, foundations, or simply require workable soil. Skid steer rock buckets help by sifting out the good from the bad, leaving you with a workable surface.

To ensure the particular rock bucket you’ve chosen for your work type is suitable, have an idea in mind how big the rocks needing to be removed are.

This way, you can accurately determine whether the tine distance is going to be suitable for the task at hand.

Safety

The main safety risk involved with using a skid steer rock bucket is how stable the skid steer is. Because the bucket will be holding a lot of rocks, you must be careful not to raise the skid steer’s arm too high. This could result in it becoming unbalanced, tipping over, and causing injury to the operator.

Efficiency

The efficiency of a rock bucket comes down to how well the operator picked the bucket for the task. There are different options available for different tasks. If you’re finding that the majority of the rocks you’re lifting from the dirt are falling back through, the tines are too far apart.

This can cause major efficiency problems, and deems the attachment useless. Always be sure to measure the tines before you purchase them, to avoid complications when the time comes to complete the job.

Features

Rock buckets don’t feature too many components and this can be beneficial when it comes to maintenance. Most are constructed from solid steel to withstand the weight of rocks, and feature several tines. The tine spacing depends on the particular bucket, and varies for different tasks needing to be completed.

Maintenance

Rock buckets are maintenance free, and this is sure to be a much-loved aspect of the attachment. Simply check the hydraulic attachment after each use, and store away cleanly for next time.

Budget

Standard pricing, depending on how many tines the attachment has, is between $700 and $1,200. You may even get a better deal if you choose to purchase this product online.

 

8

Skid Steer Backhoe

Skid steer backhoes are used in many different industries by both construction contractors and farmers. Working in a similar manner to a digger, the backhoe works by digging trenches and holes that would otherwise take hours by hand. Backhoes vary in size and shape, with many boasting large bucket capacities, convenient bucket rotation and breakout force. The extended length and digging capacity often varies from one backhoe to the next.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer backhoe attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They’re a good option for people needing to undertake excavating and landscaping work.
  • They can extend out further than most other attachments.
  • They fit almost any kind of skid steer.
  • They are perfect for small-spread foundations.
  • There are many different options on the market.

Cons:

  • They are expensive to buy.

Work Type

The beauty of a skid steer backhoe is how many industries it fits into with ease. Whether you’re excavating, digging trenches, doing landscaping work, or you’re just digging a hole, it will complete the task with ease.

Safety

While, overall, a backhoe is a relatively safe tool to use, operators should still take care.

This means you should:

  • Keep the attachment in good working order to prevent it from malfunctioning.
  • Not operate the skid steer under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Not push the machine beyond its capabilities.
  • Not operate the skid steer on uneven grounds.

Efficiency

Most backhoes, when fully extended, have approximately eight feet of reach. If you’re finding you’re running into efficiency issues with this reach not being enough, or it’s not making an impact on the material you’re digging, you may not have the right attachment for the job.

When you are making a decision on the best backhoe to purchase, you need to ensure the specifications match the task at hand. This includes its reach, how deep it can dig, the bucket size, and its weight capacity.

Operating the machine above what it can handle can cause you to run into efficiency issues. This, in turn, can damage the skid steer and the attachment.

Features

Features vary from one backhoe to the next, so be aware of what you require, and what the machine you have your eye on, has to offer.

This can include:

  • Universal hookup for convenience.
  • Hoses and couplers.
  • Greasable pins and bushings
  • A bucket of between 8-16 inches in size.
  • A cylinder with a PSI limit.

Maintenance

While backhoes are built to require as little maintenance as possible, they still do require a little bit of upkeep. Before use, the operator must make sure all pins, bushings, and moving parts are well-lubricated.

They then must make sure the hydraulic lines are clear and undamaged, and all hoses and couplers are connected properly. The skid steer also has to be maintained to ensure it can operate at its peak efficiency level.

Budget

Before you can work out a budget, you first need to ascertain the work that needs to be carried out. The bigger your expectation, the more you will need to spend. Backhoes range anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on their specifications. While the cheapest option might be a good fit for you, there are also chances it may not be. Read the specifications and review each product before spending any money.

 

9

Skid Steer Snow Blower

Move aside snow shovel, there’s a real machine in town! A skid steer snow blower has made the lives of city councillors and roading contractors so much easier. It’s far simpler now than it’s ever been, to rid the streets and driveways in your hometown of snow. It can do so at speed, as well, with its auger and impeller.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer snow blower attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They blow snow away from roads and driveways faster than most other machinery.
  • They are often powered by hydraulics to remove the need for manual labor.
  • The chutes can rotate to blow snow anywhere you want.

Cons:

  • They are one of the most expensive skid steer attachments on the market.
  • They are expensive to maintain and repair if broken.

Work Type

A snow blower has a very specific job: to remove snow from where it’s not wanted. It can accurately remove snow from paths, driveways, and roads, all the while placing it in the very spot you want it to be.

Safety

Because snow blowers are operated in public spaces, it’s important the operator is careful with where they dump the snow. Avoid directing the chute at people, don’t allow people to come near the machine, and never touch moving parts when it’s in operation.

Efficiency

When a snow blower is not maintained correctly, it doesn’t blow snow with speed and loses a huge level of efficiency. It spins slowly and can overheat – even with the extreme cold. That’s why it’s important that you always undertake regular maintenance. This, coupled with choosing the right blower for the skid steer capacity, is vital.

Features

Each manufacturer of skid steer snow blowers chooses to add new and beneficial features to their models.

Some common features include:

  • Using an auger and impeller to move more snow, faster.
  • Hydraulic controls.
  • Rotating chute.

Maintenance

Clearing snow is a dirty job, and over time, your blower may be subjected to general wear and tear. In order to extend its lifespan, it’s vital that you undertake regular maintenance. This includes lubricating all moving parts, checking any parts for damage, tightening bolts, and checking the hydraulic components.

Budget

Snow blowers are quite expensive to purchase, but often those who buy them are expecting incurring in such a cost. Generally, roading companies are contracted to local councils to take care of public roads. The fees charged can often more than cover the cost of the machinery. You can expect to pay a minimum of $8,500 for a quality snow blower.

 

10

Skid Steer Snow Plow

Skid steer snow plows are used to clear heavy snow off roads, and wherever it’s necessary to be moved from. They are large, heavy-duty, and take the hard work out of what used to be a labor-intensive job.

If you are interested in this type of attachments, you would love to read this full buying guide on how to select the best skid steer snow plow attachment for the money including reviews & comparison.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • They are available in various sizes and are constructed out of various materials.
  • They require minimal maintenance.
  • They are very durable and hardy.
  • They very rarely require repairs.

Cons:

  • The cost to purchase them is high.

Work Type

When you’re looking to purchase a snow plow, you will first need to consider whether the work you’re needing to undertake warrants such a large attachment. Often, a small snow removal job can be completed by a smaller and more cost-effective snow blower.

Safety

The biggest risk operators of skid steers with snow plow attachments face, is coming up against hidden obstacles. To reduce the risk, you can choose to plow areas you know well, or simply purchase a plow attachment with durable springs and support struts.

Efficiency

Snow plows are available for sale in various sizes. In order to make sure the job you’re completing is done so with peak efficiency, you need to consider the size required. Do you need a wider plow for a larger job? Or will a small, conservative size suffice? This will ensure the task at hand is completed with a tool that’s fit for the job.

Features

Features vary, depending on both the skid steer and the attachment. Many brands are also patenting particular features that are exclusive to their label.

However, you can find these features below on many different snow plows:

  • Self-adjusting hitches.
  • Support struts for structural strength.
  • Durable plow blades made of either steel or stainless steel.
  • Exceptionally durable springs to make impact with objects less damaging to the plow.

Maintenance

As far as maintenance goes, there’s very little you need to do. After a hard day of snow plowing, simply clean the machine, check and repair any damage, and ensure the hydraulic lines are healthy.

Budget

Purchasing a snow plow can cost thousands of dollars, but it’s a tool that’s needed come winter time. Many people who own snow plows do the job for a living, and the payment received more than covers the cost of the machine. You can easily expect to pay upwards of $5,000 for a durable snow plow attachment.

 

Where to Buy Skid Steer Attachments?

Traditionally, people used to head to their local farm machinery store to purchase skid steer attachments. This is no longer necessary. A simple trip to Amazon.com can enable you to review and purchase several different skid steer attachments. What can’t be found on there, can most certainly be found on the manufacturer’s website. The best deal is almost always found online.

 

Leading Skid Steer Attachment Brands/Manufacturers

    • Cat
    • Bobcat