Skid Steers vs. Track Loaders
Ever since loaders were developed during the mid-20th century, these machines have proven indispensable on construction sites around the world. There are a couple of different types of loaders on the market, including skid steer loaders and track loaders. It’s good to know what you need from a loader before you choose between them.
Bobcat of Buffalo is your New York construction equipment dealer. We’re here to help you with the shopping process, so check out our comparison of skid steers and track loaders below to determine which option is right for you.
Skid Steer Advantages
Skid steer loaders are designed with a zero-turn radius with a single wheel as a pivot point. This means that skid steers take up less space when turning around, which makes them the ideal loader for cramped construction sites with lots of angles. The other wheels on a skid steer are fixed in place and skid across the ground while the loader turns, giving this machine its name.
Compared to a track loader, a skid steer is much lighter, faster and more agile to operate. If you’re trying to clear material quickly, you can achieve speeds of around 14 miles per hour with a skid steer, helping you to save time and money. Skid steer tires operate most efficiently on hard surfaces such as concrete, asphalt and dirt and they won’t tear up these surfaces. This machine’s light weight makes it less of a hassle to transport, which is a worthwhile consideration if you have several sites you need to access.
Track Loader Advantages
If you find yourself working in the rain and a lot of mud, a track loader is perfect because of its rugged design and heightened stability. You’re not likely to ever become bogged down with a track loader because their large tracks have a wide surface area, helping to prevent the machine from sinking into mud. The tracks glide over the surface of a work site, rather than digging in deeply, so you won’t have to worry about doing damage to the ground.
Another advantage to track loaders is that they’re capable of handling winter weather conditions because they are not as likely to slip around in heavy ice or snow. This quality means you can continue your work even after several inches of snow blanket your work site, so you can avoid losing valuable time waiting for snow to melt.
The Right Choice For You
The loader you choose will depend on what qualities you need. If budget is a major concern, skid steers tend to be the cheaper option. For versatility, skid steers also win out due to their agility and lighter weight. However, if you worry about a machine lasting a long time and being able to handle mud or snow, you’ll probably do better with a track loader instead.
Seeking construction equipment for sale in western New York? Visit our dealership in Lockport, NY, today to check out our fine selection of new and used skid steers, track loaders and other pieces of construction equipment for sale. We can assist you with financing options, too. Bobcat® of Buffalo proudly serves the greater Buffalo metro area as well as nearby Amherst, NY.