2023 spec guide: skid-steer loaders

Small and versatile, the skid-steer loader is a fixture on virtually any kind of construction job site today. First developed in the 1950s as a maneuverable machine for use in tight conditions within barns, the skid-steer loader has evolved into a truly multipurpose piece of equipment. 

These lightweight machines are built to nimbly move around job sites and perform a variety of tasks that are made easier thanks to continued advancements in design. Vertical and radial lift patterns give contractors options that best fit their uses, whether digging or truck loading, while growing use of technology adds high precision for finer grading tasks.

Powerful hydraulics with high-flow options add the ability to operate a vast array of attachments that make skid-steer loaders even more invaluable. With the right tools they can take on road maintenance, demolition, brush clearing, and many other difficult tasks.

Caterpillar

Skid-steer loaders that allow tasks to be completed more easily are becoming more valued by customers, whether that is through advanced technology, innovative attachments, or both. This is accomplished by the integration of technology into labour-saving machine features, which can aid customers in saving time and making more money by automating repetitive tasks like grading, digging, and loading. They also allow the machine to perform these tasks with less user experience. Some of these features include dual-direction self-levelling, return-to-dig, and work tool positioning. Labour-saving innovation also exists with the Smart attachment lineup: Smart Grader Blade, Smart Backhoe Attachment, and Smart Creep.

Featured: 262D3

The 262D3 provides a 74-hp package packed with standard features like rear-view camera, interactive full-colour display, and Smart technology. The available one-piece enclosed cab design delivers in-cab comfort, while two-speed travel adds productivity. Add any of the wide assortment of attachments, including Smart Attachments, for greater versatility.

Bobcat

Bobcat has a 65-year history in producing skid steers and says it has focused on continued innovation with the launch of its R-Series machines. The R-Series loaders are the most powerful, durable loaders Bobcat has ever built. They feature improved stability, more efficient hydraulics, and improved breakout forces and lift capacity compared to previous models. Genuine Bobcat attachments pair with the skid steers to make them more versatile.

Featured: S86

The S86 is the most powerful skid-steer loader Bobcat has ever built, delivering more usable engine and hydraulic horsepower than before. It is powered by a 105-hp Tier 4 Final engine and has standard, high-flow, and super-flow hydraulics. The vertical lift S86 features an optimized weight-to-horsepower ratio which helps to improve lifting capacity, breakout forces, and more.  

JCB

Designed for greater productivity, the Teleskid has a telescopic boom that allows users to reach higher and farther than capable with traditional skid-steer loaders. The single-arm boom has strength and stability and allows for side-door entry, which is safer and more convenient. The Teleskid is available as a wheeled loader or a compact track loader. JCB says that both offer improved visibility, unbeatable serviceability, and limitless versatility.

Featured: 3TS-8W Teleskid

The Teleskid 3TS-8W is four machines in one, according to JCB: a forklift, telescopic handler, compact wheel loader, and skid-steer loader. With its side-door entry, JCB says the Teleskid is considered the world's safest skid steer, but most notably it is the first skid steer with a telescopic boom. Generating 74 hp, the Teleskid has a rated operating capacity of 3,208 pounds.

CASE Construction Equipment

B Series skid-steer loaders bring together an intuitive operator experience with horsepower and torque to help contractors get more done every day. With an automotive-style operator display, simple electro-hydraulic controls, and powerful auxiliary hydraulics, these skid steers put more power and control into the hands of the operator. This next-generation lineup features the sizes, lift patterns, power, and emissions solutions to match any application. They also include enhancements like backup cameras, Economy Modes, and simplified maintenance functions that maximize machine uptime.

Featured: SV280B

The SV280B skid-steer loader offers large-frame power and performance with the efficiency of a medium-frame machine. This 74-hp machine has a vertical lift with a 1,850-pound rated operating capacity and auxiliary high-flow hydraulics, all while delivering a maintenance-free Tier 4 Final emissions solution that requires no fluid or filter replacement. 

John Deere Construction & Forestry

John Deere offers skid-steer loaders with sizes ranging from mid- to large-frame. The mid-frame models have the same productivity and technologies of large-frame models, but in a more compact package and at a lower price point. All machines offer JDLink monitoring, which provides real-time data and health prognostics to suggest maintenance solutions that decrease downtime and protect against machine theft. Remote diagnostics enable a dealer to read codes, record performance data, and even update software without a trip to the job site.

Featured: 332G

The 332G large-frame skid steer works for jobs of any scale. The 100-hp 332G is powered by a smooth-running, turbocharged Tier 4 Final engine with optional electrohydraulic boom performance for shorter cycle times and speed production in repetitive boom applications. It features a 3,600-pound rated operating capacity, a spacious cab for operator comfort, and easy maintenance.

New Holland

300 Series skid-steer loaders are built to help owners and operators meet any challenge head-on. Ranging from 60 to 90 hp, this series is designed to be durable, easy to maintain, and powerful. They use less fuel than previous models to help reduce operating costs. With space, comfort, and ergonomics, the 300 Series cab provides all-round visibility and reduces blind spots. 300 Series machines also have dual-range transmission, allowing for travel speeds in excess of 11 mph to help operators save time on and between sites.

Featured: L328

Increasing productivity and comfort is central to the New Holland L328. Lift and load more with the Super Boom, which gives the L328 a 2,800-pound rated operating capacity. The L328 offers 74 hp and a new customizable 8-inch LCD display with integrated backup camera for improved job site maneuverability.

Wacker Neuson

Wacker Neuson's skid-steer line offers the latest in enhanced cab design and service accessibility. The high-visibility cab is easy to enter and exit and features conveniently located switches and joystick controls that promote intuitive operation. The control patterns can be toggled between ISO and H-pattern via a switch in the cab. With adjustable sensitivity and control patterns, the loaders are designed to fit the control preferences of nearly any user. All Wacker Neuson skid steers offer easy daily service access. The cab fully tips forward with the loader arms down for complete access to all maintenance components.

Featured: SW32

The SW32 is the most powerful and largest skid-steer loader in the Wacker Neuson product lineup. It features a rated operating capacity of 3,200 pounds and a vertical lift arm that offers a hinge-pin height of 134.8 inches. It is powered by a 100-hp Kohler turbo diesel engine that provides the needed power when operating high-demand hydraulic attachments.

Kubota Canada

Kubota's SSV-Series skid-steer loaders are designed for power and operator comfort. The operator can easily open and close the roll-up front door for easier communication with workers and ease of getting in and out of the cab, no matter what attachment is connected. Designed with easy maintenance in mind, the SSV lineup features a top-mounted radiator and oil cooler, tilt-up cabin, mud cleaning ports, and fuel tank with easy refill access. Multi-function levers provide fingertip control of all major skid steer and attachment operations. ISO pilot controls give the operator the feel they require for grading and allow responsive control to work efficiently.

Featured: SSV75

The SSV75 features a 75-hp engine and a hinge pin height of 128.3 inches. Available with Kubota Shockless Ride, cushioning load and reducing loss of material improves the operator's overall ride and performance. A wide cab and suspension seat add to operator comfort and operating quality, and Kubota skid steers are designed for easy maintenance as well.

Hyundai

Hyundai has entered the skid-steer market with the HS120V, which includes a ride control system that offers extra load retention and enhances productivity. Its 74-hp engine ensures power for demanding tasks, while the spacious cabin provides operator comfort. The hydraulic system provides precise fingertip control, and high-flow hydraulics are in the works for future models. Options on the first model include the ability to add an extra counterweight for higher stability and load capacity. 

Featured: HS120V

The HS120V features a vertical lift path for reach and lifting capabilities, combined with an operating capacity of 2,700 pounds. It can also be fitted with the optional HIMATE remote management system, providing real-time monitoring and diagnostic capabilities for proactive maintenance and maximized uptime.

Gehl

Three all-new Gehl skid steers deliver improvements in breakout force, run times (larger fuel tank), and overall operator experience. The cabs feature 23 percent more volume, improved sealing, increased foot room, and a heated seat option for cold weather environments. Each machine features low-effort, ergonomic controls that are pilot operated and move with the seat to ensure a common operator experience for operators of all sizes. They also feature a new and intuitive keypad with push-button. Lighting guides the user on how to start the machine and which functions are engaged.

Featured: V210

The V210 skid steer is a 7,480-pound machine with a rated operating capacity of 2,100 pounds (35 percent tipping load). It features a 120.5-inch hinge pin height, ground speeds of 7.5 miles per hour, and a vertical lift path for easier loading of trucks and handling of palletized materials.

Manitou

Three new Manitou skid-steer loaders, the 2100 V, 2300 V, and the 2750 V, deliver improvements in safety, comfort, productivity, simplicity, and serviceability over previous Manitou models. All models are vertical lift and feature a new lift arm design meant to improve visibility. The operator experience has also been improved with an update on Manitou's folding door, and the new cab further improves visibility with a new window and roof design. Breakout forces and tank capacities are increased, all with a focus on lower total cost of ownership.

Featured: 2750 V

The Manitou 2750 V is an 8,320-pound skid steer with a rated operating capacity of 2,750 pounds (rated at 35 percent tipping load). It features a 72-hp engine and is available with both standard (26 gpm @ 3,475 psi) and optional high-flow hydraulics (33.3 gpm @ 3,325 psi).